Co-author: Vd. Sara Maid, Vd Aishwarya Saindane, Vd. Tejas Ahire.

In the summer, as the sun becomes more intense, there is an increased risk of Pitta imbalances within our bodies. This article delves into the practical Ayurvedic approaches to cooling, calming, and rebalancing Pitta during the summer months. Explore these methods to help regulate your Pitta and enjoy a serene and balanced summer.

How Summer Intensifies Pitta

Individuals with a Pitta constitution may encounter increased heat-related issues such as acidity and heartburn in the summer, as the external heat can magnify their internal heat. Even individuals without a predominant Pitta constitution can experience Pitta-related problems if  proper diet and lifestyle is not adhered to. 

The following are common pitta imbalances:

8 Ways to Calm, Cool, and Rebalance your Pitta

1. Opt for Cooling and Refreshing Foods:

• Consuming more cooling fruits such as watermelon, cucumber, apples, pears, berries, and melons helps in lowering body temperature.
• Recommended vegetables include leafy greens, zucchini, asparagus, and broccoli.
• Grounding and cooling grains like barley, rice, oats, and quinoa are good choices.
• Use coriander, fennel, mint, and turmeric for flavor without adding heat.
• Including buttermilk and ghee in your diet is advised based on Ayurvedic principles.
• You can also include Amalaki and Shatavari in your routine in the form of powder as they help to reduce body heat.

2. Avoid the following Food

• Avoid hot spices like chili, cayenne, cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper as they can increase body heat.
• Pitta aggravating foods such as vinegar, pickles, curd, and fermented foods should be avoided.
• Stay away from fried and oily foods, as they contribute to heat and heaviness.

3. Don’t Forget to Hydrate throughout the Day

• Ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Opt for cooling beverages such as coconut water, peppermint and chamomile herbal teas, and aloe vera juice instead of canned and in-store bought juices. 

4. Limit direct contact with sunlight

• To stay cool and comfortable, it's best to avoid being outdoors or in direct sunlight between 10 AM and 2 PM.
• Cool down by taking refreshing showers and wearing light, breathable clothing. If you need to be outside, always ensure that your head is covered.

5. Maintain Proper Meal Timings

 It's important to establish a consistent daily routine by sticking to regular meal times and sleep schedules, as this helps stabilize Pitta. Avoid going hungry for extended periods, and steer clear of late-night eating and sleep deprivation.

6. Do not Over Exercise

Engage in suitable exercises and physical activities, such as cooling exercises like swimming, nature walks, and gentle yoga. Refrain from intense workouts during the hottest times of the day to avoid excessive heat.

 

7. Practice Abhyanga

Our Cooling Pitta Oil is specifically formulated with Pitta-reducing herbs in a base of cold pressed sesame oil which gives this oil serene and pacifying qualities. It cools, relaxes, and pacifies the mind and body.

8. Connect with Nature

• Spend time near water bodies, such as lakes or rivers, which naturally cool Pitta.
• Participate in early morning or evening walks in parks or gardens. Walking on grass barefoot also helps to cool the mind and body.

It's important to manage Pitta imbalances during the summer to maintain overall health and well-being. By integrating Ayurvedic principles into your daily routine, you can effectively lower, calm, and balance the fiery Pitta dosha. 

By following these Ayurvedic strategies, you can navigate the summer months with greater ease and comfort, enjoying a harmonious balance of body and mind, allowing you to experience a serene and balanced summer.