The weather changes during the monsoon season, and our bodies' internal balance also changes. Ayurveda, a traditional holistic medical system from India, advises that in order to be healthy during this season, we should modify our food and lifestyle practices. In order to maintain your health throughout the rainy season, consider the following Ayurvedic advice:
Balance Vata Dosha: The Vata dosha, which controls movement and is readily disturbed by wind and rain, tends to become out of balance during the monsoon season. Follow a schedule, uphold a warm and stable environment, and include grounding exercises like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing to balance Vata.
Eat Warm and Light Foods: During the monsoon season, choose warm, prepared, and easily digestible foods. Include freshly prepared foods that balance the six tastes of sweet, salty, sour, bitter, pungent, and astringent. Avoid greasy, heavy, and fried foods because they might be hard to digest and make you feel sluggish.
Stay Hydrated: Even when it's chilly outside, it's still important to stay hydrated throughout the monsoon season. To assist flush out toxins and promote optimal digestion, sip warm water or herbal teas. Cold drinks should not be consumed in excess because they can decrease your digestive fire (Agni).
Use Digestive Spices: To improve digestion and help your immune system, use digestive spices in your meals. During the monsoon season, ginger, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and fennel are helpful. They warm the body and help with digestion and bloating.
Boost Immunity: Viral and bacterial diseases frequently rise during the monsoon season. Include immune-boosting foods like fresh fruits high in vitamin C (including oranges, lemons, and berries), garlic, tulsi (holy basil), and therapeutic herbs like ashwagandha and amla in your diet to support your immune system.
Maintain Personal Hygiene: Fungal and bacterial diseases are frequent during the monsoon because of the increased humidity. Keep yourself dry and clean, giving specific attention to regions like your feet and underarms that are prone to moisture accumulation. Use natural skin care products that are antibacterial and antifungal, and practice good hygiene.
Practice Abhyanga (Self-Massage): Abhyanga, a regular self-massage with warm oil, is beneficial for nourishing the body and balancing the Vata dosha. Before taking a bath, self-massage with coconut or sesame oil can help you unwind, enhance circulation, and nourish your skin.
Ayurveda emphasizes the individuality of each person, thus it is best to speak with a practitioner to learn about your particular constitution and any potential imbalances. You may take care of your health and well-being throughout the monsoon season by implementing these Ayurvedic lifestyle suggestions.