Summer Self-Care Non-Negotiables through Eyes of Ayurveda – As the sun climbs higher in the sky and the days stretch out before us in a warm embrace, it’s time to align our self-care routines with the wisdom of Ayurveda.
Rooted in the ancient healing traditions of India, Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to health and well-being that emphasizes harmony between mind, body, and spirit. And what better time to tap into this ancient wisdom than during the balmy days of summer?
Summer has always been a time of inner turmoil and isolation for me for over 6 years now. It all came to the surface when I was faced with rosacea flare-ups, digestive issues, and perimenopause. I sought out an Ayurvedic doctor to guide me in managing my mind, body and spirit. One thing she diagnosed me with was high pitta-vata. When your Pitta is out of balance you will feel digestive distress, flush easily, have hot flashes, acid reflux, irritability and many more symptoms. I was feeling many of these things for years and thought it was normal stress-induced stuff.
What she shared with me was life-changing and now I can do more in the summer just by being more mindful and nourishing my body properly. Let me share what I learned so that you can incorporate many of these practices for more balance throughout the hot summer months.
According to Ayurveda, summer is characterized by the pitta dosha—the energy associated with fire and heat. To balance pitta focus on incorporating cooling foods and beverages into your diet. I enjoy opting for hydrating fruits like watermelon, cucumber, and coconut, as well as leafy greens, fresh herbs, and juicy berries. Try to sip on cooling herbal teas like mint, coriander, and fennel throughout the day, and avoid spicy, greasy, and overly processed foods that can aggravate pitta and lead to imbalances.
One of my favorite things to incorporate every morning during the summer is Abhyanga, or self-massage, it is the cornerstone of Ayurvedic self-care that promotes relaxation, circulation, and overall well-being. Choose cooling oils like coconut, sunflower, or sesame to nourish your skin and soothe excess heat. Before showering, warm the oil slightly and massage it into your skin using long, sweeping strokes, paying special attention to your scalp, face, and the soles of your feet. Not only will abhyanga help you stay cool and hydrated, but it will also leave your skin feeling soft, supple, and rejuvenated.
I truly believe it is important to stay properly hydrated during the summer. It is essential for maintaining balance and vitality during the summer months, especially when pitta is predominant. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and consider incorporating Ayurvedic beverages that are specifically designed to cool and refresh the body. Try sipping on homemade coconut water infused with a splash of rose water and a pinch of cardamom for a deliciously hydrating treat, or whip up a refreshing lassi made with yogurt, water, and cooling spices like cumin and mint.
Last but not least, each morning I make sure to incorporate my favorite yoga asanas which are a powerful tool for promoting balance, flexibility, and relaxation, and adapting your practice to the seasons can help you stay in harmony with the rhythms of nature. Focusing on cultivating a cooling yoga practice that soothes the body and calms the mind is very important. Some cooling poses like forward bends, twists, and restorative postures will assist your body. Don’t forget the great breathing techniques of pranayama like sheetali and sheetkari breathing to release excess heat and tension from the body.
As the heat of the day begins to wane and the sun sinks below the horizon, take this opportunity to unwind and prepare for a restful night’s sleep. Create a calming evening routine that helps you transition from the busyness of the day to a state of relaxation and rejuvenation.
I Enjoy a leisurely walk in nature, gentle yoga or meditation, and indulge in a soothing herbal tea or warm bath infused with cooling herbs like lavender, chamomile, and rose. By prioritizing relaxation and self-care in the evening hours, you’ll set the stage for restorative sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Ayurvedic summer self-care is all about honoring the rhythms of nature, staying cool, and cultivating balance and harmony in mind, body, and spirit.
There’s something truly magical about this season that invites us to nurture our souls and connect with the deeper rhythms of life you know, the kind that leaves you feeling refreshed, inspired, and deeply connected to the world around you.
To enjoy more of these types of ancient healing practices that help you be more conscious, present, and psychic as they awaken your senses, take The 8 Ultimate Senses Quiz and find out what your 2 strongest Intuitive abilities are to awaken your innermost psychic abilities.
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