Pitta season survival guide: Ayurveda for summer

The days are longer, the nights are lighter and the weather should at least be better. Summer is finally here and, while we might be dreaming about iced-chai lattes and morning yoga on a fancy rooftop, it’s also Pitta season. 

Wondering what we mean? Just cast your mind back to the three doshas - Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Pitta is made up of fire and water and it’s the one that rules summer. Its characteristics are hot and oily, and this can soon manifest in skin conditions like inflammation and acne, excess sweat, agitation and digestive concerns.

But don’t worry; you know Ayurveda’s got your back. All you need are a few lifestyle switches and diet additions to help bring your Pitta dosha back into balance. Join us as we reveal everything you need to know. 

Eat a Pitta-balanced diet

Find yourself craving lighter and fresher meals in summer? You’re not alone. In fact, as Pitta season heats up, our bodies are looking for something cool to please the digestive fire. The easier something is to digest, the less heat it creates too. For this reason, fresh fruit, raw foods, simple salads and sweet dairy products are advised. Remember, your body may be more sensitive to hot, acidic and spicy foods during this season so it’s wise to stay away from chilli, pepper, tomatoes and fermented foods. 

Keep hydrated

We all know that we need to drink more in the summer months but Ayurvedic practitioners recommend room temperature water instead of iced water as that can actually cool our digestive fire too much and shock it. You could also try flavoured herbal teas like Peppermint or Eucalyptus. Of course, this is summer, so you’re allowed a few cold treats too - think ice cream or even Mango Lassis as a healthier alternative.

Create a calming routine

Pitta season can be hot, fiery and fast which is why Ayurveda recommends a Pitta pacifying routine to instil a little serenity back into your day. It’s recommended that you wake early, before the temperature rises. A morning regime that includes tongue scraping and a glass of water is ideal for helping to prepare your digestive system. 

Self-massage with essential oils like coconut oil will help to ground the nervous system and you could even try ticking off some of your to-dos before it gets too hot. Whether it’s walking the dog, doing some meditation or even some work, there’s nothing like an early morning sense of achievement.

Don’t worry if you find yourself craving a nap later on in the day as Ayurveda says we should give in to rest - if your schedule allows for it. Lying on your right hand side is believed to help with breathing and can keep your body cool too. A short walk or mindful activity like journaling can ground you in the evening and you should try to go to bed at the same time every night. 

Keep active 

Okay, so putting on your tightest lycra and sweating for an hour might not sound like the greatest idea. And, you don’t have to! Ayurveda says exercise in the Pitta season should be cool and calm to combat excess heat. Try exercising in the morning before it gets too hot, and don’t push your body too hard. After all, it’s already under huge amounts of stress. 

Instead, exercise in a way that gives you energy. Some Ayurvedic practitioners even say you should exercise at about 70% of your capacity. Our favourite types for summer include walking, swimming or even a yoga session. If you do fancy taking up yoga, be sure to focus on positions that work the abs - think Child’s Pose and the Supine Twist  - as this notoriously holds lots of heat. 

Heal with herbs

If you know anything about Ayurveda, you’ll know how important herbs and spices are. They do wonders for your overall health, and some are proven to balance your Pitta dosha.

• Turmeric - Cooling, calming and soothing, Turmeric is a popular store-cupboard spice that alleviates inflammation. Studies show that it also lowers cholesterol and improves heart health. It’s been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine and is just one of the ingredients in our Gold Power Latte Powder.
  
  
• Mint - Mint can suppress aggravated Pitta and also improves digestion. As an antioxidant, it helps with breathing which is essential for calming us down.
  
  
• Coriander - Sweet Coriander is ideal for removing excess heat and acid from the body. It works by clearing the digestive tract, which removes unnecessary stress from the body. Plus, it’s a great-tasting accompaniment to dishes.
  
  
• Shatavari - Part of the asparagus family, Shatavari reduces Pitta and Vata dosha and is a known rejuvenator. As an antiviral and hormone-balancing ingredient, it supports our body, mind and immune system. If you do want to get out of the midday sun, our Love Cacao Powder, which contains Shatavari, is the perfect excuse to sit back and enjoy some me-time. 

Stay cool this summer with Deja

This Pitta season, the most important thing you can do is take some time out for yourself. Plan your days if you’re going to be in the sun, find some shade and stay hydrated with refreshing and cooling food and drink. If you want to give your body a little helping hand, we’ve got a few Ayurvedic-inspired products for that too. 

From our Glow Wild Rose Latte Powder which is packed with cooling Ayurvedic herbs like Rose, Sariva and Manjishtha and combats skin inflammation, to our Mind Balance capsules which are created with natural nootropics to calm the brain and help your body to deal with stress, we have what you need to enjoy the better days ahead.