We just past summer solstice a couple of weeks ago. What does that mean? Well the season has changed and it is officially summer. Time to cool down and slow down, maybe take a swim. The changing of seasons can be a tough change for our bodies to acclimate to. In Ayurveda (Yoga’s sister science) when summertime comes we need to try and cool the body and try and keep our Pitta from getting too hot. Because Pitta is associated with fire it can overheat and leave the body out of balance. We all have some degree of Pitta in our prakriti (mind/body constitution in ayurveda). If you are noticing that you are experiencing inflammation, excess hunger, acidity, anger, irritability, frustration, acne, or hatred your Pitta may already be out of balance.
More than a mere system of treating illness, Ayurveda is a science of life (Ayur = life, Veda = science or knowledge). It offers a body of wisdom designed to help people stay vital while realizing their full human potential. Providing guidelines on ideal daily and seasonal routines, diet, behavior and the proper use of our senses, Ayurveda reminds us that health is the balanced and dynamic integration between our environment, body, mind, and spirit.
Other than trying to keep cool and our body temperature down, our diets should change a bit too, focusing more on light meals and alot of fruit and vegetables. With the seasonal change nature often provides the appropriate foods to be eaten this time of year. Eat foods that are cooling and calming, sweet, bitter and astringent. Coconut, cucumber, watermelon, steamed greens, mung beans and basmati rice are excellent choices. Sipping cool (not iced) water throughout the day keeps pittas fires at bay. When the hot and sharp qualities are acute it is best to avoid spicy, salty, oily and sour foods such as chilis, pickles, french fries and citrus fruits respectively. Due to pitta’s raging appetite, it is in their best interest that they never miss a meal!
Yoga too can help! Upon awakening, do some yoga asanas, including the Moon Salutation, Tree, Boat, Bow, Bride, Locust, Triangle and all abdominal twists. All asanas that are not overly heating like side bends, seated poses, and twists are great. The emphasis throughout your practice can be on surrendering, forgiving, softening and being gentle with yourself. Make sure you allow plenty of time for Savasana or Corpse Pose!
Massage treatments (abyanga and shirodara) used with cooling oils and aromatherapy such as coconut oil and rose, jasmine, sandalwood, and lavender all nourish and cool the body.
If you have any other questions please get in touch with me. All of these services can be found at my workplace, Envision Personalized Health.