Hot Fun in the Summertime
Here we are, right in the middle of good, old Summertime! In a past blog post, I touched on Ayurveda and the connection between our constitutions and the seasons. As we move into what is shaping up to be a hot, dry summer, using Ayurvedic practices may help us find some comfort in this season of excess. And we all want comfort from too much; too much sun, too much food, too much activity, too much heat and humidity, even too much air conditioning! Your yoga practice has this all covered in the ancient science of Ayurveda.
Ayurveda is often called the “sister science” to Yoga. It is the practice of identifying the imbalances in our lives and working with nature to come to wholeness and equanimity. The two basic tenets of Ayurveda to remember are “Like Increases Like” and “Opposites Balance”. It will help to discover your own constitution, called your Dosha, to better understand the methods of the practice and which are best for you. I have found that Banyan Botanicals is one of the best resources for determining your Dosha and finding solid information dealing with any imbalances, called Vikritis. You can start with a Dosha test here: https://www.banyanbotanicals.com/info/dosha-quiz/ .
Once you understand your Dosha(s), you have many options to help pacify any imbalances. It is helpful to keep in mind the season, as I referenced in the April blog post, as it can greatly affect how you approach your Dosha. Remembering that each season has its own similarities to the Doshas, greatly aids in finding comfort in your own. A very basic guide is below. Keep in mind, it may be slightly different depending on your climate. Vata is often the default when the ones listed are not accurate.
Spring -Kapha
Summer -Pitta
Fall -Vata
Winter -Kapha
Beyond the seasonal influences, other ways to affect the Doshas is through lifestyle choices. These are small changes that can add up to a big shift in your health. Most obvious, but also the most complicated is diet. Diet is a large part of this practice, but it doesn't just speak to foods,it can also include herbs, beverages, supplements, and preparation methods, all working together synergistically to bring your digestive system into check. In Ayurveda, it all begins with a healthy digestive system. You also need to be mindful of what time of day you eat, how much, and how often. Seasonal foods are always a good choice and keep us aligned with Mother Nature.
Exercise also plays a large part in living in harmony with an Ayurvedic lifestyle. Our Dosha and any imbalances will dictate what type of exercise is best, as well as the length of time we should exercise, and time of day. For example, someone with a Kapha imbalance may want to do Yin practices in the late afternoon during the winter months, when actually a more active (Pitta) practice done closer to midday (Pitta time of day) will increase their vigor and help them feel more energetic during this Kapha time of the year.
Pranayama can have a stimulating or calming effect on us, and help combat any imbalances we may have. It is an Ayurvedic lifestyle choice that supports both our exercise routine and a meditation practice. Plus, easeful breathing just makes us feel better and helps us be more clear headed. Keeping with the same Kapha example above, adding Kappalabhati, “skull shining breath”, a forceful exhale out of the nose, increases oxygenation of the blood and gives the practitioner more energy and sense of well being, combating many Kapha tendencies.
Meditation practices are always a good way to keep Doshas balanced, while also promoting a positive outlook in practitioners. Keeping up a daily habit like meditation, even if only ten minutes a day, can change patterns in thoughts and actions. One’s body, mind, and spirit become closely aligned, giving them a sense of presence and peace.
There are specific Ayurvedic daily routines that are good for all Doshas. Over time, these routines become habits which keep us healthy, but they are also self-care practices which deepen our connection to ourselves, our bodies, and boost a sense of self-love. Below are a few ideas for building an Ayurvedic daily routine.This is a sampling of morning practices, there are many to choose from that can be done during different times of day. It is best to pick just one at first and add others as the first becomes a true habit.
Drink Warm Lemon Water
Tongue Scraping
Oil Pulling
Eye Rinse
Neti Pot Rinse
Dry Brushing
Body Oil Massage
Ayurveda is a fascinating science that has stood the test of time. In fact, many of the practices are things you may have heard your grandmother say. They are a way of listening to our intuition and bodies, and living in harmony with nature. I invite you to take a little time and explore your Doshas and Vikritis, I am always happy to help you learn more.