Ritucharya in Ayurveda means seasonal regimen. It translates to living in sync with the changing seasons to adapt to them better. As opposed to the Western concept of seasons, according to Ayurveda, the year is divided into two periods based on Sun’s solstice and are called Uttarayana (northern solstice) and Dakshinayana (southern solstice). Each of these periods forms three seasons, also called Ritus, meaning ‘to go’.
These seasons or Ritus are called Shishira (winter), Vasanta (spring), and Grishma (summer) in Uttarayan and Varsha (monsoon), Sharata (autumn), and Hemanta (late autumn) in Dakshinayana.
From mid-September to mid-November marks the Sharad Ritu or the autumn season. This is when the sky is clear and the sun isn’t too bright and hot like it was back in Grishma Ritu. During this period, the moon is said to be more powerful than the sun and Amla (sour), Lavana (salty), and Madhura (sweet) Rasa are predominant. Hence, a person’s strength and vigour enhance during this season.
Here are a few ayurvedic practices for Sharad Ritu:
1. Rise in Brahmamuhurta
Rising during Brahmamuhurta yields numerous benefits for the mind and body. The air is packed with good vibrations and the quiet of the morning is enough to uplift your mood. This is the best time to set a tone and intention for the day.
Inspired by the Panch Mahabhutas or the Five Elements of Nature, Amrutam Wellness Journal is an undated journal filled with healing shlokas and illustrations that help you set mindful intentions.
2. Avoid daytime naps
Napping during the day can slow down your metabolism and directly affect your digestive health. It can also lead to bone-related concerns.
3. Eat light and easy-to-digest meals
It is recommended to avoid foods that are hot, sweet or bitter during this time since our bodies are still adapting to the seasonal changes and can aggravate Pitta Dosha. Also, avoid eating meat or curd as it is heavy on the stomach and takes more energy to break down and digest.
To pacify the Pitta dosha and get rid of excess heat, start your day by consuming 1 tablespoon of Amrutam Gulkand or Ayurvedic Rose Petals Jam that eliminates toxins and any digestive concerns.
Also read: Why you must eat Gulkand daily?
4. Indulge in moon-bathing
Since the moon is said to be more powerful than the sun during this period, especially the first 3 hours of the moonlight during the night, walking under the moon or deep breathing can also bring balance to the vitiated doshas.
Drinking moonbeam-infused water in a copper vessel is believed to be of medicinal nature that can improve and restore the health of the body.
5. Practice mindfulness
This is also a great time to indulge in some self-reflective exercises and practice mindfulness. You can do that by meditating on Indian Classical Music like the Amrutam Raga Project or practising restorative techniques like yoga, gardening or journaling.
6. Engage in light exercise
During this season we slowly regain our body strength and, it is important to appease the vitiated Vata and Pitta doshas. Exercising in the morning from 6-10AM for about 30-45 mins is ideal to maintain balance.
Also read: Find your Dosha
7. Sip on herbal tea
Herbal teas are the easiest and best way to reignite the Agni, clear the Ama or toxins in your system and boost your immunity all at once. Amrutam’s Ayushkey Kwath is infused with the goodness of 10+ herbs for your body, mind and soul!
8. Re-do your self-care routine
Incorporating herbs like Shatavari, Chandan (Sandalwood), Kesar (Saffron), Rose and Amla in your hair and skin care routines is greatly beneficial as they reduce excess heat and pacify the vitiated Pitta Dosha.
Sources:
1. https://www.ayurprakash.com/ritucharya-seasonal-life-routine/
2. https://www.biphaayurveda.com/blogs/news/10-helpful-ayurveda-health-tips-for-sharad-ritu-time
4. https://www.chandigarhayurvedcentre.com/blog/diet-regimen-in-sharad-ritu/
