Ritucharya — Living with the Seasonsऋतुचर्या

Through the year

• Shishira (late winter) and Hemanta (early winter) — digestion is strong; nourishing, warm, oily food; oil massage; exercise
• Vasanta (spring) — accumulated Kapha melts; lighter, drier food, honey, barley; avoid heavy and cold food and day sleep
• Grishma (summer) — strength is low; cool, sweet, liquid food, buttermilk, rest; avoid heavy exercise and spicy food
• Varsha (rains) — digestion is weak; light, warm, freshly cooked food, boiled water; avoid stale food
• Sharad (autumn) — Pitta rises; cooling, sweet and bitter food, ghee; avoid excess heat and spicy food

Ritu sandhi

The two weeks at the junction of seasons (ritu sandhi) are seen as a time to change habits gradually — leaving the old season's regimen slowly and adopting the new. Many festivals fall at these junctions, with fasts and simple foods that suit the change: Navratri at the turn to autumn and spring, for example.

For general information only — not medical advice. Do not use it to diagnose or treat any condition, and do not stop prescribed medicine. Consult a qualified doctor or a registered Ayurvedic physician (BAMS) for health problems.

Frequently asked questions