Ritucharya is a concept in Aryveda that establishes your daily/weekly routines based on the current season. It is the natural rhythm of the year. In Sanskrit, Ritu translates to season and Charya translates as practice or rules. The seasons are broken up and categorized into the doshas. This is similar to Dinacharya, which breaks up the routines of the day.
You might intuitively practice ritucharya. For example, I try and eat with the seasons. Starting in spring and into summer, my diet is heavy in fresh fruit and summer veggies from my garden. In fall/winter, I make and crave soups, potatoes, and warm food.
I have been thinking a lot about these cycles recently. I recently read the book Braiding Sweet Grass, and the author talks about listening to and respecting nature. It seems that when we eat the foods that grow and are naturally available at the time they are in season, we can balance things out both in our body and our ecosystem. The same happens when we listen to our bodies about energy levels in the day and in the seasons. We (I) have lost that wisdom, and this lecture brings a lot of that back into focus.
Managing Your Health Through the Seasons
In India, where Aryveda comes from, there are six seasons, each associated with a particular dosha. In the U.S., we experience four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. These changes in weather can affect our health. The key idea is that our bodies respond differently as the seasons change, which can influence our well-being. The good news is that we can manage these effects through our lifestyle and diet, putting us in control of our health.
Each season brings different characteristics:
- Autumn to early winter (roughly mid-September to January) has dry and cool weather.
- Winter and early spring (February to May) are wet and heavy.
- Summer (June to mid-September) can be hot and bright.
However, these time frames can vary depending on where you live. For example, winter lasts longer in colder states like Montana or Alaska. This flexibility makes the approach to health through seasons practical for everyone.
To maintain balance in our health, we can adjust our diets based on the season. For instance, during hot summer days, it’s best to eat cooling and heavier foods while avoiding sour, spicy, and salty dishes that match the heat.
Always remember that your health is incredibly important. It’s a good idea to talk to a doctor before trying any new health regimen. If you’re interested in Ayurvedic practices, it’s best to work with a qualified Ayurvedic expert to ensure you’re making the right choices for a healthier life. Taking these steps can help you feel your best throughout the year!
