Biological rhythms are a fundamental feature of all forms of life, from the smallest virus to the hippopotamus. Human beings, too, are part of Nature and are influenced by these same rhythms. Biological rhythms are generated deep within the physiology and coordinate the functions of our bodies with events and rhythms in the external environment.
Summer is the season which is dominated by the fire element. It is a season characterized by heat and humidity and unbridled growth of flowers, grasses, trees and leaves. Children and adults alike emerge from their homes and naturally begin to engage in increased physical activities. Other important qualities of Pitta include softness, excitation, and joy. In general, we will experience the most difficulty in the season which matches our primary body type: fall/winter for Vata-types; summer for Pitta-types; spring for Kapha- types. This means that we should be particularly faithful to our prescribed constitutional regimens and, in addition, include measures which honor the season. Here are some general tips for us all during Pitta season (June through September).
Abhyanga (Self Oil Massage)
Although we are encouraged to perform this vitalizing technique year-round, abhyanga is performed somewhat less frequently in Pitta season. The skin is generally moist (dravya) and sticky (picchila) during Pitta season. For the Pitta season massage to be effective, an appropriate oil must be used. This can include: sandalwood, coconut, chandanbala, and sunflower oils. Remember to use slightly warm as this helps open the srotas (channels) and allows the unimpeded flow of prana (vital energies). Ayurvedic sages have identified 107 specific points located throughout the body through which prana must flow for health to be maintained. These are known as >I>marma points. If the flow of prana through one or more marma points is blocked or disrupted, disease will manifest.
Diet
Increase sweet, bitter, and astringent tasting foods which are light in nature and not steaming hot. Plenty of bitter salad greens such as lettuce, arugula, radicchio, basil, and endive are particularly Pitta-balancing. Reduce sour, salty, and pungent tastes. Include cool drinks and raw foods in the diet, including cucumber, mango and coconut water. Fruit juices without added sugar, mint teas, and raw berries are good choices.As always, avoid over-eating.
Make a mango lassi by blending 4-6 oz. plain yogurt, 2-3 oz. water, 2 ice cubes (optional), 1 medium diced, ripe mango, a pinch of cardamom powder, and a pinch of ground cumin seed powder. Drink during the Pitta part of the day, between 10 AM and 2 PM.
Exercise Moderately and Regularly
To prevent excess Pitta from accumulating in the physiology, we must maintain a regular program of exercise during the summer. We must not overdo any form of vigorous aerobic exercise, since that would overheat us and aggravate Pitta. Therefore avoid long-distance running, spinning, and other forms of exercise which heat the body. Recommended exercises include those which are more cooling: Hatha yoga, tai chi, walking, swimming, moderate free-weight or nautilus machines, water-skiing, or bicycling.
Pitta Aromas, Herbs, and Daily Routine
In Ayurveda, aromas of essential oils and resins derived from plants are used to pacify aggravated doshas (bioenergies). In the Pitta season, the best methods to use are to mix a few drops of oil into a mister containing water and spray to freshen the room air, or to use a pot pourri pot with water and a few drops of an appropriate essential oil. The following essential oils are recommended for Pitta season: sandalwood, rose, lavender, jasmine, lotus, gardenia, and vertivert. It is often wise to supplement our diets with one or more gentle and cooling herbs during Pitta season to maintain proper digestion, elimination, and to prevent excessive accumulation of hot, light, and mobile energies. In addition, Pitta season can create conditions for inflammation and overactivity of certain metabolic processes and secretions.
Herbs generally useful during the Pitta season include: mustaka (Cyperus rotundus, Linn.), sariva (Hemidesmus indicus, L. Schult.), neem (Azadirachta indica, Linn), shatavari, (Asparagus racemosus, Linn.), saffron (Crocus sativus, Linn.), along with the common spices cardamom, dill, turmeric and ground coconut. Always consult a physician/qualified herbalist before initiating treatment.
Since the stomach, liver and skin are the principle seats of Pitta dosha, simple cleansing techniques aimed at these regions are commonly employed in the summer months.
-Boil 4 cups of purified water with 2 tsp. triphala powder until reduced to 1 cup. Allow to cool, administer 1-2 drops to each eye in the evening. Perform this 2X/week -Drink 1 cup of roasted chicory root tea (a great substitute for coffee!) in the morning. -Self oil massage with sunflower oil with a few drops of sandalwood, rose, or lotus essential oil added. Perform once or twice a week.
In addition, the following general measures are advised:
Panchakarma Panchakarma treatments during Pitta season are highly recommended to eliminate toxins which are naturally liquefied and loosened during this season. These therapies will ensure a profound state of physical and mental hygiene. Enjoy the summer!