Staying cool in the HOT summer season

Summer is considered pitta season in Ayurveda. This means it’s HOT and can bring on heat related symptoms in our body. 

Pitta is one of three doshas—Vata (air/ether), Pitta (fire/water), and Kapha (earth/water)—each representing a unique combination of natural elements. Everyone is born with a unique ratio of these energies, which acts as a personal blueprint for wellness. Our dosha can go out of balance which cause imbalances or symptoms in the bodymind.

Symptoms of a pitta imbalance can include:

• Red or irritated skin

• Burning digestion and an overactive metabolism

• Nausea or digestive discomfort

• Loose stools

• An uncomfortable feeling of heat in the body

• Feelings of frustration, anger, and irritability

• Judgment, impatience, criticism, and intolerance

• Red, dry, or light-sensitive eyes

Summer sun rising over the ocean

So what is one to do?

Summer is here, and according to Ayurveda, this is Pitta season—a time when the qualities of heat, intensity, and activity are naturally elevated. The good news is that simple lifestyle choices, along with the foods and beverages we choose, can help us stay cool, balanced, and energized all season long.

One of Ayurveda's greatest teachings is that our daily habits matter. By making small, intentional adjustments to how we live each day, we can gently encourage the body back into balance.

During the intensity of summer, this means slowing down, relaxing, and making time for experiences that nourish your heart and spirit. Pace yourself throughout the day, and whenever possible, approach your responsibilities with a little more ease and a little less urgency.

It's also important to honor your own energy. Rather than trying to do everything, give yourself permission to do what truly feels manageable. Sometimes less really is more, and this simple shift can be one of the best ways to calm an aggravated Pitta.

Lemon or lime water can be very refreshing in Pitta season

A few other ways to support yourself during the warmer months include:

• Avoid prolonged exposure to intense midday sun and heat

• Save vigorous exercise for the cooler morning or evening hours

• Choose lightweight, breathable clothing in light colors

• Favor foods that are naturally sweet, bitter, and astringent, as these tastes help balance Pitta. Think colorful salads with plenty of bitter greens, cucumbers, fresh herbs, berries, and juicy watermelon, which is both cooling and hydrating.

Cooling beverages can also be wonderfully supportive. Rather than relying on ice-cold drinks, Ayurveda recommends beverages that are naturally cooling in nature. Ice may feel refreshing in the moment, but it can dampen your digestive fire (Agni) and reduce your body's ability to properly absorb fluids. Lemon or lime water, watermelon or cucumber water, CCF tea (equal parts cumin, coriander, fennel seeds, steeped and cooled to room temperature) are all very good options.

To make healthy summer eating even easier, I've included a wonderful summer shopping list created by Ayurvedic physician Dr. John Douillard. I encourage you to print it, circle the foods you enjoy, and look for simple ways to include more of them in your meals this season.

Wishing you a summer filled with ease, vitality, and balance.