As we know, Ayurveda works with the five elements. Once we become more aware, we can see how earth, water, fire, air & ether manifest in everything. An overt example of this is the seasons. Each season is associated with a dosha (which is really just a combination of elements). While we think of having four seasons, for simplification purposes we will break it down into three.
Let’s consider which eating patterns and specific foods will be most balancing for each season, as it is associated with a dosha.
Vata Season
Fall-Early Winter
Grounding & warming foods
FAVOR: Sour, salty and sweet tastes (Hint: lemon juice, seaweed, root vegetables)
ENJOY: Soups, sweets, squash, nuts and seeds, raw honey, warm spiced milk, oatmeal, ghee; higher amounts of protein and fat
AVOID: Raw food
KAPHA Season
Late Winter-Spring
Detoxifying & rejuvenating foods
FAVOR: Bitter, pungent (spicy), and astringent tastes. (Hint: ginger, black pepper, cayenne, etc.)
ENJOY: Leafy greens, sprouts, radish spinach, okra, garlic, light fruits and berries, yellow split peas, red lentils, garbanzos, barley
AVOID: Dairy, cold beverages, excessive use of oil; heavy foods
PITTA SEASON
Summer
Cooling & energizing foods
FAVOR: Sweet, bitter, and astringent tastes. (Hint: basmati rice, leafy greens, pomegranate, etc.)
ENJOY: Lightly cooked vegetables, melons, plums, prunes, lime, coconut, mint, cilantro, asparagus, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cucumber, basmati, juicy foods; higher carbohydrate
AVOID: Sour fruits, beets, carrots, garlic, onion, chili, tomato, sour cream
These are general guidelines, the challenge is to take this wisdom and apply it to your individual experience. When considering a more seasonal diet, it is also important to maintain awareness of your dominant dosha – balancing foods that suit both your natural constitution and the present season. If this list isn’t quite appropriate for your geographical climate, go to you local farmer’s market and see what is available!
You are here because it’s time to activate your full body awareness and to cultivate routines and practices that invite you to truly thrive. Take yourself on a healing journey with our online wellness courses, or connect with an Ayurvedic practitioner by scheduling a private consult.
