Seasons change, and so should you—discover the Ayurvedic way to thrive year-round
Have you ever wondered why you lose energy in the winter or feel sluggish during the monsoons? Ritucharya, an ancient technique that aligns your lifestyle with the seasons, provides the solution according to Ayurveda. Derived from “Ritu” (season) and “Charya” (discipline), this routine helps balance your body’s energies—Doshas—while protecting you from illness. Intrigued? Let’s look at this strategy for year-round energy!
In Ayurveda, Ritucharya is the observance of diet according to seasonal changes
— Vaishnaavi HS (@vaishnaavi_hs) August 10, 2016
Learn More: https://t.co/UCtAbngRHH pic.twitter.com/XqHYi7Y6eu
Ayurveda divides the year into two cycles: Aadaan Kaal (Northern Solstice), when the sun drains energy, and Visarga Kaal (Southern Solstice) when the moon supplies vitality.
Each cycle encompasses three distinct seasons, making six in total:
Shishir Ritu (Winter): Mid-January to Mid-March
Vasant Ritu (Spring): Mid-March to Mid-May
Grishma Ritu (Summer): Mid-May to Mid-July
Varsha Ritu (Monsoon): Mid-July to Mid-September
Sharad Ritu (Autumn): Mid-September to Mid-November
Hemant Ritu (Late Autumn/Pre-Winter): Mid-November to Mid-January
But it’s more than just calendar dates; it’s about recognising what your body desires during each season.
Credit: @nourishyog
When winter comes, your body seeks warmth and sustenance to balance the Kapha Dosha. Choose robust meals made with cereals, wheat, and pulses, sip ginger tea, or eat garlic-seasoned foods. Ayurveda recommends oil massages and sun exposure for warming.
Avoid cold, raw, or light meals since they might be detrimental during this season.
As flowers blossom, your body needs a reset. It’s time to cleanse and handle the Kapha accumulation. Focus on light, readily digested foods such as lentils and bitter greens, and exercise regularly.
Avoid taking midday naps; they disturb your spring energy cycle.
Ah, summer—the season of oppressive heat. Hydration is especially important when Vata Dosha is present. Consume hydrating meals such as fresh fruits, buttermilk, and cucumber salads, and drink lots of water. Relax beneath the tranquil moonlight after sunset.
Avoid spicy or salty foods, as they might cause thirst.
Credit: @egawellness8928
Rainy days might reduce digestive fire (Agni), exacerbating Pitta Dosha's difficulties. Choose warm soups, barley, and rice with a squeeze of lemon or a bit of rock salt to assist digestion. Massage with oils and bathe in boiling water to strengthen your immune system.
Avoid raw salads and heavy, greasy meals.
Autumn brings much-needed respite to your body. Eat sweet, cooling foods like green grame and honey to help regulate Pitta Dosha. This season’s Ayurvedic slogan is moderation—for the best results, balance your food, exercise, and moonlight strolls.
Your strength peaks in late autumn, and you need wholesome nutrition. Focus on rich meals like new rice, milk, sesame, and healthy fats. Warm water baths and sunbaths are essential, while heavy clothes and cosy blankets help keep the chill away.
Credit: @purelyyoursofficial
Ritucharya is a holistic wellness approach, not just a diet. It helps to:
Boost immunity: Prevents colds and seasonal illnesses.
Balance doshas: Responds to your Vata, Pitta, or Kapha demands.
Enhance longevity: Encourages peace with nature for a longer life.
The seasons change, but your health doesn’t. Embrace Ritucharya by connecting with nature and nurturing your mind and body at each shift. Remember that health is a journey through all seasons. Are you prepared to start yours?
