Weather changes according to season. These changes in the atmosphere affect all living beings. Some changes are beneficial, while others are detrimental. In order to achieve maximum benefits from the good qualities of the atmosphere and protection from the bad effects, Ayurveda has prescribed certain guidelines about diet and life style called seasonal regimen i.e Ritucharya.
- During accumulation period (Adana), between Winter Solstice and Summer solstice, there is a dominance of “Sun or heating” principle (Pitta Energy). Due to increasing heat, hot and dry qualities increase. So Dhatus deplete and physical strength becomes less and the incidence of disease is high.
- During the release period (Visarga), between Summer solstice and Winter solstice, there is a dominance of “moon or cool” principle (Kapha energy). The strength of all living beings increases. Immunity becomes strong so the disease incidence is low.
Due to changes in the season, doshas have the cycle of Sanchaya (accumulation), Prakopa (aggravation), Prashama (palliation). These changes reflect in our bodies so we need to adjust our routine i.e diet and life style to prevent the imbalance.
It is not really the calendar, but nature itself that tells us when the Dosha will be influenced. Therefore one should not indulge in things like food and acts, which are likely to increase or provoke the respective doshas.
On the other hand one should resort to Vamana or herb induced emesis in early winter, Virechana or herb induced purgation in summer and Basti or herb induced enema in fall and winter. To eliminate Kapha, Vata and Pitta by carrying out this measures one can prevent seasonal diseases.