Summer can be our favorite and most challenging season, especially for my Pitta, Pitta Kapha and Pitta Vata people out there. I know I enjoy the longer days, hot weather and time spent outdoors. It wasn’t until last summer that I started to realize how challenging the heat can be. I was feeling exhaustion, dehydration, and even depression. At that time I didn’t know how all of this could be contributed to the season, and more importantly, that I could balance through little actions to enjoy my fun in the sun to the fullest (and healthiest)
Here are four ways I use Ayurveda to balance Pitta in the summer
Take it Easy!
Seriously though, Pitta is the firey energy of transformation but can become too pushy, picky and perfectionist for a season so hot. For days and months that are 76+ pace your workload, try to get intense work done in the morning and evening when it is cooler, and leave the middle of the day for lighter things.
Try these spices.
Cardamom, coriander, turmeric, basil, fenugreek, fennel, mint, and cumin are going to be your best friends this season. These are all cooling and balancing spices for Pitta. Stay away from spicey, hot spices. They will literally burn you up from the inside out with the heat!
Use floral sprays midday
This one has honestly helped me so much. I live in the city where the heat bounces off the pavement and buildings. It is usually 5-10 degrees hotter than the suburbs. Making a spray with lavender, rose or chamomile essential oil has helped calm down not only my skin and eyes but also my agitation and anger levels. Simply spray it on your body or up into the air to enjoy the mist as it falls. Florals are calming and soothing for all our systems.
Exercise in the evening
Summer actually isn’t the best season for your most intense cardio workout. It is more balancing to take long walks in the evening or try a slow vinyasa yoga class. Saving your workout for when the sun is setting and the temperature drops will keep you for overdoing it and wearing out your body and patience. Swimming it the best way to get your heart rate up in the summer. If you can make it to the beach, the ocean is very balancing, calming and healing for Pitta!
Integrating these actions to my summer routine has been immensely helpful for me. Looking back at last summer versus how I feel at the start of this summer is a total 180. Before I used to feel guilty if I wasn't outside soaking in the sunshine, but now I can enjoy it when I want and take time indoors or in the shade as well.
I am able to balance my socialization and outdoor time with time spent in reflection and relaxation. Just knowing the root cause of my ailments (too much Pitta) was enough to ease the guilt.
If you have difficulty with another season feel free to book a free call to discover some tools that can work for you!
