Have you ever noticed how your energy and mood change with the seasons?
In spring, you might feel happy and energized, but in summer, you might feel tired. When winter comes, you might feel more thoughtful and achy. These changes aren’t just random—they show how our bodies react to different weather and surroundings.
In the wisdom of Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system of medicine practiced for over 3,000 years, these seasonal changes are recognized as a fundamental influence on our health. Ayurveda teaches us that by understanding the doshas (mind-body constitutions) and how they’re affected by the elements of each season, we can make simple adjustments to our diet, lifestyle, and self-care practices to stay balanced and healthy.
Seasonal Treats Chart
Season | Feeling | Ayurvedic Picks | Why They Help |
Summer (Hot & Dry) | Drained & Hot | * Night-blooming jasmine (Kumud) * Vetiver (Khas) * Water lily (Utpal) * Sandalwood (Chandan) | Cooling & Calming |
Rainy Season (Damp) | Indigestion | * Black kukurmutta (Kaliyaka) * Sesame seeds (Til) * Vetiver (Khas) * Lotus flower (Padmak) | Digestion & Cleansing |
Autumn (Dry & Cool) | Body Changes | * Sacred lotus (Pundarik) * Licorice root (Mulethi) * Vetiver (Khas) * Agarwood (Agru) | Strength & Grounding |
Winter (Cold & Dry) | Chilly & Achy * Vasaka root * Jujube fruit (Ber) * Lodhra bark * Mustard seeds (Sarson) | Warming & Nourishing | |
Winter’s Peak (Very Cold) | Runny Nose & Weak | * Kateri root * Berberis bark (Daru Haridra) * Barley | Winter Wellness |
Spring (New Beginnings) | Fresh & Energetic | * Sandalwood (Chandan) * Vetiver (Khas) * Siris tree (Shiris) * Fennel seeds (Saunf) | Rejuvenation & Digestion |
Grisma (Summer)
Summer heat can zap your energy, leaving you feeling like a wilted flower. But fear not, Ayurveda has some cool solutions! Night-blooming jasmine, with its beautiful nighttime blooms that open under the moonlight, has a calming effect that helps you unwind after a long hot day.
Imagine sipping on a cup of jasmine tea in the evening, letting its delicate fragrance soothe your mind and body. Vetiver, a grassy plant with a refreshing scent, cools both your body and mind. Picture yourself using vetiver essential oil in a diffuser, filling your home with its cool, earthy aroma.
Water lily, known for its delicate beauty floating on still water, promotes peace and tranquility. Like the lily pad remaining calm amidst the ripples on the water, these herbs can help you find inner peace during the hot summer months. Finally, sandalwood, with its smooth, cooling touch, keeps you feeling fresh, like a cool breeze on a hot day. Imagine applying sandalwood paste to your forehead in the morning, feeling its coolness invigorate you for the day ahead.
Varsa (Rainy Season)
The monsoon season can sometimes lead to tummy troubles, just like the heavy rains can disrupt your usual routine. Ayurveda comes to the rescue with black kukurmutta, which helps with digestion and eases any discomfort caused by the damp weather.
Sesame seeds are like little treasure chests full of good stuff for your body. They’ve got protein, healthy fats, and fiber to help you feel strong and full of energy. Imagine adding some sesame seeds to your salad or veggies. They’ll give a nice nutty taste and add lots of good stuff to your meal.
Vetiver continues to be your cooling companion, and the lotus flower, with its pristine beauty rising above muddy waters, symbolizes purity, reminding you to stay healthy during the damp days. Just like the lotus flower thrives in muddy water, these herbs can help you stay healthy amidst the challenges of the monsoon season.
Sharat (Autumn)
As leaves change color, these plants help your body adjust to the cooler, drier air. The beautiful lotus flower, with its strong roots and vibrant blooms, reminds you of inner strength, just like the leaves clinging to branches before letting go.
Licorice root, a sweet and soothing herb, keeps your breathing passages healthy, especially helpful as the air gets drier. Vetiver remains a friend to cool you down during any lingering hot spells. Agarwood, with its grounding aroma, helps you feel stable and secure during this seasonal shift.
Hemant (Fall/Winter)
Winter’s chill can be harsh, but Ayurveda has some warming herbs to keep you cozy. Vasaka root, with its long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine, makes breathing easier, especially beneficial during the colder months when coughs and colds are more common.
Jujube fruit, a little red fruit that packs a punch of Vitamin C, provides essential nutrients to keep your immune system strong. Lodhra bark helps balance hormones, which can fluctuate with the seasonal changes. And mustard seeds, with their tiny fiery kick, add a warm, spicy touch to your food and keep you feeling energetic during the coldest months.
Shishir (Winter)
When the temperature drops even lower, and the days are at their shortest, Ayurveda offers plants for resilience. Kateri root, another friend for healthy breathing, soothes any irritation caused by the dry winter air.
The bark of a special plant called Berberis, traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for digestive issues, helps with digestion, which can sometimes be sluggish during the winter months. Barley, a warming grain used to make cereals and soups, provides both nourishment and warmth, keeping you feeling full and satisfied on even the coldest days.
Basant (Spring)
Spring is a time of fresh starts, and Ayurveda reflects that with its seasonal choices. Sandalwood continues to soothe the senses, while vetiver remains a cooling companion as the weather begins to warm.
Siris tree, with its rejuvenating properties, promotes overall well-being. Fennel seeds, with their digestive benefits, help with the natural cleansing process that occurs in spring. Imagine enjoying a cup of fennel tea as the days lengthen, feeling your body refresh and renew itself along with nature.
Conclusion
Ayurveda, an old system of medicine from India, teaches a way to stay healthy that’s all about living in tune with nature’s patterns. By incorporating seasonal plants and herbs into your routine, you can support your body’s natural ability to adapt and thrive throughout the year.
So, the next time a new season arrives, don’t just witness the changing landscape – embrace its unique offerings! Explore the local markets, consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner, and discover the “cool plant helpers” that can empower you to feel your best all year round.
Here at Ayurvedic Masters, our team of experienced Ayurvedic doctors is here to guide you on this journey to seasonal wellness. We offer online consultations to make these ancient practices accessible to everyone. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment to create a personalized plan that incorporates seasonal recommendations and supports your unique health goals.