VARSHA RTUCHARYA (RAINY SEASON REGIMEN)
Mid-July to Mid-September
- Varsha Rtucharya refers to the seasonal regimen during the monsoon (Varsha Rtu).
- In this rainy season, the Agni is diminished further following the summer season and gets vitiated by doshas therefore making the body susceptible to various diseases.
- The doshas get aggrevated because of thick clouds accumulated with water, snow, dew and dirty water because of the rain, sourness in the ground and the warmth of the earth.
- All the general measures to mitigate the aggrevated doshas and improve the digestive fire should be adopted.
- Use of old grains, soup of pulses, boiled water should be used.
- Use light, warm, and easily digestible meals to support the weakened Agni.
- Incorporate sour and salty foods to counter the vitiation of Vata and support digestion. Use fresh buttermilk with rock salt and lemon-based preparations in moderation.
- On days without sunlight, the food should be sour, salty, dry mixed with honey and easily digestible.
- Warm beverages : Drink warm water, herbal teas (such as ginger tea), and decoctions of herbs like dry ginger, pepper, and cumin to support digestion.
- Moderate consumption of fats : A small amount of ghee or sesame oil can help pacify Vata without overwhelming digestion.
- Always wear warm clothes to protect from the cold and damp environment. Avoid getting drenched in the rain as it can lead to Vata aggravation.
- Keep your living space dry and clean. Fumigation with herbs like neem, Acorus calamus, and resin is advised to prevent infections.
- Herbal smoking (Dhoomapana) is recommended to prevent respiratory issues caused by humidity.
- Since the Agni is weak, avoid heavy or strenuous exercise. Opt for mild physical activity like yogaor light walking to maintain movement and circulation.
- Avoid going out in barefoot, always use vehicles and stay in clean and warm places.
- Avoid consuming river water, day sleep, non-vegetarian, sweet and cold foods.
- Avoid exposure to cold water and cold air.