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When It Rains! The interplay between our genes and external factors like the atmosphere, food, and lifestyle has a profound impact on our health. This knowledge has evolved over time, with modern epigenetic studies now aligning with what ancient Ayurvedic wisdom has suggested for thousands of years.
The Science of Epigenetics and Ayurveda
Epigenetics: A Modern Insight
Epigenetics studies how our genes are influenced by factors such as:
- Atmosphere
- Food
- Vacations/Excursions
These external factors directly impact the way our genes function, influencing our overall health. While science once believed genes were the ultimate controllers, we now know that genes work in synergy with the environment. In fact, this is something Ayurveda has long recognized.
Ayurveda: A Timeless Knowledge
Ayurveda, derived from two words, “Ayu” (life) and “Veda” (knowledge), teaches that our lifespan is a union of four elements:
- Body
- Sense
- Mind
- Soul
A disruption in the harmony of these four results in disease. Ayurveda, however, is not just a medical system. It offers guidance on living a balanced life, emphasizing preventive care to maintain the connection between body, mind, and spirit for a healthy life of 100 years.
Preventive Care: The Key to Health
Preventive care in Ayurveda revolves around maintaining balance through routines, diet, and adapting to seasonal changes. Let’s dive deeper into how Ayurveda teaches us to protect our health.
Ritucharya: Seasonal Routine
Our daily routine should evolve with the changing seasons, as our body reacts differently to the external environment throughout the year. This Ayurvedic concept is known as Ritucharya.
The Seasons and Their Impact:
- Winter (Hemanta and Shisira)
- Spring (Vasanta)
- Summer (Grishma)
- Monsoon (Varsha)
- Autumn (Sharat)
Aadana and Visarga Seasons
According to Ayurveda, the year is divided into two main cycles:
- Aadana Season: Winter, Spring, and Summer. During this period, our body strength decreases.
- Visarga Season: Monsoon, Autumn, and Winter. During this period, our body strength increases.
This cyclical relationship between body strength and the environment highlights the inseparable connection between humans and nature.
How Monsoon Affects Our Body
Physical Changes During Monsoon
Monsoon, from June to August, triggers a host of changes in the environment, such as cool air, cloud formation, lightning, and winds from the west. These external changes influence our body as well:
- Weakened Body Strength
- Low Digestive Power
- Decreased Appetite
- Sour Digestion Leading to Heaviness, Vomiting, and Headaches
The Influence of the Three Doshas
- Vata Dosha: Aggravated by rain, wind, and cold
- Pitta Dosha: Influenced by soil evaporation and humidity, leading to acidity
- Kapha Dosha: Increased due to high humidity levels
As a result, diseases like fever, cold, joint pain, indigestion, and dizziness are common in this season. Our body becomes more delicate during the rainy season, requiring extra care.
Ayurvedic Guidance for Monsoon Care
Diet and Lifestyle Tips for Monsoon
- Focus on Foods that Increase Body Strength: Choose meals that aid digestion and balance the doshas.
- Strengthen Digestive Power: Opt for easily digestible foods.
- Adjust Activities to the Season: Avoid strenuous activities and practice relaxation techniques.
Failing to adapt to these changes can lead to illness. But, by staying mindful of nature’s impact and adjusting your lifestyle accordingly, Ayurveda promises year-round health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, absolutely! The entire system of human body is in sync with the outer environment and there is a constant interaction that is happening . Hence any changes in the outer climate will immediately affect the internal health.
Though grossly understood as lifespan , Ayu in Ayurveda actually means the union of Body, Senses , Mind and Consciousness.
It is the seasonal guide to food and lifestyle that changes every season in order to set right the Doshic imbalance in the body caused due to the external climatic change .
As per Ayurveda in rainy season our digestive fire becomes weak leading to drastic reduction in body strength and natural immunity making the body susceptible to the onslaught of diseases.
– Focus on Foods that Increase Body Strength: Choose meals that aid digestion, increase digestive power and balance the doshas.
– Strengthen Digestive Power: Opt for easily digestible foods .
– Adjust Activities to the Season: Avoid strenuous activities and practice relaxation techniques.
Conclusion: Stay in Tune with Nature
Remember, we are a part of nature. By observing seasonal changes, understanding their effects on our body, and adjusting our food and activities accordingly, we can maintain good health, not just during the monsoon, but throughout the year.
Ayurveda teaches us that prevention is the best cure. Follow its wisdom to lead a healthy, balanced, and harmonious life.
Author Bio – Dr. Sadhanashree P.
Dr. Sadhanashree P., M.D. (Ayurveda), is a passionate Ayurvedic physician with expertise in Panchakarma and holistic wellness. As the founder of Arogyavardhini Ayurveda, she blends ancient Ayurvedic practices with modern lifestyle solutions. Dr. Sadhanashree is committed to spreading Ayurveda’s benefits through consultations, workshops, and rural health camps, empowering individuals and communities to achieve optimal health.
About Arogyavardhini Ayurveda
Arogyavardhini Ayurveda is dedicated to promoting holistic health through Ayurveda and Yoga. Led by Dr. Sadhanashree, the clinic offers personalized consultations, Panchakarma therapies, wellness retreats, and community outreach programs, including rural health camps and corporate wellness initiatives.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or treatment plan. Arogyavardhini Ayurveda is not responsible for any adverse outcomes resulting from the application of information found here.
