Reducing the summer heat in your body according to Ayurveda involves balancing the Pitta dosha, which can become aggravated during the hot months. Pitta is the energy that controls the body's metabolic systems, including digestion, absorption, nutrition, and body temperature. Here are some Ayurvedic tips to help cool down your body during summer:
1. Diet Adjustments:
- Favor Cool and Sweet Foods: Eat foods that are cooling and sweet, such as cucumbers, sweet fruits like melons and grapes, coconut, and dairy products like milk and ghee. These help calm Pitta dosha.
- Reduce Spicy, Sour, and Salty Foods: These tastes can increase Pitta and body heat. Avoid hot spices, fermented foods, and salty snacks.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water and cooling herbal teas. Coconut water is excellent for cooling the body. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol as they can dehydrate the body.
2. Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Stay Cool: Avoid direct exposure to the midday sun. When outside, wear a hat or use an umbrella, and choose breathable, natural fabrics like cotton and linen.
- Exercise: Opt for cooler, gentler forms of exercise like yoga, swimming, or walking in the early morning or late evening when it's cooler.
- Cooling Baths and Showers: Take cool baths or showers to lower body heat. You can even add rose water or essential oils like sandalwood or lavender for a calming effect.
3. Herbal Remedies:
- Aloe Vera: Consuming Aloe Vera juice or applying its gel can have a cooling effect on the body.
- Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry): This herb is known for its cooling properties and is a good antioxidant. It can be taken as a supplement or used in cooling drinks.
- Coriander and Fennel: These herbs can be used in cooking or made into a tea to help cool the body.
4. Pranayama (Breath Control):
- Practice cooling breathing techniques like Sheetali Pranayama (Cooling Breath) where you inhale through a rolled tongue and exhale through the nose, and Sitkari Pranayama, where you inhale through clenched teeth.
5. Mindfulness and Relaxation:
- Stress can increase body heat, so practices like meditation, yoga, and spending time in nature can help maintain a cool mind and body.
Remember, everyone's body is different, and it's important to listen to your body's needs and adjust accordingly. If you're trying Ayurvedic practices for the first time, it might be helpful to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized advice.
-Hemanth Kumar G
Brahmi Ayurveda Clinic, Chikmagalur