Dr Kranthi R Vardhan - Weekly Newsletter - Issue#135

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the 135th edition of our Ayurvedic Wellness newsletter! As we enter Grishma Rutu—the peak of summer—our bodies are more prone to dehydration, fatigue, skin issues, and digestive imbalances. 

According to Ayurveda, summer is the season where Pitta dosha (fire and water elements) naturally accumulates, and if not managed properly, it can lead to heat-related disorders like acidity, sunburns, rashes, irritability, and reduced strength.

In this edition, we’ll explore seasonal Ayurvedic practices, dietary suggestions, lifestyle modifications, and cooling herbs to keep your body and mind balanced, energized, and protected during the hot summer months.

Grishma Rutu in Ayurveda

Grishma Rutu generally spans mid-May to mid-July. It is characterized by:

• Intense heat and dryness
  

• Depletion of bodily fluids and Ojas (vital energy)
  

• Weakened digestion (Agni)
  

• Accumulation of Pitta dosha
  
  

The goal during this season is to stay cool, hydrated, and rested while avoiding activities or foods that aggravate Pitta.

Ayurvedic Lifestyle Tips for Summer

1. Stay Indoors During Peak Heat (10 AM – 4 PM):

• Avoid direct sun exposure; it increases Pitta and drains energy.
  

2. Wear Light, Breathable Clothing:

• Opt for cotton clothes in light colors to keep the body cool.
  

3. Use Sandalwood or Rose Water Sprays:

• Applying these to your face or pulse points reduces heat and refreshes the senses.
  

4. Apply Cooling Oils Before Bath:

• Massage with coconut oil or chandanadi taila before your bath to nourish the skin and calm Pitta.
  

5. Rest During the Day if Needed:

• A short nap after lunch is permitted in summer to restore energy.
  

Summer Diet According to Ayurveda

1. Favor Cooling, Hydrating Foods:

• Coconut water, buttermilk, soaked almonds, cucumber, watermelon, muskmelon, and mint are ideal summer foods.
  

• Include boiled rice, moong dal, gourds, bottle gourd (lauki), ridge gourd (turai), and fresh herbs in your meals.
  

2. Avoid Pitta-Aggravating Foods:

• Say no to spicy, oily, sour, fermented, deep-fried, and salty foods.
  

• Reduce tea, coffee, alcohol, vinegar, pickles, and red meats as they heat up the system.
  

3. Include Natural Coolants:

• Drink fennel water, coriander seed water, rose sherbet, vetiver-infused water, and jeera (cumin) water.
  

4. Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals:

• Digestion is weaker in summer, so avoid heavy or large meals.
  

Herbal Remedies to Stay Cool and Energized

1. Amla (Indian Gooseberry):

• Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, Amla reduces heat, strengthens immunity, and rejuvenates the skin.
  

2. Guduchi (Giloy):

• A potent Pitta-balancing herb that prevents infections and supports liver health.
  

3. Shatavari:

• Soothes the digestive system and hydrates internal tissues, especially beneficial for women in summer.
  

4. Sandalwood (Chandana):

• Cools the body, relieves headaches, and improves complexion—can be used internally (in prescribed doses) and externally.
  

5. Rose Petals:

• Rose cools the heart and mind, reduces burning sensations, and can be added to drinks or desserts.
  

Yoga & Mental Wellness Tips for Grishma Rutu

1. Practice Gentle Yoga:

• Asanas like Shitali Pranayama, Chandra Bhedana (left nostril breathing), and forward bends help cool the system.
  

2. Avoid Excessive Workouts:

• Intense exercise in summer can lead to heat exhaustion. Prefer early morning or evening stretches.
  

3. Meditation and Relaxation:

• Mental rest is equally important. Practice Trataka (candle gazing), cooling breathwork, and guided relaxation daily.
  

Key Takeaways for Grishma Rutu

• Stay Cool and Hydrated: Favor seasonal fruits, herbal drinks, and avoid heavy, spicy meals.
  

• Protect from Heat: Use natural oils, avoid peak sun hours, and wear breathable clothing.
  

• Support Digestion: Eat light meals and include herbs like cumin, coriander, and fennel.
  

• Balance Pitta: Use rose, sandalwood, and Shatavari to keep heat-related issues at bay.
  

Final Thoughts

Grishma Rutu demands gentle care for the body and mind. Ayurveda teaches us to live in harmony with nature’s rhythms—when we align with the qualities of the season, we can enjoy vibrant health even during the hottest months. With these Ayurvedic tips, enjoy a cool, calm, and rejuvenating summer.

Stay tuned for more seasonal Ayurvedic insights and wellness wisdom!

With cool wellness wishes,
Dr. Kranthi R Vardhan
 www.vardhanayurveda.com

P.S. Are you feeling drained or overheated this summer? Contact us at 7997 108 108 for personalized Ayurvedic consultations or seasonal therapies to balance Pitta. Share this newsletter with loved ones who’d benefit from Ayurvedic summer care! Access our newsletter archive here.