Summer-how to balance Pitta Dosha
We are in the summer season, and itβs time to bloom, flourish and come into fullness. In Ayurveda summer time is governed by Pitta Dosha with the qualities of mobile, sharp, light, hot and dry. Pitta is linked to metabolism, digestion and transformation within the body. During this time all Doshas can experience feeling dehydrated, irritable, overheated and sluggish. Here I will share few tips on how to find more balance during this time and support yourself in the best way.
Tips on how to find balance and enjoy this summer season:
-Favour sweet, bitter and astringent tastes (avoid sour, salty and pungent)
-Hydration is the key. Infuse your water with lime or mint, to make it more appealing and to drink plenty. (Ps. Despite the heat avoid iced drinks, since they hinder our digestive fire)
-Enjoy plenty of high-water content fruit and vegetables, such as; cucumbers, zucchini, celery, tomatoes, watermelon, pineapple, oranges, strawberries
-Enjoy cooling foods (watermelon, cucumber, celery, coconut water)
-Avoid too spicy and overripe foods, they increase heat in the body and mind
-Enjoy early morning activities and exercise, it is a cooler time of the day for a nice brisk walk or a yoga practice
-Use cooling herbs to cook and drink in your tea, such as; coriander and fennel
-Swim in the sea or a lake to keep the body cool
-Dress in light and breathable clothes made of cotton, linen or silk
-Practice cooling breathing techniques (breathing in and out through left side nostril, lunar energy side of the body)
-Bathe in the moonlight
-With all the extra energy and sunlight make sure to ground, relax and wind down in the evening ,before sleep. Aim to be in bed preferably before 11pm
These small adjustments, even few of them, can lead to significant improvements in your well-being. They allow you to be more comfortable this summer season, so that you can enjoy fully, while maintaining optimal health.
