Stay energised and healthy this August, the Ayurveda way!
August in India is that unpredictable mix – sunny mornings, humid afternoons, and sudden rain
showers by evening. While the weather brings a refreshing green glow to nature, it can also play tricks on your health. From seasonal flu and digestive issues to skin problems, your body faces a constant battle to adapt.
This is where Ayurveda, India’s age-old system of wellness, steps in with simple yet powerful tips to help you maintain balance during this transitional period. Let’s explore how to keep your immunity strong, digestion happy, and mind calm in August’s ever-changing weather.
Understand Your Body’s Seasonal Shifts
- Ayurveda teaches us about doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha – which govern our physical and mental states.
- August’s climate often increases Pitta (heat) due to humidity and lingering summer warmth, while sudden rains can aggravate Vata (irregularity, dryness inside the body).
- This imbalance can lead to acid reflux, skin rashes, dehydration, joint stiffness, and seasonal flu.
- Ayurvedic Tip: Identify your dominant dosha and focus on balancing it with the right diet, lifestyle, and herbs.
Eat for Immunity and Digestion
In August, digestion tends to slow down due to humidity, making it important to choose light, fresh, and seasonal foods.
Include following foods:
- Moong dal khichdi with ghee – gentle on digestion
- Steamed vegetables like bottle gourd, ridge gourd, and pumpkin
- Fresh herbs like coriander, mint, and tulsi
- Spices such as cumin, ginger, turmeric, and black pepper for warmth and immunity
Avoid:
- Heavy fried snacks in excess (tempting during rain, but taxing for digestion)
- Too much curd at night (can aggravate Kapha and cause congestion)
- Excess chillies (can further inflame Pitta)
Keep Hydration Smart, Not Just Frequent
Drinking water is important, but Ayurveda recommends warm or room-temperature water instead of ice-cold drinks, which can weaken digestion.
Try herbal infusions like:
- Cumin-coriander-fennel tea for detox
- Tulsi-ginger tea for immunity
- Lemon-honey warm water in the morning for cleansing
Strengthen Immunity with Simple Ayurvedic Practices
Ayurveda offers daily rituals (Dinacharya) to protect you from seasonal infections:
- Oil pulling (swishing sesame or coconut oil in the mouth) for oral health
- Nasya (applying a drop of warm sesame oil in nostrils) to protect respiratory passages
- Abhyanga (self-massage with warm oil) once or twice a week to soothe Vata
Dress and Live in Tune with the Weather
- Choose breathable cottons to avoid skin irritation from sweat and humidity
- Keep an umbrella handy to avoid sudden rain exposure
- Avoid getting drenched; if it happens, change into dry clothes immediately to prevent colds
Move Your Body, But Gently
- Humidity can make you feel sluggish, but skipping exercise altogether can lower immunity. Instead, go for:
- Morning walks in fresh air
- Light yoga asanas like Vrikshasana (Tree Pose), Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
- Pranayama such as Anulom-Vilom and Bhramari for breath and mental clarity
Keep Your Mind Calm
Seasonal changes can impact mood and mental focus. Ayurveda suggests:
- Meditation for 10 minutes daily
- Listening to calming music or nature sounds
- Avoiding excessive screen time before bed
Ayurveda doesn’t rely on quick fixes – it’s about creating balance between your body, mind, and nature. This August, instead of fighting the weather, flow with it. Eat seasonal, keep your immunity strong, stay dry when needed, and nurture your mind.
Because when your inner doshas are balanced, even August’s mood swings can’t shake your health.
