Summer is a powerful time of year. We are full of energy and drive and the Pitta Dosha fully unfolds. The long summer days give us strength. However, what curbs the flow of energy somewhat is the heat. With sufficient breaks and proper nutrition, we can use the full power of summer.
Let the sunshine in
Long days and lots of sun are good for us. In Ayurvedic teachings, the sun is associated with the fire element. It is hot, dry and light.
The sun is a real immune booster for our body. The UV rays stimulate the production of vitamin D. We need this to protect our immune system, and it also strengthens the cardiovascular system and bones. In our latitudes, however, we only get enough radiation during the summer months. So use the long days for meditation and yoga sessions outdoors. One idea would be sun meditation, which you can do at sunrise or sunset.
Sunbathing can help reduce excess tissue and waste products. Sunbathing is especially good for Vata and Kapha types, as their inner fire is not as pronounced. Pitta types, however, should be careful. They tend to overheat quickly. To avoid sunburn, make sure you wear good sunscreen and do not lie directly in the sun for too long.
Ayurvedic diet in summer
Do you notice how your eating habits change in summer? Your appetite is somewhat curbed and you don't have much desire for hearty dishes. This is because our digestive fire, Agni, does not burn as intensively as it does during the rest of the year. We are less hungry, but unfortunately the removal of Ama, i.e. waste products and toxins, is also more difficult. We therefore have to change our diet a little so that we do not overload our digestive system.
Sufficient fluids are especially important on hot days. Cool water with lemon or mint or lukewarm Pitta tea are healthy and digestible thirst quenchers.
Support your body with cooling, moisturising and light food. Avoid fatty and hearty foods. Cucumbers, rocket, spinach leaves, endive, peppers and salads are ideal for a delicious summer meal. Fruits such as melons, grapes, mangoes, papayas, pomegranates, sweet pineapples and nectarines compensate for the lack of fluids by providing plenty of moisture.
If you fancy something iced, let the food literally melt in your mouth. This allows the body to warm the food to body temperature, making it easier to digest. Since sweets are a good snack for in between meals, especially in the hot season, we have put together a compote recipe for you today. The compote is also good for breakfast, as it provides a lot of energy and fibre.
You need:
- 400 g finely chopped fruit according to
season and region (e.g. apple, pears,
plums, apricots etc.) - 1 tsp ghee or coconut oil
- 1 tsp spice (e.g. cinnamon, star anise,
cardamom, turmeric, ginger)
turmeric, ginger) - 1 pinch of salt
Heat the ghee over medium heat in a pan and sauté the spices briefly. Now add the finely chopped fruit. Add a little water if necessary and let everything simmer a little. Season everything with a little salt and lemon juice. Now let everything simmer until the fruit softens and falls apart. Turn off the heat and let everything simmer for a while. If you wish, you can boil down larger quantities and fill them into jars sterilised with hot water. You can vary the compote recipe according to your constitution and the season.
