In Ayurveda, summer is known as Pitta season, marked by the powerful presence of fire and water elements. This season, spanning from late spring through early fall, is characterised by heat, intensity, and sharpness. While summer is ideal for adventure, creativity, and productivity, it can also challenge the Pitta dosha. The intense attributes of Pitta can accumulate in the body and mind, leading to imbalances if not managed properly. Signs of overheating include irritability, inflammation, and digestive issues. It's essential for everyone, not just Pitta types, to adopt cooling lifestyle practices during this time to maintain balance.

How to Maintain Pitta Balance in Summer

Here are some Ayurvedic tips to help you stay cool, calm, and collected during the summer months.

1. Embrace a Pitta-Pacifying Diet

Eating foods that balance Pitta is crucial during summer. Fortunately, nature provides plenty of seasonal produce that helps keep Pitta in check.

Summer Fruits:

Apricots, avocado, blackberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, cherries, coconut, dates, grapes, limes, melons, nectarines, peaches, plums, raspberries, strawberries, watermelon

Summer Vegetables:

Artichoke, beets, bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, endive, green beans, leafy greens, lettuce, peas, summer squash, courgette 

Summer Herbs & Spices:

Basil, cardamom, cilantro, coriander, dill, fennel, mint, parsley

While Ayurveda often advises cooking foods for better digestion, raw foods can be beneficial during Pitta season due to their natural cooling properties. Fresh fruits and vegetables can help keep Pitta balanced.

2. Stay Hydrated

Summer's heat can deplete moisture from your body. Aim to drink about eight glasses of water daily. Enhance your hydration with:

• Mint, lime, or watermelon-infused water.
• Cooling herbal teas like mint, dandelion, and hibiscus.
• Cucumber milk (puree cucumbers with milk and a bit of sugar).

Avoid ice-cold drinks as they can dampen your digestive fire (agni). Limit stimulants like coffee and alcohol, as they increase Pitta's heat. 

3. Eat Light and Small Meals

In summer, our digestive fire weakens as it gets pulled to the extremities to keep the body cool. This often results in a reduced appetite and a craving for lighter foods. To support digestion during this time:

• Opt for lighter and smaller meals.
• Be mindful and present during meals to avoid overeating.
• Have your largest meal at noon when your digestion is strongest.

4. Adjust Your Daily Routine

To counteract Pitta's intensity, incorporate cooling and calming practices into your daily routine:

• Use coconut oil for Abhyanga (self-massage).
• Take cooler baths and showers.
• Engage in slower yoga practices like yin yoga or moon salutations.
• Practice Lunar Pranayama (inhale through the left nostril and exhale through the right) to cool down.
• Schedule downtime and rest to avoid stress and overexertion.
• Make time for laughter and nature, especially near water, while avoiding the midday sun from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

5. Avoid Aggravating Pitta

Certain activities and foods can exacerbate Pitta imbalances. To stay balanced, avoid:

• Sour, salty, and pungent foods like cayenne, ginger, and garlic.
• Overexposure to the midday sun and excessive physical activity during the hottest part of the day.
• Over-scheduling and taking on too many tasks. Balance ambition with leisure.

By following these Ayurvedic tips, you can enjoy the vibrant energy of summer while keeping Pitta in balance. Embrace cooling foods, stay hydrated, and adjust your routine to maintain harmony and well-being throughout the season.