Ritucharya

Given that the term prakriti denotes both body constitution and nature, it is only expected
that with the changing seasons of nature there will be corresponding effects on the bhutas
(elements) and thereby the doshas of the constitution. Cold, dry weather for instance
enhances Vata, hot humid climate increases Pitta, while cold, wet weather aggravates Kapha.
To avoid such continued aggravation leading to imbalance of the doshas, Ayurveda
prescribes a seasonal routine to preserve the doshic balance as the seasons change. For each
season there is a unique diet (ahar), a distinct mode of living (vihara), and routine living
(karya). These keep your doshas in a state of equilibrium and help you cope with the stresses
and strains of changing seasons.
In Ayurvedic literature, the year is divided into six ritus (seasons): Varsha (monsoon)
Sharada (autumn) Hemanta (winter) Shishira (late winter) Grishma (summer) Vasanta
(spring)

The effects of these ritus on the three doshas, and the suggested lifestyle for each is indicated
below:

Monsoon :
Diet
 Digestive power weakens and bodily Vata is aggravated.
Be moderate in your diet.
Eat more astringent, bitter and pungent foods along with wheat and rice.
Never forget to boil and cool your water. If possible, add a little honey.

Conduct
 Go for oil massages and regular baths.
Do not indulge in daytime sleeping.
Avoid being out in the sun for extended periods of time.
Avoid excessive physical exercise.
Do not indulgence in excessive sex.

Winter :
Diet
 Eat hot, oily, sour and salty food along with rice. Drink plenty of cows milk and sugarcane
juice.
Drink warm water and it will improve your lifespan.
Avoid light food to pacify Vata.

Conduct
 Dont expose yourself to cold.
Go for an invigorating oil massage followed by a tepid water bath.
Cover your body with adequate, warm wraps.
Indulge in intense sexual pleasure.

Spring :
Diet
 Kapha that has already accumulated is liquefied by the heat and disturbs your digestive
system.
Avoid heavy, oily, sour or sweet food and drinks that may aggravate Kapha.
Eat barley, wheat, rice and bitter vegetables.

Conduct
 Exercise intensely, and go for regular massages.
Cut down on smoking.
Avoid daytime napping.

Summer :
Diet
 Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
Avoid food with pungent, acidic and salty tastes.
Eat sweet, cold and oily foods. Meat is also good for you.

Conduct
 Avoid excessive physical exercises and excessive sex.
Avoid sunlight and harmful UV rays.
Enjoy cool breezes and the fragrance of flowers.
Try to take a short nap during the day.

Autumn :
Diet
 Enjoy food that is astringent, bitter or sweet.
Have lots of rice, barley, and wheat, along with curds, cabbage, cheese and milk.
Avoid meat and plain yogurt.

Conduct
 This is the right time to go through cleansing, detox and bloodletting treatments.
(for detail see Panchakarma)
Avoid excessive sunbathing.
Do not expose yourself to easterly winds.

Read more about the seasonal clock here.