Summer is on the horizon, with its official commencement marked by the summer solstice. For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, the solstice heralds the longest day of the year, symbolizing the pinnacle of light and warmth. Summer, a Pitta season dominated by the fire and water elements, brings an anticipated surge of heat, changes, and vibrancy.

Once again, nature is providing us with an opportunity to pause. Reset. Assess how things are going in our lives, our bodies, and our hearts. And make space. Particularly if you feel life is becoming unbearable and intense. The overwhelming pressures, expectations, and rush are asking you now to slow down, and to realign. But also to channel this potent summer energy to ignite your passions and fuel your dreams.

To fully comprehend and honor the vibration of summer, immerse yourself in a deep reflection.

Journal your answers to these prompts to affirm a renewed commitment to yourself this second half of the year:

• Which areas of your life are feeling overwhelming?
• What energy do you feel called to channel?
• How do you wish to feel throughout this season?
• How can you harness the spiciness and fierceness of summer to step into your power?
• What insecurities might be surfacing in this period of intense light and visibility?
• How can you exercise more self-care during this potentially challenging season?
• My intention for this season is to …

Managing pitta dosha in summer

The arrival of summer, characterized by increased warmth and daylight, naturally amplifies the qualities of Pitta dosha, one of the three primary energies, which is described as hot, sharp, oily, light, spreading, and liquid.

Excess of Pitta can catalyze an uncomfortable feeling of heat in the body, in addition to enkindling anger, and frustration. To maintain our cool and equilibrium, it’s crucial that we engage in practices that balance Agni — our inner fire.

These are two suggestions: 

1. Moon Bathing: Just as we bask in the sunlight, moonlight too provides nourishment, but with a cooling effect. On clear nights, spend a few moments under the open sky, or walk after dinner, and visualize the tonic beams absorbing any excess hotness. Allow the serene lunar energy to calm your body, mind, and emotions.
2. Balancing the fire within : Soothing pranayama “Sheetali Pranayama”, also known as the cooling breath, can lessen your excess Pitta, specially during summer when it can be at its highest. Practice it, preferably on an empty stomach, to feel untroubled and clear- minded.

1. Sit in a comfortable position, place your hands on your knees. Close your eyes.
2. Roll out your tongue and shape it like a tube. Inhale.
3. Take the tongue inside slowly and close the mouth.
4. Then, slowly, exhale through the nostrils.

Repeat. And repeat again. This simple breathing technique refreshes the body and calms the mind, reducing inflammation, enhancing immunity, and promoting optimal digestion.

Prepare meals that are not only nourishing but also refreshing and satisfying. By focusing on fresh fruits, leafy greens, succulent vegetables, whole grains, and an array of anti-pitta herbs and spices, you can create simple, delicious recipes that serve to balance Pitta dosha and promote health and vitality throughout summer.