As the summer sun blazes, bringing warmth and vitality, it also challenges our inner balance and well-being. The longer days offer more light and brightness, but the stronger sun and increased humidity can sap our strength.
According to Ayurveda, the ancient science of life and longevity, summer is governed by the Pitta dosha, characterized by the fiery elements of fire and water. When Pitta becomes aggravated, it can lead to imbalances such as excessive heat, irritability, and digestive discomfort. Fortunately, Ayurveda offers a wealth of wisdom to help us stay cool, calm, and collected.
Here are seven Ayurvedic secrets to maintain your balance this summer:
1. Embrace Cooling Pranayama
Incorporating cooling breathwork and gentle yoga into your daily routine is essential during summer. Pranayama techniques like Sheetali, Sheetkari, Chandra Bedhana, and longer exhales help reduce internal heat and calm the mind. These breath practices lower Pitta Dosha, the fire and oily biology of the body, and promote relaxation and rejuvenation. Starting your morning with Prana (life force) is particularly beneficial during the hot summer months.
2. Stay Hydrated with Ayurvedic Drinks
Proper hydration is crucial to counter the drying effects of the summer heat. Ayurvedic hydration methods go beyond plain water. Try Ayurvedic Gatorade made with water, a pinch of raw sugar, salt, and lime. Another refreshing option is Hydration Tea, a blend of limes, Tulsi tea, salt, turbinado sugar, and kundalini tea. For a cooling delight, prepare a “Cucumber Refresher” with purified water, cucumber slices, lemon, and mint leaves. These beverages help replenish electrolytes and keep you cool.
3. Follow a Pitta-Pacifying Diet
Your diet plays a significant role in managing Pitta dosha. Focus on foods that are sweet, bitter, and astringent. Incorporate cooling fruits and vegetables like coconut water, watermelon, leafy greens, cucumber, and pomegranate into your meals. Spices such as fennel, coriander, and cardamom also have cooling properties. Avoid pungent, salty, and sour foods like tomatoes, chili peppers, and fermented items. Opt for lighter meals to aid digestion, which tends to weaken in the summer heat.
4. Engage in Light, Cooling Exercise
Physical activity is vital, but it’s important to adapt your exercise routine to the season. Engage in light, cooling exercises such as Pitta-balancing yoga, Tai Chi, walking, swimming, and hiking. Avoid vigorous activities that generate excess heat, such as power yoga, hot yoga, long-distance running, or marathons, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Early morning or evening workouts are ideal.
5. Use Cooling Essential Oils and Aromatherapy
Essential oils can be powerful allies in balancing Pitta. Scents like sandalwood, rose, lavender, jasmine, lotus, and gardenia have cooling and soothing effects. Keep a rose water mist handy to refresh your face and body throughout the day. Opt for cool baths utilizing milk and rose petals for a more calming and tranquil effect.
6. Enjoy the Early Morning Time of the Day
Rising with the first light is the best time to absorb the sun’s healing energy. Most of the day, we hide from the hot, intense sun, but the morning light is sattvic, pure, and holy. Nourish your eyes with the pure, golden light of the rising sun. Sit facing the east and welcome the rising sun each morning. Enjoy the coolness of the early morning while welcoming the hot, shining Surya (sun).
7. Adopt a Cooling Daily Routine
Establish a daily routine that emphasizes cooling and calming activities. Begin your day with gentle yoga asanas, including Chandra Namaskar. Spend time outdoors in the early morning or late evening to avoid peak heat. Practice cooling pranayama like Sheetali or left-nostril breathing in the morning. Give yourself a slow, loving full-body massage with Pitta massage oil, coconut oil, or sunflower oil before showering. Wear light, breathable fabrics in cool colors like white, blue, and green to further enhance your comfort.
By embracing these Ayurvedic secrets, you can navigate the summer season with grace and ease. Remember, Ayurveda is about harmony and understanding your unique nature. With these insights, you can enjoy the vibrant energy of summer while maintaining inner peace and well-being. Stay cool, stay balanced, and let Ayurveda guide you through the summer months.
Need Support? Let’s work together and create your, unique summer lifestyle plan to fit your needs and goals.
