Pre-Winter, Hemant Ritu हेमंतऋतु- (मार्गशीर्ष- पौष)
Pre -Winter / Hemant Season
हेमंतऋतु - (मार्गशीर्ष- पौष)
(Mid Nov - Mid Jan)
"Dry weather and cold harsh winds".
Life on earth is controlled by the movement of sun. Life event would suggest that time, seasons and three bodily components (the essence of digested food, dosha and strength) are governed, in the final analysis, by the sun, wind and moon.
Time measured as the year has six seasons, Sisira, Vasanta and Grishma characterize the summer solstice when the sun progresses to the north of the equator, and brings about the period of drawing up (adana). The rest of the year consist of varsha, sarat and hemanta which coincide with the winter solstice when the sun moves south of the equator. This period witnesses the (visarga) release of what ever was drawn up earlier. During adana, the sun draws moisture through hot and rough winds and progresses increase the quality of roughness in substances as it progresses from sisira to grisma. The consequence of this drying and roughening process is the augmentation of taste (rasas) - bitter (tikta), astringent (kashaya) and pungent (Katu) - which share the quality of roughness, and an decrease in body strength.
In contrast, the sun's power is lessen during the southward course by the cloud, winds and rain during varsha, sarat, and hemanta. The heavenly shower cool the earth, the moon gains ascendancy and the rasas - sour (amla), salty (lavana), sweet (madhur) - which have the opposite of rough quality of dominate. As a result, the body gains in strength.
Thus the season are marked by fluctuation of in strength. During adana, the body strength is highest in sisira, medium in vasanta and lowest in grishma. During visarga or release, it is the highest in hemanta, medium in sarat and lowest in varsha.
(Mid Nov - Mid Jan)
Temp: 19 - 25 degrees Celsius
"SEASON OF HEALTH."
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| Nature ! At its best |
"SEASON OF HEALTH."
Winter Season is divided into two parts. The mild pink winter is named Prewinter season or Hemant Ritu and the intense and harsh winter is named Shishir . Both the seasons have influenced our traditions in many ways. The beginning of the winter in India marks the onset of Hemant Ritu
Hemant season fills nature with joy and enthusiasm and greenery is visible all around. Drops of dew have started falling and it is early winter. Hemant Ritu brings cool breezy mornings and late evenings with it. Referred to as the ‘Dewy Season’ in the Yajur Veda, this is the time when the powerful rays of the Sun begin to wane, and there is an overcast of greyness with mildly warm days. Hemant Ritu is the perfect time to enjoy taking a stroll outside in the evenings.
The beginning of the winter in India marks the onset of Hemant Ritu. Keeping the Hindu calendar into consideration, Hemant Ritu prevails during the months of Margashirsha and Pausha, which are the ninth and tenth months of the calendar. It is perhaps the most pleasant time. Some trees in the Himalayas and other hills complete shedding their leaves. The cool breeze, slightly chilled air and makes the season dreamy. This season is known for its pleasant and inviting moderately cool weather. For this reason tourists like this season very much.
In winter nights are longer, colder and foggy. The trees are full of sprouts and loaded with flowers. Early morning sun rays falling on petals of lotus announces the onset of Hemant. Flowers like Nyctanthes arbor-tristris (परिजात), Jasmine, Water lily, Rose, Hibiscus and Bougainvillea bloom during this season. The fragrance of jasmine flower also spread everywhere. Bahunia variegata or Kachnar tree blossom can be seen. There is a pleasing smell of Alstonia scholaris ( सप्तपर्णी ) in the late evening.
In winter nights are longer, colder and foggy. The trees are full of sprouts and loaded with flowers. Early morning sun rays falling on petals of lotus announces the onset of Hemant. Flowers like Nyctanthes arbor-tristris (परिजात), Jasmine, Water lily, Rose, Hibiscus and Bougainvillea bloom during this season. The fragrance of jasmine flower also spread everywhere. Bahunia variegata or Kachnar tree blossom can be seen. There is a pleasing smell of Alstonia scholaris ( सप्तपर्णी ) in the late evening.
हेमंत ऋतु
ठंडी हवा, सर्द हवा
सबको हिलाए -कंपाए
आगे बढ जाए । ठंडी हवा .......
पत्ते-फूल धुले से खुशबू भरे
रात में बरसी ओस लगे मोती जैसे
ऐसा मनमोहक रूप मन में ख़ुशी भर दे । ठंडी हवा .......
पक्षी सभी नीड़ों में दुबक-दुबक जाएं
दूसरे सभी जीव भी छिपने को तरसें
उजली छिटकी धूप देखें मदमस्त हो जाएं । ठंडी हवा ......
बेचारा गरीब ठिठुरे काम्पकर रह जाए
सिमट -सिमट कर जैसे तैसे रात गुज़ारे
हंसते हुए सहे "उफ" न करे
हेमंत के लावण्य से मुग्ध रह जाए । ठंडी हवा ....
"Dewy Season"
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| "Dewy Season. "Dew Drops have started falling , it is early winter." ओसकीबूँदे |
"Best Season To Build Immunity".
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| African Daisy /Crosta White Dimorphotheca |
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| Harsingar/ Parijaat/ Nyctanthes arbortristis/ Shefali. The sad tree or the tree of sorrow. As in the early morning when it has dropped its flowers, the tree appears to look sad. Flower lovers wake up in the early morning to collect them and generally place them in a flat dish to make their rooms fresh and fragrant. |
"The most pleasant time of the year."
Mid Nov- Mid Jan
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| Raat Ki Rani, blooms at night and have strong fragrance. |
"Dry weather and cold harsh winds".
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| Kachnar Tree |
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| Lotus /Nelumbo nucifera |
"During this season both physical strength and digestive strength are very strong."
Introduction
Life in Accord with the Seasons
Life in Accord with the Seasons
1. Dominant Taste (Rasa) - Sweet (Madhura).
2. Dominant (Element) - Earth (Prithvi) and Water) Ap.
3. Dominant Quality) Guna- Snigdha, Sheeta and Guru.
4. Dosha - Pitta Settle down) (Prashamana.
5. (Body Strength)- (Maximum).
6. Agni Bala (Fire)- (Maximum)
The atmospheric cold during Hemanta Ritu triggers the body to conserve heat through constriction, resulting in an upsurge of Jatharagni, the digestive fire. However, by making intricate yet powerful adjustments to our diet and lifestyle during this time can help us achieve mental clarity, emotional fulfilment and a robust physical state. These natural adjustments help maintain harmony and well-being during the Prewinter season.
Due to the cold windy weather the digestive power of strong individuals gets trapped within the body and creates an even stronger digestive strength. When this happens, our digestion requires foods that are slightly heavier and greater quantity. If food is not increased it will cause the body tissues to burn and dry leading to the aggravation of vata dosha.
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| Bougainvillea |
Life on earth is controlled by the movement of sun. Life event would suggest that time, seasons and three bodily components (the essence of digested food, dosha and strength) are governed, in the final analysis, by the sun, wind and moon.
 |
| Alstonia scholaris / Saptaparni |
Time measured as the year has six seasons, Sisira, Vasanta and Grishma characterize the summer solstice when the sun progresses to the north of the equator, and brings about the period of drawing up (adana). The rest of the year consist of varsha, sarat and hemanta which coincide with the winter solstice when the sun moves south of the equator. This period witnesses the (visarga) release of what ever was drawn up earlier. During adana, the sun draws moisture through hot and rough winds and progresses increase the quality of roughness in substances as it progresses from sisira to grisma. The consequence of this drying and roughening process is the augmentation of taste (rasas) - bitter (tikta), astringent (kashaya) and pungent (Katu) - which share the quality of roughness, and an decrease in body strength.
In contrast, the sun's power is lessen during the southward course by the cloud, winds and rain during varsha, sarat, and hemanta. The heavenly shower cool the earth, the moon gains ascendancy and the rasas - sour (amla), salty (lavana), sweet (madhur) - which have the opposite of rough quality of dominate. As a result, the body gains in strength.
Thus the season are marked by fluctuation of in strength. During adana, the body strength is highest in sisira, medium in vasanta and lowest in grishma. During visarga or release, it is the highest in hemanta, medium in sarat and lowest in varsha.
Hemant Ritu and its impact on the three doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
Air Element. Vata Dominance: Hemant Ritu’s cold and dry qualities align with Vata’s inherent characteristics. During this season, Vata tends to be aggravated, potentially leading to conditions like dry skin, joint discomfort, and increased susceptibility to respiratory issues. Excess vata can lead to erratic eating pattern, anxiety, restlessness and fear. Individuals with vata imbalance may have irregular indigestion, leading to inconsistent appetite and food absorption.
Fire Element .Pitta Transition: Hemant Ritu signifies a transition from the scorching heat of summer (Pitta season) to cooler temperatures. As Pitta subsides, there may be relief from conditions related to Pitta aggravation, such as skin irritations and digestive disturbances
Water Element. Kapha Awakening: The onset of winter and cooler weather in Hemant Ritu marks the awakening of Kapha dosha. Kapha’s cold and damp qualities can lead to issues like congestion and sluggishness.
Festivals
Diwali
Chhat Pooja or Sun Worship in Bihar
The Purvanchali Maha Parva. Sun worship has special significance.
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| Chhat Puja |
Bihu
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| Bihu in Assam/ Harvest Festival |
Christmas
Is the Kapha season unhealthy?
Actually this is the best season to build immunity and stamina and improve your skin and hair. But you need to balance the environment with the correct nutrition, lifestyle and exercise.
Why do we need to balance Kapha?
People who already have high kapha in their system accumulate more in this season. This may lead to disorders such as high cholesterol, increased weight, increase in blood sugar, increase in bile thickness, gallbladder, stone tendency, cholesterol blockages, vulnerability to fibroids, arthritic pain, sinusitis and the accumulation of fluid in the respiratory system, Pneumonia etc.
Is Phlegm the same as Kapha?
Phlegm is only a small aspect of Kapha excess, For good health, we need the correct balance of Kapha. Therefore foods high in Kapha should be eaten with caution in this season. These include milk, curd (high Kapha), cold drinks, red meat, custard apple, bananas, processed cheese (high Kapha) rice, cashew nuts, coconut, ghee, butter, fried foods, processed and refined foods, watery fruits like melons and cucumber, Raddish, oily foods, sugar and sweets.
Balance Of energy.
To balance high Kapha eat Dalia (with vegetables), bajra, Jowar, corn, fenugreek, cumin, spices, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, mustard seeds and oil. Also try massages with sesame seed oil / mustard oil or dry herbs, inhale steam with eucalyptus oil and exercise heavily so you sweat.
Winter Solstice : Shortest day and longest Night 22 December 2023
What occurs winter solstice? Night and Day: The winter solstice is the longest night and shortest day of the year in terms of daylight. Approaching the winter solstice, daylight becomes shorter. As the winter solstice passes, daylight becomes longer.
Actually this is the best season to build immunity and stamina and improve your skin and hair. But you need to balance the environment with the correct nutrition, lifestyle and exercise.
Why do we need to balance Kapha?
People who already have high kapha in their system accumulate more in this season. This may lead to disorders such as high cholesterol, increased weight, increase in blood sugar, increase in bile thickness, gallbladder, stone tendency, cholesterol blockages, vulnerability to fibroids, arthritic pain, sinusitis and the accumulation of fluid in the respiratory system, Pneumonia etc.
Is Phlegm the same as Kapha?
Phlegm is only a small aspect of Kapha excess, For good health, we need the correct balance of Kapha. Therefore foods high in Kapha should be eaten with caution in this season. These include milk, curd (high Kapha), cold drinks, red meat, custard apple, bananas, processed cheese (high Kapha) rice, cashew nuts, coconut, ghee, butter, fried foods, processed and refined foods, watery fruits like melons and cucumber, Raddish, oily foods, sugar and sweets.
Balance Of energy.
To balance high Kapha eat Dalia (with vegetables), bajra, Jowar, corn, fenugreek, cumin, spices, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, mustard seeds and oil. Also try massages with sesame seed oil / mustard oil or dry herbs, inhale steam with eucalyptus oil and exercise heavily so you sweat.
Winter Solstice : Shortest day and longest Night 22 December 2023
What occurs winter solstice? Night and Day: The winter solstice is the longest night and shortest day of the year in terms of daylight. Approaching the winter solstice, daylight becomes shorter. As the winter solstice passes, daylight becomes longer.
Diseases
- Joint and Muscle Stiffness: The increased cold and dryness of Hemant Ritu can lead to joint and muscle stiffness, arthritis which is characteristic of Vata imbalances.
- Dry Skin and Hair: The cold and dry qualities of Hemant Ritu can lead to skin and hair becoming more prone to dryness and roughness. Dandruff, Winter Eczema, Cracked heel, Chapped lips, Dry skin, Peeling cuticles, Pigmentation.
- Vata Dominance: Vata is associated with qualities such as dryness and mobility, all of which become more pronounced during this season. As a result, your body may experience increased dryness, restlessness and a predisposition to imbalances related to Vata. Arthritis.
- Immune Challenges: As the season transitions from autumn to winter, individuals may be more susceptible to common colds, coughs and respiratory illnesses. Lungs and sinus infections. mouth ulcers.
- Mood Swings and Anxiety: Vata’s influence can affect the nervous system, potentially leading to mood swings, anxiety, and restlessness.
Others : Weight Gain, Pink eye (conjunctivitis), Flu, Heart attack, Hypertension, High sugar, Stroke,
Lifestyle
Do's
- ● Hydration: Keep your skin hydrated from the inside out by drinking plenty of water and consuming hydrating foods like juicy fruits, soups, coconut water and cooked vegetables. Juices to keep your skin naturally hydrated from within. Fresh juices will give inner glow to your face.
- ● Adequate Sleep: Getting enough restorative sleep is crucial for skin health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep to allow your body to rejuvenate.
- ● Avoid Harsh Cleansers: opt for gentle, natural cleansers that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.
- ● Mindful Lifestyle: Incorporate stress-reduction techniques like yoga and meditation to balance your mental state, as emotional well-being reflects on your skin.
- ● Avoid Excessive Travel: Limit travel, especially to cold or dry climates, as it can disrupt your body’s balance during Hemant Ritu. Travel should be undertaken by vehicle.
- ● Exercise : Regular brisk walking is wonderful. It is beneficial to keep your body moving by frequently exercising to keep yourself warm, for proper blood circulation and for your system to run smoothly.
● One should also opt for warm clothes, sun baths or sun exposure for at least 15 minutes daily,
● Stay in warm and cozy places.
● Application of paste of Saffron.
● Exposure to sun : Being outdoor in sunshine raises levels of vitamin D which makes your bones stronger. If you have weak bones and poor skeletal strength, try to make most of sun.
● Sweating / Swedana Sometimes sweating should be done in such a way that the whole body sweats.
● Bathing with hot water.
● Medicated steam : Eucalptus oil. Taken through the nose and mouth. Steam prevents or improves ailments like sinusitis, lung congestion, dry cough and headaches; improves the complexion and is good for voice clarity. During steam therapy head is always covered with a cool cloth.
● Moisturize your skin with Aloe vera gel or coconut oil or oil based moisturizer at equal intervals throughout the day, and before you go to bed, to keep dry and cracked skin at bay.
● Humidifier : Install a humidifier at home to keep the air around you moisturized. Heating system generally dry out the air.
● Feed your skin: Eat ghee to re-establish the lost humidity. Applying ghee on the dry areas of your skin is also beneficial.
● DIY Mask: A very effective skin mask can be made with Almond powder and milk. It make your skin soft and glowing.
● Exfoliation : Scrub away the dullness: Exfoliators are a must in winters as help in removing the dead skin and reveal fresh and glowing skin. Face scrub like Besan Ubtan (ऊबटन) or having apricot, charcoal are good. Prepare an exfoliator by mixing crystallized sugar with oatmeal.
● Put your feet and hands from drying out by putting on socks and gloves. Take shower with tepid water, exposure to sunlight and wearing warm clothes is essential.
● Living in warm places is suggested.
● Sunscreen : Use a sunscreen before venturing out into the winter sun.
● Do not lick or bite chapped and dry lips.
● Keep your hands and feet warm. Soak your feet in hot water.
● Rubbing both the hands or clapping will generate heat.
● Purify the air with camphor.
● Drink warm water throughout the season
● Footwear should be worn always.
● Eating warm food
● Drinking warm water.
● While getting up in the morning press the thumb inside the palm for a while. It relaxes the body.
Behavioral Regimes
● One should wear warm clothes to keep body temperature in normal state.
● Days become shorter and night become longer then one should change it's sleep schedule.
● One should not stay awake till late night.
● Should avoid sleeping in day time.
Don't
● Avoid exposure to a strong breeze, cold wind and fasting
● Use of cold water. Do not indulge in long and hot showers which will dry your skin out further.
● Awake till late night
● Getting up after sunrise.
● Living in cold environment
● Taste-Avoid Bitter astringent, and pungent foods
● Light, cold, dry foods. Intake of cold drinks.
● Avoid stepping between warm rooms indoor and chilly weather outdoor without adequate protection.
● Awake till late night
● Getting up after sunrise.
● Living in cold environment
● Taste-Avoid Bitter astringent, and pungent foods
● Light, cold, dry foods. Intake of cold drinks.
● Avoid stepping between warm rooms indoor and chilly weather outdoor without adequate protection.
● Napping during the day and exposure to strong and cold wind should be avoided.
● Do not be exposed to strong gusts of wind, do not remain hungry or do not eat small amounts of food.
"Sign of good health is when the head remains cool and the feet remain warm".
Asana
Asana
Daily Yoga For Good health
● Sun Salutation / Surya Namaskar ( सूर्य नमस्कार ) : Sun salutation can give you excellent cardiovascular workout helping you to lose weight. The postures will help stretch your abdominal muscle while helping you shed pounds around your belly. The movements will also help in improving your metabolism. A couple of Surya Namaskars pump the heart rate that is equivalent to brisk walking and running can be used as an alternative to morning / evening walks in the times of smog.
Yoga - Physical Discipline
"Yoga asanas are done to improve your physical fitness and to clean the internal organs of the body."
A dynamic yogic exercise Surya Namaskar is experienced on 3 levels - body, mind and intellectual. It gives us physical and mental health and sharp intellect. Only 40% of muscles are used in daily activities. Rest of the muscles remain inactive. Surya Namaskar is a physical exercise in which 95% - 97% of your muscles are switched on to active mode. They remain active, hours ahead during the day, till you recharge them the next morning. Early morning is the best time for Surya Namaskar. Do not eat anything at least for five hours prior to Surya Namaskar. There are twelve steps in SN. You can count 5 seconds for each step of SN
.
“Early morning is the best time for Surya Namaskar"
Benefit :
- It helps in improving flexibility, controls blood sugar and aids weight loss.
- Unwinds the Mind and Body. Stress is not a phenomenon unfamiliar in modern day life.
- Ensures Heart Health and Boosts Immunity.
- Relief from Hair Fall.
- Corrects Imbalances.
- Improves Digestion.
- Improves Kidney Function.
- A Secret for Beautiful Skin.
- Improves blood circulation.
- Promotes weight loss.
- Helps regulate the menstrual cycle.
- Sun salutation is a very good exercise for people suffering from diabetes because it increases the blood supply to various parts of a body and thus improves insulin administration in the body.
"Asana keeps the body healthy and strong and in harmony with nature."
Surya Namaskar helps stimulate blood circulation, thereby bringing heat to the body.
Pranayama
● Bhastrika (भस्त्रिका) Inspiration & expiration
● Kapalbhati (कपालभाती) Normal inspiration & forceful expiration
● Suryabhedi pranayama (सूर्यभेदीप्राणायाम) Breathing from right nostril.
● To generate heat in the body : Take deep breathing continuously, will generate heat in the body.
● To generate heat in the body : Take deep breathing continuously, will generate heat in the body.
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Surya Bhedana Pranayama (Without Bandha)
- Make yourself comfortable in Siddhasana or Padmasana.
- Your eyes should be closed and your spine, neck, and back must be straight.
- Close your left nostril with your ring finger and little finger.
- Inhale slowly and deeply through your right nadi or right nostril.
Mudra
Surya mudra : Place a ring finger at the base of thumb, and press that finger lightly with thumb. It creates heat in the body and helps in digestion .
Ling mudra : Join both the hands with finger in between. The thumb of the left finger should be raised. It creates heat in the body, increases the resistance of the body and helps in cough and cold.
Rudra Mudra
God Rudra is a symbol of fire. Rudra meaning fierce is another name of Shiva. Rudra Mudra is the ruler of the third chakra (fire center)) in our body. It rules the fire center in the body. Rudra is the ruler of Solar plexus the Manipur chakra. It is also another name for sun. This mudra activates Manipur Chakra.
Formation :
Join the tips of ring finger and index fingers to the tip of the thumb.
Effect :
The Prithvi element and the Vayu element get balanced. This Mudra affects the glands in the abdomen.
Benefits :
Our whole body mass is made up of Prithvi. The centering force is associated with Prithvi. Rudra Mudra strengthens the Prithvi element and its organs. Hence stomach, spleen and pancreas function better. This Mudra develops heat and energy in the body.
When Prithvi is strengthen the brain also receives enough energy.
If a person feels listless, heavy, weighted down and dizzy, the weakness is relieved and completely eliminated by the practice of this mudra.
For energy practice this mudra for 15 minutes daily
Surya mudra : Place a ring finger at the base of thumb, and press that finger lightly with thumb. It creates heat in the body and helps in digestion .
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Ling mudra : Join both the hands with finger in between. The thumb of the left finger should be raised. It creates heat in the body, increases the resistance of the body and helps in cough and cold.
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Rudra Mudra
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| Rudra Mudra |
God Rudra is a symbol of fire. Rudra meaning fierce is another name of Shiva. Rudra Mudra is the ruler of the third chakra (fire center)) in our body. It rules the fire center in the body. Rudra is the ruler of Solar plexus the Manipur chakra. It is also another name for sun. This mudra activates Manipur Chakra.
Formation :
Join the tips of ring finger and index fingers to the tip of the thumb.
Effect :
The Prithvi element and the Vayu element get balanced. This Mudra affects the glands in the abdomen.
Benefits :
Our whole body mass is made up of Prithvi. The centering force is associated with Prithvi. Rudra Mudra strengthens the Prithvi element and its organs. Hence stomach, spleen and pancreas function better. This Mudra develops heat and energy in the body.
When Prithvi is strengthen the brain also receives enough energy.
If a person feels listless, heavy, weighted down and dizzy, the weakness is relieved and completely eliminated by the practice of this mudra.
For energy practice this mudra for 15 minutes daily
Nasya
● Nasya or nasal drops Add 2-2 drops of Anu taila in each nostril regularly.
Diet
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| Tomato Soup |
In This period nights are generally longer and days are
comparatively shorter than summer season. Due to this
person feels hungry with starting of the day. We have a
very low temperature and body become so cold due to
this body release heat and have high metabolic rate.
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| South Indian Rasam |
Ayurveda recommends vata balancing diet during this season. There are three tastes which helps to balance vata dosha, sweet, sour, and salty. Increase sweet vegetables like ash gourd, bottle gourd, and carrots along with honey and jaggery. It is best to have ghee or sesame oil, and grains like red rice or wheat. It is also good to consume flour and milk products.
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Agni (fire), one of the 5 elements or Mahabhutas, is at its strongest, which makes us feel hungry, and the body seeks a substantial and nutritious diet. At a time when Kapha (water & earth) dominates, and the vitiated Pitta (fire) is assuaged, Ayurveda says Rasa or the taste that dominates this season, is Madhura or sweet and incorporates honey and jaggery as desserts. It is best to have food that keeps you warm, pulses and grain, copious amounts of Organic Ghee and dishes that have some amount of oil. It is also the time when you prepare your digestive system for the harsh winter months, so it is recommended to avoid junk and carbonated drinks and try to incorporate meats in your meals that keep you warm from within.
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| Ash Guard / Petha |
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| Bottle Guard |
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| Carrot |
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| Honey |
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| Jaggery |
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| Ghee |
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| Sesame oil |
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| Red Rice |
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| Broken Wheat / Dalia |
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| Milk Products |
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| Sugarcane Juice |
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| Amla |
Healthy
food include fresh vegetables and fruits, dairy products,
nuts, oil seeds, whole grains/legumes and ghee, spices.
During this time, warm foods are required to satisfy
craving and nourishment to the body.
Do’s
One should eat Root Vegetables
● Carrot – It has rich source of Vit-A and beta-carotene is also present in that
● Turnip : ( शलजम)
● Potato – Rich source of carbohydrate
● Onion, Raddish - rich in isothiocynates and phytochemicals which is good in preventing cancer ● Fresh Fruits – Papaya and pineapple because of there warming qualities
● Indian Gooseberry – It is great source of Vit- C
● Spices – Mustard, black pepper, turmeric, are good sources for acting against the microbes and also good immunity buildup
● Tulsi – It protects from cough and improve immunity.
● Good amount of sour, sweet and salty foods should be taken as it increase the Agni of the body. In Hemant season, fire increases due to cold air.
● Winter crops like jawar, bajra, maize and millet like ragi should be consumed.
● Milk and milk products Rabadi , malai, cheese and sweets.
● Winter crops like jawar, bajra, maize and millet like ragi should be consumed.
● Milk and milk products Rabadi , malai, cheese and sweets.
● Consume flaxseed oil or cod liver oil supplements to moisturize your skin from within.
● Unctuous food like fatty oily greasy food, such as Ghee, oil, halwa and puri, flax seeds, sesame seeds, sun flower seeds and coconut.● Eat warming food such as pippali, ginger, (सौंठ dry ginger, tulsi, cinnamon, garlic, black pepper and dry fruits.
● Among grains and pulses, new rice, flour arrangements, green gram, etc., are suggested to be eaten.
● Shidhu (fragmented preparations like dalia or broken wheat ), Tila (sesame), etc., are likewise to be incorporated into the eating regimen.
● Have warm soups regularly.
● Vitamins Eat carrot, beetroot and tomatoes in salad form.
● Products of sugarcane like sugar, jaggery are good for use.
● Eat Laddu prepared from the flour of green gram, edible gum (गोंद) and fenugreek
● Pulses black gram, (urad), moong, masoor , Soybean consumed in sufficient amount.
● Fermented preparations like idli, vada, dosa, dhokla, curd etc.
● Sweet Potato Sweet potatoes are very good source of fiber, vitamin A, and Potassium. It can relieve constipation that is common in winter, and improve your immunity.
● Seasonal fruits - Banana, Apple, pomegranates, papaya, custard apple, lemon, citrus fruits, amla.
● Seasonal vegetables- Green leafy vegetables: methi, sarson saag, pumpkin, ash gourd, beetroot, carrot, mushrooms, tomato, potato, sweet potato
● Non-vegetarian meat, chicken, fish, eggs
● Cook ginger, (सौंठ), garlic along with vegetables
● Vitamins Eat carrot, beetroot and tomatoes in salad form.
● Products of sugarcane like sugar, jaggery are good for use.
● Eat Laddu prepared from the flour of green gram, edible gum (गोंद) and fenugreek
● Pulses black gram, (urad), moong, masoor , Soybean consumed in sufficient amount.
● Fermented preparations like idli, vada, dosa, dhokla, curd etc.
● Sweet Potato Sweet potatoes are very good source of fiber, vitamin A, and Potassium. It can relieve constipation that is common in winter, and improve your immunity.
● Seasonal fruits - Banana, Apple, pomegranates, papaya, custard apple, lemon, citrus fruits, amla.
● Seasonal vegetables- Green leafy vegetables: methi, sarson saag, pumpkin, ash gourd, beetroot, carrot, mushrooms, tomato, potato, sweet potato
● Non-vegetarian meat, chicken, fish, eggs
● Cook ginger, (सौंठ), garlic along with vegetables
● During hemanta, oily, sour and salted products of meat or non vegetarian food is appropriate if one is non-vegetarian. And may be followed by wine, vinegar or honey.
● Dry fruits Eat dry fruits either as a snack or include it in your food preparation. They generate heat in your body, and are rich in nutrient. Figs, Cashew, groundnut, almond, dates, raisins, walnuts good source of selenium and good for mental health and helps to come out of depression. Dates have low fat content and are rich in nutrients. They also keep you warm and prevent cold related illness.
"Good health is almost guaranteed when your dinner is simply soup".
● The best ingredients: These include black and white pepper , star anise powder, cinnamon, pumpkin seeds, kalonji seeds, sunflower seeds, almonds and pista in a paste form, winter greens, peas , cauliflower, broccoli, carrots, moong, black beans and black chhana.
"Good health is almost guaranteed when your dinner is simply soup".
● The best ingredients: These include black and white pepper , star anise powder, cinnamon, pumpkin seeds, kalonji seeds, sunflower seeds, almonds and pista in a paste form, winter greens, peas , cauliflower, broccoli, carrots, moong, black beans and black chhana.
Asthma
A soup made with ginger and garlic reduces airway inflammation and swelling. The hydration provided by the soup helps the body improve circulation and prevents the build-up of phlegm. Soups that contain spinach, turnip and onion have a therapeutic impact on the regeneration of cells and mucous membranes.
A soup made with ginger and garlic reduces airway inflammation and swelling. The hydration provided by the soup helps the body improve circulation and prevents the build-up of phlegm. Soups that contain spinach, turnip and onion have a therapeutic impact on the regeneration of cells and mucous membranes.
Heart patients
To prevent attack in the early morning hours, dinner time soup should include garlic, turmeric, galangal, some oats (its soluble fiber helps lower cholesterol), low salt and vegetables like broccoli (its calcium content has a protective effect on the heart muscle).
Weight losses
Food consumed at dinner just sits in the stomach, adding to weight gain because metabolism at night is sluggish. So eat your heavy meal at lunch time and stick to lentil soups with vegetables at dinner. Black chhana and moong beans are a good choice. Herbs like parsley, cilantro (dhania) and ginger add flavor to the soup
Diabetes
Sugar control is difficult in winter, partly because of the many party and events to attend, and partly because the cold weather can make you more sedentary than usual. Soup at dinner time helps control blood sugar, and keeps you fit.
"Avoid pre-packed soup because they are high in salt, corn flour , sugar ,trans fat, preservatives and artificial colors".
Don’ts
● Unhealthy diet : In this season, one should not consume small (quickly digestible) and flatulent food items.
● Avoid Vata aggravating foods, such as, Laghu (light), cool, and dry foods are to be stayed away from. Consumption of cold drinks is likewise contraindicated
● Unhealthy foods like fried foods, carbonated drinks, etc. should be avoided.
● Avoid consuming gas forming food (vata vardhaka) like pulses, raw food, legumes.
● Fasting should be avoided.
● Avoid cumin ( जीरा ) in December
● Taste-Bitter, astringent and pungent foods
● Avoid dry foods like roasted Chana, dry vegetables
● Light food such as puffed rice
● Cold drink
● Sattu
● Unhealthy foods like fried foods, carbonated drinks, etc. should be avoided.
● Avoid consuming gas forming food (vata vardhaka) like pulses, raw food, legumes.
● Fasting should be avoided.
● Avoid cumin ( जीरा ) in December
● Taste-Bitter, astringent and pungent foods
● Avoid dry foods like roasted Chana, dry vegetables
● Light food such as puffed rice
● Cold drink
● Sattu
Herbs
● Take Harad (Terminalia chebula) + dry ginger (सौठ) as a tonic in late Hemant season.
● The herbal supplement Chyawanprash is perfect for boosting the immune system during the cold winter months.
● Take Harad (Terminalia chebula) + dry ginger (सौठ) as a tonic in late Hemant season.
● The herbal supplement Chyawanprash is perfect for boosting the immune system during the cold winter months.
Chyawanprash is a good tonic for the respiratory system
● Take Triphala before you go to bed. Triphala very gently detoxifies the body and rejuvenates the digestive system.
● Turmeric Latte :To boost immunity, add ½ tsp of turmeric to a glass of milk and drink it before going to bed. Turmeric Anti-inflammatory Have some turmeric mixed with milk before going to sleep It will get you rid of cough and cold, boost your immunity, reduce inflammation and keep you warm.
● Take Triphala before you go to bed. Triphala very gently detoxifies the body and rejuvenates the digestive system.
● Turmeric Latte :To boost immunity, add ½ tsp of turmeric to a glass of milk and drink it before going to bed. Turmeric Anti-inflammatory Have some turmeric mixed with milk before going to sleep It will get you rid of cough and cold, boost your immunity, reduce inflammation and keep you warm.
● Prepare cinnamon, fennel, cumin, ginger tea and drink it warm throughout the day. These herbs cleanse the channels kidney and liver.
● Ashwagandha with milk enhance the immune system also strengthen the nervous system
● Boost the immune system with Amla, which is rich in vitamin C. (fresh fruit, powder or juice)
● Hot drinks made with long pepper, garlic, ginger, Tulsi, cinnamon. Pippali, fenugreek
● Ginger Healing property, aids digestion, .anti - inflammatory, relieves joint pain, cough and cold. .
● Fenugreek aid in digestion, ease body cramps, sooths sore throat, good for fever, improves hair quality. Take 1 tsf in the morning.
● Ajwain for flatulence.
● Asafetida with glass of warm water.
● Garlic Anti viral. Its best to chew a clove of garlic in the morning in empty stomach.
● Tinospora cordifolia or Giloy boost immunity.
● Tulsi tea which prevents viral and respiratory infection
Home remedies
● Avoid foods made of white flour, like bread, biscuits and kulchas. It makes phlegm thick and sticky.
● Avoid processed food, cheese and all pickles.
● Avoid all cold food at night.
● Avoid hydrogenated fats, especially if you are a heart patient.
● Take steam with a few drops of peppermint oil on a light or empty stomach.
● Drink lot of warm fluids during the day to make the mucous thinner. Try vegetable soup with garlic or ginger as both help decrease phlegm.
● Drink a mix of organic jaggery, a few drop of ginger juice, and some crushed black pepper and long pepper (pippali) in hot water.
● The compound called curcumin in turmeric helps reduce infections. For best results make hot soup mixed with the juice of fresh turmeric root.
● Onion juice mixed with lime juice or raw onions with lime juice eaten with lunch reduces mucous.
● Avoid artificial and chemical aroma sprays in the house.
● If you have a cold, dip your feet in hot water.
Nourishing Your Skin in Hemant Ritu: Detoxification and Rejuvenation
Due to the natural aggravation of vata dosha during winter, our skin becomes dry and rough and needs extra nourishment. By following a daily ritual that includes abhyanga (body oil massage), Shiro abhyanga (head oil massage), and pada-abhyanga (foot oil massage) vata dosha can be balanced.
HAIR, BODY SKIN CARE DURING HEMANT RITU
The Hemant Ritu aggravates Vata Dosha leading to dull and dry skin that needs intense nourishment. To keep the skin nourished, glowing and healthy, a few practices and rituals to detoxify and rejuvenate the skin.
Warm Water Bath
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| Swedana / Warm Water Bath |
- Swedana (Steam Bath): Swedana treatments open the pores, eliminating toxins and aiding skin health. Steam baths are particularly valuable during this season. Warm Water Bath: Use warm, not hot, water to take a shower. Taking warm showers counteracts the effects of cold weather on the skin and body.
Abhyanga
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| Body massage |
Rejuvenating Oil massage: Increase the frequency of oil massages or Abhyangas to deeply nourish the body, retain moisture and detoxify with oils. You can warm the choice of your oil slightly before applying, which helps the body relax, releases toxins and adds a natural radiance to the skin. Using oils such as coconut oil and sesame oil /mustard are the best traditional oils to use for Abhyangas.
Shiro-Abhyanga – Head massage: one of the most important massages, head massages or Shiro Abhyanga is often missed during these months. Shiro Abhyanga helps release built-up tension and stress, promoting mental relaxation. This massage nourishes the scalp, strengthens hair roots, and improves blood circulation. It also helps prevent dryness and flakiness, which is common during this season.
- Head Massage.
- Head Massage.
A regular head massage with warm oil helps prevent the hair from drying and prevents dandruff and hair fall. Follow it up with a warm head shower with Ketaconazole shampoos to give your head double nourishment. Use Intensive Hair Therapy Oil with Curry Leaves & Hibiscus to provide deep nourishment to the hair, promote hair growth and make it lustrous and strong from the roots.
Parisheka
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It is a therapeutic practice in which warm, medicated oil is poured or sprinkled continuously over the body. This technique is particularly beneficial in Hemant ritu as it effectively moisturizes the skin. The application of warm, nourishing oils helps combat the dryness and roughness that often accompany this season. The consistent flow of warm oil over the body enhances blood circulation, reducing the likelihood of cold-related ailments and alleviating joint pain and stiffness. Parisheka is also known to have a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to mitigate stress and anxiety.
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| Ubtan / Herbal Scrub |
- Ubtan (Herbal Body Scrub): Incorporate Ubtan, an herbal scrub, into your skincare routine. You can make one using ingredients like chickpea flour, turmeric, Malai and rosewater. Gently exfoliating your skin with this natural scrub helps remove dead skin cells and promotes a healthy glow.
- These body scrubs are helpful release built-up energy and remove dead cells. Follow it up with a nourishing and hydrating body moisturizer, that intensely nourishes, provides deep repair, enhances skin elasticity and alleviates dryness to promote cell regeneration.
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| Herbal Bath To Rejuvenate :
Pad Abhyanga / Foot Massage |
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| Foot Oil Massage Paad Abhayanga |
Rasayana Chikitsa / Rejuvenating Therapy
This Rejuvenation therapy is a holistic approach aimed at revitalizing the skin and rejuvenating and fortifying all bodily tissues, ultimately leading to the attainment of optimal health and longevity. This therapy works to enhance ‘Ojas,’ the primary vitality, improve ‘Sattva,’ or mental clarity, and bolster the body’s resistance to various stresses.
Some commonly employed Rasayana formulas include Triphala Rasayan, Chyawanprash, Amalki Rasayan, Brahmi Rasayan, and Ashwagandha Rasayan, among others. Rejuvenation therapy, especially when initiated before the age of 50, is highly effective for both men and women.
Emetics Therapeutic vomiting.
Purgatives By taking orally.
Enema
Nasal evacuation. By nasal drops.
During the first month of spring, rainy season and winter.
Mouth ulcers
Cold sores or mouth ulcers are common in winter. Have vitamin C in the form of citric fruits. Eat Amla generously. Tab folic acid 5mg daily.
Upper respiratory infections
Nasal evacuation. By nasal drops.
During the first month of spring, rainy season and winter.
Treatment
Flu
A good way to protect yourself is taking a flu shot, the protective effects of which last up to a year. Drink hot soups, rasam. Avoid sour food, cheese, vinegar. Avoid chilled drinks, ice creams. Inhaling Eucalyptus oil vapors. Decoction of tulsi, ginger and black pepper is good. As immunity enhancer eat Triphala powder.
A good way to protect yourself is taking a flu shot, the protective effects of which last up to a year. Drink hot soups, rasam. Avoid sour food, cheese, vinegar. Avoid chilled drinks, ice creams. Inhaling Eucalyptus oil vapors. Decoction of tulsi, ginger and black pepper is good. As immunity enhancer eat Triphala powder.
Winter eczema
Eczema is a common problem that worsens in winter. Apply generous amounts of Plain coconut oil / Aloe-vera gel or moisturizers at bed time and after bath to prevent body moisture from evaporating. Also bath with lukewarm water.
Moisturizers
a . Coconut oil: The natural oil is an all in one moisturizer.
b Yogurt: Yogurt is not just a good probiotic, it can also moisturize a skin and relieves sun burns.
c Glycerin + lemon juice + rose water is good for skin in winter.
Eczema is a common problem that worsens in winter. Apply generous amounts of Plain coconut oil / Aloe-vera gel or moisturizers at bed time and after bath to prevent body moisture from evaporating. Also bath with lukewarm water.
Moisturizers
a . Coconut oil: The natural oil is an all in one moisturizer.
b Yogurt: Yogurt is not just a good probiotic, it can also moisturize a skin and relieves sun burns.
c Glycerin + lemon juice + rose water is good for skin in winter.
Heart attack
Winters are a peak season for heart attacks. It could be due to an increase in blood pressure that affects the heart during this season. Ensure you exercise and try to stay warm enough . Restrict your salt intake and take proper rest. Minimize your stress. Herb: bark of Arjuna tree is good remedy.
Winters are a peak season for heart attacks. It could be due to an increase in blood pressure that affects the heart during this season. Ensure you exercise and try to stay warm enough . Restrict your salt intake and take proper rest. Minimize your stress. Herb: bark of Arjuna tree is good remedy.
Emergency kit
FOR HEART ATTACK :
FOR HEART ATTACK :
1 - Tab Disprin 150mg - 4 (Water soluble tab) to chew.
2 - Tab Angisid - 4
3 - Deponit NT5 skin patch - 1
If one feels sudden tightness and pain in center of chest, radiating to left arm or both sides of neck, accompanied by sweating and uneasiness one is likely to be in a state of heart attack. Following measures must be taken immediately:
a-Chew one Dispirin tablet
b-Keeping one Angisid tablet under the tongue
c-Peeling of and sticking the Deponit NT5 skin patch on left side of chest.
Immediately shift the patient to hospital within 3 hours.
Immediately shift the patient to hospital within 3 hours.
Cold sores or mouth ulcers are common in winter. Have vitamin C in the form of citric fruits. Eat Amla generously. Tab folic acid 5mg daily.
Dandruff
Shampoo (Ketaconazole) the hair twice a week. Wash the hairs with curd. Massage the hair with coconut oil mixed with camphor. Drink lots of water. Apply mixture of fenugreek + lime juice over the head. 2% Ketoconazole shampoo is remedy for dandruff
Shampoo (Ketaconazole) the hair twice a week. Wash the hairs with curd. Massage the hair with coconut oil mixed with camphor. Drink lots of water. Apply mixture of fenugreek + lime juice over the head. 2% Ketoconazole shampoo is remedy for dandruff
Arthritis
Mahanarayana taila for local application. Eat 1 tsf ( turmeric, fenugreek, dry ginger and ajwain 1:1:1:1 ratio) twice a day for a week. Laddoo made of dry ginger, coconut and sugar and ghee. Warm milk and garlic for rheumatoid pain.
Mahanarayana taila for local application. Eat 1 tsf ( turmeric, fenugreek, dry ginger and ajwain 1:1:1:1 ratio) twice a day for a week. Laddoo made of dry ginger, coconut and sugar and ghee. Warm milk and garlic for rheumatoid pain.
Upper respiratory infections
Eat lots of citrous fruits which are rich in vitamin C LIKE ORANGE, KIN,LEMON. Or
Trikatu One tsf with honey (dry ginger powder, long pepper and black pepper)
Chyawanprash as tonic
Pippali Ksheer for dry cough. (Milk +long pepper powder)
1 Amla daily as Amla is good for lungs and skin.
Herbal tea : Tulsi, cinnamon, black pepper, cardamom , clove, ginger and pippali.
Antibiotics full course if required.
Medicated steam with benzoin / karvol cap or with Eucalyptus
Trikatu One tsf with honey (dry ginger powder, long pepper and black pepper)
Chyawanprash as tonic
Pippali Ksheer for dry cough. (Milk +long pepper powder)
1 Amla daily as Amla is good for lungs and skin.
Herbal tea : Tulsi, cinnamon, black pepper, cardamom , clove, ginger and pippali.
Antibiotics full course if required.
Medicated steam with benzoin / karvol cap or with Eucalyptus
Cracked heels
Soak feet in warm water for 15 minutes, scrub with pumice stone, and apply Vaseline.
Snoring
Ujjayi pranayama, Bhastrika, Anulom - vilom and kapal Bhatti pranayama. Anu taila in both the nostrils. Sleeping on left side.
Soak feet in warm water for 15 minutes, scrub with pumice stone, and apply Vaseline.
Snoring
Ujjayi pranayama, Bhastrika, Anulom - vilom and kapal Bhatti pranayama. Anu taila in both the nostrils. Sleeping on left side.
Chapped lips
Local application of lip balm, Vaseline, ghee or mallei /cream. Or glycerin mixed with milk cream.
Local application of lip balm, Vaseline, ghee or mallei /cream. Or glycerin mixed with milk cream.
Peeling cuticles
Douse the finger tips with moisturizer rich cream
Douse the finger tips with moisturizer rich cream
Pigmentation
Turmeric and Chandan paste to be applied locally.
Turmeric and Chandan paste to be applied locally.
Dry skin
Aloe Vera gel locally. Massage your hands and legs with olive / sesame / mustard or coconut oil prior to bathing. Apply a face mask of papaya / avocado and peach. Add lavender essential oil to your bath water to prevent dry skin.
Panchkarma should be done during the first month of spring, rainy season and winter to rejuvenate the body.
Aloe Vera gel locally. Massage your hands and legs with olive / sesame / mustard or coconut oil prior to bathing. Apply a face mask of papaya / avocado and peach. Add lavender essential oil to your bath water to prevent dry skin.
Panchkarma should be done during the first month of spring, rainy season and winter to rejuvenate the body.
“So, stay healthy in all seasons”
* Medicine as suggested above should only be taken under the consultation and supervision of registered medical practitioner.
Link: https://madhuchhandacdmo.blogspot.com/2018/07/6.html
* Medicine as suggested above should only be taken under the consultation and supervision of registered medical practitioner.
Link: https://madhuchhandacdmo.blogspot.com/2018/07/6.html
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