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The first showers after a hot summer are welcomed with a sigh of relief. After getting respite from intense heat everyone dreams of enjoying ginger tea, spicy soups and fried snacks. Monsoon a delightful season lasting from June to September every year also brings in many health issues.
Low temperatures combined with high humidity are perfect conditions for germs to thrive. Allergies, contamination, flue, skin rashes and indigestion become prevalent during this period. Damp weather increases the incidence of dengue, typhoid, viral fevers, pneumonia and gastrointestinal problems. Mosquitoes breed in stagnant rain water and cause diseases. The moisture and humidity in the air makes people susceptible to fungal infections and skin rashes.
Lack of resistance makes you vulnerable to sickness. Robust immune system, the foundation of a healthy body helps to fight infections. Seeking medical treatment is essential when illness strikes, however, strengthening the immunity should be our prime objective.
According to Ayurveda, three seasons, rainy season, autumn and winter fall in the southern solstice when the sun moves south, cooling the earth. At such times, living beings need a strong immune system to prevent diseases.
During monsoons Vata and Pitta doshas aggravate and weaken body systems. Aggravation of Pitta dosha affects the digestive system to makes it sluggish, resulting in a loss of appetite. Balancing doshas improves and rejuvenates the body and mind.
Ayurveda lists some rituals to combat illnesses in the rainy season.
Oil massage, and hot water baths help in pacifying Vata dosha and are highly recommended in monsoons to keep the skin clean, healthy and prevent skin problems. These baths also assist in removing the toxins.
Breathing exercises can do wonders for your well-being. Our hectic schedules overwhelm us so much that we hardly breathe properly. Practicing Pranayama revitalizes pranic energy. Learn the right way of performing these breathing exercises. Doing them regularly can calm the mind and optimize health.
During monsoons the digestive system becomes weak. Ayurveda recommends a light and nutritious diet. Seasonal vegetables like bottle gourd, snake gourd and okra should be consumed. Milk and cow ghee are also recommended. Old barley, steamed and lightly seasoned pumpkin and moong dal are beneficial.
Drinking enough water to stay hydrated is essential. Having Chayawanprash everyday can provide a dose of vitamin C to build up resistance. Adding a few tulsi (basil) leaves to tea is good for cold, cough and indigestion.
Monsoon is not a reason to be sedentary. Light exercise and yoga are recommended. Create a simple, practical and doable exercise routine and strictly follow it. Regular exercise has a positive impact on physical, mental and emotional well-being.
(Nupur Roopa is a freelance writer, and a life coach for mothers. She writes articles on environment, food, history, parenting and travel.)
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