• Doshas Yoga for Dosha
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PITTA-PACIFYING YOGA PRACTICES: 7 COOLING ASANAS FOR SUMMER

In the grand tapestry of Ayurveda, the sister science of Yoga is a radiant thread, weaving through the fabric of holistic health and wellness. Both sciences harmonize to nurture the body, mind, and spirit, syncing with the rhythms of nature. As we delve into the scorching embrace of summer, Ayurveda whispers the wisdom of balance, especially for the fiery Pitta dosha. Let us embark on a journey through cooling asanas, a sanctuary amidst the sweltering heat, inviting harmony and tranquility into our being.

WHAT IS PITTA DOSHA?

In the intricate web of Ayurveda, doshas are the elemental forces that govern our physical and mental constitution. Pitta dosha, infused with the essence of fire, embodies qualities of heat, intensity, and sharpness. As the sun ascends higher in the summer sky, Pitta reigns supreme, mirroring the external world’s fiery dance. Pitta season heralds vitality and action, yet its fervent flames can easily tip the delicate balance within.

READ MORE ON PITTA DOSHA

WHAT IS IMBALANCED PITTA DOSHA?

When Pitta surges unchecked, its luminous brilliance dims into a blaze of imbalance. Symptoms manifest both in body and mind, igniting a conflagration of intensity, irritability, and inflammation. From fiery tempers to smoldering skin, the signs of excess Pitta herald a call to restore equilibrium, temper the flames, and reclaim serenity.

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF YOGA IN PITTA-PACIFYING? 

Yoga, as the embodiment of mindfulness in motion, emerges as a potent elixir in the quest for Pitta equilibrium. Embracing the wisdom of Ayurveda, our practice becomes a sacred ritual, a dance of elemental energies. Through deliberate intention and gentle movements, we invite coolness and calmness into our being, soothing the fiery whispers of Pitta imbalance. [Lodhi et al., 2021] 

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HOW DO YOU PRACTICE COOLING ASANAS?

Each asana, a celestial constellation in the vast cosmos of yoga, holds the potential to pacify Pitta’s fervor. With mindful breath and graceful transitions, we journey through a sanctuary of cooling postures, offering solace to the agitated flames within. [Med Sci Monit Basic Res 2020]

Depending on the type of exercise, 70 to 100 percent of the metabolism is released as heat and needs to be dissipated to maintain body heat balance. 

[National Academies Press (US); 1993]

7 PITTA-PACIFYING YOGA ASANAS

1

Child’s Pose (Balasana)

• STEPS: From a kneeling position, lower your hips towards your heels, extending your arms forward and resting your forehead on the mat. Allow your breath to deepen, finding a sense of grounding and surrender.
• DURATION: Remain in this pose for 5 breaths, allowing tension to melt away with each exhalation.

BENEFITS: Balasana provides a gentle stretch to the spine and hips while calming the mind. It offers a moment of rest and rejuvenation, ideal for soothing Pitta’s fiery energy.

2

Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose)

• STEPS: Lie on your back, bending your knees and placing your feet hip-width apart. Inhale as you lift your hips towards the sky, pressing into your feet and engaging your glutes.
• DURATION: Hold the pose for 5 breaths or more, feeling the chest and heart open as tension releases from the body.

BENEFITS: Bridge Pose offers a gentle backbend, relieving tension from the spine and chest. It invites a sense of openness and ease, cooling Pitta’s intensity.

3

Anjaneyasana (Crescent Lunge Pose)

• STEPS: From a standing position, step one foot forward into a lunge, ensuring your front knee is aligned over your ankle. Inhale as you reach your arms overhead, lengthening through the spine.
• DURATION: Hold the pose for several breaths, feeling a stretch along the front of the body as you sink deeper into the lunge.

BENEFITS: Crescent Lunge Pose opens the hips and heart, fostering balance and resilience. It encourages a sense of expansiveness and release, pacifying Pitta’s fiery nature.

4

Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)

• STEPS: Lie on your stomach, bending your knees and reaching back to grasp your ankles or feet. Inhale as you lift your chest and thighs off the mat, kicking your feet into your hands.
• DURATION: Hold the pose for at least 5 breaths, feeling a gentle stretch along the front of the body.

BENEFITS: Bow Pose stimulates digestion and invigorates the body, releasing tension from the chest and abdomen. It encourages a sense of vitality and renewal, counteracting Pitta’s excess heat.

5

Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Fold Pose)

• STEPS: Sit on the mat with your legs extended in front of you. Inhale to lengthen the spine, then exhale as you hinge at the hips, folding forward from the waist.
• DURATION: Hold the pose for 30 seconds to one minute, surrendering to the stretch with each breath.

BENEFITS: Seated Forward Fold Pose calms the mind and stretches the spine, offering relief from tension and stress. It encourages a sense of surrender and introspection, cooling Pitta’s fiery energy.

6

Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fishes Pose)

• STEPS: Sit on the mat with your legs extended in front of you, bending one knee and crossing it over the opposite thigh. Inhale to lengthen the spine, then exhale to twist gently to the side.
• DURATION: Hold the pose for several breaths, feeling a gentle release in the spine and abdomen.

BENEFITS: Half Lord of the Fishes Pose improves digestion and relieves tension from the spine. It encourages a sense of detoxification and renewal, balancing Pitta’s fiery nature.

7

Parsva Sukhasana (Seated Side Bend Pose)

• STEPS: Sit comfortably on the mat with your legs crossed. Inhale as you reach one arm overhead, then exhale to lean gently to the side, feeling a stretch along the torso.
• DURATION: Hold the pose for 30 seconds to one minute on each side, breathing deeply into the stretch.

BENEFITS: Seated Side Bend Pose releases tension from the spine and shoulders, promoting relaxation and ease. It encourages a sense of openness and flow, soothing Pitta’s intensity.

Did you know?

Savasana, commonly performed at the end of a yoga session, is hailed as the most relaxing pose. Serving as a calming cool-down, it essentially entails meditation in a supine position, allowing us to connect with our inner selves while our bodies unwind in restful repose.

#

Corpse Pose (Savasana)

• STEPS: Lie on your back with arms and legs extended, allowing the body to relax completely.
• DURATION: Stay in this pose for 5 to 15 minutes to promote deep relaxation.

BENEFITS: Corpse Pose induces deep relaxation, allowing individuals to let go of physical and mental tension while fostering a sense of inner peace and tranquility.

In the sanctuary of these cooling asanas, we find solace amidst the flames of summer. With each breath, we kindle the sacred flame of balance, honoring the wisdom of Ayurveda and yoga. May our practice be a sanctuary of serenity, guiding us toward harmony and wholeness amidst the dance of the elements.

• Doshas Yoga for Dosha
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PITTA SEASON SURVIVAL GUIDE: STAYING BALANCED IN THE HEAT

Summer, the season of long days, warm nights, and vibrant energy, arrives with the dominance of Pitta dosha according to Ayurveda. Pitta, composed of fire and water elements, governs digestion, metabolism, and energy production. Its primary function is transformation, and during the summer months, its influence becomes pronounced, both in our physical bodies and minds.

In Ayurveda, the wisdom of seasonal living emphasizes adapting our habits, routines, and dietary choices to align with nature’s rhythms. As Pitta surges, bringing heat, intensity, and light, it’s essential to counterbalance these qualities with practices that are cooling, grounding, and calming. Let’s explore how to navigate the Pitta season and stay balanced amidst the summer heat.

RECOGNIZING PITTA DOMINANCE 

Excess Pitta in the body may manifest in various ways, including skin irritations like eczema, rashes, or sunburns, heightened sweating, digestive disturbances such as diarrhea, and joint inflammation. Similarly, in the mind, Pitta imbalance can lead to anger, irritability, jealousy, and critical thoughts.

PITTA AND THE CONCEPT OF BALANCE

Ayurveda teaches that like increases like, while opposites create balance. In the heat of summer, adopting lifestyle patterns that counteract Pitta’s intensity becomes crucial. Embrace practices that are cooling, soothing, and grounding to restore equilibrium amidst the summer’s fiery energy.

MINDFUL PRACTICES TO CULTIVATE BALANCE 

Did you know?

A balanced Pitta dosha, characterized by the harmonious interplay of fire and water energies, manifests qualities such as intelligence, charisma, courage, clarity, and profound understanding.

Drawing from personal experience and Ayurvedic wisdom, here are some tips to help you beat the heat and stay balanced this summer:

1

RISE AND SHINE: MORNING RITUALS FOR PITTA BALANCE 

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2

NURTURING THE MIND: MINDFULNESS PRACTICES FOR EMOTIONAL EQUILIBRIUM

Prioritize introspective activities like yoga, meditation, or nature walks to cultivate inner peace. Stay vigilant of your thoughts, steering clear of anger, and criticism. Foster a calm mentality to promote patience and positivity amidst the summer’s intensity.

3

MOVE WITH EASE: EXERCISE STRATEGIES FOR PITTA HARMONY

Engage in moderate exercise before 10 am to avoid overheating. Opt for indoor activities or water sports to stay active while keeping cool. Practice gentle yoga styles like Yin or restorative to soothe Pitta’s intensity.

4

FUELING VITALITY: DIETARY GUIDELINES FOR PITTA PACIFICATION 

Make lunch your main meal, consumed between 11 am and 2 pm when the digestive fire is strongest. Favor hydrating, sweet, and bitter foods such as fruits, vegetables, and grains like barley or basmati rice. Avoid spicy, salty, or sour foods, opting instead for cooling options like yogurt or ice cream in moderation. Stay hydrated throughout the day and eat in a peaceful environment.

5

UNWINDING IN HARMONY: EVENING RITUALS FOR PITTA REJUVENATION

Aid digestion with a short post-meal walk. Consider a brief nap during hot afternoons to rejuvenate the mind. Establish a grounding bedtime routine, including scalp and foot massages with calming oils, to promote restful sleep.

6

HERBAL ALLIES FOR PITTA BALANCE: INCORPORATING IN THE EVENING ROUTINE

Incorporate medicinal herbs like aloe vera, turmeric, or neem to support liver health, reduce inflammation, and soothe irritated skin. Enjoy cooling herbal teas like nettle or peppermint to alleviate excess Pitta.

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By aligning with the natural rhythms of summer and adopting practices that pacify Pitta, you can find harmony and balance within yourself. Embrace these tips to navigate the heat of the Pitta season with grace and vitality.

• Ayurveda Women's Health Yoga for Dosha
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6 NATURAL TIPS FOR SPRINGTIME FERTILITY: ENHANCING HEALTH

Springtime brings with it a sense of renewal and rejuvenation, not only in nature but also within our bodies. As the days lengthen and the earth awakens, it’s an opportune moment to focus on enhancing women’s reproductive health. Combining modern knowledge with ancient wisdom from Ayurveda, here are six tips tailored to harness the fertility-boosting potential of spring:

1

EMBRACE NUTRIENT-RICH SPRING PRODUCE

In Ayurveda, seasonal eating is emphasized as a means to maintain balance and vitality. Spring offers an array of fresh fruits and vegetables that can nourish and support reproductive health. Incorporate leafy greens like spinach and kale, known for their detoxifying properties, into your meals. Enjoy the sweetness of seasonal fruits like strawberries and apricots, which are rich in antioxidants and vitamins essential for fertility.

2

PRIORITIZE WHOLE FOODS AND HEALTHY FATS

Ayurveda emphasizes whole foods and healthy fats for overall well-being. Opt for easily digestible options like basmati rice, quinoa, avocados, ghee, and coconut oil, along with omega-3 fatty acids from salmon or flaxseeds for hormone production and reproductive function. Spring invites experimentation with fertility-enhancing recipes such as Spinach and Red Pepper Omelet for protein and folate, Cucumber-Carrot Salad for vitamins and minerals, or Avocado and Prawn Salad for healthy fats and protein, all supporting fertility.

Integrate zinc-rich foods like oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and beans, or consider supplements to support hormone regulation and egg development. Enjoy fertility-boosting superfoods such as pomegranate juice, dark chocolate, tomatoes, walnuts, lentils, and parmesan cheese popcorn, all contributing to reproductive health.

3

FOLLOW AYURVEDIC DAILY AND SEASONAL ROUTINES

Ayurveda prescribes specific daily and seasonal routines, known as Dinacharya and Ritucharya, respectively, to align with the natural rhythms of the body and environment. Incorporating practices such as oil massage (Abhyanga), nasal cleansing (Nasya), and tongue scraping (Jihwa Prakshalana) can help support reproductive health by promoting detoxification and balancing the doshas.

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4

INCORPORATE AYURVEDIC HERBS AND RASAYANA

Just as in winter, when Ayurveda recommends consuming Rasayana herbs to enhance vitality, spring offers an opportunity to support reproductive health with specific herbs. Herbs like Shatavari, Ashwagandha, and Gokshura are traditionally used to nourish the reproductive system and promote hormonal balance. Consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner to determine the most suitable herbs for your individual needs.

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5

CULTIVATE MINDFULNESS AND STRESS MANAGEMENT 

Stress can have a profound impact on reproductive health, disrupting hormonal balance and menstrual cycles. Incorporate stress-reducing practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises into your daily routine. Take time to connect with nature, whether it’s through leisurely walks in the springtime sunshine or mindful moments spent in a garden.

6

SEEK HOLISTIC SUPPORT

Ayurveda views the individual as a whole, considering the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. Seek holistic support from qualified Ayurvedic practitioners who can offer personalized guidance and treatments tailored to your unique constitution and health goals. By addressing imbalances on all levels, you can optimize your chances of achieving and maintaining reproductive health.

In conclusion, spring offers a fertile ground for nurturing women’s reproductive health naturally, guided by the principles of Ayurveda. By embracing nutrient-rich foods, following Ayurvedic daily and seasonal routines, incorporating herbal support, cultivating mindfulness, and seeking holistic guidance, women can empower themselves on their journey toward conception. As nature blossoms around us, may this season herald new beginnings and abundant blessings on your path to parenthood.

• Doshas Yoga for Dosha
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DOSHA MEDITATION MADE EASY: ENHANCE WELL-BEING

Now, more than ever, many of us are turning to meditation to reduce stress and increase focus. However, many of us struggle – trying not to fall asleep, or even trying not to think about what to have for dinner – in this feat to exercise mindfulness in our everyday lives. But did you know that meditation isn’t a one-size fits all pursuit? In our quest to meditate more successfully, we have found an answer to more effective meditation – meditating according to your dosha. Here, we share with you several tips and tricks on how to meditate effectively for your specific dosha type.

To determine your dosha beforehand, take our dosha quiz here

1

People with vata doshas often struggle with sitting still in the same position for an extended period of time during meditation. Because they are highly imaginative, they find it hard to stop thoughts from racing through their mind and to focus on just one thing. 

If you are a vata, you will most likely find it easier to concentrate on something rather than to empty your mind completely. Instead of trying to suppress your energy, you are better off trying to channel their energy towards meditation. To aid focus, try the Nadi Shodana pranayama – also known as the alternate nostril breathing meditation. Begin by closing your right nostril gently with your right thumb. Inhale gently up the left nostril. Now close your left nostril with your ring finger and release the thumb. Exhale through the right nostril, then inhale. Repeat the instructions and exhale through your left nostril this time. Repeat this at a comfortable rhythm for 5-10 minutes. You should feel a lot calmer after this practice!

Alternatively, try focusing on strong images whilst meditating. You can do this by visualizing images such as a mountain, light like fire, or the sun at dawn. If you prefer flowers, the lotus or the rose are good choices! Besides imagery, mantras can also help you stay focused. You will want to recite mantras that help you affirm basic peace and your fearlessness of higher nature. We suggest trying the RAM, SHRIM, OR HRIM mantras. They are anti-Vata (as in, they counter excess Vata) and will help you calm your mind. Lastly, you may benefit greatly from adding support to your spine. Try sitting on a chair, or even propping yourself up against a wall while meditating. But don’t be stiff! Ensure that you are sitting comfortable with your body and joints at ease, this will help you get into the state of meditation.

2

Pitta types often struggle with staying idle and emptying their minds during meditation. As highly productive beings, pittas are impatient and easily frustrated, often feeling that they are being unproductive and wasting time when sitting still. As such, it is common for them to resort to doing things like mentally planning out their schedule while meditating.

As a pitta, it is crucial for you to learn to release your anger and desire to control. We recommend the Shitali pranayama – the cooling breath – for you fiery souls out there. To do this, roll your tongue into a tube. If you can’t do this (which is perfectly normal, 20-40% of the population can’t either), flatten your tongue and gently catch it between your teeth instead. Now inhale, letting the air pass through the tunnel you’ve just created. Draw your tongue in and close your mouth, then lightly touch roof of your mouth with the tip of your tongue. Exhale through the nose. Repeat this for 1-2 minutes. You should feel cool and refreshed after this.

If tongue action isn’t your thing, try visualizing some images instead. Focus on images with cooling colors, such as the ocean and a deep, blue sky. You may also want to try guided meditations, and for that we recommend using the Headspace phone app. Because it displays your goals, streaks, and packets to finish, you’ll get to physically see your progress! This can combat the thought of meditating as “doing nothing” and help you see it as a productive activity instead. With that said, your ultimate goal should be to meditate peacefully, rather than to perceive meditation as an achievement with an end goal in mind because there is no finishing line! It is a practice to carry with you in life, that will get easier once you learn how and where to focus your mental energy.

3

In contrast to Pittas, Kapha types have no trouble emptying their mind. However, they often find difficulty staying awake and often drift off to unconsciousness while meditating. Often sluggish and tired, Kaphas have a hard time sticking to regimes.

For Kaphas, it would be best for you to release emotional attachments and issues rooted in your consciousness in order to meditate effectively. To stimulate warmth and the flow of energy, try the Bhastrika pranayama, also known as the Bellow’s Breath. It lifts the excess kapha, promoting brightness and alleviating any congestion. To begin, close your eyes and inhale deeply, lifting the ribs. Exhale fully, allowing the lungs to empty. Repeat this practice, placing equal emphasis on the inhalations and exhalations. Continue this for 15-20 seconds. You should feel a sense of lightness and warmth afterwards. A word of caution: you might want to avoid the Bhastrika during pregnancy and if you have any heart or breathing conditions.

Because Kaphas have heavy, sticky, and cool qualities, sleep comes almost too easily. To prevent a meditation session from turning into an afternoon nap, we recommend taking on a disciplined approach to meditation. Incorporate more active forms of meditation into your routine, whilst focusing on images that increase fire, air, and other elements. You can try sitting upright and practice kundalini, or even moving meditations like walking, dance, or even daily life practice meditations. The key here is to not lie down! Alternatively, you can try doing some light exercises before meditation to improve your blood circulation as this will help you stay awake.

Some final words: there really is no right or wrong when it comes to meditation. You may find yourself fitting into more than one of the descriptions and having to mix and match suggestions and techniques to fit yourself, which is perfectly fine. Also remember that as with everything in life, practice makes perfect. It will take time before you get a hang of meditating effectively, but do not be discouraged. Remember that even tiny progress is still progress!