Ayurvedic daily rhythm
In the previous post I introduced you to three Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), the three basic constitutions, their qualities and attributes. Maybe you did the Dosha quiz and found out your Dosha type and now can be more self aware of your body and mind and how your Dosha is manifesting in you. In this blog I would like to widen the concept of Doshas even more and explain how they are governing our daily rhythm, seasons and much more…
In Ayurveda it is believed that by living with natures rhythms we can bring balance and harmony to our body, mind and spirit. The concept of micro and macro cosmos is present when talking about the rotation of energies we are expereincing, that are in “charge” during certain time of the day, year, life etc. Elements and the Universe are supporting this rhythm, so better to work with it than against it to promote harmony, balance and wellbeing.
Our body is governed by a natural clock, Circadian rhythm, that is on the cellular level same for all the people. It regulates our sleep-wake cycles, regulates hormones and neurotransmitters (mood, metabolism, cell regeneration, energy…) and it is crucial for our wellbeing, longevity and happiness.
Different times of the day are ruled by different Doshas; Vata (air and space) at 2-6am and 2-6pm, with the qualities of movement, creativity and lightness. By Kapha (water and earth) at 6-10am and 6-10pm, with the qualities of structure, heaviness, density. By Pitta (fire and water) at 10am-2pm and 10pm-2am with the qualities of transformation, action and heat.
Ayurveda suggests us an Ayurvedic clock to optimise our actions with the natural cycle of nature and the energy that is present in each moment;
6-10 am is Kapha time and the energy is heavy and sluggish. It is recommended to wake up before 6 am and perform a morning routine, Dinacharya (I will expand on it in following posts). It is the best time for movement, to shift this stagnant, heavy energy, to take a small walk outdoors, do your meditation and have a light, easily digestible, breakfast at 7-9am.
10am-2pm is Pitta time and the energy is active, focused, organized and strong. It is the best time for taking action, for tackling hard mental tasks and concentrated work. It is the worst time for movement, specially high intensity exercises, as the body is already heated. It is time to have the largest meal of the day (the proteins, dairy and possible dessert) as the metabolism is high and the digestion is the strongest.
2-6pm is Vata time and the energy is light, active, supple and creative. It is best time for communication, to and tackle creative tasks. Great time to go for a walk and get some fresh air, have an afternoon snack around 4pm if needed and another great time to do your exercises and movement. Avoid overstimulation at this time. Ayurveda suggests to have your dinner between 5.30-7pm, that should be light and easy to digest.
6-10pm is again Kapha time and energy is earthy, grounding and slow. Time to slow down and wind down, avoid heavy mental and mind activating tasks and let go of the day. It is good to take a gentle walk after dinner and to connect with your family and yourself. Before bed perform an evening routine (in next posts I will expand on it) and it is suggested to be in bed by 10pm.
10pm-2am is Pitta time and it is time for the scilent inner repair, resting and digesting the day. It is time of deep sleep and crucial for our wellbeing. It is most important time for bodys detoxification, purification, restoration, rejuvenation and healing. Avoid staying up late, partying or working at this time.
2-6 am is Vata time and it is time for movement, elimination and waking. It is the phase of light sleep and dream state. We are waking up and cleaning the body. The energy is subtle and it supports the practices of meditation, breath work and visualisation. Avoid too much stimulation at this time.
I find it so fascinating how the Doshas are present throughout the day and how they are also present , for example, in the seasons; Vata-Fall time, Kapha-Winter time, Kapha&Pitta-Spring time and Pitta-Summer time, in the menstrual cycle; Vata-Luteal phase, Kapha-Menstrual phase, Kapha&Pitta-Follicular phase and Pitta-Ovulation and our lifespan; childhood 0-16 is governed by Kapha, adulthood 16-50 is governed by Pitta and old age by Vata.
With all this knowledge I hope you will gain better and deeper understanding and connection with your own unique self, your constitution, and do the best choices for your own body and mind to live in harmony with the nature and the surrounding environment. In the next blog post I will expand on how to balance your Dosha and will do deep into specific daily morning and evening routines that Ayurveda suggests for us.
