According to Ayurveda everything is governed by the 5 elements – Air, Ether, Fire, Water, Earth. These elements pair together to make up a Dosha. A Dosha can be defined as a particular pattern of energy that creates your unique physical, emotional, and mental being. We all have each of the Doshas in us, but typically we have the predominance of one. A Doshas prominence can also be witnessed in the seasons and times of day.
The three main doshas are Kapha, Pitta, Vata. Kapha is made up of earth and water and offers us stability. Vata is air and ether and offers us movement. Pitta is fire and water it is the force behind digestion.
Pitta is the force that helps us transform and metabolise. It basically helps us take the outside in and make that part of us. On a mental level it promotes clear thinking, taking in new information, and the gift of discernment. It supports self – confidence and allows us to be organised.
People who’s make up is predominantly Pitta typically will have really good digestion and elimination. They will have a menstrual cycle that is regular with a moderate flow. They are really good decision makers, make excellent leaders, and know how to get stuff done.
Out of balance pitta will cause:
- Loose stools and heartburn (think fire element here)
- Known to become ‘Hangry’ when missing a meal
- Excessive feelings of heat in the body
- Red or irritated skin
- Feelings of frustration, anger, and irritability
- Judgment, impatience, criticism, and intolerance
- Excessive perfectionism
- Menstruation that is heavy, hot & intense
Overall tips to balance Pitta:
- Eat cooling foods & spices like fennel, coriander, cucumber, & coconut
- Herbal teas like mint, lemon balm, peppermint, lime
- Surrendering rather than controlling
- A supportive daily routine with regular times for eating, sleeping, working, and so on. Make sure you make time to play and to relax as well as to work
- Spend time around water, enjoy a dip in the ocean or river
- Keep your mind and body cool
- Enjoy sweet and soothing music, smells, scenes, and company
- Giving yourself ample time to wind down in the evenings without screens or to-do lists. Going to bed by 10 p.m. to support sound, restful sleep
How to work with the power of Pitta throughout the day:
Ever wonder why you were able to get 50 things done in the morning with ease and then come afternoon you are struggling to do anything. That is because Pitta is strongest from 10 am – 2pm. This is the best time of the day to be productive. It can be really helpful to schedule in tasks related to planning, organising & focused work, and getting those emails sent. It’s also helpful to note when the sun is at it’s highest, as this is said to be the best time of the day to eat our largest meal. Which makes sense if we are in line with fire being the element that governs digestion.
10pm – 2am is when the body enters a state of cleansing and detoxification. This is the time of day in which the liver works it’s hardest, digesting all it has processed during the day including emotions. Being in rest state at this time of the day can have wonderful benefits for your overall health – including alleviating uncomfortable symptoms associated with menstruation.
Summertime – the season of Pitta.
In summertime the fire element is at it’s strongest in line with the longevity of the sun. We are reaching out to feel the heat in our bones and bodies. The sparks of possibility and joy emanate from all around us. Living in Ireland, an island in the North Atlantic, does not allow overindulgence in the fire element, with a consistent wet and heavy climate. However, we do have daylight for up to 17 hours a day. This can make getting a good night’s sleep quite difficult, particularly if you are a lover of catching sunrises and sunsets. There is a level of changing your routine to adjust as well as making sure you are getting enough rest and fun time. As with all things fire it is easy to burn out. Adapt recommendations from tips to balance Pitta outlined above.
If you are interested in this topic and would like to learn more about how Ayurveda can support your overall wellbeing, get in touch by booking a free discovery call.
