GRISHMA RITU ARCHARYA

                AYURVEDA’S SECRETS TO BEAT HEAT DURING SUMMER SEASON

Rituacharya is the ancient Ayurvedic practice and is comprised of two words, “Ritu” which means season and “charya” which means Regimen or discipline. Ritucharya consists of lifestyle and ayurvedic diet routine to cope with the bodily and mental impacts caused by seasonal changes as recommended by Ayurveda.

The sun rises, the morning begins with the sound of the birds and the rising sun. As day progresses the heat increases and we reach out for that cool glass of water or maybe a favorite drink that keeps us cool. Rituacharya balances all the three doshas which helps us in keeping our mental and physical fitness. The season starts from mid-May an ends in mid-July.

Grishma Ritu Charya: Ayurvedic Regimen for the Summer According to Ayurveda, chilled foods and drinks disrupt the digestive power called Agni. The Agni can be compared to burning logs. If we dump cold water over burning logs the fire goes out. Thereby indigestion, acidity, reduced appetite...follow. Grishma ritu (summer season) has been described as a season of dehydration, exhaustion and lack of energy. The key to good health in summers is to keep this 'Agni' balanced.

LIFESTYLE:

1. Food should be sweet, light and more of liquids.

2. Body pack made from be taken. Sandalwood is recommended.

3. Boiled rice, meats, curd (yogurt) can be included in diet.

4. Wear loose light cotton clothes.

5. Drink water from an earthen pot.

6. Prefer bathing with cold water.

DIET RECOMMENDATIONS:

 1.  Watermelon, fresh cucumber, lettuce are very beneficial to maintain the balance of Pitta.

 2. Coconut water is an excellent source to stay hydrated in summers.

 3. Cooling herbal teas like cumin, coriander and fennel are quite beneficial to keep one hydrated and   cool. They can be used individually or all three together.

 4. Fresh, cooling herbs like Mint, Cilantro and Watercress can be juiced.

 5. Favour cooling spices like cardamom, coriander and fennel when cooking.

 6. Fresh fruit juices are good in rejuvenation.

 7. Eat digestible meals like Khichari and salads.

 8. Perfect time to include sweet dairy products like milk, butter, cottage cheese, fresh homemade yogurt etc.

THINGS TO AVOID:

1. Too much exertion, physical exercise and over exposure to sun.

2. Avoid sour or unripe fruits, aged cheese.

Over time, if you will follow even a few suggestions in your daily routine you will notice a major difference in your energy levels.