Director, Spa and Salon, The Imperial Hotel, New Delhi
A seasoned wellness professional, she has over 2 decades of experience. She started her career in th...Show more »
The Indian summer is a time when people head to the hills to enjoy the coolness the rain brings and get some respite from the fierce sun.
However, the ancient science of Ayurveda embraces the summer season and teaches us that when Agni, the fire element within the body known as Pitta, is subdued, it is the most effective time to purify and cleanse our physical system of toxic waste. After the penetrating dry heat of the early season, the humidity of the monsoon naturally starts to draw the toxins and tensions out of the body-mind and so Ayurvedic wisdom takes advantage of this natural cycle.
Pancha karma is now a globally-renowned detox therapy that can last from 7 to 30 days and is highly recommended for this season. Pancha Karma means 'Five Actions' or Five Procedures, now universally called Rejuvenation Therapy. This takes the body and mind through a systematic therapeutic process that includes diagnostics, massage therapies, herbal remedies, enemas, purgation, diet and yogic exercises to powerfully detox the deep tissue and subtle energy channels of the body.
This process boosts healing and repair, as it frees the body of old waste matter that may be stagnating and blocking the system from efficient elimination. Thus, allowing for regeneration of fresh cellular tissue, renewed active internal energy and fresh perspective on life.
Most standalone Ayurvedic therapies are a great option during the summer, as our receptivity is high and therefore better results are experienced from absorption of herbal oils and remedies.
Most standalone Ayurvedic therapies are a great option during the summer.
Ayurveda puts an emphasis on our diet for all imbalances of the body, mind and spirit. Individual nutrition is based on our dosha - kapha, pitta or vayu, and it helps balance the influence of the season.
In the dry part of the summer, it is wise to eat water-rich cooling foods such as water melons, cucumbers and other seasonal fruits plus cooling drinks. Avoid spicy, dehydrating or acidic food and drinks like coffee and alcohol that aggravate pitta and agitate the mind. Support your system by staying cool in body and mind.
It is important to understand that during monsoon our immune system is weaker and our digestive system is also not as strong due to the humidity and high heat. There is a higher risk of falling ill and contracting diseases such as dengue, viral fever, gastro-intestinal problems and even pneumonia.
During the damp monsoon season, the focus changes and Ayurveda recommends that we eat fruits that are in season such as pomegranate, apples, bananas and mangoes - though best to not go overboard on mangoes as they can cause pimples and allergies!
The best foods are cooked rice, oats and barley with a seasoning of garlic or chili to boost your immune system. Also, include more turmeric and neem in your diet as this helps protect the body from infection and stimulates digestion. Increase your intake of bitter and astringent veggies and herbs to act as natural anti-viral elements. Reduce your salt intake by half to prevent fluid retention and allowing the lymphatic system to function efficiently.
As this season accelerates decomposing of fresh foods, it is better to avoid raw salads, meat and fish and eat steamed veggies or well cooked pulses and grains to nourish you with the extra hydration that you need.
Use lighter oils that absorb easily and include a daily portion of natural yoghurt in your diet. This acts an effective probiotic and cooling agent. Avoid milk, but drink plenty of herbal teas such as ginger, mint, basil and add a dash of pure honey, which is also a natural antibiotic.
Following this wisdom that protects and prepares you for the potential hazards of the season is the purpose of Ayurveda. Prevention is the heart of cure so enjoy the summer with renewed knowledge.
