Pitta Season

During the summer season, we enjoy the warmth of additional sunlight, thanks to Earth's 23.5 degree tilt and the massive fire ball in the sky (ahem, hello Mr. Sun), shining longer on one hemisphere at at time. This powerful yet subtle fire energy gently warms life on Earth. Any form of heat, whether it's sunlight or spicy foods, embodies the qualities of fire and is considered pitta energy, since pitta is the only dosha that contains the fire element.

One of three Ayurveda doshas, Pitta is birthed at the intersection of fire and water, heat and humidity, just like summer time. Pitta dosha and summer time share the same qualities of the two elements, fire and water, which is why summer is also referred to as Pitta season.

You may find it easier to finish projects and meet goals during summertime since the inherent pitta quality of summer naturally compounds the pitta energy within us, creating a roaring and powerful flame.

The fiery energy from summertime enhances the natural pitta energy found within us. Pitta energy is known for intensity, control, determination, power and transformation, and it is believed this same fire energy sharpens our mind and strengthens our intellect.

With this in mind, you may find it easier to finish projects and meet goals during summertime since the inherent pitta quality of summer naturally compounds the pitta energy within us, creating a roaring and powerful flame.

However, too much of this pitta fire energy can cause imbalances such as overheating, irritability, dehydration, and overwhelm, amongst many other physical, mental, and spiritual consequences. During summertime especially, it's important to balance our pitta energy so we can operate from a place of clarity and ease.

To return to a state of balance, Ayurveda teaches us two main principles: 1) Like increases like, and 2) Opposites balance.

When we find ourselves with too much fire in our bodies, we seek balance by inviting the opposite qualities of fire, or things that will cool us down. Mentally, we can cool down by going with the flow, releasing control on outcomes, and taking breaks from intense periods of focus. Physically, we can cool down by practicing yin yoga, taking a cool shower or consuming cooling foods such as mint, cucumber, and apples. Finally, we can cool spiritually by meditating and practicing cooling pranayama methods, such as Sitali. Choosing cooling options, my fellow pittas, is key to harnessing the extra fire power during summertime without creating too much heat within and pushing ourselves too far.

Take advantage of pitta season's added energy and allow it to naturally boost the fire within you, increasing your ambition, drive, and competitive spirit to get sh*t done. If you have any projects or goals tat you have been wanting to complete, summer is your time to shine. So, step into the fire and rise with the roaring summertime flames.

References:

Milutin Milankovitch. (2000, March 24). Retrieved July 11, 2020, from https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/features/Milankovitch/milankovitch_2.php