As the sun stretches its rays across the sky, ushering in the vibrant warmth of summer, it can throw our bodies and minds out of balance. In Ayurveda, the ancient holistic system of healing, summer is associated with the Pitta dosha, characterized by fire and water elements.
Pitta governs metabolism, digestion, and transformation in the body. When in balance, it fuels our ambition, intelligence, and passion. However, when aggravated, it can lead to irritability, inflammation, and digestive issues.
Here are some signs of pitta imbalance:
Red or irritated skin
Burning digestion and an overactive metabolism
Nausea or discomfort upon missing meals
Loose stools
An uncomfortable feeling of heat in the body
Feelings of frustration, anger, and irritability
Judgment, impatience, criticism, and intolerance
Red, dry, or light-sensitive eyes
Excessive perfectionist tendencies
But fret not! Embracing the summer glow while keeping Pitta in harmony is entirely achievable with a mindful approach to diet, lifestyle, and self-care. Here are some simple tips to help you stay cool, calm, and collected during the sizzling summer months.
Nourish with Cooling Foods
The key to pacifying Pitta lies in choosing foods that are inherently cooling, hydrating, and soothing to the body. This is the time of year you will be drawn to incorporating more juices, smoothies, fruits, and salads into your life.
Incorporate a variety of sweet, bitter, and astringent tastes into your diet.
Opt for juicy fruits like watermelon, cucumber, and ripe mangoes.
Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are excellent choices too.
Embrace the goodness of grains like quinoa, barley, and basmati rice, which help to balance Pitta's fiery nature.
Herbal teas infused with peppermint, chamomile, fennel, or coriander offer a refreshing respite from the summer heat.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is paramount, especially during the scorching summer days. Sip on cool water throughout the day to quench your thirst and maintain optimal hydration levels. Infuse your water with slices of cucumber, lemon, or mint for a burst of flavor and extra cooling properties.
Coconut water, a natural electrolyte-rich elixir, replenishes minerals lost through sweat, keeping Pitta in check while rejuvenating your body. If you are in a very hot environment or are sweating more due to exercising in the heat, I highly recommend adding a trace mineral supplement to your routine. We can't replace the trace minerals we lose in sweat so this is one supplement that is actually worth investing in, especially if you are dealing with cramps.
Practice Mindful Movement
Engage in gentle, Pitta-pacifying exercises to keep your body and mind in harmony. Opt for cooling practices like swimming, leisurely walks in nature, or restorative yoga postures. Embrace the soothing flow of yoga sequences designed to calm the mind and alleviate heat from the body.
If you can't skip your intense workout routine, try to do it in the morning or evening. It is best to avoid exercising from 10 am - 2 pm as these are the peak hours for pitta.
Cultivate mindfulness through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply basking in the serenity of a shaded garden. Allow yourself the grace to slow down and savor the simple joys of summer.
Protect Your Skin
The summer sun may beckon us outdoors, but it's essential to shield our skin from its intense rays. Opt for natural sunscreen made with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to safeguard your skin without harmful chemicals. Coconut oil, avocado oil, hazelnut oil, and raspberry seed oil have natural SPF too.
Wear lightweight, breathable clothing in light colors to reflect sunlight and keep you cool. Don a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses for added protection against sun exposure. And remember, staying in the shade during peak hours can prevent overheating and sunburn.
Cultivate Emotional Well-being
Emotional well-being plays a significant role in balancing Pitta during the summer months. Practice self-compassion, patience, and kindness towards yourself and others. Engage in activities that bring you joy and uplift your spirit, whether it's spending time with loved ones, pursuing creative hobbies, or immersing yourself in nature's beauty. Prioritize relaxation and downtime to prevent burnout and overwhelm. Embrace the art of letting go and releasing any pent-up tension or stress, allowing yourself to flow with the rhythm of the season.
Conclusion
As we enter this beautiful summer season, let us embrace the wisdom of Ayurveda in nurturing our body, mind, and spirit. By incorporating these mindful practices into our daily lives, we can keep Pitta in balance and thrive amidst the summer heat. So, sip on the sweetness of nature, bask in the warmth of the sun, and dance to the rhythm of your own inner harmony. Creating an Ayurvedic lifestyle will keep you in balance and allow you to feel the essence of true vitality and well-being.
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