Ayurveda understands the body in terms of three basic principles or 'doshas' - Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, which underlie all bodily processes. Balance of the doshas promotes health and well being, and imbalanced doshas cause illnesses.

Many factors, such as our daily work, food and the seasons of the year influence the balance of the doshas. Pitta (heat) in the surroundings increases in summer when the temperature rises. Because the body has a natural tendency to try to maintain balance, it reduces its inner Agni (fire). This restricts the production of warmth, decreases metabolic activity and reduces digestive activity.

You know this from your own experience. When it is hot then any activity is harder and the appetite is not so strong. Do not supress this natural tendency, but adjust your diet and activity to the prevalent conditions. Maharishi Ayurveda advises you to stay “cool” even in the hottest weather.

Diet:

Reduce the use of salty, sour, spicy and very hot foods.

Favour foods with sweet, bitter or astringent tastes, which will help to balance Pitta.

Only eat when you are hungry because digestive activity is low and be careful not to eat too much. Light foods, such as vegetable soups, rice and pasta should be preferred. A side salad is very important. Fruits are also easy to digest. Add herbs to taste. Pitta Churna is good. Use ghee (clarified butter) or coconut butter for cooking purposes.

Hot or cold, there is a variety of choice: Pitta Tea, Pitta Milk Shake, Raja's Cup, peppermint tea, fresh fruit juice or home-made lassi (a yoghurt drink).

Peppermint lassi, lassi made with rose water or coconut milk, are superbly refreshing.

The range of choices is not only varied but also tastes good and is healthy. Do not take drinks directly from the refrigerator since this can weaken the digestive fire, causing the body to try to warm itself up. When possible avoid drinks such as alcohol, black tea and coffee, as these will aggravate Pitta.

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