How to stay cool in Summer.
Ayurveda, which translates as “knowledge of life,” dates back 5,000 years to the ancient Sanskrit texts, the Vedas. It’s a system of healing that examines
- physical constitution,
- emotional nature, and
- spiritual outlook in the context of the universe.
According to the philosophy, universal life force manifests as three different energies, known as Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. We’re all made up of a unique combination of these three energies. This unique combination is determined at the moment of conception and is your own personal blueprint, or prakriti (nature).
As we move through life, the proportion of each of the three doshas constantly fluctuates according to
- your environment,
- your diet,
- the seasons,
- the climate,
- your age, and
- many other factors.
As they move into and out of balance, the doshas can affect your health, energy level, and general mood.
During the summer, which traditionally is pitta season, we have a tendency to “overheated.” Pitta dosha is a combination of the water and fire elements. It is responsible for transformation within the body (think “metabolism”). Its qualities are hot, light, and spreading.
To balance excess pitta, we need to bring opposing qualities into our practice: cool, soft, and dark, and practice with a more passive attitude (without expectations, competition, or judgment).
According to the principles of ayurveda, asanas that open the small intestines, liver and navel areas will release heat and tension there and help to decrease pitta. Avoid pushing yourself to the max, keep their gaze down and explore the asanas at your own pace.
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