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|title=Tasyashiteeya Adhyaya
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|titlemode=append
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|keywords=Adana kala, seasonal diet and lifestyle, regimen, ritu(season), satmya(adaptability), seasonal regimen, bala, strength in seasons, immunity, visarga kala,ecology,bio-physical environment, Ayurveda, Indian system of medicine, charak samhita.
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|description=Sutra Sthana Chapter 6. Seasonal regimen of diet and lifestyle
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|image=http://www.carakasamhitaonline.com/resources/assets/ogimgs.jpg
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|image_alt=carak samhita
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|type=article
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}}
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<big>'''Sutra Sthana Chapter 6. Seasonal regimen of diet and lifestyle '''</big>
 
{{Infobox
 
{{Infobox
 
|title = Tasyashiteeya Adhyaya
 
|title = Tasyashiteeya Adhyaya
 +
|verses =
 
|label1 = Section/Chapter
 
|label1 = Section/Chapter
 
|data1 = [[Sutra Sthana]] Chapter 6
 
|data1 = [[Sutra Sthana]] Chapter 6
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|label4 = Succeeding Chapter
 
|label4 = Succeeding Chapter
|data4 = [[Naveganadharaniya]]
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|data4 = [[Naveganadharaniya Adhyaya]]
  
 
|label5 = Other Sections
 
|label5 = Other Sections
 
|data5 = [[Nidana Sthana]], [[Vimana Sthana]],  [[Sharira Sthana]],  [[Indriya Sthana]], [[Chikitsa Sthana]], [[Kalpa Sthana]], [[Siddhi Sthana]]
 
|data5 = [[Nidana Sthana]], [[Vimana Sthana]],  [[Sharira Sthana]],  [[Indriya Sthana]], [[Chikitsa Sthana]], [[Kalpa Sthana]], [[Siddhi Sthana]]
 
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|label6 = Translator and commentator
 +
|data6 = Nathani N.
 +
|label7 = Reviewer
 +
|data7  = Reddy P.S.
 +
|label8 = Editors
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|data8  = Reddy P.S., [[Yogesh Deole|Deole Y.S.]], [[Gopal Basisht|Basisht G.]]
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|label9 = Year of publication
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|data9 =  2020
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|label10 = Publisher
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|data10 =  [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre]]
 +
|label11 = DOI
 +
|data11 = [https://doi.org/10.47468/CSNE.2020.e01.s01.008 10.47468/CSNE.2020.e01.s01.008]
 
}}
 
}}
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<big>'''Abstract'''</big>
 +
<p style="text-align:justify;">This chapter describes seasonal regimen of diet and lifestyle for preservation of health. The year is divided into seasons  based upon the changes in environmental conditions, temperature, day-night cycle and circadian rhythm. Being an integral unit of the nature, these seasonal changes in nature affect human physiology too. Therefore, one must follow the specific regimen for maintaining the equilibrium of body components in harmony with nature. The seasonal regimen is designed on the basis of changes in the [[dosha]], [[bala]] (strength), and [[agni]] (digestive power). This chapter continues the study of dietary regimen from the preceding chapters by adding the dimension of time and seasonal variations to it. </br>
  
 +
'''Keywords''':  [[Adana kala]], seasonal diet and lifestyle, regimen, [[ritu]](season), [[satmya]](adaptability), seasonal regimen,  [[bala]], strength in seasons, immunity, [[visarga kala]],ecology,bio-physical environment.
 +
</p>
 +
== Introduction ==
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<div style="text-align:justify;">
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The primary objective of [[Ayurveda]] is to maintain good health. [[Ahara]] (diet) is the main basis of life, which should be taken in proper quantity and quality to maintain equilibrium and to promote strength, lustre and healthy long life. It has been observed that a person taking food even in proper quantity may suffer from diseases in different seasons. This implies that apart from the quantity of [[ahara]] (diet), the knowledge of regimen for different seasons also plays a significant role in the maintenance of health and prevention of diseases.
  
==([[Sutra Sthana]] Chapter 6, Chapter on Seasonal Regimen or Qualitative Dietetics)==
+
A person who has the knowledge of appropriate food articles and activities applicable to specific seasons and also the discipline and inclination to practice them (in accordance with those seasons) stays healthy. Whereas a person without knowledge (or with limited knowledge) of wholesome regimen for different seasons or without the discipline or temperament of following these seasonal practices is likely to suffer from various diseases. Seeking this objective, the chapter describes [[ahara]] (diet) and [[vihara]] (lifestyle) to be followed in different seasons. The way we eat, exercise, rest, sleep, think, plan, carry out our routine work, and behave with others - are collectively termed 'Lifestyle'.  In Indian subcontinent, there are six seasons in the year on the basis of the position of the Sun with respect to the Earth. The qualities of different seasons need to be understood in three aspects viz. [[masa]] (month), [[rashi]] (stellar constellations) and characteristic features pertaining to the season. While prescribing regimen for different seasons, importance should be given first to the appearance of characteristic features in the prevailing season, then to the [[rashi]] and finally to the [[masa]].  
   
 
=== Abstract ===
 
  
Chapter Six of the [[Sutra Sthana]], titled ''Tasyashiteeya Adhyaya'', describes the time of the year (in solistices, or ''kala'', and seasons, or ''ritu'' and the specific regimen to be followed in these ''ritus''. Seasonal changes influence changes in the ''dosha'', physical strength, as well as our digestive power – and this influences every living creature, not just human beings. This chapter continues the study of dietary regimen from the preceding chapters by adding the dimension of time and seasonal variations to it.
+
Health is a state of dynamic equilibrium between man and his environment ([[Loka-Purusha Samya]]). The moment this equilibrium gets disturbed, [[dosha]] get imbalanced to cause diseases. The basic concept of prevention and cure of diseases is based on the [[tridosha]] (collective term for [[vata]], [[pitta]], and [[kapha]] [[dosha]]) theory. A particular rhythmic pattern of the three [[dosha]] i.e. accumulation ([[sanchaya]]), aggravation ([[prakopa]]) and alleviation ([[prashama]]) occur in relation to six seasons, when the Sun changes from one [[rashi]] to the other. Six different taste[[rasa]] present in our food have direct effect on three [[dosha]]. Seasonal adaptation ([[Ritusatmya]]) is described under seasonal regimen ([[ritucharya]]), which is the variation in diet ([[ahara]]) and lifestyle ([[vihara]]) to balance rhythmic seasonal variations of [[dosha]], [[bala]], [[agni]], and [[rasa]] etc. through the concept of [[samanya]] and [[vishesha]]. Knowledge and regular observance of suitable [[ritucharya]] ([[ahara]] and [[vihara]] for different seasons) is mainly for the maintenance of health and prevention of diseases. For diseased persons [[ritucharya]] need to be modified accordingly.  
  
'''Keywords''':  ''Adana kala'', lifestyle, ''ritu'', ''ritucharya'', ''satmya'', ''visarga kala'', seasonal regimen, strength in seasons.
+
Northward movement of the Sun ([[Adana kala]] or [[uttarayana]]) includes, late winter ([[shishira]]), spring ([[vasanta]]) and summer ([[grishma]]) seasons . Southward movement of the Sun ([[visarga kala]] or [[dakshinayana]]) includes rainy ([[varsha]]), autumn ([[sharad]]) and early winter ([[hemanta]]) seasons. In these seasons, there are specific changes in atmospheric conditions which influence changes in [[dosha]], [[bala]] (strength) and [[agni]] (digestive power). These atmospheric changes affect all living beings in the universe. Due to changes in the external environment, the [[tridosha]] pass through three different phases i.e. [[sanchaya]] (accumulation), [[prakopa]] (aggravation) and [[prashama]] (alleviation). The period of change in season is termed as [[ritusandhi]]. In this period, gradual decrease in diet and lifestyle of earlier season and gradual adaptation of the diet and lifestyle regimen of next season is advised to prevent the disorders due to change in season.  
 
=== Introduction ===
 
  
The primary objective of Ayurveda is to maintain good health. ''Ahara'' (food) is the main basis of life, which should be taken in proper quantity and quality to maintain equilibrium and to promote strength, luster and healthy long life. It has been observed that a person taking food even in proper quantity may suffer from diseases in different seasons. It implies that apart from ''ahara'' the knowledge of regimen for different seasons also plays a significant role in the maintenance of health and prevention of diseases.
+
The concepts of [[satmya]] and [[okasatmya]] have been explained with respect to the adaptability. Any naturally suitable food or behavior beneficial to the self is considered as [[satmya]]. [[Okasatmya]] is anything unnatural, unacceptable and acquired habituation to food and lifestyle. Even though, it has become a habit, it should be stopped gradually.
A person who has the knowledge of appropriate food articles and activities applicable to specific seasons and also the discipline and inclination to practice them (in accordance with those seasons) stays healthy, whereas a person without the knowledge (or with limited knowledge) of wholesome regimen for different seasons or without the discipline or temperament of following these seasonal dietary practices is likely to suffer from various diseases. Seeking this objective, the chapter describes the ''ahara'' (diet) and ''vihara'' (lifestyle) to be followed in different seasons. The way we eat, exercise, rest, sleep, think, plan, carry out our routine work, and behave with others - are collectively termed ‘Lifestyle’. A year is divided into six seasons either on the basis of the position of the Sun with respect to the Earth or on the basis of purification period of ''dosha'' or on the basis of ''rashi'' (stellar constellations) or other geographical considerations such as traveling, etc. The qualities of different seasons need to be understood in three aspects viz. ''masa'' (month), ''rashi'' (stellar constellations) and ''svarupa'' (characteristic features pertaining to the season). While prescribing regimen for different seasons, importance should be given first to the appearance of ''svarupa'' in the prevailing season, then to the ''rashi'' and finally to the ''masa''.
 
  
Health is a state of dynamic equilibrium between a man and his environment. The moment this ''Loka-Purusha Samya'' gets disturbed, ''doshas'' get imbalanced to cause diseases. The basic concept of prevention and cure of diseases is based on the ''tridosha'' (collective term for ''vata'', ''pitta'', and ''kapha dosha'') theory. A particular rhythmic pattern of the three ''dosha'' i.e. ''sanchaya'' (accumulation), ''prakopa'' (excitation) and ''prashamana'' (alleviation) occur in relation to six seasons, when the sun changes from one ''rashi'' to the other. Six different ''rasas'' present in our food have direct effect on three ''doshas''. ''Ritusatmya'' or seasonal adaptation is described under ''ritucharya'' (seasonal regimen), which is the variation in ''ahara'' and ''vihara'' to balance rhythmic seasonal variations of ''dosha'', ''bala'', ''agni'', and ''rasa'' etc. through the concept of ''samanya'' and ''vishesha''. Knowledge and regular observance of suitable ''ritucharya'' (''ahara'' and ''vihara'' for different seasons) is mainly for the maintenance of health and prevention of diseases. For diseased persons ''ritucharya'' need to be modified accordingly.
+
In this fast moving era of science and technology, lifestyle change in the form of non-observance of [[ritucharya]] (seasonal regimen) is a major risk factor for increasing prevalence of various diseases. The concept of [[ritucharya]] (seasonal regimen), in terms of self-management of lifestyle should be promoted universally for health and prevention of diseases in all individuals.  
''Adana kala'' or ''uttarayana'' (northward movement of the Sun) includes ''shishira'' (winter), ''vasanta'' (spring) and ''grishma'' (summer) ritus and during ''visarga kala'' or ''dakshinayana'' (southward movement of the Sun) includes ''varsha'' (rainy), ''sharad'' (autumn) and ''hemanta'' (prewinter) ''ritus'' or seasons. In these ''ritus'' there are specific changes in atmospheric conditions which influence changes in ''dosha'', ''bala'' (body strength) and ''agni'' (digestive power). These atmospheric changes affect all living beings in the universe. Due to changes in the external environment, the ''tridosha'' automatically pass through three different phases i.e. ''sanchaya'' (accumulation), ''prakopa'' (excitation) and ''prasamanar'' (alleviation).
 
  
To maintain the balance of rhythmic seasonal variations of ''dosha'', ''bala'', ''agni'', and ''rasa'' in our body (''samya''/normalcy/health), Ayurveda has prescribed specific ''ahara'' and ''vihara'' to be followed (''prashasta'') and to be avoided (''varjya'') during six different seasons in terms of ''ritucharya'' (seasonal regimen). Special emphasis has been given to ''ritusandhi'', the transitional phase of 14 days between two seasons. During this period the ''ritucharya'' of both seasons need to be observed in a specific manner (padamshika krama). At the end of this chapter, satmya and okasatmya have been explained. Any naturally suitable food or behavior beneficial to the self is considered as satmya. Okasatmya is anything unnatural, unacceptable and acquired habituation to food and lifestyle. Even though, it has become a habit, it should be stopped gradually.
+
</div>
In this fast moving era of science and technology, lifestyle changes in the form of non-observance of ritucharya is a major risk factor for increasing prevalence of various diseases. The concept of ritucharya, in terms of self-management of lifestyle should be promoted universally for health and prevention of diseases in all individuals.
 
  
=== Sanskrit text, transliteration and english translation ===
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== Sanskrit text, Transliteration and English Translation ==
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अथातस्तस्याशितीयमध्यायं व्याख्यास्यामः||१||  इति ह स्माह भगवानात्रेयः||२||
 
अथातस्तस्याशितीयमध्यायं व्याख्यास्यामः||१||  इति ह स्माह भगवानात्रेयः||२||
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Athātastasyāśitīyamadhyāyaṁ vyākhyāsyāmaḥ||1||  Iti ha smāha bhagavānātrēyaḥ||2||
 
Athātastasyāśitīyamadhyāyaṁ vyākhyāsyāmaḥ||1||  Iti ha smāha bhagavānātrēyaḥ||2||
  
 
athAtastasyAshitIyamadhyAyaM vyAkhyAsyAmaH||1|| iti ha smAha bhagavAnAtreyaH||2||  
 
athAtastasyAshitIyamadhyAyaM vyAkhyAsyAmaH||1|| iti ha smAha bhagavAnAtreyaH||2||  
 +
</div></div>
  
Now I shall expound upon Tasyashitiya Adhyaya (the chapter on diet and behavior during different seasons). Thus, said Lord Atreya [1-2]
+
Now we shall expound the chapter "Tasyashiteeya" (Seasonal regimen of diet and lifestyle). Thus said Lord Atreya. [1-2]
  
 
==== Benefits of following seasonal regimen ====
 
==== Benefits of following seasonal regimen ====
   
+
  <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
 +
 
 
तस्याशिताद्यादाहाराद्बलं वर्णश्च वर्धते|  
 
तस्याशिताद्यादाहाराद्बलं वर्णश्च वर्धते|  
 
यस्यर्तुसात्म्यं विदितं चेष्टाहारव्यपाश्रयम्||३||
 
यस्यर्तुसात्म्यं विदितं चेष्टाहारव्यपाश्रयम्||३||
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<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
Tasyāśitādyādāhārādbalaṁ varṇaśca vardhatē|  
 
Tasyāśitādyādāhārādbalaṁ varṇaśca vardhatē|  
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tasyAshitAdyAdAhArAdbalaM varNashca vardhate|  
 
tasyAshitAdyAdAhArAdbalaM varNashca vardhate|  
 
yasyartusAtmyaM viditaM ceShTAhAravyapAshrayam||3||  
 
yasyartusAtmyaM viditaM ceShTAhAravyapAshrayam||3||  
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</div></div>
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<div style="text-align:justify;">
  
A person who knows the ''ritusatmya'', i.e., getting accustomed to suitable changes in diet and behavior according to season, and practices such habits accordingly, and whose diet consists of various types of food articles (with properties such as ''ashita'', ''pitta lidha'' , and ''khadita''), has his strength and luster enhanced, while he leads a healthy, long life. [3]
+
The vigor and complexion is promoted in a man who knows and follows seasonal dietary and lifestyle regimen. The dietary includes various types of food articles which are eatable([[ashita]]), chewable ([[khadita]]), drinkable ([[pita]]) and lickable ([[lidha]]).[3]
 +
</div>
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 +
=== Six seasons according to (the position of the) Sun ===
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<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
==== Six seasons according to (the position of the) Sun ====
 
 
 
इह खलु संवत्सरं षडङ्गमृतुविभागेन विद्यात्|  
 
इह खलु संवत्सरं षडङ्गमृतुविभागेन विद्यात्|  
 
तत्रादित्यस्योदगयनमादानं च त्रीनृतूञ्छिशिरादीन् ग्रीष्मान्तान् व्यवस्येत्, वर्षादीन् पुनर्हेमन्तान्तान् दक्षिणायनं विसर्गं च||४||  
 
तत्रादित्यस्योदगयनमादानं च त्रीनृतूञ्छिशिरादीन् ग्रीष्मान्तान् व्यवस्येत्, वर्षादीन् पुनर्हेमन्तान्तान् दक्षिणायनं विसर्गं च||४||  
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Iha khalu saṁvatsaraṁ ṣaḍaṅgamr̥tuvibhāgēna vidyāt|  
 
Iha khalu saṁvatsaraṁ ṣaḍaṅgamr̥tuvibhāgēna vidyāt|  
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iha khalu saMvatsaraM ShaDa~ggamRutuvibhAgena vidyAt|  
 
iha khalu saMvatsaraM ShaDa~ggamRutuvibhAgena vidyAt|  
 
tatrAdityasyodagayanamAdAnaM ca trInRutU~jchishirAdIn grIShmAntAn vyavasyet, varShAdIn punarhemantAntAn dakShiNAyanaM visargaM ca||4||
 
tatrAdityasyodagayanamAdAnaM ca trInRutU~jchishirAdIn grIShmAntAn vyavasyet, varShAdIn punarhemantAntAn dakShiNAyanaM visargaM ca||4||
A year (sanvatsara) is divided into six parts (by seasons). Amongst them, when the Sun is in uttarayana (northward to the Earth), that part of the year is called adana kala and includes three ritus starting from shishira to grishma (shishira, vasanta and grishma). When the Sun is in dakshinayana (southwards of the Earth), the period is called visarga kala and includes three ritus starting from varsha to hemanta (varsha, sharad and hemanta). This segmentation of the year (by seasons) is for the purpose of swasthavritta (healthy regimen) in different seasons. [4]
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</div></div>
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<div style="text-align:justify;">
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A year ([[samvatsara]]) is divided into six parts by seasons. Among them, when the Sun is in northward position to the Earth, that part of the year is called [[adana kala]] and includes three [[ritu]] starting from [[shishira]], [[vasanta]] and [[grishma]].  
 +
When the Sun is in a position of southwards of the Earth, the period is called [[visarga kala]] and includes three [[ritu]] starting from [[varsha]], [[sharad]] and [[hemanta]]. This segmentation of the year (by seasons) is for the purpose of [[swasthavritta]] (healthy regimen) in different seasons.[4]
 +
</div>
  
==== Aadana kala (the period with less strength) and visarga kala (the period with good strength) ====
+
==== [[Adana kala]] (the period with lesser strength) and [[visarga kala]] (the period with good strength) ====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
विसर्गे पुनर्वायवो नातिरूक्षाः प्रवान्ति, इतरे पुनरादाने; सोमश्चाव्याहतबलः शिशिराभिर्भाभिरापूरयञ्जगदाप्याययति शश्वत्, अतो विसर्गः सौम्यः|  
 
विसर्गे पुनर्वायवो नातिरूक्षाः प्रवान्ति, इतरे पुनरादाने; सोमश्चाव्याहतबलः शिशिराभिर्भाभिरापूरयञ्जगदाप्याययति शश्वत्, अतो विसर्गः सौम्यः|  
 
आदानं पुनराग्नेयं; तावेतावर्कवायू सोमश्च कालस्वभावमार्गपरिगृहीताः कालर्तुरसदोषदेहबलनिर्वृत्तिप्रत्ययभूताःसमुपदिश्यन्ते||५||
 
आदानं पुनराग्नेयं; तावेतावर्कवायू सोमश्च कालस्वभावमार्गपरिगृहीताः कालर्तुरसदोषदेहबलनिर्वृत्तिप्रत्ययभूताःसमुपदिश्यन्ते||५||
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Visargē punarvāyavō nātirūkṣāḥ pravānti, itarē punarādānē; sōmaścāvyāhatabalaḥśiśirābhirbhābhirāpūrayañjagadāpyāyayati śaśvat, atō visargaḥ saumyaḥ|  
 
Visargē punarvāyavō nātirūkṣāḥ pravānti, itarē punarādānē; sōmaścāvyāhatabalaḥśiśirābhirbhābhirāpūrayañjagadāpyāyayati śaśvat, atō visargaḥ saumyaḥ|  
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visarge punarvAyavo nAtirUkShAH pravAnti, itare punarAdAne; somashcAvyAhatabalaH shishirAbhirbhAbhirApUraya~jjagadApyAyayati shashvat, ato visargaHsaumyaH|  
 
visarge punarvAyavo nAtirUkShAH pravAnti, itare punarAdAne; somashcAvyAhatabalaH shishirAbhirbhAbhirApUraya~jjagadApyAyayati shashvat, ato visargaHsaumyaH|  
 
AdAnaM punarAgneyaM; tAvetAvarkavAyU somashca kAlasvabhAvamArgaparigRuhItAH kAlarturasadoShadehabalanirvRuttipratyayabhUtAH samupadishyante||5||
 
AdAnaM punarAgneyaM; tAvetAvarkavAyU somashca kAlasvabhAvamArgaparigRuhItAH kAlarturasadoShadehabalanirvRuttipratyayabhUtAH samupadishyante||5||
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</div></div>
  
In visarga kala (period of emission) the wind is not as dry as it is in adana kala. In this visarga kala the power of moon is dominant (as it is nearer to the earth), and it continuously replenishes/delights the world with its cooling rays. Hence, visarga kala is saumya (soothing) in nature.
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<div style="text-align:justify;">
 +
In [[visarga kala]] (period of emission) the wind is not as dry as it is in [[adana kala]]. In this [[visarga kala]] the power of moon is dominant (as it is nearer to the earth), and it continuously replenishes/delights the world with its cooling rays. Hence, [[visarga kala]] is inherently soothing ([[saumya]]).
  
Contrary to this, adana kala is agneya (heating) in nature. The Sun, wind and the Moon all are being governed by time, and the path they follow in a year is responsible for different variations of kala (time), ritu (seasons), rasa (tastes), dosha (humors) and deha bala (body strength). [5]
+
Contrary to this, [[adana kala]] is inherently hot ([[agneya]]). The Sun, wind and the Moon all are governed by time, and the path they follow in a year is responsible for different variations of [[kala]] (time), [[ritu]] (seasons), [[rasa]] (tastes), [[dosha]] and [[deha]] [[bala]] (body strength).[5]
 +
 
 +
==== Effect of [[adana kala]] ====
 +
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तत्र रविर्भाभिराददानो जगतः स्नेहं वायवस्तीव्ररूक्षाश्चोपशोषयन्तः शिशिरवसन्तग्रीष्मेषु  
 
तत्र रविर्भाभिराददानो जगतः स्नेहं वायवस्तीव्ररूक्षाश्चोपशोषयन्तः शिशिरवसन्तग्रीष्मेषु  
 
यथाक्रमं रौक्ष्यमुत्पादयन्तो रूक्षान् रसांस्तिक्तकषायकटुकांश्चाभिवर्धयन्तो नृणां दौर्बल्यमावहन्ति||६||
 
यथाक्रमं रौक्ष्यमुत्पादयन्तो रूक्षान् रसांस्तिक्तकषायकटुकांश्चाभिवर्धयन्तो नृणां दौर्बल्यमावहन्ति||६||
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
Tatra ravirbhābhirādadānō jagataḥ snēhaṁ vāyavastīvrarūkṣāścōpaśōṣayantaḥ śiśiravasantagrīṣmēṣuyathākramaṁ raukṣyamutpādayantō rūkṣān rasāṁstiktakaṣāyakaṭukāṁścābhivardhayantō nr̥ṇāṁdaurbalyamāvahanti||6||
 
Tatra ravirbhābhirādadānō jagataḥ snēhaṁ vāyavastīvrarūkṣāścōpaśōṣayantaḥ śiśiravasantagrīṣmēṣuyathākramaṁ raukṣyamutpādayantō rūkṣān rasāṁstiktakaṣāyakaṭukāṁścābhivardhayantō nr̥ṇāṁdaurbalyamāvahanti||6||
  
 
tatra ravirbhAbhirAdadAno jagataH snehaM vAyavastIvrarUkShAshcopashoShayantaH shishiravasantagrIShmeShu yathAkramaM raukShyamutpAdayanto rUkShAnrasAMstiktakaShAyakaTukAMshcAbhivardhayanto nRuNAM daurbalyamAvahanti||6||  
 
tatra ravirbhAbhirAdadAno jagataH snehaM vAyavastIvrarUkShAshcopashoShayantaH shishiravasantagrIShmeShu yathAkramaM raukShyamutpAdayanto rUkShAnrasAMstiktakaShAyakaTukAMshcAbhivardhayanto nRuNAM daurbalyamAvahanti||6||  
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
<div style="text-align:justify;">
 +
In [[adana kala]] the Sun with its hot rays absorbs moisture from the environment. The excessively dry wind by virtue of its absorbing quality  further causes dryness in [[shishira]], [[vasanta]], and [[grishma]] seasons progressively, leading to the predominance of [[tikta]], [[kashaya]], and [[katu]] [[rasa]] respectively and gradual increase of weakness in human beings during these three seasons. [6]
 +
</div>
  
In adana kala the Sun with its hot rays absorbs moisture from the Earth/environment and the sharp and dry wind by its absorbing nature further causes dryness in shishira, vasanta, and grishma ritus progressively, leading to the predominance of tikta, kashaya, and katu rasa respectively and gradual increase of weakness in human beings during these three ritus. [6]
+
==== Effect of [[visarga kala]] ====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
वर्षाशरद्धेमन्तेषु तु दक्षिणाभिमुखेऽर्के कालमार्गमेघवातवर्षाभिहतप्रतापे, शशिनि  
 
वर्षाशरद्धेमन्तेषु तु दक्षिणाभिमुखेऽर्के कालमार्गमेघवातवर्षाभिहतप्रतापे, शशिनि  
 
चाव्याहतबले, माहेन्द्रसलिलप्रशान्तसन्तापे जगति, अरूक्षा रसाः प्रवर्धन्तेऽम्ललवणमधुरा यथाक्रमं तत्र बलमुपचीयते नृणामिति||७||
 
चाव्याहतबले, माहेन्द्रसलिलप्रशान्तसन्तापे जगति, अरूक्षा रसाः प्रवर्धन्तेऽम्ललवणमधुरा यथाक्रमं तत्र बलमुपचीयते नृणामिति||७||
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
Varṣāśaraddhēmantēṣu tu dakṣiṇābhimukhē'rkē kālamārgamēghavātavarṣābhihatapratāpē, śaśinicāvyāhatabalē, māhēndrasalilapraśāntasantāpē jagati, arūkṣā rasāḥ pravardhantē'mlalavaṇamadhurāyathākramaṁ tatra balamupacīyatē nr̥ṇāmiti||7||  
 
Varṣāśaraddhēmantēṣu tu dakṣiṇābhimukhē'rkē kālamārgamēghavātavarṣābhihatapratāpē, śaśinicāvyāhatabalē, māhēndrasalilapraśāntasantāpē jagati, arūkṣā rasāḥ pravardhantē'mlalavaṇamadhurāyathākramaṁ tatra balamupacīyatē nr̥ṇāmiti||7||  
  
 
varShAsharaddhemanteShu tu dakShiNAbhimukhe~arke kAlamArgameghavAtavarShAbhihatapratApe, shashini cAvyAhatabale, mAhendrasalilaprashAntasantApejagati, arUkShA rasAH pravardhante~amlalavaNamadhurA yathAkramaM tatra balamupacIyate nRuNAmiti||7||
 
varShAsharaddhemanteShu tu dakShiNAbhimukhe~arke kAlamArgameghavAtavarShAbhihatapratApe, shashini cAvyAhatabale, mAhendrasalilaprashAntasantApejagati, arUkShA rasAH pravardhante~amlalavaNamadhurA yathAkramaM tatra balamupacIyate nRuNAmiti||7||
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
<div style="text-align:justify;">
 +
In [[varsha]], [[sharad]] and [[hemanta]] [[ritu]], the Sun is situated in southwards position and its heat slackens due to the effect of time, its position with respect to the Earth, clouds, wind and rain. The power of the Moon is predominant. Rainwater diminishes the heating effect of nature. All of these lead to the predominance of non-dry, [[amla]] (sour), [[lavana]] (salty), and [[madhura]] (sweet) [[rasa]] respectively and gradual increase of body strength in human beings during these three seasons. [7]
 +
</div>
  
In varsha, sharad and hemanta ritu, the Sun is situated in southwards position and its heating power slacken’s by the effect of time, its position with the Earth, clouds, wind, and rain. The power of the Moon is predominant. Rainwater diminishes the heating effect of nature. All of these lead to the predominance of non-dry, amla (sour), lavana (salty), and madhura (sweet) rasa respectively and there is gradual increase of body strength in human beings during these three months. [7]
+
==== Seasonal variation in strength ====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
भवन्ति चात्र-  
 
भवन्ति चात्र-  
 
आदावन्ते च दौर्बल्यं विसर्गादानयोर्नृणाम्|  
 
आदावन्ते च दौर्बल्यं विसर्गादानयोर्नृणाम्|  
 
मध्ये मध्यबलं, त्वन्ते श्रेष्ठमग्रे च निर्दिशेत्||८||
 
मध्ये मध्यबलं, त्वन्ते श्रेष्ठमग्रे च निर्दिशेत्||८||
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
Bhavanti cātra-  
 
Bhavanti cātra-  
Line 112: Line 173:
 
madhyē madhyabalaṁ, tvantē śrēṣṭhamagrē ca nirdiśēt||8||
 
madhyē madhyabalaṁ, tvantē śrēṣṭhamagrē ca nirdiśēt||8||
 
   
 
   
bhavati cAtra-  
+
bhavanti cAtra-  
 
AdAvante ca daurbalyaM visargAdAnayornRuNAm|  
 
AdAvante ca daurbalyaM visargAdAnayornRuNAm|  
 
madhye madhyabalaM, tvante shreShThamagre ca nirdishet||8||
 
madhye madhyabalaM, tvante shreShThamagre ca nirdishet||8||
 +
</div></div>
  
In the beginning of visarga kala and at the end of adana kala, human beings on the Earth experience weakness. In the middle of these two kala or periods, humans possess medium strength. At the end of the visarga kala and at the beginning of adana kala the strength in human beings is maximum. [8]
+
<div style="text-align:justify;">
 +
In the beginning of [[visarga kala]] and at the end of [[adana kala]], human beings on the Earth experience weakness. In the middle of these two periods, humans possess medium strength. At the end of the [[visarga kala]] and at the beginning of [[adana kala]] the strength in human beings is maximum. [8]
 +
</div>
  
==== Diet & lifestyle in winter season ====
+
=== Diet and lifestyle guidelines in [[Hemanta]] [[ritu]] (Winter season) ===
 +
 
 +
====Status of [[agni]] ====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
शीते शीतानिलस्पर्शसंरुद्धो बलिनां बली|  
 
शीते शीतानिलस्पर्शसंरुद्धो बलिनां बली|  
 
पक्ता भवति हेमन्ते मात्राद्रव्यगुरुक्षमः||९||  
 
पक्ता भवति हेमन्ते मात्राद्रव्यगुरुक्षमः||९||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
śītē śītānilasparśasaṁruddhō balināṁ balī|  
 
śītē śītānilasparśasaṁruddhō balināṁ balī|  
Line 128: Line 196:
 
shIte shItAnilasparshasaMruddho balinAM balI|  
 
shIte shItAnilasparshasaMruddho balinAM balI|  
 
paktA bhavati hemante mAtrAdravyagurukShamaH||9||  
 
paktA bhavati hemante mAtrAdravyagurukShamaH||9||  
 +
</div></div>
  
During sheeta kala (hemanta) due to the contact of cold wind, the agni (digestive fire) of strong/healthy individuals gets trapped in the body (like in a closed chamber) and becomes strong or powerful. So, the agni becomes powerful enough to digest food that is heavy not just in quantity as well as in nature. [9]
+
During [[sheeta]] [[kala]] ([[hemanta]]) due to the contact of cold wind, the [[agni]] (digestive power) of strong/healthy individuals gets trapped in the body (like in a closed chamber) and becomes strong or powerful enough to digest food that is inherently heavy and excess in quantity. [9]
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
स यदा नेन्धनं युक्तं लभते देहजं तदा|  
 
स यदा नेन्धनं युक्तं लभते देहजं तदा|  
 
रसं हिनस्त्यतो वायुः शीतः शीते प्रकुप्यति||१०||  
 
रसं हिनस्त्यतो वायुः शीतः शीते प्रकुप्यति||१०||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
sa yadā nēndhanaṁ yuktaṁ labhatē dēhajaṁ tadā|  
 
sa yadā nēndhanaṁ yuktaṁ labhatē dēhajaṁ tadā|  
Line 139: Line 210:
 
sa yadA nendhanaM yuktaM labhate dehajaM tadA|  
 
sa yadA nendhanaM yuktaM labhate dehajaM tadA|  
 
rasaM hinastyato vAyuH shItaH shIte prakupyati||10||  
 
rasaM hinastyato vAyuH shItaH shIte prakupyati||10||  
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
If adequate food is not made available to the body, then this increased  [[agni]] consumes/absorbs the [[rasa]](the intrinsic fluids of the body). [[Vata]] having [[sheeta]] (cold) property gets vitiated in this cold season.[10]
  
If adequate food is not made available to the body, then this strong agni consumes/absorbs the rasa-the intrinsic fluids of the body. vata having sheeta (cold) quality gets vitiated in this sheeta kala (cold season).[10]
+
====Diet and beverages in winter season====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
तस्मात्तुषारसमये स्निग्धाम्ललवणान्  रसान्|  
 
तस्मात्तुषारसमये स्निग्धाम्ललवणान्  रसान्|  
Line 147: Line 222:
 
बिलेशयानां मांसानि प्रसहानां भृतानि च|  
 
बिलेशयानां मांसानि प्रसहानां भृतानि च|  
 
भक्षयेन्मदिरां शीधुं मधु चानुपिबेन्नरः||१२||  
 
भक्षयेन्मदिरां शीधुं मधु चानुपिबेन्नरः||१२||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
Tasmāttuṣārasamayē snigdhāmlalavaṇān rasān|  
 
Tasmāttuṣārasamayē snigdhāmlalavaṇān rasān|  
Line 154: Line 230:
 
bhakṣayēnmadirāṁ śīdhuṁ madhu cānupibēnnaraḥ||12||  
 
bhakṣayēnmadirāṁ śīdhuṁ madhu cānupibēnnaraḥ||12||  
  
tasmAttuShArasamaye snigdhAmlalavaNAn [1] rasAn|  
+
tasmAttuShArasamaye snigdhAmlalavaNAn <br> rasAn|  
 
audakAnUpamAMsAnAM medyAnAmupayojayet||11||  
 
audakAnUpamAMsAnAM medyAnAmupayojayet||11||  
  
 
bileshayAnAM mAMsAni prasahAnAM bhRutAni ca|  
 
bileshayAnAM mAMsAni prasahAnAM bhRutAni ca|  
 
bhakShayenmadirAM shIdhuM madhu cAnupibennaraH||12||  
 
bhakShayenmadirAM shIdhuM madhu cAnupibennaraH||12||  
 +
</div></div>
  
In the period of snowfall (tushara kala), unctuous, sour and salty food items should be taken predominantly. Meat of fatty, aquatic and marshy animals should be taken. Meat of burrowing animals and roasted meat of animals that eat by snatching should be consumed and after that drinking of madira and sidhu type of wines and honey is advised. [11-12]
+
In the period of snowfall, unctuous, sour and salty food items should be consumed predominantly. Meat of fatty, aquatic and marshy animals should be taken. Meat of burrowing animals and roasted meat of animals that eat by snatching the prey should be consumed and after that drinking of [[madira]] and [[sidhu]] type of wines and honey is advised. [11-12]
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
गोरसानिक्षुविकृतीर्वसां तैलं नवौदनम्|  
 
गोरसानिक्षुविकृतीर्वसां तैलं नवौदनम्|  
 
हेमन्तेऽभ्यस्यतस्तोयमुष्णं चायुर्न हीयते||१३||  
 
हेमन्तेऽभ्यस्यतस्तोयमुष्णं चायुर्न हीयते||१३||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
gōrasānikṣuvikr̥tīrvasāṁ tailaṁ navaudanam|  
 
gōrasānikṣuvikr̥tīrvasāṁ tailaṁ navaudanam|  
Line 170: Line 249:
 
gorasAnikShuvikRutIrvasAM tailaM navaudanam|  
 
gorasAnikShuvikRutIrvasAM tailaM navaudanam|  
 
hemante~abhyasyatastoyamuShNaM cAyurna hIyate||13||  
 
hemante~abhyasyatastoyamuShNaM cAyurna hIyate||13||  
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
A person who is habituated to consuming milk products, cane sugar products, fats and oils, new rice and warm water during [[hemanta]] [[ritu]], never sees his lifespan decrease ( i.e. these help in prevention from early aging and diseases). [13]
  
A person who is habituated to consuming milk products, cane sugar products, fats and oils, new rice and warm water during hemanta ritu, never sees his lifespan decrease ( i.e. these help in prevention from early aging and diseases). [13]
+
====Lifestyle in winter season====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
अभ्यङ्गोत्सादनं मूर्ध्नि तैलं जेन्ताकमातपम्|  
 
अभ्यङ्गोत्सादनं मूर्ध्नि तैलं जेन्ताकमातपम्|  
 
भजेद्भूमिगृहं चोष्णमुष्णं गर्भगृहं तथा||१४||  
 
भजेद्भूमिगृहं चोष्णमुष्णं गर्भगृहं तथा||१४||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
abhyaṅgōtsādanaṁ mūrdhni tailaṁ jēntākamātapam|  
 
abhyaṅgōtsādanaṁ mūrdhni tailaṁ jēntākamātapam|  
Line 181: Line 265:
 
abhya~ggotsAdanaM mUrdhni tailaM jentAkamAtapam|  
 
abhya~ggotsAdanaM mUrdhni tailaM jentAkamAtapam|  
 
bhajedbhUmigRuhaM coShNamuShNaM garbhagRuhaM tathA||14||  
 
bhajedbhUmigRuhaM coShNamuShNaM garbhagRuhaM tathA||14||  
 +
</div></div>
  
In hemanta ritu, massage (unction/anointing), oil on the head, fomentation by jentaka (a type of fomentation/sudation) method, sunbath, spending time in hot underground houses and warmer, inner rooms of the house is indicated. [14]
+
In [[hemanta]] [[ritu]],[[abhyanga]] (massage), [[utsadana]] (anointing), [[murdhni taila]] (applying oil on the head), fomentation by [[jentaka]] (a type of fomentation/sudation) method, sunbath, spending time in hot underground houses and warmer, inner rooms of the house is indicated. [14]
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
शीतेषु संवृतं सेव्यं यानं शयनमासनम्|  
 
शीतेषु संवृतं सेव्यं यानं शयनमासनम्|  
 
प्रावाराजिनकौषेयप्रवेणीकुथकास्तृतम्||१५||  
 
प्रावाराजिनकौषेयप्रवेणीकुथकास्तृतम्||१५||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
śītēṣu saṁvr̥taṁ sēvyaṁ yānaṁ śayanamāsanam|  
 
śītēṣu saṁvr̥taṁ sēvyaṁ yānaṁ śayanamāsanam|  
Line 192: Line 279:
 
shIteShu saMvRutaM [2] sevyaM yAnaM shayanamAsanam|  
 
shIteShu saMvRutaM [2] sevyaM yAnaM shayanamAsanam|  
 
prAvArAjinakauSheyapraveNIkuthakAstRutam||15||  
 
prAvArAjinakauSheyapraveNIkuthakAstRutam||15||  
 +
</div></div>
  
In winters vehicles, beds and seats should be well covered and spread over with thick quilts, deer or tiger skins, silken sheets, gunny-cloth sheets or blankets. [15]
+
In winter season, vehicles, beds and seats should be well covered and spread over with thick quilts, deer or tiger skins, silken sheets, gunny-cloth sheets or blankets. [15]
 +
 
 +
====Guidelines for sexual health====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
गुरूष्णवासा दिग्धाङ्गो गुरुणाऽगुरुणा सदा|  
 
गुरूष्णवासा दिग्धाङ्गो गुरुणाऽगुरुणा सदा|  
Line 200: Line 291:
 
आलिङ्ग्यागुरुदिग्धाङ्गीं सुप्यात् समदमन्मथः|  
 
आलिङ्ग्यागुरुदिग्धाङ्गीं सुप्यात् समदमन्मथः|  
 
प्रकामं च निषेवेत मैथुनं शिशिरागमे||१७||  
 
प्रकामं च निषेवेत मैथुनं शिशिरागमे||१७||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
gurūṣṇavāsā digdhāṅgō guruṇā'guruṇā sadā|  
 
gurūṣṇavāsā digdhāṅgō guruṇā'guruṇā sadā|  
Line 212: Line 304:
 
Ali~ggyAgurudigdhA~ggIM supyAt samadamanmathaH|  
 
Ali~ggyAgurudigdhA~ggIM supyAt samadamanmathaH|  
 
prakAmaM ca niSheveta maithunaM shishirAgame||17||  
 
prakAmaM ca niSheveta maithunaM shishirAgame||17||  
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
In the winter season, one should always wear thick and warm clothes and the body should be anointed with thick paste of aguru (Aquilaria agallocha Roxb) (eagle-wood). A man who has strong passion should sleep in the bed at night embracing a healthy woman having well developed, plump breasts and herself anointed with the paste of aguru. One may indeed indulge in sexual intercourse up to full satisfaction. [16-17]
  
In the winter season, one should always wear thick and warm clothes and the body should be anointed with thick paste of aguru (Aquilaria agallocha Roxb) (eagle-wood). A man who has taken alcohol and possesses strong passion should sleep in the bed at night embracing a healthy woman having well developed, plump breasts and herself anointed with the paste of aguru. One may indeed indulge in sexual intercourse up to full satisfaction. [16-17]
+
====Contra-indications in winter season====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
वर्जयेदन्नपानानि वातलानि लघूनि च|  
 
वर्जयेदन्नपानानि वातलानि लघूनि च|  
 
प्रवातं प्रमिताहारमुदमन्थं हिमागमे||१८||  
 
प्रवातं प्रमिताहारमुदमन्थं हिमागमे||१८||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
varjayēdannapānāni vātalāni laghūni ca|  
 
varjayēdannapānāni vātalāni laghūni ca|  
Line 223: Line 320:
 
varjayedannapAnAni vAtalAni laghUni ca|  
 
varjayedannapAnAni vAtalAni laghUni ca|  
 
pravAtaM pramitAhAramudamanthaM himAgame||18||
 
pravAtaM pramitAhAramudamanthaM himAgame||18||
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
At the advent of winter season intake of food and drinks that cause [[vata]] vitiation and inherently light to digest  in property, (getting exposed to) strong winds, inadequate quantities of food, and intake of diluted gruel are contraindicated. [18]
  
At the advent of winter season intake of food and drinks that are vata vitiating and light in nature, (getting exposed to) strong winds, inadequate quantities of food, and intake of diluted gruel are contraindicated. [18]
+
=== Diet and lifestyle guidelines in [[shishira]] [[ritu]] (late winter) ===
 +
 
 +
==== Characteristics of [[shishira]] [[ritu]] ====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
हेमन्तशिशिरौ तुल्यौ शिशिरेऽल्पं विशेषणम्|  
 
हेमन्तशिशिरौ तुल्यौ शिशिरेऽल्पं विशेषणम्|  
 
रौक्ष्यमादानजं शीतं मेघमारुतवर्षजम्||१९||  
 
रौक्ष्यमादानजं शीतं मेघमारुतवर्षजम्||१९||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
hēmantaśiśirau tulyau śiśirē'lpaṁ viśēṣaṇam|  
 
hēmantaśiśirau tulyau śiśirē'lpaṁ viśēṣaṇam|  
Line 234: Line 338:
 
hemantashishirau tulyau shishire~alpaM visheShaNam|  
 
hemantashishirau tulyau shishire~alpaM visheShaNam|  
 
raukShyamAdAnajaM shItaM meghamArutavarShajam||19||  
 
raukShyamAdAnajaM shItaM meghamArutavarShajam||19||  
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
[[Hemanta]] and [[shishira]] seasons are almost similar in characteristics with some specific features in [[shishira]] [[ritu]]. In this season, due to the onset of [[adana kala]], dryness increases and due to clouds, winds and rain, cold prevails. [19]
  
Hemanta and shishira seasons are almost similar in characteristics with some specific features in shishra ritu. In this season, due to the onset of adana kala, dryness increases and due to clouds, winds and rain, cold prevails. [19]
+
==== Additional care in late winter season====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
तस्माद्धैमन्तिकः सर्वः शिशिरे विधिरिष्यते|  
 
तस्माद्धैमन्तिकः सर्वः शिशिरे विधिरिष्यते|  
 
निवातमुष्णं त्वधिकं शिशिरे गृहमाश्रयेत्||२०||  
 
निवातमुष्णं त्वधिकं शिशिरे गृहमाश्रयेत्||२०||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
tasmāddhaimantikaḥ sarvaḥ śiśirē vidhiriṣyatē|  
 
tasmāddhaimantikaḥ sarvaḥ śiśirē vidhiriṣyatē|  
Line 245: Line 354:
 
tasmAddhaimantikaH sarvaH shishire vidhiriShyate|  
 
tasmAddhaimantikaH sarvaH shishire vidhiriShyate|  
 
nivAtamuShNaM tvadhikaM shishire gRuhamAshrayet||20||  
 
nivAtamuShNaM tvadhikaM shishire gRuhamAshrayet||20||  
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
Therefore, the whole regimen advised for [[hemanta]] should also be followed in [[shishira]] [[ritu]]. In addition to that, one should specially stay in less windy and warm shelters (homes). [20]
 +
 +
====Contra-indication in late winter ====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
Therefore, the whole regimen advised for hemanta should also be followed in shishira ritu. Along with this, one should specially stay in less windy and warm shelters (homes). [20]
 
 
 
कटुतिक्तकषायाणि वातलानि लघूनि च|  
 
कटुतिक्तकषायाणि वातलानि लघूनि च|  
 
वर्जयेदन्नपानानि शिशिरे शीतलानि च||२१||]
 
वर्जयेदन्नपानानि शिशिरे शीतलानि च||२१||]
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
kaṭutiktakaṣāyāṇi vātalāni laghūni ca|  
 
kaṭutiktakaṣāyāṇi vātalāni laghūni ca|  
Line 256: Line 370:
 
kaTutiktakaShAyANi vAtalAni laghUni ca|  
 
kaTutiktakaShAyANi vAtalAni laghUni ca|  
 
varjayedannapAnAni shishire shItalAni ca||21||
 
varjayedannapAnAni shishire shItalAni ca||21||
 +
</div></div>
  
In the shishira ritu food and drinks that are predominantly pungent, bitter and astringent in taste, vata vitiating, and light and cold in nature should be avoided. [21]
+
In the [[shishira]] season, food and drinks that are predominantly pungent, bitter and astringent in taste, [[vata]] vitiating, and inherently light to digest and cold in properties should be avoided. [21]
  
==== Diet and lifestyle in vasant ritu (spring season) ====
+
=== Diet and lifestyle guidelines in [[vasanta]] [[ritu]] (spring season) ===
 +
 
 +
====Status of [[agni]] in spring====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
वसन्ते निचितः श्लेष्मा दिनकृद्भाभिरीरितः|  
 
वसन्ते निचितः श्लेष्मा दिनकृद्भाभिरीरितः|  
 
कायाग्निं बाधते रोगांस्ततः प्रकुरुते बहून्||२२||  
 
कायाग्निं बाधते रोगांस्ततः प्रकुरुते बहून्||२२||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
vasantē nicitaḥ ślēṣmā dinakr̥dbhābhirīritaḥ|  
 
vasantē nicitaḥ ślēṣmā dinakr̥dbhābhirīritaḥ|  
Line 269: Line 388:
 
vasante  nicitaH shleShmA dinakRudbhAbhirIritaH|  
 
vasante  nicitaH shleShmA dinakRudbhAbhirIritaH|  
 
kAyAgniM bAdhate rogAMstataH prakurute bahUn||22||  
 
kAyAgniM bAdhate rogAMstataH prakurute bahUn||22||  
 +
</div></div>
  
Shleshma (kapha) accumulated in hemanta ritu gets liquefied by hot rays of the sun in vasanta ritu, which in turn disturbs/decreases the digestive power and ultimately causes many diseases. [22]  
+
[[Shleshma]] accumulated in [[hemanta]] [[ritu]] gets liquefied by hot rays of the Sun in [[vasanta]] [[ritu]], which in turn disturbs/decreases the digestive power and ultimately causes many diseases. [22]  
 +
 
 +
====Indications and contra-indications in spring====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
तस्माद्वसन्ते कर्माणि वमनादीनि कारयेत्|  
 
तस्माद्वसन्ते कर्माणि वमनादीनि कारयेत्|  
 
गुर्वम्लस्निग्धमधुरं दिवास्वप्नं च वर्जयेत्||२३||  
 
गुर्वम्लस्निग्धमधुरं दिवास्वप्नं च वर्जयेत्||२३||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
tasmādvasantē karmāṇi vamanādīni kārayēt|  
 
tasmādvasantē karmāṇi vamanādīni kārayēt|  
Line 280: Line 404:
 
tasmAdvasante karmANi vamanAdIni kArayet|  
 
tasmAdvasante karmANi vamanAdIni kArayet|  
 
gurvamlasnigdhamadhuraM divAsvapnaM ca varjayet||23||  
 
gurvamlasnigdhamadhuraM divAsvapnaM ca varjayet||23||  
 +
</div></div>
  
Therefore in vasanta season the purification procedures like vamana (emesis) and others should be done. One should avoid heavy, sour, unctuous and sweet food items and should not sleep during the daytime. [23]  
+
Therefore in [[vasanta]] season the purification procedures like [[vamana]] ( therapeutic emesis) and others should be done. One should avoid heavy to digest, sour, unctuous and sweet food items and should not sleep during the daytime. [23]  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
व्यायामोद्वर्तनं धूमं कवलग्रहमञ्जनम्|  
 
व्यायामोद्वर्तनं धूमं कवलग्रहमञ्जनम्|  
 
सुखाम्बुना शौचविधिं शीलयेत् कुसुमागमे||२४||  
 
सुखाम्बुना शौचविधिं शीलयेत् कुसुमागमे||२४||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
vyāyāmōdvartanaṁ dhūmaṁ kavalagrahamañjanam|  
 
vyāyāmōdvartanaṁ dhūmaṁ kavalagrahamañjanam|  
Line 291: Line 418:
 
vyAyAmodvartanaM dhUmaM kavalagrahama~jjanam|  
 
vyAyAmodvartanaM dhUmaM kavalagrahama~jjanam|  
 
sukhAmbunA shaucavidhiM shIlayet kusumAgame||24||  
 
sukhAmbunA shaucavidhiM shIlayet kusumAgame||24||  
 +
</div></div>
  
In kusumagama kala (at the advent of spring) when flowers blossom (vasanta) one should regularly resort to physical exercise, dry massage, medicated smoking, gargling, and collyrium. Bathing and cleaning of excretory orifices should be done with lukewarm water. [24]
+
In [[kusumagama]] [[kala]] (at the advent of spring) when flowers blossom ([[vasanta]]) one should regularly resort to physical exercise, dry massage, medicated smoking, gargling, and collyrium. Bathing and cleaning of excretory orifices should be done with lukewarm water. [24]
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
चन्दनागुरुदिग्धाङ्गो यवगोधूमभोजनः|  
 
चन्दनागुरुदिग्धाङ्गो यवगोधूमभोजनः|  
 
शारभं शाशमैणेयं मांसं लावकपिञ्जलम्||२५||  
 
शारभं शाशमैणेयं मांसं लावकपिञ्जलम्||२५||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
candanāgurudigdhāṅgō yavagōdhūmabhōjanaḥ|  
 
candanāgurudigdhāṅgō yavagōdhūmabhōjanaḥ|  
Line 302: Line 432:
 
candanAgurudigdhA~ggo yavagodhUmabhojanaH|  
 
candanAgurudigdhA~ggo yavagodhUmabhojanaH|  
 
shArabhaM shAshamaiNeyaM mAMsaM lAvakapi~jjalam||25||  
 
shArabhaM shAshamaiNeyaM mAMsaM lAvakapi~jjalam||25||  
 +
</div></div>
  
A person should apply the paste of chandana (Santalum album Linn) and aguru on the body. One should take food made up of barley and wheat, meat of sarabha (wapiti), sasa (rabbit), ena (antelope), lava (common quail) and kapinjala (grey partridge). [25]
+
A person should apply the paste of chandana (Santalum album Linn) and aguru (Aquilaria agallocha Roxb) (eagle-wood) on the body. One should take food made up of barley and wheat, meat of [[sharabha]] (wapiti), [[shasha]] (rabbit), [[ena]] (antelope), [[lava]] (common quail) and [[kapinjala]] (grey partridge). [25]
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
भक्षयेन्निर्गदं सीधुं पिबेन्माध्वीकमेव वा|  
 
भक्षयेन्निर्गदं सीधुं पिबेन्माध्वीकमेव वा|  
 
वसन्तेऽनुभवेत् स्त्रीणां काननानां च यौवनम्||२६||
 
वसन्तेऽनुभवेत् स्त्रीणां काननानां च यौवनम्||२६||
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
bhakṣayēnnirgadaṁ sīdhuṁ pibēnmādhvīkamēva vā|  
 
bhakṣayēnnirgadaṁ sīdhuṁ pibēnmādhvīkamēva vā|  
Line 313: Line 446:
 
bhakShayennirgadaM sIdhuM pibenmAdhvIkameva vA|  
 
bhakShayennirgadaM sIdhuM pibenmAdhvIkameva vA|  
 
vasante~anubhavet strINAM kAnanAnAM ca yauvanam||26||
 
vasante~anubhavet strINAM kAnanAnAM ca yauvanam||26||
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
One should drink clean alcoholic drinks like [[sidhu]] and [[madhvika]] (types of wine preparations) in [[vasanta]] and enjoy the youthfulness of women and of gardens. [26]
  
One should drink clean alcoholic drinks like sidhu and madhvika (types wine preparations) in vasanta and enjoy the youthfulness of women and of gardens. [26]
+
=== Diet and lifestyle guidelines in [[grishma]] [[ritu]] (summer season) ===
  
==== Diet and lifestyle in grishma ritu (summer season) ====
+
====Effect of excess Sun-heat in summer ====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
मयूखैर्जगतः स्नेहं ग्रीष्मे पेपीयते रविः|  
 
मयूखैर्जगतः स्नेहं ग्रीष्मे पेपीयते रविः|  
 
स्वादु शीतं द्रवं स्निग्धमन्नपानं तदा हितम्||२७||
 
स्वादु शीतं द्रवं स्निग्धमन्नपानं तदा हितम्||२७||
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
mayūkhairjagataḥ snēhaṁ grīṣmē pēpīyatē raviḥ|  
 
mayūkhairjagataḥ snēhaṁ grīṣmē pēpīyatē raviḥ|  
Line 326: Line 464:
 
mayUkhairjagataH snehaM grIShme pepIyate raviH|  
 
mayUkhairjagataH snehaM grIShme pepIyate raviH|  
 
svAdu shItaM dravaM snigdhamannapAnaM tadA hitam||27||  
 
svAdu shItaM dravaM snigdhamannapAnaM tadA hitam||27||  
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
In [[grishma]] [[ritu]] (summer season), the Sun , by its rays, excessively dries up  the environment. So, in this season, food and drinks having sweet, cold, liquid and unctuous qualities are considered wholesome. [27]
  
In grishma ritu (summer season) the Sun , by its rays, excessively absorbs the moisture of the environment. So, in this season food and drinks having sweet, cold, liquid and unctuous qualities are considered wholesome. [27]
+
====Diet and beverages in summer====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
शीतं सशर्करं मन्थं जाङ्गलान्मृगपक्षिणः|  
 
शीतं सशर्करं मन्थं जाङ्गलान्मृगपक्षिणः|  
 
घृतं पयः सशाल्यन्नं भजन् ग्रीष्मे न सीदति||२८||  
 
घृतं पयः सशाल्यन्नं भजन् ग्रीष्मे न सीदति||२८||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
śītaṁ saśarkaraṁ manthaṁ jāṅgalānmr̥gapakṣiṇaḥ|  
 
śītaṁ saśarkaraṁ manthaṁ jāṅgalānmr̥gapakṣiṇaḥ|  
Line 337: Line 480:
 
shItaM sasharkaraM manthaM jA~ggalAnmRugapakShiNaH|  
 
shItaM sasharkaraM manthaM jA~ggalAnmRugapakShiNaH|  
 
ghRutaM payaH sashAlyannaM bhajan grIShme na sIdati||28||  
 
ghRutaM payaH sashAlyannaM bhajan grIShme na sIdati||28||  
 +
</div></div>
  
In the summer season, any individual taking cold and sweet mantha (a type of groat), meat of wild animals and bird, ghee and milk with shali rice (Oryza sativa Linn), does not become weak (does not suffer from diseases). [28]
+
In summer season, any individual taking cold and sweet [[mantha]] (a type of liquid diet), meat of wild animals and birds, [[ghee]] and milk with [[shali]] rice (Oryza sativa Linn) does not become weak (i.e., does not suffer from diseases). [28]
 +
 
 +
====Contra-indications in summer====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
मद्यमल्पं न वा पेयमथवा सुबहूदकम्|  
 
मद्यमल्पं न वा पेयमथवा सुबहूदकम्|  
 
लवणाम्लकटूष्णानि व्यायामं च विवर्जयेत्  ||२९||  
 
लवणाम्लकटूष्णानि व्यायामं च विवर्जयेत्  ||२९||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
Madyamalpaṁ na vā pēyamathavā subahūdakam|  
 
Madyamalpaṁ na vā pēyamathavā subahūdakam|  
Line 348: Line 496:
 
madyamalpaM na vA peyamathavA subahUdakam|  
 
madyamalpaM na vA peyamathavA subahUdakam|  
 
lavaNAmlakaTUShNAni vyAyAmaM ca vivarjayet ||29||  
 
lavaNAmlakaTUShNAni vyAyAmaM ca vivarjayet ||29||  
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
Alcoholic beverages should be consumed in little quantities or should not be consumed at all, or if taken, should be diluted with plenty of water. One should not consume salty, sour, pungent and hot food, and physical exercise should be avoided. [29]
  
Alcohol should be consumed in little quantities or should not be consumed at all, or if taken, should be diluted with plenty of water. One should stop taking salty, sour, pungent and hot food, and physical exercise should be avoided. [29]
+
====Lifestyle in summer====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
दिवा शीतगृहे निद्रां निशि चन्द्रांशुशीतले|  
 
दिवा शीतगृहे निद्रां निशि चन्द्रांशुशीतले|  
 
भजेच्चन्दनदिग्धाङ्गः प्रवाते हर्म्यमस्तके||३०||  
 
भजेच्चन्दनदिग्धाङ्गः प्रवाते हर्म्यमस्तके||३०||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
Divā śītagr̥hē nidrāṁ niśi candrāṁśuśītalē|  
 
Divā śītagr̥hē nidrāṁ niśi candrāṁśuśītalē|  
Line 359: Line 512:
 
divA shItagRuhe nidrAM nishi candrAMshushItale|  
 
divA shItagRuhe nidrAM nishi candrAMshushItale|  
 
bhajeccandanadigdhA~ggaH pravAte harmyamastake||30||  
 
bhajeccandanadigdhA~ggaH pravAte harmyamastake||30||  
 +
</div></div>
  
During day time one should sleep in a cool shelter and during night after applying the paste of chandana (Santalum album Linn) on the body sleep in the airy roof/terrace of the house which is cooled by the Moon’s rays. [30]
+
During daytime, one should sleep in a cool shelter and during night after applying the paste of chandana (Santalum album Linn) on the body sleep in the airy roof/terrace of the house which is cooled by the Moon-rays. [30]
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
व्यजनैः पाणिसंस्पर्शैश्चन्दनोदकशीतलैः|  
 
व्यजनैः पाणिसंस्पर्शैश्चन्दनोदकशीतलैः|  
 
सेव्यमानो भजेदास्यां मुक्तामणिविभूषितः||३१||  
 
सेव्यमानो भजेदास्यां मुक्तामणिविभूषितः||३१||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
Vyajanaiḥ pāṇisaṁsparśaiścandanōdakaśītalaiḥ|  
 
Vyajanaiḥ pāṇisaṁsparśaiścandanōdakaśītalaiḥ|  
Line 370: Line 526:
 
vyajanaiH pANisaMsparshaishcandanodakashItalaiH|  
 
vyajanaiH pANisaMsparshaishcandanodakashItalaiH|  
 
sevyamAno bhajedAsyAM muktAmaNivibhUShitaH||31||  
 
sevyamAno bhajedAsyAM muktAmaNivibhUShitaH||31||  
 +
</div></div>
  
 
One should be seated on a surface decorated with pearl and gems and make use of a fan and touching by soft hands, both cooled with sandal water. [31]
 
One should be seated on a surface decorated with pearl and gems and make use of a fan and touching by soft hands, both cooled with sandal water. [31]
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
काननानि च शीतानि जलानि कुसुमानि च|  
 
काननानि च शीतानि जलानि कुसुमानि च|  
 
ग्रीष्मकाले निषेवेत मैथुनाद्विरतो नरः||३२||
 
ग्रीष्मकाले निषेवेत मैथुनाद्विरतो नरः||३२||
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
Kānanāni ca śītāni jalāni kusumāni ca|  
 
Kānanāni ca śītāni jalāni kusumāni ca|  
Line 381: Line 540:
 
kAnanAni ca shItAni jalAni kusumAni ca|  
 
kAnanAni ca shItAni jalAni kusumAni ca|  
 
grIShmakAle niSheveta maithunAdvirato naraH||32||
 
grIShmakAle niSheveta maithunAdvirato naraH||32||
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
In Summer, one should enjoy the coolness of gardens, cold water and flowers, and should abstain from sexual intercourse. [32]
  
In the summer season one should enjoy the coolness of gardens, cold water and flowers, and should abstain from sexual intercourse. [32]
+
=== Diet and lifestyle guidelines in [[Varsha]] [[ritu]] (rainy season) ===
  
==== Diet and lifestyle  in varsha  ritu (rainy season) ====
+
====Status of [[agni]] in rainy season====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
आदानदुर्बले देहे पक्ता भवति दुर्बलः|  
 
आदानदुर्बले देहे पक्ता भवति दुर्बलः|  
 
स वर्षास्वनिलादीनां दूषणैर्बाध्यते पुनः||३३||  
 
स वर्षास्वनिलादीनां दूषणैर्बाध्यते पुनः||३३||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
ādānadurbalē dēhē paktā bhavati durbalaḥ|  
 
ādānadurbalē dēhē paktā bhavati durbalaḥ|  
Line 394: Line 558:
 
AdAnadurbale dehe paktA bhavati durbalaH|  
 
AdAnadurbale dehe paktA bhavati durbalaH|  
 
sa varShAsvanilAdInAM dUShaNairbAdhyate punaH||33||  
 
sa varShAsvanilAdInAM dUShaNairbAdhyate punaH||33||  
 +
</div></div>
  
In the weak body, during the period of dehydration,  
+
In a weak body, during the period of dehydration, [[agni]] is also weak, and deteriorates further due to vitiated [[vata]] and other [[dosha]] during rainy season. [33]
the agni is also weak, which is deranged further due to vitiated vata and other doshas during rainy season. [33]
+
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
भूबाष्पान्मेघनिस्यन्दात् पाकादम्लाज्जलस्य च|  
 
भूबाष्पान्मेघनिस्यन्दात् पाकादम्लाज्जलस्य च|  
 
वर्षास्वग्निबले क्षीणे कुप्यन्ति पवनादयः||३४||  
 
वर्षास्वग्निबले क्षीणे कुप्यन्ति पवनादयः||३४||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
bhūbāṣpānmēghanisyandāt pākādamlājjalasya ca|  
 
bhūbāṣpānmēghanisyandāt pākādamlājjalasya ca|  
Line 406: Line 572:
 
bhUbAShpAnmeghanisyandAt pAkAdamlAjjalasya ca|  
 
bhUbAShpAnmeghanisyandAt pAkAdamlAjjalasya ca|  
 
varShAsvagnibale kShINe kupyanti pavanAdayaH||34||  
 
varShAsvagnibale kShINe kupyanti pavanAdayaH||34||  
 +
</div></div>
  
In this season, due to evaporating vapors from the Earth, rainfall and acidic transformation of water, the agni is weakened, thus leading to the further vitiation of vata and other doshas. [34]
+
In this season, due to evaporating vapors from the Earth, rainfall and acidic transformation of water, the [[agni]] is weakened, thus leading to the further vitiation of [[vata]] and other [[dosha]]. [34]
 +
 
 +
====Indications and contra-indications in rainy season====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
तस्मात् साधारणः सर्वो विधिर्वर्षासु शस्यते|  
 
तस्मात् साधारणः सर्वो विधिर्वर्षासु शस्यते|  
Line 414: Line 584:
 
व्यायाममातपं चैव व्यवायं चात्र वर्जयेत्|  
 
व्यायाममातपं चैव व्यवायं चात्र वर्जयेत्|  
 
पानभोजनसंस्कारान् प्रायः क्षौद्रान्वितान् भजेत्||३६||  
 
पानभोजनसंस्कारान् प्रायः क्षौद्रान्वितान् भजेत्||३६||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
tasmāt sādhāraṇaḥ sarvō vidhirvarṣāsu śasyatē|  
 
tasmāt sādhāraṇaḥ sarvō vidhirvarṣāsu śasyatē|  
Line 426: Line 597:
 
vyAyAmamAtapaM caiva vyavAyaM cAtra varjayet|  
 
vyAyAmamAtapaM caiva vyavAyaM cAtra varjayet|  
 
pAnabhojanasaMskArAn prAyaH kShaudrAnvitAn bhajet||36||  
 
pAnabhojanasaMskArAn prAyaH kShaudrAnvitAn bhajet||36||  
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
Hence, in rainy season all basic rules regarding diet and lifestyle are advised to balance all three [[dosha]]. One should avoid diluted [[mantha]](excess liquid diet) , sleeping during the day, exposure to dew, river water, physical exercise, sun rays and sexual intercourse in this season.
 +
One should use food and drinks mostly added with honey in small quantity to pacify the [[kleda]] (moisture) of rainy season. [35-36]
  
Hence, in rainy season all basic rules regarding diet and behavior are advised to balance all three doshas. One should avoid diluted mantha (groat), sleeping during the day, dew, river water, physical exercise, exposure to sun rays and sexual intercourse in this season. One should use food and drinks mostly added with honey in small quantity to pacify the kleda (dampness) of rainy season. [35-36]
+
====Specific diet in rainy season====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
व्यक्ताम्ललवणस्नेहं वातवर्षाकुलेऽहनि|  
 
व्यक्ताम्ललवणस्नेहं वातवर्षाकुलेऽहनि|  
 
विशेषशीते भोक्तव्यं वर्षास्वनिलशान्तये||३७||  
 
विशेषशीते भोक्तव्यं वर्षास्वनिलशान्तये||३७||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
vyaktāmlalavaṇasnēhaṁ vātavarṣākulē'hani|  
 
vyaktāmlalavaṇasnēhaṁ vātavarṣākulē'hani|  
Line 437: Line 614:
 
vyaktAmlalavaNasnehaM vAtavarShAkule~ahani|  
 
vyaktAmlalavaNasnehaM vAtavarShAkule~ahani|  
 
visheShashIte bhoktavyaM varShAsvanilashAntaye||37||  
 
visheShashIte bhoktavyaM varShAsvanilashAntaye||37||  
 +
</div></div>
  
In rainy season when the days are cooler due to wind and rain, one should predominantly take sour, salty and unctuous food to alleviate vata. [37]
+
In the rainy season when the days are cooler due to wind and rain, one should predominantly take sour, salty and unctuous food to alleviate [[vata]]. [37]
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
अग्निसंरक्षणवता यवगोधूमशालयः|  
 
अग्निसंरक्षणवता यवगोधूमशालयः|  
 
पुराणा जाङ्गलैर्मांसैर्भोज्या यूषैश्च संस्कृतैः||३८||  
 
पुराणा जाङ्गलैर्मांसैर्भोज्या यूषैश्च संस्कृतैः||३८||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
agnisaṁrakṣaṇavatā yavagōdhūmaśālayaḥ|  
 
agnisaṁrakṣaṇavatā yavagōdhūmaśālayaḥ|  
Line 448: Line 628:
 
agnisaMrakShaNavatA yavagodhUmashAlayaH|  
 
agnisaMrakShaNavatA yavagodhUmashAlayaH|  
 
purANA jA~ggalairmAMsairbhojyA yUShaishca saMskRutaiH||38||  
 
purANA jA~ggalairmAMsairbhojyA yUShaishca saMskRutaiH||38||  
 +
</div></div>
  
A person taking care of his agni should consume old barley; wheat and shali rice (Oryza sativa Linn) along with meat of wild animals and processed soup. [38]
+
A person taking care of his [[agni]] should consume old barley; wheat and [[shali]] rice (Oryza sativa Linn) along with meat of wild animals and processed soup. [38]
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
पिबेत् क्षौद्रान्वितं चाल्पं माध्वीकारिष्टमम्बु वा|  
 
पिबेत् क्षौद्रान्वितं चाल्पं माध्वीकारिष्टमम्बु वा|  
 
माहेन्द्रं तप्तशीतं वा कौपं सारसमेव वा||३९||  
 
माहेन्द्रं तप्तशीतं वा कौपं सारसमेव वा||३९||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
pibēt kṣaudrānvitaṁ cālpaṁ mādhvīkāriṣṭamambu vā|  
 
pibēt kṣaudrānvitaṁ cālpaṁ mādhvīkāriṣṭamambu vā|  
Line 459: Line 642:
 
pibet kShaudrAnvitaM cAlpaM mAdhvIkAriShTamambu vA|  
 
pibet kShaudrAnvitaM cAlpaM mAdhvIkAriShTamambu vA|  
 
mAhendraM taptashItaM vA kaupaM sArasameva vA||39||  
 
mAhendraM taptashItaM vA kaupaM sArasameva vA||39||  
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
Whenever [[madhvika]] or other fermented liquors and water are consumed, they should be mixed with a little amount of honey. Rain water or water from wells or ponds should be properly boiled and cooled. [39]
  
Whenever madhvika or other fermented liquors and water are consumed, they should be mixed with a little amount of honey. Rain water or water from wells or ponds should be properly boiled and cooled. [39]
+
====Lifestyle in rainy season====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
प्रघर्षोद्वर्तनस्नानगन्धमाल्यपरो भवेत्|  
 
प्रघर्षोद्वर्तनस्नानगन्धमाल्यपरो भवेत्|  
 
लघुशुद्धाम्बरः स्थानं भजेदक्लेदि वार्षिकम्||४०||
 
लघुशुद्धाम्बरः स्थानं भजेदक्लेदि वार्षिकम्||४०||
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
pragharṣōdvartanasnānagandhamālyaparō bhavēt|  
 
pragharṣōdvartanasnānagandhamālyaparō bhavēt|  
Line 470: Line 658:
 
pragharShodvartanasnAnagandhamAlyaparo bhavet|  
 
pragharShodvartanasnAnagandhamAlyaparo bhavet|  
 
laghushuddhAmbaraH sthAnaM bhajedakledi vArShikam||40||  
 
laghushuddhAmbaraH sthAnaM bhajedakledi vArShikam||40||  
 +
</div></div>
  
In rainy season one should practice friction massage, dry massage, bathing, use of fragrance, garlands, wear light and clean clothes and should reside in the place which is free from humidity. [40]
+
In the rainy season, one should practice [[pragharsha]] (friction massage), [[udwartana]] (dry massage), [[snana]] (bath), use of fragrance, garlands, wearing light and clean clothes and should reside in the place which is free from humidity. [40]
  
==== Diet and lifestyle in sharada ritu [autumn season] ====
+
=== Diet and lifestyle guidelines in [[sharada]] [[ritu]] (autumn season) ===
 +
 
 +
====Status of [[pitta]] [[dosha]] in autumn season====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
वर्षाशीतोचिताङ्गानां सहसैवार्करश्मिभिः|  
 
वर्षाशीतोचिताङ्गानां सहसैवार्करश्मिभिः|  
 
तप्तानामाचितं पित्तं प्रायः शरदि कुप्यति||४१||  
 
तप्तानामाचितं पित्तं प्रायः शरदि कुप्यति||४१||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
varṣāśītōcitāṅgānāṁ sahasaivārkaraśmibhiḥ|  
 
varṣāśītōcitāṅgānāṁ sahasaivārkaraśmibhiḥ|  
Line 483: Line 676:
 
varShAshItocitA~ggAnAM sahasaivArkarashmibhiH|  
 
varShAshItocitA~ggAnAM sahasaivArkarashmibhiH|  
 
taptAnAmAcitaM pittaM prAyaH sharadi kupyati||41||  
 
taptAnAmAcitaM pittaM prAyaH sharadi kupyati||41||  
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
When a body habituated to cold and rain is suddenly subjected to the heat of sun-rays in the [[sharada]] (autumn) season, the accumulated [[pitta]] [[dosha]] in the body often gets aggravated. [41]
 +
 +
====Specific diet for pacification of [[pitta]] [[dosha]]====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
When a body habituated to cold and rain is suddenly subjected to the heat of sunrays in the sharad season, the accumulated pitta in the body often gets aggravated. [41]
 
 
 
तत्रान्नपानं मधुरं लघु शीतं सतिक्तकम्|  
 
तत्रान्नपानं मधुरं लघु शीतं सतिक्तकम्|  
 
पित्तप्रशमनं सेव्यं मात्रया सुप्रकाङ्क्षितैः||४२||  
 
पित्तप्रशमनं सेव्यं मात्रया सुप्रकाङ्क्षितैः||४२||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
tatrānnapānaṁ madhuraṁ laghu śītaṁ satiktakam|  
 
tatrānnapānaṁ madhuraṁ laghu śītaṁ satiktakam|  
Line 494: Line 692:
 
tatrAnnapAnaM madhuraM laghu shItaM satiktakam|  
 
tatrAnnapAnaM madhuraM laghu shItaM satiktakam|  
 
pittaprashamanaM sevyaM mAtrayA suprakA~gkShitaiH||42||  
 
pittaprashamanaM sevyaM mAtrayA suprakA~gkShitaiH||42||  
 +
</div></div>
  
In this season food and drinks predominantly of sweet, light, cold and slightly bitter qualities and having pitta alleviating properties should be taken in proper quantity, only when there is good appetite. [42]  
+
In this season food and drinks predominantly of sweet, light, cold and slightly bitter qualities and having [[pitta]] alleviating properties should be taken in proper quantity, only when there is good appetite. [42]  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
लावान् कपिञ्जलानेणानुरभ्राञ्छरभान् शशान्|  
 
लावान् कपिञ्जलानेणानुरभ्राञ्छरभान् शशान्|  
 
शालीन् सयवगोधूमान् सेव्यानाहुर्घनात्यये||४३||  
 
शालीन् सयवगोधूमान् सेव्यानाहुर्घनात्यये||४३||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
lāvān kapiñjalānēṇānurabhrāñcharabhān śaśān|  
 
lāvān kapiñjalānēṇānurabhrāñcharabhān śaśān|  
Line 505: Line 706:
 
lAvAn kapi~jjalAneNAnurabhrA~jcharabhAn shashAn|  
 
lAvAn kapi~jjalAneNAnurabhrA~jcharabhAn shashAn|  
 
shAlIn sayavagodhUmAn sevyAnAhurghanAtyaye||43||  
 
shAlIn sayavagodhUmAn sevyAnAhurghanAtyaye||43||  
 +
</div></div>
  
In ghanatyaya (sharad ritu) the meat of lava (common quail), kapinjala (grey partridge), ena (antelope), urabhra (sheep), sarabha (wapiti) and shasha (rabbit), shali rice (Oryza sativa Linn), barley and wheat should be taken. [43]
+
In [[ghanatyaya]] ([[sharada]] [[ritu]]), the meat of [[lava]] (common quail), [[kapinjala]] (grey partridge), [[ena]] (antelope), [[urabhra]] (sheep), [[sharabha]] (wapiti) and [[shasha]] (rabbit), [[shali]] rice (Oryza sativa Linn), barley and wheat should be taken. [43]
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
तिक्तस्य सर्पिषः पानं विरेको रक्तमोक्षणम्|  
 
तिक्तस्य सर्पिषः पानं विरेको रक्तमोक्षणम्|  
 
धाराधरात्यये कार्यमातपस्य च वर्जनम्||४४||  
 
धाराधरात्यये कार्यमातपस्य च वर्जनम्||४४||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
tiktasya sarpiṣaḥ pānaṁ virēkō raktamōkṣaṇam|  
 
tiktasya sarpiṣaḥ pānaṁ virēkō raktamōkṣaṇam|  
Line 516: Line 720:
 
tiktasya sarpiShaH pAnaM vireko raktamokShaNam|  
 
tiktasya sarpiShaH pAnaM vireko raktamokShaNam|  
 
dhArAdharAtyaye kAryamAtapasya ca varjanam||44||  
 
dhArAdharAtyaye kAryamAtapasya ca varjanam||44||  
 +
</div></div>
 +
 +
In [[sharada]], whenever the rain clouds disappear, the intake of [[tikta ghee]] (ghee medicated with bitter items), use of purgatives, and blood-letting are indicated. [44]
  
In sharad, when the rain clouds disappear (dharadharatyaye), the intake of ghee medicated with bitter items, use of purgatives and blood-letting are indicated. [44]
+
====Contra-indications in autumn season====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
वसां तैलमवश्यायमौदकानूपमामिषम्|  
 
वसां तैलमवश्यायमौदकानूपमामिषम्|  
 
क्षारं दधि दिवास्वप्नं प्राग्वातं चात्र वर्जयेत्||४५||  
 
क्षारं दधि दिवास्वप्नं प्राग्वातं चात्र वर्जयेत्||४५||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 +
 
vasāṁ tailamavaśyāyamaudakānūpamāmiṣam|  
 
vasāṁ tailamavaśyāyamaudakānūpamāmiṣam|  
 
kṣāraṁ dadhi divāsvapnaṁ prāgvātaṁ cātra varjayēt||45||  
 
kṣāraṁ dadhi divāsvapnaṁ prāgvātaṁ cātra varjayēt||45||  
 +
 
vasAM tailamavashyAyamaudakAnUpamAmiSham|  
 
vasAM tailamavashyAyamaudakAnUpamAmiSham|  
 
kShAraM dadhi divAsvapnaM prAgvAtaM cAtra varjayet||45||  
 
kShAraM dadhi divAsvapnaM prAgvAtaM cAtra varjayet||45||  
 +
</div></div>
  
In this season exposure to sun, intake of fats and oils, exposure to dew, meat of aquatic and marshy animals, alkaline preparations, and curd are contraindicated. One should not sleep during daytime and restrict exposure to easterly wind. [45]
+
In this season exposure to Sun, intake of muscle fats and oils, exposure to dew, meat of aquatic and marshy animals, alkaline preparations, and curd are contraindicated. One should not sleep during daytime and restrict exposure to easterly wind. [45]
 +
 
 +
====[[Hamsodaka]] (pure water)====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
दिवा सूर्यांशुसन्तप्तं निशि चन्द्रांशुशीतलम्|  
 
दिवा सूर्यांशुसन्तप्तं निशि चन्द्रांशुशीतलम्|  
Line 533: Line 748:
 
हंसोदकमिति ख्यातं शारदं विमलं शुचि|  
 
हंसोदकमिति ख्यातं शारदं विमलं शुचि|  
 
स्नानपानावगाहेषु हितमम्बु यथाऽमृतम्  ||४७|
 
स्नानपानावगाहेषु हितमम्बु यथाऽमृतम्  ||४७|
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
Divā sūryāṁśusantaptaṁ niśi candrāṁśuśītalam|  
 
Divā sūryāṁśusantaptaṁ niśi candrāṁśuśītalam|  
Line 545: Line 761:
 
haMsodakamiti khyAtaM shAradaM vimalaM shuci|  
 
haMsodakamiti khyAtaM shAradaM vimalaM shuci|  
 
snAnapAnAvagAheShu hitamambu yathA~amRutam ||47||  
 
snAnapAnAvagAheShu hitamambu yathA~amRutam ||47||  
 +
</div></div>
  
Water heated with sunrays during daytime and cooled with moon rays during night, well purified by the course of time and detoxified by the effects of Agastya (the star Canopus) is called “Hansodaka”, which is available during sharad and is clean and clear. This water is beneficial as nectar when used for the purpose of bathing, drinking and plunging. [46-47]
+
<div style="text-align:justify;">
 +
Water naturally heated with sunrays during daytime and cooled with moon rays during night, well purified by the course of time and detoxified by the effects of [[Agastya]] (the star Canopus) is called [[Hamsodaka]].This is available during [[sharada]] and is clean and clear. This water is beneficial as nectar when used for the purpose of bathing and drinking. [46-47]
 +
</div>
 +
====Lifestyle during autumn season====
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
शारदानि च माल्यानि वासांसि विमलानि च|  
 
शारदानि च माल्यानि वासांसि विमलानि च|  
 
शरत्काले प्रशस्यन्ते प्रदोषे चेन्दुरश्मयः||४८||  
 
शरत्काले प्रशस्यन्ते प्रदोषे चेन्दुरश्मयः||४८||  
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
śāradāni ca mālyāni vāsāṁsi vimalāni ca|  
 
śāradāni ca mālyāni vāsāṁsi vimalāni ca|  
Line 556: Line 778:
 
shAradAni ca mAlyAni vAsAMsi vimalAni ca|  
 
shAradAni ca mAlyAni vAsAMsi vimalAni ca|  
 
sharatkAle prashasyante pradoShe cendurashmayaH||48||
 
sharatkAle prashasyante pradoShe cendurashmayaH||48||
 +
</div></div>
  
In sharad ritu, garlands of seasonal flowers, clean clothes (apparels), and exposure to moon rays in early nights are very beneficial. [48]
+
In [[sharada]] [[ritu]], garlands of seasonal flowers, clean clothes (apparels), and exposure to moon-rays in early nights are very beneficial. [48]
  
==== Okasatmya ====
+
=== [[Okasatmya]](acquired adaptation or habituation) ===
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
इत्युक्तमृतुसात्म्यं यच्चेष्टाहारव्यपाश्रयम्|  
 
इत्युक्तमृतुसात्म्यं यच्चेष्टाहारव्यपाश्रयम्|  
 
उपशेते यदौचित्यादोकःसात्म्यं  तदुच्यते||४९||
 
उपशेते यदौचित्यादोकःसात्म्यं  तदुच्यते||४९||
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
ityuktamr̥tusātmyaṁ yaccēṣṭāhāravyapāśrayam|  
 
ityuktamr̥tusātmyaṁ yaccēṣṭāhāravyapāśrayam|  
Line 569: Line 794:
 
ityuktamRutusAtmyaM yacceShTAhAravyapAshrayam|  
 
ityuktamRutusAtmyaM yacceShTAhAravyapAshrayam|  
 
upashete yadaucityAdokaHsAtmyaM taducyate||49||  
 
upashete yadaucityAdokaHsAtmyaM taducyate||49||  
 +
</div></div>
  
 
In this way, we discussed about seasonal adaptations with respect to activities and diet.  
 
In this way, we discussed about seasonal adaptations with respect to activities and diet.  
  
If any diet and behavior become suitable to the body by its regular/habitual use then it is called okasatmya (acquired adaptation). [49]
+
If any diet and lifestyle become suitable to the body by its regular/habitual use then it is called [[okasatmya]] (acquired adaptation or habituation). [49]
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
देशानामामयानां च विपरीतगुणं गुणैः|  
 
देशानामामयानां च विपरीतगुणं गुणैः|  
 
सात्म्यमिच्छन्ति सात्म्यज्ञाश्चेष्टितं चाद्यमेव च||५०||
 
सात्म्यमिच्छन्ति सात्म्यज्ञाश्चेष्टितं चाद्यमेव च||५०||
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
dēśānāmāmayānāṁ ca viparītaguṇaṁ guṇaiḥ|  
 
dēśānāmāmayānāṁ ca viparītaguṇaṁ guṇaiḥ|  
Line 582: Line 810:
 
deshAnAmAmayAnAM ca viparItaguNaM guNaiH|  
 
deshAnAmAmayAnAM ca viparItaguNaM guNaiH|  
 
sAtmyamicchanti sAtmyaj~jAshceShTitaM cAdyameva ca||50||
 
sAtmyamicchanti sAtmyaj~jAshceShTitaM cAdyameva ca||50||
 +
</div></div>
  
Experts of the principles of satmya (adaptation) consider that diet and behavior opposite to the qualities of the habitat of the individual and of the causative factors of the diseases prevalent in the location, can be adapted to. [50]
+
Experts of the principles of [[satmya]] (adaptation) consider that diet and lifestyle opposite to the qualities of the habitat of the individual and of the causative factors of the diseases prevalent in the location, can be adapted to (preserve health). [50]
 +
 
 +
=== Summary ===
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
तत्र श्लोकः-  
 
तत्र श्लोकः-  
 +
 
ऋतावृतौ नृभिः सेव्यमसेव्यं यच्च किञ्चन|  
 
ऋतावृतौ नृभिः सेव्यमसेव्यं यच्च किञ्चन|  
 
तस्याशितीये निर्दिष्टं हेतुमत् सात्म्यमेव च||५१||
 
तस्याशितीये निर्दिष्टं हेतुमत् सात्म्यमेव च||५१||
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
tatra ślōkaḥ-  
 
tatra ślōkaḥ-  
Line 596: Line 830:
 
RutAvRutau nRubhiH sevyamasevyaM yacca ki~jcana|  
 
RutAvRutau nRubhiH sevyamasevyaM yacca ki~jcana|  
 
tasyAshitIye nirdiShTaM hetumat sAtmyameva ca||51||
 
tasyAshitIye nirdiShTaM hetumat sAtmyameva ca||51||
 +
</div></div>
  
 
There is the verse:
 
There is the verse:
In this chapter of “One’s Diet etc”, general principles with respect to dietary habits and activities suitable to specific seasons, along with the principles of satmya (adaptation) have been described. [51]
+
In this chapter of seasonal regimen of diet and lifestyle, general principles with respect to dietary habits and activities suitable to specific seasons, along with the principles of [[satmya]] (adaptation) have been described. [51]
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
  
 
इत्यग्निवेशकृते तन्त्रे चरकप्रतिसंस्कृते श्लोकस्थाने तस्याशितीयो नाम षष्ठोऽध्यायः||६||
 
इत्यग्निवेशकृते तन्त्रे चरकप्रतिसंस्कृते श्लोकस्थाने तस्याशितीयो नाम षष्ठोऽध्यायः||६||
 +
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
  
 
Ityagnivēśakr̥tē tantrē carakapratisaṁskr̥tē ślōkasthānē tasyāśitīyō nāma ṣaṣṭhō'dhyāyaḥ||6||
 
Ityagnivēśakr̥tē tantrē carakapratisaṁskr̥tē ślōkasthānē tasyāśitīyō nāma ṣaṣṭhō'dhyāyaḥ||6||
 +
</div></div>
  
Thus the sixth chapter entitled Tasyashitiya (one’s diet and regimen for different seasons) of Sutra sthana is completed, in the treatise compiled by Agnivesha and revised by Caraka.
+
Thus the sixth chapter entitled [[Tasyashiteeya]] (Seasonal regimen of diet and lifestyle) of [[Sutra Sthana]] is completed, in the treatise compiled by Agnivesha and revised by Charak.
 
 
=== ''Tattva Vimarsha'' ===
 
 
 
* The strength of a person varies according to seasonal changes. The doshas undergo physiological variations as per change in season. In order to maintain equilibrium and sustain health, a person should change his diet and lifestyle according to the season.
 
* Human beings function like a microcosm of the universe and the physiological changes are predominantly affected by the changes in macrocosm e.g, geothermal changes due to the Sun or the effects of the Moon and other celestial bodies. The rotation of the earth around Sun and rotation of moon around earth result in changes in season. The Sun is responsible for temperature variations on earth, and this leads to changes in the physical and mental strength of a microcosm.
 
  
 +
== Tattva Vimarsha (Fundamental Principles) ==
 +
<div style="text-align:justify;">
 +
* The strength of a person varies according to seasonal changes. The [[dosha]] undergo physiological variations as per change in season and surroundings. In order to maintain equilibrium and sustain health, a person should change his diet and lifestyle according to the season.
 +
* Human beings function like a microcosm of the universe and the physiological changes are predominantly affected by the changes in macrocosm e.g, geothermal changes due to the Sun or the effects of the Moon and other celestial bodies. The rotation of the Earth around the Sun and rotation of Moon around the Earth result in changes in season. The Sun is responsible for temperature variations on Earth and this leads to changes in the physical and mental strength of microcosm. 
 +
</div>
 
The effect of seasonal variations on an individual’s physiological strength are as follows:  
 
The effect of seasonal variations on an individual’s physiological strength are as follows:  
  
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|-
 
|-
! !! Ayana !! Ritu !! Indian Months !! English Months !! Strength
+
! !! [[Ayana]] !! [[Ritu]] !! Indian Months !! English Months !! Strength
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="6" | Samvatsara
+
| rowspan="6" | [[Samvatsara]]
| rowspan="3" style="text-align: center;" | Uttarayana
+
| rowspan="3" style="text-align: center;" | [[Uttarayana]]
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Shishira (Late Winter)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Shishira]] (Late Winter)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Magha(Tapa) and Phalguna(Tapasya)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Magha]](Tapa) and [[Phalguna]](Tapasya)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-Jan to Mid-March
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-January to Mid-March
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Good
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Good
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Vasanta (Spring)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Vasanta]] (Spring)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Chaitra(Madhu) and Vaishaka(Madhava)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Chaitra]](Madhu) and [[Vaishakha]](Madhava)
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-March to Mid-May
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-March to Mid-May
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Medium
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Medium
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Grishma (Summer)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Grishma]] (Summer)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Jaishtha(luchi) and Ashadha(lukra)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Jaishtha]](Shuchi) and [[Ashadha]](Shukra)
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-May to Mid-July
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-May to Mid-July
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Weak
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Weak
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="3" style="text-align: center;" | Dakshinayana
+
| rowspan="3" style="text-align: center;" | [[Dakshinayana]]
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Varsha (Rainy Season)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Varsha]] (Rainy Season)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Shravana(Nabha) and Bhadrapada(Nabhasya)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Shravana]](Nabha) and [[Bhadrapada]](Nabhasya)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-July to Mid-Sep
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-July to Mid-September
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Weak
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Weak
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Sharad (Autumn)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Sharada]] (Autumn)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Ashvina(isha) and Kartika(urja)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Ashvina]](Isha) and [[Kartika]](Urja)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-Sep to Mid-Nov
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-September to Mid-November
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Medium
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Medium
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Hemanta (Early Winter)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Hemanta]] (Early Winter)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Magha(saha) and Pausha(sahasya)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Margashirsha]](Saha) and [[Pausha]](Sahasya)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-Nov to Mid-Jan
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-November to Mid-January
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Good
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Good
  
 
|}
 
|}
  
These effects of seasonal variations on bala should be factored in while planning any dietary or preventive healthcare program for any individual.
+
These effects of seasonal variations on [[bala]] should be factored in while planning any dietary or preventive healthcare program for any individual.
*The stages of dosha as per seasonal changes are as follows:
+
 
 +
*The states of [[dosha]] as per seasonal changes are as follows:
  
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|-
 
|-
! Dosha !! Sanchaya(Accumulation) !! Prakopa(Aggravation) !! Prashamana(Pacification to Normalcy)
+
! [[Dosha]] !! [[Sanchaya]](Accumulation) !! [[Prakopa]](Aggravation) !! [[Prashamana]](Pacification to Normalcy)
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Vata
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Vata]]
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Grishma (Summer)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Grishma]] (Summer)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Varsha (Monsoon/Rainy)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Varsha]] (Monsoon/Rainy)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Sharad (Autumn)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Sharada]] (Autumn)
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Pitta
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Pitta]]
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Varsha (Monsoon/Rainy)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Varsha]] (Monsoon/Rainy)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Sharad (Autumn)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Sharada]] (Autumn)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Hemanta (Winter)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Hemanta]] (Early Winter)
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Kapha
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Kapha]]
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Shishira (Late Winter)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Shishira]] (Late Winter)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Vasanta (Spring)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Vasanta]] (Spring)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Grishma (Summer)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Grishma]] (Summer)
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
*One should follow the diet and lifestyle with opposite properties of the place of residence and season in order to preserve health and prevent diseases.
+
*One should follow the diet and lifestyle with opposite properties of the place of residence and seasons in order to preserve health and prevent diseases.
  
=== ''Vidhi vimarsha'' ===
+
== Vidhi vimarsha (Applied Inferences) ==
  
==== Division of samvatsara (year) and ritus ====
+
=== Division of [[samvatsara]] (year) and [[ritu]] ===
 +
<div style="text-align:justify;">
 +
The [[Samvatsara]] is divided into two [[ayana]] or solstices, depending upon the position of the Sun with respect to the Earth i.e. [[Uttarayana]] or [[adana kala]] and [[dakshinayana]] or [[visarga kala]]. Each [[ayana]] includes three [[ritu]]. This is known as [[rituchakra]] (cyclic rhythm) of six seasons. Six [[ritu]] are divided on the basis of the predominant effect of Sun and Moon. Air motivates the Sun and the Moon. [[Vata]] is responsible for differentiation of [[ritu]](Cha.Su.12).The [[uttarayana]] or northward position of the Sun and its act of dehydration/undernourishment brings about three seasons, including [[shishira]], [[vasanta]] and [[grishma]]. The [[dakshinayana]] or southward position of the Sun and its act of hydration/nourishment gives rise to other three seasons, including [[varsha]], [[sharada]] and [[hemanta]].
  
The Year or Samvatsara is divided into two ayana or solstices, depending upon the position of the Sun with respect to the Earth i.e. Uttarayana or adana kala and dakshinayana or visarga kala. Each ayana includes three ritus. This is known as ritu cycle of six seasons. Six ritus are divided on the basis of the predominant effect of Sun and Moon. Air motivates the Sun and the Moon. vata is responsible for differentiation of ritus.1 The uttarayana or northward position of the Sun and its act of dehydration/undernourishment brings about three seasons, including shishira, vasanta and grishma. The dakshinayana or southward position of the Sun and its act of hydration/nourishment gives rise to other three seasons, including varsha, sharad and hemanta.
+
Per Ayurvedic literature, taking the river Ganga as a baseline, the whole region (Indian subcontinent) is divided on the basis of intensity of cold and rain into two parts. In regions south of Ganga, rain being more, two[[ritu]] i.e. [[pravrita]] (early rains) and [[varsha]] (late heavy rainy season) have been mentioned separately by the sages. In the regions north of Ganga, with a prevalence of snowfall factored in, two [[ritu]] namely [[hemanta]] and [[shishira]] (dewy season and cold season) have been mentioned separately. In the Gangetic plains (Eastern U.P. and Bihar), all the seasons can be found since it is the belt of [[Sadharana desha]].
 +
</div>
 +
Thus in [[Ayurveda]], a year is divided in two ways on the basis of the following:
  
By taking the river Ganga as a base line, the whole region (India) is divided, on the basis of intensity of cold and rain, into two parts ref. In regions south of Ganga, rain being more, two ritu i.e. pravuÔa and varsha (early rainy and heavy rainy seasons) have been mentioned separately by the sages. In the regions north of Ganga, with a prevalence of snowfall factored in, two ritu namely hemanta and shishira (dewy season and cold season) have been mentioned separately. In the Gangetic plains (Eastern U.P. and Bihar), all the seasons can be found since it is the belt of sadharana desha.
+
==== Division of year, [[ayana]], months, [[rashi]] ====
 
 
Thus in Ayurveda, a year is divided in two ways on the basis of the following:
 
 
 
===== Seasonal regimen for healthy living =====
 
  
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|-
 
|-
! !! Ayana !! Ritu !! Indian Months !! Influential Rashi !! English Months
+
! !! [[Ayana]] & [[Bala]] !! [[Ritu]] !! Indian Months !! Influential [[Rashi]] !! English Months
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="6" | Samvatsara
+
| rowspan="6" | [[Samvatsara]]
| rowspan="3" style="text-align: center;" | Uttarayana
+
| rowspan="3" style="text-align: center;" | [[Uttarayana]] [[Adana kala]] [[Bala]]-Less
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Shishira (Late Winter)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Shishira]] (Late Winter)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Magha(Tapa) and Phalguna(Tapasya)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Magha]](Tapa) and [[Phalguna]](Tapasya)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Makara and Kumbha
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Makara]] and [[Kumbha]]
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-Jan to Mid-March
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-January to Mid-March
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Vasanta (Spring)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Vasanta]] (Spring)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Chaitra(Madhu) and Vaishaka(Madhava)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Chaitra]](Madhu) and [[Vaishakha]](Madhava)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Meena and Mesha
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Meena]] and [[Mesha]]
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-March to Mid-May
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-March to Mid-May
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Grishma (Summer)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Grishma]] (Summer)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Jaishtha(luchi) and Ashadha(lukra)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Jaishtha]](Shuchi) and [[Ashadha]](Shukra)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Vrishabha and Mithuna
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Vrishabha]] and [[Mithuna]]
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-May to Mid-July
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-May to Mid-July
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="3" style="text-align: center;" | Dakshinayana
+
| rowspan="3" style="text-align: center;" | [[Dakshinayana]] [[Visarga kala]] [[Bala]]-Good
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Varsha (Rainy Season)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Varsha]] (Rainy Season)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Shravana(Nabha) and Bhadrapada(Nabhasya)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Shravana]](Nabha) and [[Bhadrapada]](Nabhasya)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Karka and Simha
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Karka]] and [[Simha]]
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-July to Mid-Sep
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-July to Mid-September
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Sharad (Autumn)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Sharada]] (Autumn)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Ashvina(isha) and Kartika(urja)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Ashvina]](Isha) and [[Kartika]](Urja)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Kanya and Tula
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Kanya]] and [[Tula]]
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-Sep to Mid-Nov
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-September to Mid-November
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Hemanta (Early Winter)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Hemanta]] (Early Winter)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Magha(saha) and Pausha(sahasya)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Margasirsha]](Saha) and [[Pausha]](Sahasya)
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Vrishchika and Dhanu
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Vrishchika]] and [[Dhanu]]
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-Nov to Mid-Jan
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-November to Mid-January
 
 
|}
 
 
 
===== Characteristics of seasons =====
 
 
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|-
 
! !! Character !! Ritu !! Indian Months !! English Months
 
 
 
|-
 
| rowspan="6" | Samvatsara
 
| rowspan="3" style="text-align: center;" | Cold, Hot, Wet(Rainy)
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Hemanta (Winter)
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Pausha and Magha
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-Dec to Mid-Feb
 
|-
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Grishma (Summer)
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Vaishaka and Jaishtha
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-April to Mid-June
 
|-
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Varsha (Monsoon/Rainy)
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Bhadrapada and Ashvina
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-Aug to Mid-Oct
 
|-
 
| rowspan="3" style="text-align: center;" | Moderate
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Vasanta (Spring)
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Phalguna and Chaitra
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-Feb to Mid-Apr
 
|-
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Pravrita (Early Rains)
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Ashada and Shravana
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-Jun to Mid-Aug
 
|-
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Sharad (Autumn)
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Kartika and Magha
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Mid-Oct to Mid-Dec
 
  
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Formation of Seasons ====
 
==== Formation of Seasons ====
 
+
<div style="text-align:justify;">
 
The Earth and all other celestial bodies in the Solar System are constantly moving. Rotation, precession and revolution of Earth are directly responsible for seasonal variations in a year. The term ‘Earth Rotation’ refers to the spinning of our planet on its axis, with an equatorial speed of 1040 miles per hour (about 465 meter per second or slightly over 1675 km per hour). One rotation takes twenty-four hours (23.93 hour) and is called a mean solar day. The Earth’s rotation is responsible for the daily cycles of day and night. At any moment in time, one half of the Earth is in sunlight, while the other half is in darkness.
 
The Earth and all other celestial bodies in the Solar System are constantly moving. Rotation, precession and revolution of Earth are directly responsible for seasonal variations in a year. The term ‘Earth Rotation’ refers to the spinning of our planet on its axis, with an equatorial speed of 1040 miles per hour (about 465 meter per second or slightly over 1675 km per hour). One rotation takes twenty-four hours (23.93 hour) and is called a mean solar day. The Earth’s rotation is responsible for the daily cycles of day and night. At any moment in time, one half of the Earth is in sunlight, while the other half is in darkness.
The Earth's rotation axis is not fixed in the space. The direction of the rotation axis executes a slow ‘Precession’, caused by the gravitational pull of the Sun and the Moon on the Earth. Through each 26 000-year cycle, the direction in the sky to which the axis points goes around a big circle, the radius of which covers an angle of about 23.50. This precession also has an effect on the seasons.
+
The Earth's rotation axis is not fixed in the space. The direction of the rotation axis executes a slow ‘Precession’, caused by the gravitational pull of the Sun and the Moon on the Earth. Through each 26000-year cycle, the direction in the sky to which the axis points goes around a big circle, the radius of which covers an angle of about 23.50. This precession also has an effect on the seasons.
 
The orbit of the Earth around the Sun is called an ‘Earth Revolution’. This celestial motion takes 365.26 days to complete one cycle. Further, the Earth's orbit around the Sun is not circular, but oval or elliptical. An elliptical orbit causes the Earth's distance from the Sun to vary over a year.
 
The orbit of the Earth around the Sun is called an ‘Earth Revolution’. This celestial motion takes 365.26 days to complete one cycle. Further, the Earth's orbit around the Sun is not circular, but oval or elliptical. An elliptical orbit causes the Earth's distance from the Sun to vary over a year.
  
 
The solstices, together with the equinox, are connected with the seasons. They are considered to start or separate the seasons, or fall nearer the middle. A solstice is an astronomical event that happens twice each year when the Sun’s apparent position in the sky, as viewed from Earth, reaches its northernmost or southernmost extremes. This usually happens around June 21st and December 21st. An equinox occurs twice a year, when the tilt of the Earth’s axis is inclined neither away from nor towards the Sun, the center of the Sun being in the same plane as the Earth's equator. Around the equinox, the night and day have approximately equal length and the rays of the Sun shine directly on the equator. This happens on approximately March 20th and September 22nd.
 
The solstices, together with the equinox, are connected with the seasons. They are considered to start or separate the seasons, or fall nearer the middle. A solstice is an astronomical event that happens twice each year when the Sun’s apparent position in the sky, as viewed from Earth, reaches its northernmost or southernmost extremes. This usually happens around June 21st and December 21st. An equinox occurs twice a year, when the tilt of the Earth’s axis is inclined neither away from nor towards the Sun, the center of the Sun being in the same plane as the Earth's equator. Around the equinox, the night and day have approximately equal length and the rays of the Sun shine directly on the equator. This happens on approximately March 20th and September 22nd.
 
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) designates four different seasons – winter, summer or pre-monsoon, monsoon or rainy season, and post-monsoon season.
 
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) designates four different seasons – winter, summer or pre-monsoon, monsoon or rainy season, and post-monsoon season.
 +
</div>
  
 
==== Qualities of seasons ====
 
==== Qualities of seasons ====
 +
<div style="text-align:justify;">
 +
The qualities of different seasons are to be understood in three aspects viz. [[masa]] (month), [[rashi]] (stellar constellations) and [[svarupa]] (characteristic features). The regimen prescribed for each season should be followed in mild, moderate or full degree in the succeeding order of strength of seasons. Importance is given first to the appearance of [[svarupa]] in reckoning season, then to the [[rashi]] and last to the [[masa]]. The regimen prescribed for the season should be mild or part, if only [[masa]] has commenced without commencement of [[rashi]] or [[svarupa]]; it should be moderate, if [[rashi]] has commenced, but [[svarupa]] has not yet; and regimen should in full measure if [[svarupa]] has commenced ever without [[rashi]].
  
The qualities of different seasons are to be understood in three aspects viz. masa (month), rashi (stellar constellations) and svarupa (characteristic features). The regimen prescribed for each seasons should be followed in mild, moderate or full degree in the succeeding order of strength of seasons. Importance is given first to the appearance of svarupa in reckoning season, then to the rashi and last to the masa. The regimen prescribed for the seasons should be mild or part, if only masa has commenced without commencement of rashi or svarupa; it should be moderate if rashi has commenced but svarupa has not yet; and regimen should in full measure if svarupa has commenced ever without rashi.
+
The characteristics of normal seasons have been described in terms of various environmental factors. Knowledge of these characteristics is important to differentiate between deranged (abnormal) and normal seasons so that precautions can be taken to prevent the adverse effect of abnormal season. [Su.Sa.Sutra Sthana Chapter 6]<ref name=Susruta>Sushruta. Sushruta Samhita. Edited by Jadavaji Trikamji Aacharya. 8th ed. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia;2005.</ref>
 +
</div>
  
The characters of un-deranged (normal) seasons have been described in terms of various environmental factors. Knowledge of these characters is important to differentiate between deranged (abnormal) and un-deranged (normal) seasons so that precautions can be taken to prevent the adverse effect of abnormal seasons.2
+
=== Importance of [[ritucharya]](seasonal regimen) ===
 +
<div style="text-align:justify;">
 +
One’s various type of diet leads to promotion of strength and luster only when he knows the wholesomeness according to different seasons dependent on behavior and diet.[Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 6/3]
  
==== Importance of ritucharya ====
+
If one follows the regimen as described for different seasons, he never suffers from diseases due to the aggravated [[dosha]] under the seasonal impact. [Su.Sa.Uttara Sthana 64/55]<ref name=Susruta/> [B.P Purvakhanda 5/356]<ref name=Bhavaprakash>Bhavamishra. Bhavaprakasha -Volume I. Translated from Sanskrit by K.R. Srikantha Murthy. 1st ed. Varanasi: Krishnadas academy;2000</ref>
  
One’s various type of diet leads to promotion of strength and luster only when he knows the wholesomeness according to different seasons dependent on behavior and diet.  
+
A man always becomes healthy only when he properly follows [[dinacharya]] (daily regimen), [[nishacharya]] (night regimen) and [[ritucharya]] (seasonal regimen), otherwise he will have disease. [B.P Purvakhanda 5/13]<ref name=Bhavaprakash/>
 +
</div>
  
If one follows the regimen as described for different seasons, he never suffers from diseases due to the aggravated doshas under the seasonal impact.
+
==== Basic principles of [[ritucharya]] ====
 +
<div style="text-align:justify;">
 +
#While passing through six seasons our body is bound to face different variations and accordingly it is likely to get affected if the same regimen is followed in all seasons.
 +
#The basic principle of [[ritucharya]] is to preserve the equilibrium of [[dosha]] through the concept of [[samanya]] and [[vishesha]].
 +
#Knowledge and regular observance of suitable [[ritucharya]] ([[ahara]] and [[vihara]] for different seasons) is mainly for the maintenance of health and prevention of diseases. For diseased persons [[ritucharya]] has to be modified accordingly.
 +
#The seasons are differentiated according to month, [[rashi]] and characteristics. More importance has been given to the appearance of characteristics.
 +
#Every person should take diet including all the six [[rasa]] (tastes), in each and every season; however, the indicated [[rasa]] should be taken in predominant quantity in particular season. Regular intake of all [[rasa]] is best strength promoter and regular use of any one [[rasa]] debilitates strength.
 +
#Follow the regimen carefully during [[ritusandhi]] and [[yamadamshtra]] period to live healthy.
 +
</div>
  
A man always becomes healthy only when he properly follows dinacharya (day routine), nishacharya (night routine) and ritucharya (seasonal routine) otherwise he will have disease.
+
==== Concept of [[ritusandhi]] ====
 +
<div style="text-align:justify;">
 +
The last seven days of preceding [[ritu]] and first seven days of following [[ritu]] are together known as [[ritusandhi]] (meeting of two seasons). During this period the regimen of the previous season should be discontinued gradually and those of the succeeding season adopted slowly. Particular [[padamshika krama]] (sequential regimen) has to be adopted i.e. Unhealthy things which one has become accustomed should be discontinued gradually. Similarly healthy things (food etc.) should be made use of (gradually) with intervals of one, two or three days.[Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 7/36-37]  On the other hand, if they are discontinued or adopted suddenly, diseases due to unaccustomed foods and activities develop.<ref> Vridha Vagbhata. Sutra Sthana, Cha.4 Ritucharya Adhyaya verse 21. In: Shivaprasad sharma, Editor. Ashtanga Sangraha. 3rd ed. Varanasi: Chaukhamba sanskrit series office;2012</ref> It is a significant advice, as the changeover of external environment from one season to other is very rapid, but our endogenous system needs some time for smooth change over.
  
==== Basic principles of ritucharya ====
+
====[[Yamadamshtra]] (period of increased mortality) ====
  
#While passing through six seasons our body is bound to face different variations and accordingly it is likely to get affected if the same routine is followed in all seasons.
+
The duration of last eight days of [[Kartika]] month and first eight days of [[Margashirsha]] month is termed as [[yamadamshtra]]. It is advised to take little food during this period for healthy living otherwise it may be fatal.<ref> Parasuram Shasthri, Sharangadhara Samhita, Purva Khand,Chap. 2, Bhaishajyakhyanakam, verse 30, In: Parasuram Shasthri, Editor. Sharangadhara Samhita.3rd ed. Varanasi: Choukhamba Orientalia;1983. </ref>
#The basic principle of ritucharya is to preserve the equilibrium of dosha through the concept of samanya and vishesha.
+
</div>
#Knowledge and regular observance of suitable ritucharya (ahara and vihara for different seasons) is mainly for the maintenance of health and prevention of diseases. For diseased persons rituhcarya has to be modified accordingly.  
 
#The seasons are differentiated according to month, rashi and characteristics. More importance has been given to the appearance of characteristics.
 
#Every person should take diet including all the six rasa (tastes), in each and every season; however, the indicated rasa should be taken in predominant quantity in particular season. Regular intake of all rasa is best strength promoter and regular use of any one rasa debilitates strength.  
 
#Follow the regimen carefully during ritusandhi and yamadamshtra period to live healthy.
 
  
==== Dosha - rasa relationship ====
+
=== Concept of [[satmya]] and [[okasatmya]] ===
 +
<div style="text-align:justify;">
 +
[[Satmya]] means any substance or behavior which is suitable and beneficial to the self. [[Satmya]] being used constantly has wholesome effect. It is divided into two types:
 +
#''Prakritisatmya''
 +
#''Abhyasasatmya''
 +
##''Prakritisatmya'' is also called as ''ajanmasatmya''<ref> Arunadatta, Vagbhata. Sutra Sthana, Cha.10 Rasabediya Adhyaya verse 7. In: Harishastri Paradkar Vaidya, Editors. Ashtanga Hridayam. 1st ed. Varanasi: Krishnadas Academy;2000.</ref> i.e. the [[satmya]] since birth, like [[madhura]] [[rasa]].
 +
##''Abhyasasatmya'' includes four types of [[satmya]], i.e. vyadhisatmya, deshasatmya, okasatmya'' and ''ritusatmya''.
 +
###''Vyadhisatmya'': Adaptation to a disease. There are things which cannot be taken in normal health but have to be tolerated during the period when a person falls sick. It is also called ''amayasatmya'' or ''rogasatmya''.
 +
###''Deshasatmya'': Adaptation to locality or country. There are many things which may be used constantly at a particular place in a particular time but may not be in practice at a different place in same time.
 +
###[[Okasatmya]] (Acquired adaptation): Anything such as a poisonous or an intoxicating thing or habit which if resorted to is capable of producing deleterious or injurious effect upon ones health. If taken bit by bit, by an individual continuously it loses its grip to produce deleterious or injurious effect and keeps the individual in normal health, it then becomes [[okasatmya]] to the user. This is not only true for poisonous things. Sometimes particular way of living is injurious to one’s health in a particular season but if continues that habit it will lose its power to produce harmful effect. This is one of the reason why all the individuals not affected by seasonal diseases in spite of not following seasonal regimen.
 +
###''Ritusatmya'': Seasonal adaptation has been described in the [[ritucharya]] (seasonal regimen), which is dependent upon [[ahara]] (food articles) and [[vihara]] (lifestyle).
 +
</div>
  
Different rasas present in our food have direct effect on three doshas. Madhura, amla and lavana rasa alleviate vata and aggravate kapha dosha. Tikta, katu and kashya rasa alleviate kapha and aggravate vata. pitta dosha get alleviated by kashya, tikta and madhura rasa, where as pitta aggravating rasa are amla, lavana, katu.
+
=== Seasonal Regimens ===
 +
 
 +
===== [[Hemanta]] [[ritucharya]] (Regimen for Early winter) =====
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|-
 +
! !! [[Ahara]] (diet) !! [[Vihara]] (lifestyle)
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Indicated
 +
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Amla]](sour), [[Lavana]](salty), [[Madhura]](sweet), [[Guru]] (heavy in digestion) and [[Snigdha]] [[dravya]](unctuous food), new rice and wheat, fats and oils, black gram and its products, milk and its products, sugarcane products, warm water, honey, [[anupa]] (meat of animals of marshy land) and [[audaka]]  mamsa (meat of aquatic animals), liquor
 +
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | protection from cold by warm clothes and beddings, Living in warm house, regular use of shoes, bathing with warm water, [[abhyanga]] (therapeutic massage), [[utsadana]] (powder massage), [[vyayama]] ( physical exercise), [[atapa sevana]](exposing body to sun light), intercourse
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Contraindicated
 +
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Laghu]] (light in digestion) and [[vata]] provoking [[dravya]], pramitahara(food in proper quantity), [[udamantha]]( groat)
 +
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Divasvapna]] (sleeping in day time), direct air
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
==== Concept of ritu sandhi ====
+
==== [[Shishira]] [[ritucharya]] (Regimen for Late winter) ====
 +
<div style="text-align:justify;">
 +
[[Hemanta]] and [[shishira]] are similar with the slight difference in that the latter has more roughness due to beginning of [[Adana]] and cold due to clouds, winds and rains. Hence the entire routine of living prescribed for [[Hemanta]] is to be followed in [[Shishira]] also. During [[Shishira]], one should specially live in warmer settings and protect oneself from direct air. Avoid [[katu]](pungent), [[tikta]] (bitter), [[kashaya]](astringent), [[laghu]](light to digest), [[sheeta]] (cold) and [[vata]] provoking food and drinks.
 +
</div>
  
The last seven days of preceding ritu and first seven days of following ritu are together known as ritusandhi (meeting of two seasons). During this period the regimen of the previous season should be discontinued gradually and those of the succeeding season adopted slowly. Particular padamshika krama has to be adopted i.e. Unhealthy things which one has become accustomed should be discontinued gradually (quarter by quarter, say). Similarly healthy things (food etc) should be made use of (gradually) with intervals of one, two or three days.8 On the other hand, if they are discontinued or adopted suddenly, diseases due to unaccustomed foods and activities develop.9 It is a significant advice, as the changeover of external environment from one season to other is very rapid, but our endogenous system needs some time for smooth change over.
+
==== [[Vasanta]] [[ritucharya]] (Regimen for Spring) ====
  
The duration of last eight days of Kartika and first eight days of Magha is termed as “yamadamshtra". It is advised to take little food during this period for healthy living otherwise it may be fatal.10
+
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|-
 +
! !! [[Ahara]] (diet) !! [[Vihara]] (lifestyle)
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Indicated
 +
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | food articles  having  taste like [[katu]](pungent), [[tikta]](bitter) and [[kasaya]](astringent), [[ruksha]](ununctous), [[laghu]] (light in digestion) and [[ushna]] [[dravya]](hot substances) , old wheat, rice and barley, water medicated with ginger, [[khadira]](acacia catechu,Linn), ''Musta''(cyperus rotundus Linn) and Honey; [[Jangala Mamsa]]( meat of terrestrial animals), Liquor
 +
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[kavala]] (medicated gargling), [[anjana]](application of collyrium), [[dhumapana]](medicated smoking), [[vyayama]], [[udvartana]], application of chandana and aguru , sexual intercourse, [[vamana]]( therapeutic emesis) and [[nasya]](nasal errhines)
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Contra-indicated
 +
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[Madhura]](sweet), [[amla]](sour), [[guru]]( heavy in digestion), [[snigdha]] and [[sheeta]](cold) [[dravya]], curd
 +
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | direct sunlight, [[divasvapna]]( day sleep), sleeping under dew
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
==== Concept of satmya and okasatmya ====
+
==== [[Grishma]] [[ritucharya]] (Regimen for Summer) ====
  
Satmya means any substance or behavior which is suitable and beneficial to the self. Satmya being used constantly has wholesome effect. It is divided into two types:
+
{| class="wikitable"
#Prakritisatmya
+
|-
#Abhyasasatmya
+
! !! [[Ahara]] (diet) !! [[Vihara]] (regimen)
##Prakritisatmya is also called as ajanmasatmya i.e. the satmya since birth, like madhura rasa.
+
|-
##Abhyasasatmya includes four types of satmya, i.e. vyadhisatmya, deshasatmya, okasatmya and ritusatmya.
+
! rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Indicated
###Vyadhisatmya: Adaptation to a disease. There are things which cannot be taken in normal health but have to be tolerated during the period when a person falls sick. It is also called amayasatmya or rogasatmya.
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[madhura]], [[drava]], [[sheeta]], [[laghu]] and [[snigdha]] [[dravya, [[mantha]] with sugar, rice, ghee, milk, [[shali]] rice, [[Jangala Mamsa]] (meat of terrestrial animals)
###Deshasatmya: Adaptation to locality or country. There are many things which may be used constantly at a particular place in a particular time but may not be in practice at a different place in same time.
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[divasvapna]], living and sleeping in cold place, protection from heat, bathing with cold water, local application of chandana , wearing of light clothes
###Okasatmya: Acquired adaptation. Anything such as a poisonous or an intoxicating thing or habit which if resorted to is capable of producing deleterious or injurious effect upon ones health. If taken bit by bit, by an individual continuously it loses its grip to produce deleterious or injurious effect and keeps the individual in normal health, it then becomes oka-satmya to the user. This is not only true for poisonous things. Sometimes particular way of living is injurious to one’s health in a particular season but if continues that habit it will lose its power to produce harmful effect. This is one of the reason why all the individuals not affected by seasonal diseases in spite of not following seasonal regimen.
+
|-
###Ritusatmya: Seasonal adaptation has been described in the ritucharya (seasonal regimen), which is dependent upon ahara (food articles) and vihara (behavior).
+
! rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Contra-indicated
 +
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[lavana]], [[amla]], [[katu]] and [[ushna]] [[dravya]], curd, liquor                                                                                         
 +
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[vyayama]], [[atapa sevana]], sexual intercourse
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
==== Charya / Regimen of different Seasons ====
+
==== [[Varsha]] [[ritucharya]] (Regimen for Rainy season) ====
  
===== Hemanta ritucharya (Dietetics and Regimen for Early winter) =====
 
  
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|-
 
|-
! !! Ahara (diet) !! Vihara (regimen)  
+
! !! [[Ahara]] (diet) !! [[Vihara]] (regimen)  
 
|-
 
|-
! rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Grahya
+
! rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Indicated
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | amla(sour) lavana(salty), madhura(sweet), guru (heavy in digestion) and snigdha dravya(unctuous food), new rice and wheat, fats and oils, black gram and its products, milk and its products, sugarcane products, warm water, honey, anupa (animals of marshy land) and audaka  mansa (meat of aquatic animals), liquor
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[madhura]], [[amla]], [[lavana]], [[snigdha]] and [[ushna]] [[dravya]], old wheat, rice and barley, gruel prepared with pulses, Food and drinks with honey, boiled and cold water, jangala mamsa, liquor
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | protection from cold by warm cloths and beddings, Living in warm house, regular use of shoes, bathing with warm water, abhyanga (oil massage), utsadana (powder massage), vyayama ( physical exercise), atapa sevana(exposing body to sun light), Intercourse
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | living in dry place, wearing of light clothes, [[pragharshana]], [[udvartana]], [[basti]], [[virechana]], [[vamana]], Use of flowers and perfume
 
|-
 
|-
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Pitta
+
! rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Contra-indicated
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Varsha (Monsoon/Rainy)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[ruksha]] and ati-[[drava]] [[dravya]] (excessive water), [[udamantha]] (groat), river water                                           
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Sharad (Autumn)
+
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[divasvapna]] (day sleep), [[vyayama]] (physical exercise) living under dew, eastern wind, excessive sunlight exposure, intercourse
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Hemanta (Winter)
 
|-
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Kapha
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Shishira (Late Winter)
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Vasanta (Spring)
 
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Grishma (Summer)
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
===== Shishira ritucharya (Dietetics and Regimen for Late winter) =====
+
==== [[Sharada]] [[ritucharya]] (Regimen for Autumn) ====
  
Hemanta and shishira are similar with the slight difference in that the latter has more roughness due to beginning of adana and cold due to clouds, winds and rains. Hence the entire routine of living prescribed for hemanta is to be followed in shishira also. During shishira, one should specially live in warmer settings and protect oneself from direct air. Avoid katu, tikta, kashaya, laghu, sheeta and vatala food and drinks.
 
Vasanta ritucharya (Dietetics and Regimen for Spring)
 
Ahara Vihara
 
Grahya (suitable) – food articles  having  taste like  katu(pungent), tikta(bitter ) and kasaya(astringent), ruksha(ununctous), laghu (light in digestion) and ushna dravya(hot substances) , old wheat, rice and barley, water medicated with ginger, khadira(acasia catechu,Linn), Musta(cyperus rotundus Linn and Honey; Jangala mansa( meat of arid animals), Liquor Grahya(suitable) - kavala dharana(medicated gargling), anjana(application of collerium), dhumapana(medicated smoking), vyayama, udvartana, chandana and aguru lepa, intercourse, vamana(emesis) and nasya(nasal medication)
 
Varjya (avoidable) – madhura(sweet), amla(sour),  guru( heavy in digestion), snigdha and shee ta ( cold)dravya, curd Varjya (avoidable) - direct sunlight, divasvapna( day sleep), sleeping under dew
 
  
===== Grishma ritucharya (Dietetics and Regimen for Summer) =====
+
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|-
 +
! !! [[Ahara]] (diet) !! [[Vihara]] (regimen)
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Indicated
 +
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[madhura]](sweet), [[tikta]](pungent) and [[kashaya]](astringent) [[dravya]], [[laghu]] (light for digestion), [[ruksha]](rough) and [[sheeta]](cold) [[dravya]], wheat, rice, barley and [[mudga]] (green gram), milk, sugar and sugarcane, [[tikta sarpi]] (ghee prepared out of bitter drugs), river water, [[Hamsodaka]], [[Jangala mamsa]](meat of arid animals)
 +
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[virechana]]( therapeutic purgation), [[raktamokshana]] (blood letting), living under moon light, wearing of flowers, pearls, clean clothes
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | Contra-indicated
 +
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[amla]](sour), [[katu]] (pungent), [[tikshana]](sharp) and [[ushna]](hot dry) [[dravya]], [[kshara]](alkaline preparations), oils and fat, curd, ginger, [[anupa]] (animals of marshy land) and [[audaka mamsa]] (aquatic animals), liquor                                               
 +
| rowspan="1" style="text-align: center;" | [[divasvapna]] (day sleep),  [[vyayama]] (physical exercise), eastern wind, living in dew, [[atapa sevana]](exposing body to sun light)
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
<div style="text-align:justify;">
  
Ahara Vihara
+
===Common diseases due to non-observance of [[ritucharya]]===
Grahya(suitable) – madhura, drava, sheeta, laghu and snigdha dravya, mantha with sugar, rice, ghee, milk, shali rice, Jangala Mansa (meat of terrestrial animals) Grahya (suitable) – divasvapna, living and sleeping in cold place, protection from heat, bathing with cold water, chandana lepa, wearing of light clothes
 
Varjya (avoidable) lavana, amla, katu and ushna dravya, curd, liquor                                                                                          Varjya (avoidable) – vyayama, atapa sevana, intercourse
 
  
 +
Many diseases described in [[Ayurveda]] have their own peculiar causes to develop in particular season, like [[jwara]], [[tamaka shvasa]], [[pratishyaya]], [[amlapitta]], [[shirahshula]], [[sandhi-shula]], [[atisara]], [[sheetapitta]], [[kushtha]] etc.
 +
# [[Jwara]] (fever) is of two types, viz., [[prakrita]] (natural) and [[vaikrita]] (unnatural) based on prognosis. On the basis of [[prakriti]] (basic constitution) of time the fever is termed as [[prakrita]] (natural). [[Kaphaja jwara]] occurs in [[vasanta]] and [[pitta]] dominant in [[sharada]] (autumn), are known as [[prakrita]]'' (normal) and are easily curable, while [[vata]] dominant [[jwara]] in [[prakrita]] season ([[pravrita]]) is not easily curable. Fever occurs in seasons other than that responsible for vitiation of the concerned [[dosha]] is known as [[Vaikrita]] (unnatural) which is troublesome. [Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 3/42]
 +
#[[Tamaka shvasa]] (bronchial asthma) is aggravated by cloudy, cold, rainy weather and easterly wind and [[kapha]] increasing factors. On the other hand warmth relieves the symptoms.
 +
#[[Pratishyaya]] (rhinitis): Seasonal irregularity is one of the causative factors of [[pratishyaya]].[Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/104]  Thus [[pratishyaya]] can occur in any season if we do not follow seasonal regimen and especially in exposure to too much of cold.
 +
#[[Amlapitta]] (acid peptic disorder) is prevalent in rainy season because of natural accumulation of [[pitta]] in rainy season. Indulgence in foods which are incompatible, spoiled, very sour, causing burning sensation in epigastrium cause increase of [[pitta]] to produce [[amlapitta]], in persons in whom [[pitta]] has already increased. [M.N 51/1]<ref name=Madava>Madhavakara. Madhava Nidanam (Roga vinischaya). Translated from Sanskrit by K. R. Srikantha Murthy. 8th ed. Varanasi: Chaukhambha orientalia;2007</ref>
 +
#[[Shirahshula]] (headache) is a common feature of all types of [[shiroroga]] and is of three types:
 +
##[[Vata]] dominant [[shiroroga]]:
 +
###Aggravating factors: Cold season; Rainy season and cloudy days
 +
###Relieving factors: Hot season, clear and shiny sky i.e. cloud free days
 +
## [[Pitta]] dominant [[shiroroga]]:
 +
###Aggravating factors: Hot season, Intake of hot food
 +
###Relieving factors: Cold season
 +
##[[Kapha]] dominant [[shiroroga]]:
 +
###Aggravating factors: Vasanta season, cold season
 +
###Relieving factors: Hot season
 +
#[[Shula]] (pain)
 +
##[[Vata]] dominant [[shula]]: [[Vata]] dominant [[shula]] especially gets exacerbated after digestion of food, in the evening time, at the end of night, during cloudy and rainy days, in cold climate, and due to direct and eastern wind exposure.[M.N 26/4]<ref name=Madava/>  [Su.Sa.Sutra Sthana 21/20]<ref name=Susruta/> It gets relieved by [[swedana]](sudation), [[abhyanga]](oil massage), [[mardana]](massage), unctuous, and hot food items. On the basis of site of the [[vata]], the different sites are affected.
 +
##[[Pitta]] dominant [[shula]]: It gets exacerbated during mid day, mid night, at the time of digestion of food, and during [[sharada]] [[ritu]]. It gets relieved by cold season, cold and [[madhura]] food. [M.N 26/8]<ref name=Madava/>
 +
##[[Kapha]] dominant [[shula]]: This type of pain gets exacerbated just after intake of food, during early morning, at the beginning of night, and during [[shishira]] and [[vasanta]] seasons. [M.N 26/10]<ref name=Madava/>
 +
#[[Atisara]] (diarrhea): [[Rituviparyaya]] (any deviation from seasonal regimen) is an important cause of [[atisara]] .[Su.Sa.Uttara Sthana 40/4]<ref name=Susruta/>
 +
#[[Sheetapitta]] (urticaria): Exposure to cold air aggravates [[kapha]] and [[vata]] [[dosha]], and along with [[pitta]] cause [[sheetapitta]]. It increases during rainy and winter seasons and especially in [[shishira]] [[ritu]]. [M.N 50/1]<ref name=Madava/>
 +
#[[Kushtha]] (skin diseases): The first important cause of [[kushtha]] is [[viruddha anna-pana]] (intake of antagonistic food), which includes [[kala viruddha]] also for e.g. during hot season intake of [[katu]] and hot variety of foods and during cold season [[ruksha]] (rough) and [[sheeta]] (cold) foods are [[kala]] [[viruddha]]. [Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/4-8]
 +
</div>
  
===== Varsha ritucharya (Dietetics and Regimen for Rainy season) =====
+
=== Effect of seasonal changes on health ===
 +
<div style="text-align:justify;">
 +
Various researches have proved the direct relation of seasonal variation on physiological and pathological changes in body: 
 +
*Climate change has a profound effect on human health and well-being. The impact of climate change on human well-being goes beyond mortality; even birth rates and sperm counts appear to be affected by meteorological phenomenon.,<ref> Calot and Blayo, 1982 </ref> <ref> Tjoa et al, 1982 </ref> <ref> White and Hertz, 1985 </ref>
 +
*Morbidity attributed to pneumonia, influenza, bronchitis, and probably many other illnesses are also weather-related.<ref>  White et al, 1985  </ref>
 +
*Medical disorders such as bronchitis, peptic ulcer, adrenal ulcer, glaucoma, goiter, eczema, and herpes zoster are related to seasonal variations in temperature.<ref> Tromp, 1963 </ref>
 +
*A Canadian Climate Center study (1981) found that migraines were most likely to occur on days with falling pressure, rising humidity, high winds, and rapid temperature fluctuations.
 +
*Weather has an important influence on morbidity in the winter because cold, dry air leads to excessive dehydration of nasal passages and upper respiratory tract, and increased chance of microbial and viral infection. In general, total mortality is about 15% higher on an average winter day than on an average summer day, according to National Center for Health Statistics, 1978.
 +
*Mortality rate during heat waves increases with age.<ref> Oechsli et al, 1970 </ref> <ref> Buechley et al, 1972 </ref> The elderly seem to suffer from impaired physiological responses and often are unable to increase their cardiac output sufficiently during extremely hot weather.<ref> Sprung C.L., 1979  </ref>
 +
*It was noted that men who had taken bath in 15 degree Celcius water for one-half hour over nine consecutive days before a trip to the Arctic showed less signs of cold-induced stress than non-treated men. It indicates that adaptation to cold temperatures can occur through repeated exposures. <ref> Radomski MW, Boutelier C. Hormone response of normal and intermittent cold-preadapted humans to continuous cold. J Appl Physiol Respir Environ Exerc Physiol. 1982;53(3):610‐616. doi:10.1152/jappl.1982.53.3.610 </ref>
 +
*To a great extent, the seasonal changes in the immune system are controlled by changes in the levels of various hormones, particularly melatonin. Serum levels of melatonin were found to be highest in the winter months in both normal individuals and SLE patients.<ref> Nelson et al., 2000 </ref> There is natural increase in ''bala'' (strength/immunity) of individuals during winter i.e. [[hemanta]] and [[shishira]] [[ritu]].
 +
*Striking seasonal variations have been demonstrated in the plasma and saliva levels of the glucocorticoid, cortisol, which promotes carbohydrate metabolism. The lowest levels of cortisol were found in healthy individuals during spring and summer, while the highest levels were found during autumn and winter seasons.<ref>  Walker et al, 1997 </ref>
 +
*''Agni'' (digestive power) of individuals is strong during winter i.e. [[hemanta]] and [[shishira]] [[ritu]], and weakest during [[grishma]] and [[varsha]] [[ritu]].
 +
*Rheumatic diseases vary in severity by season. The incidence of acute gouty attacks (an inflammatory arthritis) is highest in the spring season.<ref> Schlesinger N et al., 1998 </ref> Schlesinger N.et al. (2009) explained in his paper “Seasonal Variation of Rheumatic Diseases” that seasonal variation has been shown in a number of rheumatic diseases.<ref> Schlesinger N et al, 2009 </ref>
 +
*Coronary artery disease shows a winter peak and summer trough in incidence and mortality.<ref> Sher L., 2001 </ref> Leo Sher also proposed that seasonal mood changes may contribute to the increased incidence and mortality of coronary artery disease in winter. Depression is associated with increased incidence, morbidity, and mortality of coronary artery disease.
 +
*“Seasonal affective disorder” is a condition where depression in the winter and fall alternate with non-depressive periods in the spring and summer. The degree to which seasonal changes affect mood, energy, sleep, appetite, food preference, or the wish to socialize with other people has been called "seasonality." Recent studies have demonstrated that seasonal mood changes are related to the genetic factors. It means that people may have genetically‐determined sensitivity to seasons.   
 +
*Jaiswal et al, 2011, in a clinical survey<ref> Jaiswal Rahul et al, 2011 </ref> found a significant relation between seasonal variation and prevalence of some diseases viz. [[jwara]] (viral fever), [[amlapitta]] (acid peptic disorders), [[tamaka shvasa]] (bronchial asthma), [[pratishyaya]] (rhinitis) and [[shirashula]] ([[pitta]] dominant [[shirashula]] and [[ardhavabhedaka]], migraine). They also observed that there is seasonal variation in the state of [[agni]] and [[bala]] (strength) of the person, as stated by our ancient seers.
 +
*Nathani et al, 2013, in a clinical research<ref> Nathani Neeru et al, 2013 </ref> found that maximum number of patients of [[tamaka shvasa]] (bronchial asthma) were registered in winter seasons ([[hemanta]] and [[shishira]]), [[vasanta]] and [[varsha]]. These seasons were the predominant period of asthma attack in majority of cases. In maximum number of cases the attack of [[tamaka shvasa]] gets precipitated by intake of [[kapha]] and [[vata]] vitiating [[sheeta]], [[guru]], [[madhura]] and [[amla]] [[rasa]] predominant [[ahara]] like ice-cream, cold drink, cold water, fruit juices, curd, sweets, rice, pickle, salad with lemon etc. in all seasons.
  
Ahara Vihara
+
== Research on Hamsoadaka ==
Grahya (suitable) - madhura, amla, lavana,  snigdha and ushna dravya, old wheat, rice and barley, gruel prepared with pulses, Food and drinks with honey, boiled and cold water, jangala mansa, liquor Grahya (suitable) - living in dry place, wearing of light clothes, pragharshana, udvartana, basti, virechana, vamana, Use of flowers and perfume
 
Varjya (avoidable) – ruksha and ati-drava dravya (excessive water), udamantha (groat), river water Varjya (avoidable) – divasvapna (day sleep) vyayama (physical exercise) living under dew, eastern wind, excessive sunlight exposure, intercourse
 
  
===== Sharad ritucharya (Dietetics and Regimen for Autumn) =====
+
A research was conducted with the objective of revalidating the principle of checking the purity of hansodaka. Physico-chemical and microbiological analysis of water during the rise of the Canopus star in the autumn season in different water reservoirs was carried out. In 2015, two litres of water was collected in sterilized glass bottles from water reservoirs, Rakkaskoppa and Fort Lake. In 2016, water samples were collected from Jamboti water. Physico-chemical and microbiological analyses were done at three different periods, like before 15 days of rise of Canopus star, during rise of Canopus star and after 15 days of rise of Canopus star.The physico chemical analysis of water during Canopus star showed that the values of pH, total alkalinity, CaCO3, sulphates, chlorides, biological oxygen demand level were decreased. A reduction in microbiological bacterial count was observed but no changes were noted with fungal count. From these results, it can be interpreted that there was a positive effect of Canopus star on the purification of water, physico chemical and microbiological parameters.However,the results may vary on the level of contamination and environmental conditions.<ref>Savita Sajjan,Vedantam Giridhar.A Novel Study on Physico Chemical and Microbiological Analysis of Water
 +
During Rise of Agastya Nakshatra (Canopus Star) in Autumn Season.RJAS,2021;8(2):35-40</ref>
 +
</div>
  
Ahara Vihara
+
<big>'''[[Special:ContactMe|Send us your suggestions and feedback on this page.]]'''</big>
Grahya (suitable) – madhura(sweet), tikta(pungent) and kashya(astringent) dravya, laghu (light for digestion), ruksha(rough) and sheeta(cold) dravya, wheat, rice, barley and mudga (green gram), milk, sugar and sugarcane, tikta sarpi (ghee prepared out of bitter drugs), river water, Hansodaka, JÁngala mÁnsa(meat of arid animals) Grahya (suitable)- virechana(medical purgation), raktamokshana (bloodletting), living under moon light, wearing of flowers, pearls, clean clothes
 
Varjya( avoidable) – amla(sour), katu (pungent), tikshana(sharp) and ushna(hot dry) dravya, kshara(alkaline preparations), oils and fat, curd, ginger, anupa (animals of marshy land) and audaka mansa (aquatic animals), liquor Varjya(avoidable) – divasvapna (day sleep),  vyayama (physical exercise), eastern wind, living in dew, atapa sevana(exposing body to sun light)
 
 
 
• Common Diseases due to Non-observance of ritucarya
 
Many diseases described in Ayurveda have their own peculiar causes to develop in particular season, like jwara, tamaka shvasa, pratishyaya, amlapitta, siraíshula, sandhi-shula, atisara, sheetapitta, kushtha etc.
 
1. Jwara (fever)
 
Jwara (fever) is of two types, viz., prakrita (natural) and vaikrita (unnatural) based on prognosis. On the basis of prakriti (nature) of time the fever is termed as prakrita (natural). Kaphaja jwara occurs in vasanta and pittaja in sharada (autumn), are known as prakrita (normal) and are easily curable, while vatika jwara in prakrita season (pravrita) is not easily curable. Fever occurs in seasons other than that responsible for vitiation of the concerned dosha is known as “Vaikritua” (unnatural) which is troublesome.12 
 
2. Tamaka shvasa (bronchial asthma)
 
Tamaka shvasa is aggravated by cloudy, cold, rainy weather and easterly wind and kapha increasing factors. On the other hand warmth relieves the symptoms.
 
3. Pratishyaya (rhinitis)
 
Seasonal irregularity is one of the causative factors of pratishyaya.16
 
Thus pratishyaya can occur in any season if we do not follow seasonal regimen and especially in exposure to too much of cold.
 
4. Amlapitta (acid peptic disorders)
 
Amlapitta is prevalent in rainy season because natural accumulation of pitta in rainy season. Indulgence in foods which are incompatible, spoiled, very sour, causing burning sensation in epigastrium cause increase of pitta to produce amlapitta, in persons in whom pitta has already increased.17
 
5. Shirashula (headache)
 
Headache is a common feature of all types of shiroroga and is of three types:
 
Vatika shiroroga:
 
Aggravating factors: Cold season; Rainy season and cloudy days
 
Relieving factors: Hot season, clear and shiny sky i.e. cloud free days
 
Paittika shiroroga:
 
Aggravating factors: Hot season, Intake of hot food
 
Relieving factors: Cold season
 
Kaphaja shiroroga:
 
Aggravating factors: Vasanta season, cold season
 
Relieving factors: Hot season
 
6. Shula (pain)
 
a. Vatika shula
 
Vatika shula especially gets exacerbated after digestion of food, in the evening time, at the end of night, during cloudy and rainy days, in cold climate, and due to direct and eastern wind exposure.18,19 It gets relieved by svedana(sudation), abhyanga(oil massage), mardana(massage), unctuous, and hot food items.
 
On the basis of site the vatika shula may be termed as janusandhigata shula (Osteo arthritis of knee), kati shula (low backache), prushthagata vatika shula(backache), and trikagata vatika shula (pain in pelvic bones) etc.
 
b. Paittika shula
 
            It gets exacerbated during mid day, mid night, at the time of digestion of food, and during sharad ritu. It gets relieved by cold season, cold and madhura food.20
 
c. Kaphaja shula
 
          This type of pain gets exacerbated just after intake of food, during early morning, at the beginning of night, and during shishira and vasanta seasons.21
 
7. Atisara (diarrhoea)
 
Rituviparyaya (any deviation from seasonal regimen) is the main cause of atisara .22
 
8. Sheetapitta (urticaria)     
 
Exposure to cold air aggravates kapha and vata dosha, and along with pitta cause sheetapitta. It increases during rainy and winter seasons and especially in shishir ritu.23
 
9. Kushtha (skin diseases)
 
The first important cause of kushtha is viruddha anna-pana (intake of antagonistic food), which includes kala viruddha also for e.g. during hot season intake of katu and hot variety of foods and during cold season ruksha (rough) and sheeta (cold) foods are kala viruddha.24
 
• Effect of seasonal changes on health
 
Various researches have proved the direct relation of seasonal variation on physiological and pathological changes in body: 
 
Climate change has a profound effect on human health and well-being. The impact of climate change on human well-being goes beyond mortality; even birth rates and sperm counts appear to be affected by meteorological phenomenon.25,26,27
 
Morbidity attributed to pneumonia, influenza, bronchitis, and probably many other illnesses are also weather-related.28
 
Medical disorders such as bronchitis, peptic ulcer, adrenal ulcer, glaucoma, goiter, eczema, and herpes zoster are related to seasonal variations in temperature.29
 
A Canadian Climate Center study (1981) found that migraines were most likely to occur on days with falling pressure, rising humidity, high winds, and rapid temperature fluctuations.
 
Weather has an important influence on morbidity in the winter because cold, dry air leads to excessive dehydration of nasal passages and upper respiratory tract, and increased chance of microbial and viral infection. In general, total mortality is about 15% higher on an average winter day than on an average summer day, according to National Center for Health Statistics, 1978.
 
Mortality rate during heat waves increases with age.30,31 The elderly seem to suffer from impaired physiological responses and often are unable to increase their cardiac output sufficiently during extremely hot weather.32
 
It was noted that men who had taken bath in 15oC water for one-half hour over nine consecutive days before a trip to the Arctic showed less signs of cold-induced stress than non-treated men. It indicates that adaptation to cold temperatures can occur through repeated exposures. 33
 
To a great extent, the seasonal changes in the immune system are controlled by changes in the levels of various hormones, particularly melatonin. Serum levels of melatonin were found to be highest in the winter months in both normal individuals and SLE patients.34 There is natural increase in bala (strength/immunity) of individuals during winter i.e. hemanta and shishir ritu.
 
Striking seasonal variations have been demonstrated in the plasma and saliva levels of the glucocorticoid, cortisol, which promotes carbohydrate metabolism. The lowest levels of cortisol were found in healthy individuals during spring and summer, while the highest levels were found during autumn and winter seasons.35
 
Agni (digestive power) of individuals is strong during winter i.e. hemanta and shisira ritu, and weakest during grishma and varsha ritu.
 
Rheumatic diseases vary in severity by season. The incidence of acute gouty attacks (an inflammatory arthritis) is highest in the spring season.36 Schlesinger N.et al. (2009) explained in his paper “Seasonal Variation of Rheumatic Diseases” that seasonal variation has been shown in a number of rheumatic diseases.37
 
Coronary artery disease shows a winter peak and summer trough in incidence and mortality.38 Leo Sher also proposed that seasonal mood changes may contribute to the increased incidence and mortality of coronary artery disease in winter. Depression is associated with increased incidence, morbidity, and mortality of coronary artery disease.
 
“Seasonal affective disorder” is a condition where depression in the winter and fall alternate with non-depressive periods in the spring and summer. The degree to which seasonal changes affect mood, energy, sleep, appetite, food preference, or the wish to socialize with other people has been called "seasonality." Recent studies have demonstrated that seasonal mood changes are related to the genetic factors. It means that people may have genetically‐determined sensitivity to seasons.     
 
Jaiswal Rahul et al, 2011, in a clinical survey39 found a significant relation between seasonal variation and prevalence of some diseases viz. jwara (viral fever), amlapitta (acid peptic disorders), tamaka shvasa (bronchial asthma), pratishyaya (rhinitis) and sirashula (pittaja sirashula and ardhavabhedaka – migraine). They also observed that there is seasonal variation in the state of agni and bala strength) of the person, as stated by our ancient seers.
 
Nathani Neeru et al, 2013, in a clinical research40 found that maximum number of patients of tamaka shvasa (bronchial asthma) were registered in winter seasons (hemanta and sishira), vasanta and varsha. These seasons were the predominant period of asthma attack in majority of cases. In maximum number of cases the attack of tamaka shvasa gets precipitated by intake of kapha and vata vitiating sheeta, guru, madhura and amla rasa predominant ahara like ice-cream, cold drink, cold water, fruit juices, curd, sweets, rice, pickle, salad with lemon etc. in all seasons. Out of 140 cases about half were observing ritucarya occasionally and less number of cases were found to adhere with ritucarya regularly. About two-third cases were bathing with cold water in winters and less number of cases were in the habit of daily head bath.
 
This clinical study based on subjective parameters revealed that in patients of group A (treated with modern drug) and in group B (treated with modern drug along with observance of proper ritucarya of different seasons, highly significant improvement was observed in all symptoms. On intergroup comparison (Chi-square test) patients of group B showed significant rate of improvement in many symptoms like dyspnea, wheezing, cough, rhinorrhea, and frequency of attack and duration of attack. Inter group comparison between group A and B (unpaired t test) had shown statistically significant increase in FVC, FEV1 and PEFR of group B cases as compared to the patients of group A at different follow-ups. These finding suggest that ritucarya has a definite additive effect along with standard drug therapy in the treatment of tamaka shasa (bronchial asthma).
 
  
References
+
== References ==
1. Ch.Su. 12
+
<references/>
2. S.Su. 6
 
3. Ca.Su. 6/3
 
4. Su.Ut. 64/55
 
5. BhÁ. Pra. 5/356
 
6. BhÁ. Pra. 5/13
 
7. A.S.Su. 1/36
 
8. C.Su. 7/36-37
 
9. A.S.Su. 4/61
 
10. Sh.Pu. 2/30
 
11. A.H.Su. 10/7
 
12. C.Ci. 3/42
 
13. C.Ci. 17/61
 
14. S.Ut. 51/8
 
15. S.Ut. 24/3
 
16. C.Ci. 26/104
 
17. M.Ni. 51/1
 
18. M.Ni. 26/4
 
19. S.Su. 21/20
 
20. M.Ni. 26/8
 
21. M.Ni. 26/10
 
22. S.Ut. 40/4
 
23. M.Ni. 50/1
 
24. C. Ci. 7/4-8
 
25. Calot and Blayo, 1982
 
26. Tjoa et al, 1982
 
27. White and Hertz, 1985
 
28. White et al, 1985
 
29. Tromp, 1963 
 
30. Oechsli et al, 1970
 
31. Buechley et al, 1972
 
32. Sprung C.L., 1979
 
33. Radomski and Boutelier, 1982
 
34. Nelson et al., 2000 
 
35. Walker et al, 1997
 
36. Schlesinger N et al., 1998
 
37. Schlesinger N et al, 2009
 
38. Sher L., 2001
 
39. Jaiswal Rahul et al, 2011
 
40. Nathani Neeru et al, 2013
 
  
Glossary
+
</div>
1. Abhya¿ga - rubbing with unctuous substance, inunctions
+
<div id="BackToTop"  class="noprint" style="background-color:#DDEFDD; position:fixed;
2. AÐana - eating, food
+
bottom:32px; left:2%; z-index:9999; padding:0; margin:0;"><span style="color:blue;
3. AÐita - eaten, the place where anybody has eaten
+
font-size:8pt; font-face:verdana,sans-serif;  border:0.2em outset #ceebf7;
4. Atra - in this respect, in this place , in this manner, at this time
+
padding:0.1em; font-weight:bolder; -moz-border-radius:8px; ">
5. Audaka - living or growing in water, relating to water, aquatic
+
[[#top| Back to the Top ]]</span></div>
6. Audbhid - breaking through the Earth
 
7. AvagÁhana – immersion, bathing
 
8. AvaÐyÁya - dew, hoar-frost
 
9. ÀdÁna - taking, receiving, taking away or off, obtaining, a cause of disease
 
10. Àdhya - to be eaten, edible, food, grain
 
11. Àgneya - belonging or relating to fire or Agni
 
12. ÀnÚpa - belonging to a watery place, marshy places or animals
 
13. Bhavat - being, present
 
14. BhªtÁ - borne, carried, gained, acquired, filled, full of
 
15. CaryÁ - to be practiced
 
16. CeÒtÁ - gesture, manner of life, behavior, action, endeavor, manner of performing
 
17. Harmya - a large house
 
18. JÁÉgala - rid, wild, sparingly grown with trees and plants
 
19. JentÁka - dry hot bath
 
20. Kleda - dampness, wetness, moisture
 
21. PrÁgvÁta - easterly wind
 
22. PraÐasta - considered fit or good, more excellent, auspicious, happy, praised
 
23. ©tu - Season, an epoch, any settled point of time, period or division of the year, time appointed for any action
 
24. Saumya - cool and moist, relating or belonging to soma (moon), placid, gentle, mild
 
25. SÁtmya - wholesome , agreeable to nature or natural constitution, habitual
 
26. Sevya - to be inhabited, to be followed, to be approached, to be  practiced
 
27. UdgharÒana - rubbing the skin with hard substances
 
28. Udamantha - a particular mixture in water
 
29. Udvartana - rubbing, or reducing the body with fragrant unguents
 
30. UtsÁdana - rubbing, anointing
 
31. VarÆa - lustre, outward appearance or complexion, character , nature quality, color
 
32. Visarga - giving, granting, bestowal, sending forth, voiding, liberation, emission, discharge
 
33. YÚÒa - soup, broth, the water in which pulse of various kinds has been boiled
 
34. Tasya – his, for him, of him, for that purpose
 
35. Varjya – to be excluded, avoided, given up, shunned
 

Latest revision as of 13:52, 21 February 2024

Cite.png

Sutra Sthana Chapter 6. Seasonal regimen of diet and lifestyle

Tasyashiteeya Adhyaya
Section/Chapter Sutra Sthana Chapter 6
Tetrad/Sub-section Swastha Chatushka
Preceding Chapter Matrashiteeya Adhyaya
Succeeding Chapter Naveganadharaniya Adhyaya
Other Sections Nidana Sthana, Vimana Sthana, Sharira Sthana, Indriya Sthana, Chikitsa Sthana, Kalpa Sthana, Siddhi Sthana
Translator and commentator Nathani N.
Reviewer Reddy P.S.
Editors Reddy P.S., Deole Y.S., Basisht G.
Year of publication 2020
Publisher Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre
DOI 10.47468/CSNE.2020.e01.s01.008

Abstract

This chapter describes seasonal regimen of diet and lifestyle for preservation of health. The year is divided into seasons based upon the changes in environmental conditions, temperature, day-night cycle and circadian rhythm. Being an integral unit of the nature, these seasonal changes in nature affect human physiology too. Therefore, one must follow the specific regimen for maintaining the equilibrium of body components in harmony with nature. The seasonal regimen is designed on the basis of changes in the dosha, bala (strength), and agni (digestive power). This chapter continues the study of dietary regimen from the preceding chapters by adding the dimension of time and seasonal variations to it.
Keywords: Adana kala, seasonal diet and lifestyle, regimen, ritu(season), satmya(adaptability), seasonal regimen, bala, strength in seasons, immunity, visarga kala,ecology,bio-physical environment.

Introduction

The primary objective of Ayurveda is to maintain good health. Ahara (diet) is the main basis of life, which should be taken in proper quantity and quality to maintain equilibrium and to promote strength, lustre and healthy long life. It has been observed that a person taking food even in proper quantity may suffer from diseases in different seasons. This implies that apart from the quantity of ahara (diet), the knowledge of regimen for different seasons also plays a significant role in the maintenance of health and prevention of diseases.

A person who has the knowledge of appropriate food articles and activities applicable to specific seasons and also the discipline and inclination to practice them (in accordance with those seasons) stays healthy. Whereas a person without knowledge (or with limited knowledge) of wholesome regimen for different seasons or without the discipline or temperament of following these seasonal practices is likely to suffer from various diseases. Seeking this objective, the chapter describes ahara (diet) and vihara (lifestyle) to be followed in different seasons. The way we eat, exercise, rest, sleep, think, plan, carry out our routine work, and behave with others - are collectively termed 'Lifestyle'. In Indian subcontinent, there are six seasons in the year on the basis of the position of the Sun with respect to the Earth. The qualities of different seasons need to be understood in three aspects viz. masa (month), rashi (stellar constellations) and characteristic features pertaining to the season. While prescribing regimen for different seasons, importance should be given first to the appearance of characteristic features in the prevailing season, then to the rashi and finally to the masa.

Health is a state of dynamic equilibrium between man and his environment (Loka-Purusha Samya). The moment this equilibrium gets disturbed, dosha get imbalanced to cause diseases. The basic concept of prevention and cure of diseases is based on the tridosha (collective term for vata, pitta, and kapha dosha) theory. A particular rhythmic pattern of the three dosha i.e. accumulation (sanchaya), aggravation (prakopa) and alleviation (prashama) occur in relation to six seasons, when the Sun changes from one rashi to the other. Six different tasterasa present in our food have direct effect on three dosha. Seasonal adaptation (Ritusatmya) is described under seasonal regimen (ritucharya), which is the variation in diet (ahara) and lifestyle (vihara) to balance rhythmic seasonal variations of dosha, bala, agni, and rasa etc. through the concept of samanya and vishesha. Knowledge and regular observance of suitable ritucharya (ahara and vihara for different seasons) is mainly for the maintenance of health and prevention of diseases. For diseased persons ritucharya need to be modified accordingly.

Northward movement of the Sun (Adana kala or uttarayana) includes, late winter (shishira), spring (vasanta) and summer (grishma) seasons . Southward movement of the Sun (visarga kala or dakshinayana) includes rainy (varsha), autumn (sharad) and early winter (hemanta) seasons. In these seasons, there are specific changes in atmospheric conditions which influence changes in dosha, bala (strength) and agni (digestive power). These atmospheric changes affect all living beings in the universe. Due to changes in the external environment, the tridosha pass through three different phases i.e. sanchaya (accumulation), prakopa (aggravation) and prashama (alleviation). The period of change in season is termed as ritusandhi. In this period, gradual decrease in diet and lifestyle of earlier season and gradual adaptation of the diet and lifestyle regimen of next season is advised to prevent the disorders due to change in season.

The concepts of satmya and okasatmya have been explained with respect to the adaptability. Any naturally suitable food or behavior beneficial to the self is considered as satmya. Okasatmya is anything unnatural, unacceptable and acquired habituation to food and lifestyle. Even though, it has become a habit, it should be stopped gradually.

In this fast moving era of science and technology, lifestyle change in the form of non-observance of ritucharya (seasonal regimen) is a major risk factor for increasing prevalence of various diseases. The concept of ritucharya (seasonal regimen), in terms of self-management of lifestyle should be promoted universally for health and prevention of diseases in all individuals.

Sanskrit text, Transliteration and English Translation

अथातस्तस्याशितीयमध्यायं व्याख्यास्यामः||१|| इति ह स्माह भगवानात्रेयः||२||

Athātastasyāśitīyamadhyāyaṁ vyākhyāsyāmaḥ||1|| Iti ha smāha bhagavānātrēyaḥ||2||

athAtastasyAshitIyamadhyAyaM vyAkhyAsyAmaH||1|| iti ha smAha bhagavAnAtreyaH||2||

Now we shall expound the chapter "Tasyashiteeya" (Seasonal regimen of diet and lifestyle). Thus said Lord Atreya. [1-2]

Benefits of following seasonal regimen

तस्याशिताद्यादाहाराद्बलं वर्णश्च वर्धते| यस्यर्तुसात्म्यं विदितं चेष्टाहारव्यपाश्रयम्||३||

Tasyāśitādyādāhārādbalaṁ varṇaśca vardhatē| yasyartusātmyaṁ viditaṁ cēṣṭāhāravyapāśrayam||3||

tasyAshitAdyAdAhArAdbalaM varNashca vardhate| yasyartusAtmyaM viditaM ceShTAhAravyapAshrayam||3||

The vigor and complexion is promoted in a man who knows and follows seasonal dietary and lifestyle regimen. The dietary includes various types of food articles which are eatable(ashita), chewable (khadita), drinkable (pita) and lickable (lidha).[3]

Six seasons according to (the position of the) Sun

इह खलु संवत्सरं षडङ्गमृतुविभागेन विद्यात्| तत्रादित्यस्योदगयनमादानं च त्रीनृतूञ्छिशिरादीन् ग्रीष्मान्तान् व्यवस्येत्, वर्षादीन् पुनर्हेमन्तान्तान् दक्षिणायनं विसर्गं च||४||

Iha khalu saṁvatsaraṁ ṣaḍaṅgamr̥tuvibhāgēna vidyāt| tatrādityasyōdagayanamādānaṁ ca trīnr̥tūñchiśirādīn grīṣmāntān vyavasyēt, varṣādīn punarhēmantāntāndakṣiṇāyanaṁ visargaṁ ca||4||

iha khalu saMvatsaraM ShaDa~ggamRutuvibhAgena vidyAt| tatrAdityasyodagayanamAdAnaM ca trInRutU~jchishirAdIn grIShmAntAn vyavasyet, varShAdIn punarhemantAntAn dakShiNAyanaM visargaM ca||4||

A year (samvatsara) is divided into six parts by seasons. Among them, when the Sun is in northward position to the Earth, that part of the year is called adana kala and includes three ritu starting from shishira, vasanta and grishma. When the Sun is in a position of southwards of the Earth, the period is called visarga kala and includes three ritu starting from varsha, sharad and hemanta. This segmentation of the year (by seasons) is for the purpose of swasthavritta (healthy regimen) in different seasons.[4]

Adana kala (the period with lesser strength) and visarga kala (the period with good strength)

विसर्गे पुनर्वायवो नातिरूक्षाः प्रवान्ति, इतरे पुनरादाने; सोमश्चाव्याहतबलः शिशिराभिर्भाभिरापूरयञ्जगदाप्याययति शश्वत्, अतो विसर्गः सौम्यः| आदानं पुनराग्नेयं; तावेतावर्कवायू सोमश्च कालस्वभावमार्गपरिगृहीताः कालर्तुरसदोषदेहबलनिर्वृत्तिप्रत्ययभूताःसमुपदिश्यन्ते||५||

Visargē punarvāyavō nātirūkṣāḥ pravānti, itarē punarādānē; sōmaścāvyāhatabalaḥśiśirābhirbhābhirāpūrayañjagadāpyāyayati śaśvat, atō visargaḥ saumyaḥ| Adānaṁ punarāgnēyaṁ; tāvētāvarkavāyū sōmaśca kālasvabhāvamārgaparigr̥hītāḥkālarturasadōṣadēhabalanirvr̥ttipratyayabhūtāḥ samupadiśyantē||5||

visarge punarvAyavo nAtirUkShAH pravAnti, itare punarAdAne; somashcAvyAhatabalaH shishirAbhirbhAbhirApUraya~jjagadApyAyayati shashvat, ato visargaHsaumyaH| AdAnaM punarAgneyaM; tAvetAvarkavAyU somashca kAlasvabhAvamArgaparigRuhItAH kAlarturasadoShadehabalanirvRuttipratyayabhUtAH samupadishyante||5||

In visarga kala (period of emission) the wind is not as dry as it is in adana kala. In this visarga kala the power of moon is dominant (as it is nearer to the earth), and it continuously replenishes/delights the world with its cooling rays. Hence, visarga kala is inherently soothing (saumya).

Contrary to this, adana kala is inherently hot (agneya). The Sun, wind and the Moon all are governed by time, and the path they follow in a year is responsible for different variations of kala (time), ritu (seasons), rasa (tastes), dosha and deha bala (body strength).[5]

Effect of adana kala

तत्र रविर्भाभिराददानो जगतः स्नेहं वायवस्तीव्ररूक्षाश्चोपशोषयन्तः शिशिरवसन्तग्रीष्मेषु यथाक्रमं रौक्ष्यमुत्पादयन्तो रूक्षान् रसांस्तिक्तकषायकटुकांश्चाभिवर्धयन्तो नृणां दौर्बल्यमावहन्ति||६||

Tatra ravirbhābhirādadānō jagataḥ snēhaṁ vāyavastīvrarūkṣāścōpaśōṣayantaḥ śiśiravasantagrīṣmēṣuyathākramaṁ raukṣyamutpādayantō rūkṣān rasāṁstiktakaṣāyakaṭukāṁścābhivardhayantō nr̥ṇāṁdaurbalyamāvahanti||6||

tatra ravirbhAbhirAdadAno jagataH snehaM vAyavastIvrarUkShAshcopashoShayantaH shishiravasantagrIShmeShu yathAkramaM raukShyamutpAdayanto rUkShAnrasAMstiktakaShAyakaTukAMshcAbhivardhayanto nRuNAM daurbalyamAvahanti||6||

In adana kala the Sun with its hot rays absorbs moisture from the environment. The excessively dry wind by virtue of its absorbing quality further causes dryness in shishira, vasanta, and grishma seasons progressively, leading to the predominance of tikta, kashaya, and katu rasa respectively and gradual increase of weakness in human beings during these three seasons. [6]

Effect of visarga kala

वर्षाशरद्धेमन्तेषु तु दक्षिणाभिमुखेऽर्के कालमार्गमेघवातवर्षाभिहतप्रतापे, शशिनि चाव्याहतबले, माहेन्द्रसलिलप्रशान्तसन्तापे जगति, अरूक्षा रसाः प्रवर्धन्तेऽम्ललवणमधुरा यथाक्रमं तत्र बलमुपचीयते नृणामिति||७||

Varṣāśaraddhēmantēṣu tu dakṣiṇābhimukhē'rkē kālamārgamēghavātavarṣābhihatapratāpē, śaśinicāvyāhatabalē, māhēndrasalilapraśāntasantāpē jagati, arūkṣā rasāḥ pravardhantē'mlalavaṇamadhurāyathākramaṁ tatra balamupacīyatē nr̥ṇāmiti||7||

varShAsharaddhemanteShu tu dakShiNAbhimukhe~arke kAlamArgameghavAtavarShAbhihatapratApe, shashini cAvyAhatabale, mAhendrasalilaprashAntasantApejagati, arUkShA rasAH pravardhante~amlalavaNamadhurA yathAkramaM tatra balamupacIyate nRuNAmiti||7||

In varsha, sharad and hemanta ritu, the Sun is situated in southwards position and its heat slackens due to the effect of time, its position with respect to the Earth, clouds, wind and rain. The power of the Moon is predominant. Rainwater diminishes the heating effect of nature. All of these lead to the predominance of non-dry, amla (sour), lavana (salty), and madhura (sweet) rasa respectively and gradual increase of body strength in human beings during these three seasons. [7]

Seasonal variation in strength

भवन्ति चात्र- आदावन्ते च दौर्बल्यं विसर्गादानयोर्नृणाम्| मध्ये मध्यबलं, त्वन्ते श्रेष्ठमग्रे च निर्दिशेत्||८||

Bhavanti cātra- ādāvantē ca daurbalyaṁ visargādānayōrnr̥ṇām| madhyē madhyabalaṁ, tvantē śrēṣṭhamagrē ca nirdiśēt||8||

bhavanti cAtra- AdAvante ca daurbalyaM visargAdAnayornRuNAm| madhye madhyabalaM, tvante shreShThamagre ca nirdishet||8||

In the beginning of visarga kala and at the end of adana kala, human beings on the Earth experience weakness. In the middle of these two periods, humans possess medium strength. At the end of the visarga kala and at the beginning of adana kala the strength in human beings is maximum. [8]

Diet and lifestyle guidelines in Hemanta ritu (Winter season)

Status of agni

शीते शीतानिलस्पर्शसंरुद्धो बलिनां बली| पक्ता भवति हेमन्ते मात्राद्रव्यगुरुक्षमः||९||

śītē śītānilasparśasaṁruddhō balināṁ balī| paktā bhavati hēmantē mātrādravyagurukṣamaḥ||9||

shIte shItAnilasparshasaMruddho balinAM balI| paktA bhavati hemante mAtrAdravyagurukShamaH||9||

During sheeta kala (hemanta) due to the contact of cold wind, the agni (digestive power) of strong/healthy individuals gets trapped in the body (like in a closed chamber) and becomes strong or powerful enough to digest food that is inherently heavy and excess in quantity. [9]

स यदा नेन्धनं युक्तं लभते देहजं तदा| रसं हिनस्त्यतो वायुः शीतः शीते प्रकुप्यति||१०||

sa yadā nēndhanaṁ yuktaṁ labhatē dēhajaṁ tadā| rasaṁ hinastyatō vāyuḥ śītaḥ śītē prakupyati||10||

sa yadA nendhanaM yuktaM labhate dehajaM tadA| rasaM hinastyato vAyuH shItaH shIte prakupyati||10||

If adequate food is not made available to the body, then this increased agni consumes/absorbs the rasa(the intrinsic fluids of the body). Vata having sheeta (cold) property gets vitiated in this cold season.[10]

Diet and beverages in winter season

तस्मात्तुषारसमये स्निग्धाम्ललवणान् रसान्| औदकानूपमांसानां मेद्यानामुपयोजयेत्||११||

बिलेशयानां मांसानि प्रसहानां भृतानि च| भक्षयेन्मदिरां शीधुं मधु चानुपिबेन्नरः||१२||

Tasmāttuṣārasamayē snigdhāmlalavaṇān rasān| audakānūpamāṁsānāṁ mēdyānāmupayōjayēt||11||

bilēśayānāṁ māṁsāni prasahānāṁ bhr̥tāni ca| bhakṣayēnmadirāṁ śīdhuṁ madhu cānupibēnnaraḥ||12||

tasmAttuShArasamaye snigdhAmlalavaNAn
rasAn| audakAnUpamAMsAnAM medyAnAmupayojayet||11||

bileshayAnAM mAMsAni prasahAnAM bhRutAni ca| bhakShayenmadirAM shIdhuM madhu cAnupibennaraH||12||

In the period of snowfall, unctuous, sour and salty food items should be consumed predominantly. Meat of fatty, aquatic and marshy animals should be taken. Meat of burrowing animals and roasted meat of animals that eat by snatching the prey should be consumed and after that drinking of madira and sidhu type of wines and honey is advised. [11-12]

गोरसानिक्षुविकृतीर्वसां तैलं नवौदनम्| हेमन्तेऽभ्यस्यतस्तोयमुष्णं चायुर्न हीयते||१३||

gōrasānikṣuvikr̥tīrvasāṁ tailaṁ navaudanam| hēmantē'bhyasyatastōyamuṣṇaṁ cāyurna hīyatē||13||

gorasAnikShuvikRutIrvasAM tailaM navaudanam| hemante~abhyasyatastoyamuShNaM cAyurna hIyate||13||

A person who is habituated to consuming milk products, cane sugar products, fats and oils, new rice and warm water during hemanta ritu, never sees his lifespan decrease ( i.e. these help in prevention from early aging and diseases). [13]

Lifestyle in winter season

अभ्यङ्गोत्सादनं मूर्ध्नि तैलं जेन्ताकमातपम्| भजेद्भूमिगृहं चोष्णमुष्णं गर्भगृहं तथा||१४||

abhyaṅgōtsādanaṁ mūrdhni tailaṁ jēntākamātapam| bhajēdbhūmigr̥haṁ cōṣṇamuṣṇaṁ garbhagr̥haṁ tathā||14||

abhya~ggotsAdanaM mUrdhni tailaM jentAkamAtapam| bhajedbhUmigRuhaM coShNamuShNaM garbhagRuhaM tathA||14||

In hemanta ritu,abhyanga (massage), utsadana (anointing), murdhni taila (applying oil on the head), fomentation by jentaka (a type of fomentation/sudation) method, sunbath, spending time in hot underground houses and warmer, inner rooms of the house is indicated. [14]

शीतेषु संवृतं सेव्यं यानं शयनमासनम्| प्रावाराजिनकौषेयप्रवेणीकुथकास्तृतम्||१५||

śītēṣu saṁvr̥taṁ sēvyaṁ yānaṁ śayanamāsanam| prāvārājinakauṣēyapravēṇīkuthakāstr̥tam||15||

shIteShu saMvRutaM [2] sevyaM yAnaM shayanamAsanam| prAvArAjinakauSheyapraveNIkuthakAstRutam||15||

In winter season, vehicles, beds and seats should be well covered and spread over with thick quilts, deer or tiger skins, silken sheets, gunny-cloth sheets or blankets. [15]

Guidelines for sexual health

गुरूष्णवासा दिग्धाङ्गो गुरुणाऽगुरुणा सदा| शयने प्रमदां पीनां विशालोपचितस्तनीम्||१६||

आलिङ्ग्यागुरुदिग्धाङ्गीं सुप्यात् समदमन्मथः| प्रकामं च निषेवेत मैथुनं शिशिरागमे||१७||

gurūṣṇavāsā digdhāṅgō guruṇā'guruṇā sadā| śayanē pramadāṁ pīnāṁ viśālōpacitastanīm||16||

āliṅgyāgurudigdhāṅgīṁ supyāt samadamanmathaḥ| prakāmaṁ ca niṣēvēta maithunaṁ śiśirāgamē||17||

gurUShNavAsA digdhA~ggo guruNA~aguruNA sadA| shayane pramadAM pInAM vishAlopacitastanIm||16||

Ali~ggyAgurudigdhA~ggIM supyAt samadamanmathaH| prakAmaM ca niSheveta maithunaM shishirAgame||17||

In the winter season, one should always wear thick and warm clothes and the body should be anointed with thick paste of aguru (Aquilaria agallocha Roxb) (eagle-wood). A man who has strong passion should sleep in the bed at night embracing a healthy woman having well developed, plump breasts and herself anointed with the paste of aguru. One may indeed indulge in sexual intercourse up to full satisfaction. [16-17]

Contra-indications in winter season

वर्जयेदन्नपानानि वातलानि लघूनि च| प्रवातं प्रमिताहारमुदमन्थं हिमागमे||१८||

varjayēdannapānāni vātalāni laghūni ca| pravātaṁ pramitāhāramudamanthaṁ himāgamē||18||

varjayedannapAnAni vAtalAni laghUni ca| pravAtaM pramitAhAramudamanthaM himAgame||18||

At the advent of winter season intake of food and drinks that cause vata vitiation and inherently light to digest in property, (getting exposed to) strong winds, inadequate quantities of food, and intake of diluted gruel are contraindicated. [18]

Diet and lifestyle guidelines in shishira ritu (late winter)

Characteristics of shishira ritu

हेमन्तशिशिरौ तुल्यौ शिशिरेऽल्पं विशेषणम्| रौक्ष्यमादानजं शीतं मेघमारुतवर्षजम्||१९||

hēmantaśiśirau tulyau śiśirē'lpaṁ viśēṣaṇam| raukṣyamādānajaṁ śītaṁ mēghamārutavarṣajam||19||

hemantashishirau tulyau shishire~alpaM visheShaNam| raukShyamAdAnajaM shItaM meghamArutavarShajam||19||

Hemanta and shishira seasons are almost similar in characteristics with some specific features in shishira ritu. In this season, due to the onset of adana kala, dryness increases and due to clouds, winds and rain, cold prevails. [19]

Additional care in late winter season

तस्माद्धैमन्तिकः सर्वः शिशिरे विधिरिष्यते| निवातमुष्णं त्वधिकं शिशिरे गृहमाश्रयेत्||२०||

tasmāddhaimantikaḥ sarvaḥ śiśirē vidhiriṣyatē| nivātamuṣṇaṁ tvadhikaṁ śiśirē gr̥hamāśrayēt||20||

tasmAddhaimantikaH sarvaH shishire vidhiriShyate| nivAtamuShNaM tvadhikaM shishire gRuhamAshrayet||20||

Therefore, the whole regimen advised for hemanta should also be followed in shishira ritu. In addition to that, one should specially stay in less windy and warm shelters (homes). [20]

Contra-indication in late winter

कटुतिक्तकषायाणि वातलानि लघूनि च| वर्जयेदन्नपानानि शिशिरे शीतलानि च||२१||]

kaṭutiktakaṣāyāṇi vātalāni laghūni ca| varjayēdannapānāni śiśirē śītalāni ca||21||

kaTutiktakaShAyANi vAtalAni laghUni ca| varjayedannapAnAni shishire shItalAni ca||21||

In the shishira season, food and drinks that are predominantly pungent, bitter and astringent in taste, vata vitiating, and inherently light to digest and cold in properties should be avoided. [21]

Diet and lifestyle guidelines in vasanta ritu (spring season)

Status of agni in spring

वसन्ते निचितः श्लेष्मा दिनकृद्भाभिरीरितः| कायाग्निं बाधते रोगांस्ततः प्रकुरुते बहून्||२२||

vasantē nicitaḥ ślēṣmā dinakr̥dbhābhirīritaḥ| kāyāgniṁ bādhatē rōgāṁstataḥ prakurutē bahūn||22||

vasante nicitaH shleShmA dinakRudbhAbhirIritaH| kAyAgniM bAdhate rogAMstataH prakurute bahUn||22||

Shleshma accumulated in hemanta ritu gets liquefied by hot rays of the Sun in vasanta ritu, which in turn disturbs/decreases the digestive power and ultimately causes many diseases. [22]

Indications and contra-indications in spring

तस्माद्वसन्ते कर्माणि वमनादीनि कारयेत्| गुर्वम्लस्निग्धमधुरं दिवास्वप्नं च वर्जयेत्||२३||

tasmādvasantē karmāṇi vamanādīni kārayēt| gurvamlasnigdhamadhuraṁ divāsvapnaṁ ca varjayēt||23||

tasmAdvasante karmANi vamanAdIni kArayet| gurvamlasnigdhamadhuraM divAsvapnaM ca varjayet||23||

Therefore in vasanta season the purification procedures like vamana ( therapeutic emesis) and others should be done. One should avoid heavy to digest, sour, unctuous and sweet food items and should not sleep during the daytime. [23]

व्यायामोद्वर्तनं धूमं कवलग्रहमञ्जनम्| सुखाम्बुना शौचविधिं शीलयेत् कुसुमागमे||२४||

vyāyāmōdvartanaṁ dhūmaṁ kavalagrahamañjanam| sukhāmbunā śaucavidhiṁ śīlayēt kusumāgamē||24||

vyAyAmodvartanaM dhUmaM kavalagrahama~jjanam| sukhAmbunA shaucavidhiM shIlayet kusumAgame||24||

In kusumagama kala (at the advent of spring) when flowers blossom (vasanta) one should regularly resort to physical exercise, dry massage, medicated smoking, gargling, and collyrium. Bathing and cleaning of excretory orifices should be done with lukewarm water. [24]

चन्दनागुरुदिग्धाङ्गो यवगोधूमभोजनः| शारभं शाशमैणेयं मांसं लावकपिञ्जलम्||२५||

candanāgurudigdhāṅgō yavagōdhūmabhōjanaḥ| śārabhaṁ śāśamaiṇēyaṁ māṁsaṁ lāvakapiñjalam||25||

candanAgurudigdhA~ggo yavagodhUmabhojanaH| shArabhaM shAshamaiNeyaM mAMsaM lAvakapi~jjalam||25||

A person should apply the paste of chandana (Santalum album Linn) and aguru (Aquilaria agallocha Roxb) (eagle-wood) on the body. One should take food made up of barley and wheat, meat of sharabha (wapiti), shasha (rabbit), ena (antelope), lava (common quail) and kapinjala (grey partridge). [25]

भक्षयेन्निर्गदं सीधुं पिबेन्माध्वीकमेव वा| वसन्तेऽनुभवेत् स्त्रीणां काननानां च यौवनम्||२६||

bhakṣayēnnirgadaṁ sīdhuṁ pibēnmādhvīkamēva vā| vasantē'nubhavēt strīṇāṁ kānanānāṁ ca yauvanam||26||

bhakShayennirgadaM sIdhuM pibenmAdhvIkameva vA| vasante~anubhavet strINAM kAnanAnAM ca yauvanam||26||

One should drink clean alcoholic drinks like sidhu and madhvika (types of wine preparations) in vasanta and enjoy the youthfulness of women and of gardens. [26]

Diet and lifestyle guidelines in grishma ritu (summer season)

Effect of excess Sun-heat in summer

मयूखैर्जगतः स्नेहं ग्रीष्मे पेपीयते रविः| स्वादु शीतं द्रवं स्निग्धमन्नपानं तदा हितम्||२७||

mayūkhairjagataḥ snēhaṁ grīṣmē pēpīyatē raviḥ| svādu śītaṁ dravaṁ snigdhamannapānaṁ tadā hitam||27||

mayUkhairjagataH snehaM grIShme pepIyate raviH| svAdu shItaM dravaM snigdhamannapAnaM tadA hitam||27||

In grishma ritu (summer season), the Sun , by its rays, excessively dries up the environment. So, in this season, food and drinks having sweet, cold, liquid and unctuous qualities are considered wholesome. [27]

Diet and beverages in summer

शीतं सशर्करं मन्थं जाङ्गलान्मृगपक्षिणः| घृतं पयः सशाल्यन्नं भजन् ग्रीष्मे न सीदति||२८||

śītaṁ saśarkaraṁ manthaṁ jāṅgalānmr̥gapakṣiṇaḥ| ghr̥taṁ payaḥ saśālyannaṁ bhajan grīṣmē na sīdati||28||

shItaM sasharkaraM manthaM jA~ggalAnmRugapakShiNaH| ghRutaM payaH sashAlyannaM bhajan grIShme na sIdati||28||

In summer season, any individual taking cold and sweet mantha (a type of liquid diet), meat of wild animals and birds, ghee and milk with shali rice (Oryza sativa Linn) does not become weak (i.e., does not suffer from diseases). [28]

Contra-indications in summer

मद्यमल्पं न वा पेयमथवा सुबहूदकम्| लवणाम्लकटूष्णानि व्यायामं च विवर्जयेत् ||२९||

Madyamalpaṁ na vā pēyamathavā subahūdakam| lavaṇāmlakaṭūṣṇāni vyāyāmaṁ ca vivarjayēt ||29||

madyamalpaM na vA peyamathavA subahUdakam| lavaNAmlakaTUShNAni vyAyAmaM ca vivarjayet ||29||

Alcoholic beverages should be consumed in little quantities or should not be consumed at all, or if taken, should be diluted with plenty of water. One should not consume salty, sour, pungent and hot food, and physical exercise should be avoided. [29]

Lifestyle in summer

दिवा शीतगृहे निद्रां निशि चन्द्रांशुशीतले| भजेच्चन्दनदिग्धाङ्गः प्रवाते हर्म्यमस्तके||३०||

Divā śītagr̥hē nidrāṁ niśi candrāṁśuśītalē| bhajēccandanadigdhāṅgaḥ pravātē harmyamastakē||30||

divA shItagRuhe nidrAM nishi candrAMshushItale| bhajeccandanadigdhA~ggaH pravAte harmyamastake||30||

During daytime, one should sleep in a cool shelter and during night after applying the paste of chandana (Santalum album Linn) on the body sleep in the airy roof/terrace of the house which is cooled by the Moon-rays. [30]

व्यजनैः पाणिसंस्पर्शैश्चन्दनोदकशीतलैः| सेव्यमानो भजेदास्यां मुक्तामणिविभूषितः||३१||

Vyajanaiḥ pāṇisaṁsparśaiścandanōdakaśītalaiḥ| sēvyamānō bhajēdāsyāṁ muktāmaṇivibhūṣitaḥ||31||

vyajanaiH pANisaMsparshaishcandanodakashItalaiH| sevyamAno bhajedAsyAM muktAmaNivibhUShitaH||31||

One should be seated on a surface decorated with pearl and gems and make use of a fan and touching by soft hands, both cooled with sandal water. [31]

काननानि च शीतानि जलानि कुसुमानि च| ग्रीष्मकाले निषेवेत मैथुनाद्विरतो नरः||३२||

Kānanāni ca śītāni jalāni kusumāni ca| grīṣmakālē niṣēvēta maithunādviratō naraḥ||32||

kAnanAni ca shItAni jalAni kusumAni ca| grIShmakAle niSheveta maithunAdvirato naraH||32||

In Summer, one should enjoy the coolness of gardens, cold water and flowers, and should abstain from sexual intercourse. [32]

Diet and lifestyle guidelines in Varsha ritu (rainy season)

Status of agni in rainy season

आदानदुर्बले देहे पक्ता भवति दुर्बलः| स वर्षास्वनिलादीनां दूषणैर्बाध्यते पुनः||३३||

ādānadurbalē dēhē paktā bhavati durbalaḥ| sa varṣāsvanilādīnāṁ dūṣaṇairbādhyatē punaḥ||33||

AdAnadurbale dehe paktA bhavati durbalaH| sa varShAsvanilAdInAM dUShaNairbAdhyate punaH||33||

In a weak body, during the period of dehydration, agni is also weak, and deteriorates further due to vitiated vata and other dosha during rainy season. [33]

भूबाष्पान्मेघनिस्यन्दात् पाकादम्लाज्जलस्य च| वर्षास्वग्निबले क्षीणे कुप्यन्ति पवनादयः||३४||

bhūbāṣpānmēghanisyandāt pākādamlājjalasya ca| varṣāsvagnibalē kṣīṇē kupyanti pavanādayaḥ||34||

bhUbAShpAnmeghanisyandAt pAkAdamlAjjalasya ca| varShAsvagnibale kShINe kupyanti pavanAdayaH||34||

In this season, due to evaporating vapors from the Earth, rainfall and acidic transformation of water, the agni is weakened, thus leading to the further vitiation of vata and other dosha. [34]

Indications and contra-indications in rainy season

तस्मात् साधारणः सर्वो विधिर्वर्षासु शस्यते| उदमन्थं दिवास्वप्नमवश्यायं नदीजलम्||३५||

व्यायाममातपं चैव व्यवायं चात्र वर्जयेत्| पानभोजनसंस्कारान् प्रायः क्षौद्रान्वितान् भजेत्||३६||

tasmāt sādhāraṇaḥ sarvō vidhirvarṣāsu śasyatē| udamanthaṁ divāsvapnamavaśyāyaṁ nadījalam||35||

vyāyāmamātapaṁ caiva vyavāyaṁ cātra varjayēt| pānabhōjanasaṁskārān prāyaḥ kṣaudrānvitān bhajēt||36||

tasmAt sAdhAraNaH sarvo vidhirvarShAsu shasyate| udamanthaM divAsvapnamavashyAyaM nadIjalam||35||

vyAyAmamAtapaM caiva vyavAyaM cAtra varjayet| pAnabhojanasaMskArAn prAyaH kShaudrAnvitAn bhajet||36||

Hence, in rainy season all basic rules regarding diet and lifestyle are advised to balance all three dosha. One should avoid diluted mantha(excess liquid diet) , sleeping during the day, exposure to dew, river water, physical exercise, sun rays and sexual intercourse in this season. One should use food and drinks mostly added with honey in small quantity to pacify the kleda (moisture) of rainy season. [35-36]

Specific diet in rainy season

व्यक्ताम्ललवणस्नेहं वातवर्षाकुलेऽहनि| विशेषशीते भोक्तव्यं वर्षास्वनिलशान्तये||३७||

vyaktāmlalavaṇasnēhaṁ vātavarṣākulē'hani| viśēṣaśītē bhōktavyaṁ varṣāsvanilaśāntayē||37||

vyaktAmlalavaNasnehaM vAtavarShAkule~ahani| visheShashIte bhoktavyaM varShAsvanilashAntaye||37||

In the rainy season when the days are cooler due to wind and rain, one should predominantly take sour, salty and unctuous food to alleviate vata. [37]

अग्निसंरक्षणवता यवगोधूमशालयः| पुराणा जाङ्गलैर्मांसैर्भोज्या यूषैश्च संस्कृतैः||३८||

agnisaṁrakṣaṇavatā yavagōdhūmaśālayaḥ| purāṇā jāṅgalairmāṁsairbhōjyā yūṣaiśca saṁskr̥taiḥ||38||

agnisaMrakShaNavatA yavagodhUmashAlayaH| purANA jA~ggalairmAMsairbhojyA yUShaishca saMskRutaiH||38||

A person taking care of his agni should consume old barley; wheat and shali rice (Oryza sativa Linn) along with meat of wild animals and processed soup. [38]

पिबेत् क्षौद्रान्वितं चाल्पं माध्वीकारिष्टमम्बु वा| माहेन्द्रं तप्तशीतं वा कौपं सारसमेव वा||३९||

pibēt kṣaudrānvitaṁ cālpaṁ mādhvīkāriṣṭamambu vā| māhēndraṁ taptaśītaṁ vā kaupaṁ sārasamēva vā||39||

pibet kShaudrAnvitaM cAlpaM mAdhvIkAriShTamambu vA| mAhendraM taptashItaM vA kaupaM sArasameva vA||39||

Whenever madhvika or other fermented liquors and water are consumed, they should be mixed with a little amount of honey. Rain water or water from wells or ponds should be properly boiled and cooled. [39]

Lifestyle in rainy season

प्रघर्षोद्वर्तनस्नानगन्धमाल्यपरो भवेत्| लघुशुद्धाम्बरः स्थानं भजेदक्लेदि वार्षिकम्||४०||

pragharṣōdvartanasnānagandhamālyaparō bhavēt| laghuśuddhāmbaraḥ sthānaṁ bhajēdaklēdi vārṣikam||40||

pragharShodvartanasnAnagandhamAlyaparo bhavet| laghushuddhAmbaraH sthAnaM bhajedakledi vArShikam||40||

In the rainy season, one should practice pragharsha (friction massage), udwartana (dry massage), snana (bath), use of fragrance, garlands, wearing light and clean clothes and should reside in the place which is free from humidity. [40]

Diet and lifestyle guidelines in sharada ritu (autumn season)

Status of pitta dosha in autumn season

वर्षाशीतोचिताङ्गानां सहसैवार्करश्मिभिः| तप्तानामाचितं पित्तं प्रायः शरदि कुप्यति||४१||

varṣāśītōcitāṅgānāṁ sahasaivārkaraśmibhiḥ| taptānāmācitaṁ pittaṁ prāyaḥ śaradi kupyati||41||

varShAshItocitA~ggAnAM sahasaivArkarashmibhiH| taptAnAmAcitaM pittaM prAyaH sharadi kupyati||41||

When a body habituated to cold and rain is suddenly subjected to the heat of sun-rays in the sharada (autumn) season, the accumulated pitta dosha in the body often gets aggravated. [41]

Specific diet for pacification of pitta dosha

तत्रान्नपानं मधुरं लघु शीतं सतिक्तकम्| पित्तप्रशमनं सेव्यं मात्रया सुप्रकाङ्क्षितैः||४२||

tatrānnapānaṁ madhuraṁ laghu śītaṁ satiktakam| pittapraśamanaṁ sēvyaṁ mātrayā suprakāṅkṣitaiḥ||42||

tatrAnnapAnaM madhuraM laghu shItaM satiktakam| pittaprashamanaM sevyaM mAtrayA suprakA~gkShitaiH||42||

In this season food and drinks predominantly of sweet, light, cold and slightly bitter qualities and having pitta alleviating properties should be taken in proper quantity, only when there is good appetite. [42]

लावान् कपिञ्जलानेणानुरभ्राञ्छरभान् शशान्| शालीन् सयवगोधूमान् सेव्यानाहुर्घनात्यये||४३||

lāvān kapiñjalānēṇānurabhrāñcharabhān śaśān| śālīn sayavagōdhūmān sēvyānāhurghanātyayē||43||

lAvAn kapi~jjalAneNAnurabhrA~jcharabhAn shashAn| shAlIn sayavagodhUmAn sevyAnAhurghanAtyaye||43||

In ghanatyaya (sharada ritu), the meat of lava (common quail), kapinjala (grey partridge), ena (antelope), urabhra (sheep), sharabha (wapiti) and shasha (rabbit), shali rice (Oryza sativa Linn), barley and wheat should be taken. [43]

तिक्तस्य सर्पिषः पानं विरेको रक्तमोक्षणम्| धाराधरात्यये कार्यमातपस्य च वर्जनम्||४४||

tiktasya sarpiṣaḥ pānaṁ virēkō raktamōkṣaṇam| dhārādharātyayē kāryamātapasya ca varjanam||44||

tiktasya sarpiShaH pAnaM vireko raktamokShaNam| dhArAdharAtyaye kAryamAtapasya ca varjanam||44||

In sharada, whenever the rain clouds disappear, the intake of tikta ghee (ghee medicated with bitter items), use of purgatives, and blood-letting are indicated. [44]

Contra-indications in autumn season

वसां तैलमवश्यायमौदकानूपमामिषम्| क्षारं दधि दिवास्वप्नं प्राग्वातं चात्र वर्जयेत्||४५||

vasāṁ tailamavaśyāyamaudakānūpamāmiṣam| kṣāraṁ dadhi divāsvapnaṁ prāgvātaṁ cātra varjayēt||45||

vasAM tailamavashyAyamaudakAnUpamAmiSham| kShAraM dadhi divAsvapnaM prAgvAtaM cAtra varjayet||45||

In this season exposure to Sun, intake of muscle fats and oils, exposure to dew, meat of aquatic and marshy animals, alkaline preparations, and curd are contraindicated. One should not sleep during daytime and restrict exposure to easterly wind. [45]

Hamsodaka (pure water)

दिवा सूर्यांशुसन्तप्तं निशि चन्द्रांशुशीतलम्| कालेन पक्वं निर्दोषमगस्त्येनाविषीकृतम्||४६||

हंसोदकमिति ख्यातं शारदं विमलं शुचि| स्नानपानावगाहेषु हितमम्बु यथाऽमृतम् ||४७|

Divā sūryāṁśusantaptaṁ niśi candrāṁśuśītalam| kālēna pakvaṁ nirdōṣamagastyēnāviṣīkr̥tam||46||

haṁsōdakamiti khyātaṁ śāradaṁ vimalaṁ śuci| snānapānāvagāhēṣu hitamambu yathā'mr̥tam ||47||

divA sUryAMshusantaptaM nishi candrAMshushItalam| kAlena pakvaM nirdoShamagastyenAviShIkRutam||46||

haMsodakamiti khyAtaM shAradaM vimalaM shuci| snAnapAnAvagAheShu hitamambu yathA~amRutam ||47||

Water naturally heated with sunrays during daytime and cooled with moon rays during night, well purified by the course of time and detoxified by the effects of Agastya (the star Canopus) is called Hamsodaka.This is available during sharada and is clean and clear. This water is beneficial as nectar when used for the purpose of bathing and drinking. [46-47]

Lifestyle during autumn season

शारदानि च माल्यानि वासांसि विमलानि च| शरत्काले प्रशस्यन्ते प्रदोषे चेन्दुरश्मयः||४८||

śāradāni ca mālyāni vāsāṁsi vimalāni ca| śaratkālē praśasyantē pradōṣē cēnduraśmayaḥ||48||

shAradAni ca mAlyAni vAsAMsi vimalAni ca| sharatkAle prashasyante pradoShe cendurashmayaH||48||

In sharada ritu, garlands of seasonal flowers, clean clothes (apparels), and exposure to moon-rays in early nights are very beneficial. [48]

Okasatmya(acquired adaptation or habituation)

इत्युक्तमृतुसात्म्यं यच्चेष्टाहारव्यपाश्रयम्| उपशेते यदौचित्यादोकःसात्म्यं तदुच्यते||४९||

ityuktamr̥tusātmyaṁ yaccēṣṭāhāravyapāśrayam| upaśētē yadaucityādōkaḥsātmyaṁtaducyatē||49||

ityuktamRutusAtmyaM yacceShTAhAravyapAshrayam| upashete yadaucityAdokaHsAtmyaM taducyate||49||

In this way, we discussed about seasonal adaptations with respect to activities and diet.

If any diet and lifestyle become suitable to the body by its regular/habitual use then it is called okasatmya (acquired adaptation or habituation). [49]

देशानामामयानां च विपरीतगुणं गुणैः| सात्म्यमिच्छन्ति सात्म्यज्ञाश्चेष्टितं चाद्यमेव च||५०||

dēśānāmāmayānāṁ ca viparītaguṇaṁ guṇaiḥ| sātmyamicchanti sātmyajñāścēṣṭitaṁ cādyamēva ca||50||

deshAnAmAmayAnAM ca viparItaguNaM guNaiH| sAtmyamicchanti sAtmyaj~jAshceShTitaM cAdyameva ca||50||

Experts of the principles of satmya (adaptation) consider that diet and lifestyle opposite to the qualities of the habitat of the individual and of the causative factors of the diseases prevalent in the location, can be adapted to (preserve health). [50]

Summary

तत्र श्लोकः-

ऋतावृतौ नृभिः सेव्यमसेव्यं यच्च किञ्चन| तस्याशितीये निर्दिष्टं हेतुमत् सात्म्यमेव च||५१||

tatra ślōkaḥ- Rtāvr̥tau nr̥bhiḥ sēvyamasēvyaṁ yacca kiñcana| tasyāśitīyē nirdiṣṭaṁ hētumat sātmyamēva ca||51||

tatra shlokaH- RutAvRutau nRubhiH sevyamasevyaM yacca ki~jcana| tasyAshitIye nirdiShTaM hetumat sAtmyameva ca||51||

There is the verse: In this chapter of seasonal regimen of diet and lifestyle, general principles with respect to dietary habits and activities suitable to specific seasons, along with the principles of satmya (adaptation) have been described. [51]

इत्यग्निवेशकृते तन्त्रे चरकप्रतिसंस्कृते श्लोकस्थाने तस्याशितीयो नाम षष्ठोऽध्यायः||६||

Ityagnivēśakr̥tē tantrē carakapratisaṁskr̥tē ślōkasthānē tasyāśitīyō nāma ṣaṣṭhō'dhyāyaḥ||6||

Thus the sixth chapter entitled Tasyashiteeya (Seasonal regimen of diet and lifestyle) of Sutra Sthana is completed, in the treatise compiled by Agnivesha and revised by Charak.

Tattva Vimarsha (Fundamental Principles)

  • The strength of a person varies according to seasonal changes. The dosha undergo physiological variations as per change in season and surroundings. In order to maintain equilibrium and sustain health, a person should change his diet and lifestyle according to the season.
  • Human beings function like a microcosm of the universe and the physiological changes are predominantly affected by the changes in macrocosm e.g, geothermal changes due to the Sun or the effects of the Moon and other celestial bodies. The rotation of the Earth around the Sun and rotation of Moon around the Earth result in changes in season. The Sun is responsible for temperature variations on Earth and this leads to changes in the physical and mental strength of microcosm.

The effect of seasonal variations on an individual’s physiological strength are as follows:

Ayana Ritu Indian Months English Months Strength
Samvatsara Uttarayana Shishira (Late Winter) Magha(Tapa) and Phalguna(Tapasya) Mid-January to Mid-March Good
Vasanta (Spring) Chaitra(Madhu) and Vaishakha(Madhava) Mid-March to Mid-May Medium
Grishma (Summer) Jaishtha(Shuchi) and Ashadha(Shukra) Mid-May to Mid-July Weak
Dakshinayana Varsha (Rainy Season) Shravana(Nabha) and Bhadrapada(Nabhasya) Mid-July to Mid-September Weak
Sharada (Autumn) Ashvina(Isha) and Kartika(Urja) Mid-September to Mid-November Medium
Hemanta (Early Winter) Margashirsha(Saha) and Pausha(Sahasya) Mid-November to Mid-January Good

These effects of seasonal variations on bala should be factored in while planning any dietary or preventive healthcare program for any individual.

  • The states of dosha as per seasonal changes are as follows:
Dosha Sanchaya(Accumulation) Prakopa(Aggravation) Prashamana(Pacification to Normalcy)
Vata Grishma (Summer) Varsha (Monsoon/Rainy) Sharada (Autumn)
Pitta Varsha (Monsoon/Rainy) Sharada (Autumn) Hemanta (Early Winter)
Kapha Shishira (Late Winter) Vasanta (Spring) Grishma (Summer)
  • One should follow the diet and lifestyle with opposite properties of the place of residence and seasons in order to preserve health and prevent diseases.

Vidhi vimarsha (Applied Inferences)

Division of samvatsara (year) and ritu

The Samvatsara is divided into two ayana or solstices, depending upon the position of the Sun with respect to the Earth i.e. Uttarayana or adana kala and dakshinayana or visarga kala. Each ayana includes three ritu. This is known as rituchakra (cyclic rhythm) of six seasons. Six ritu are divided on the basis of the predominant effect of Sun and Moon. Air motivates the Sun and the Moon. Vata is responsible for differentiation of ritu(Cha.Su.12).The uttarayana or northward position of the Sun and its act of dehydration/undernourishment brings about three seasons, including shishira, vasanta and grishma. The dakshinayana or southward position of the Sun and its act of hydration/nourishment gives rise to other three seasons, including varsha, sharada and hemanta.

Per Ayurvedic literature, taking the river Ganga as a baseline, the whole region (Indian subcontinent) is divided on the basis of intensity of cold and rain into two parts. In regions south of Ganga, rain being more, tworitu i.e. pravrita (early rains) and varsha (late heavy rainy season) have been mentioned separately by the sages. In the regions north of Ganga, with a prevalence of snowfall factored in, two ritu namely hemanta and shishira (dewy season and cold season) have been mentioned separately. In the Gangetic plains (Eastern U.P. and Bihar), all the seasons can be found since it is the belt of Sadharana desha.

Thus in Ayurveda, a year is divided in two ways on the basis of the following:

Division of year, ayana, months, rashi

Ayana & Bala Ritu Indian Months Influential Rashi English Months
Samvatsara Uttarayana Adana kala Bala-Less Shishira (Late Winter) Magha(Tapa) and Phalguna(Tapasya) Makara and Kumbha Mid-January to Mid-March
Vasanta (Spring) Chaitra(Madhu) and Vaishakha(Madhava) Meena and Mesha Mid-March to Mid-May
Grishma (Summer) Jaishtha(Shuchi) and Ashadha(Shukra) Vrishabha and Mithuna Mid-May to Mid-July
Dakshinayana Visarga kala Bala-Good Varsha (Rainy Season) Shravana(Nabha) and Bhadrapada(Nabhasya) Karka and Simha Mid-July to Mid-September
Sharada (Autumn) Ashvina(Isha) and Kartika(Urja) Kanya and Tula Mid-September to Mid-November
Hemanta (Early Winter) Margasirsha(Saha) and Pausha(Sahasya) Vrishchika and Dhanu Mid-November to Mid-January

Formation of Seasons

The Earth and all other celestial bodies in the Solar System are constantly moving. Rotation, precession and revolution of Earth are directly responsible for seasonal variations in a year. The term ‘Earth Rotation’ refers to the spinning of our planet on its axis, with an equatorial speed of 1040 miles per hour (about 465 meter per second or slightly over 1675 km per hour). One rotation takes twenty-four hours (23.93 hour) and is called a mean solar day. The Earth’s rotation is responsible for the daily cycles of day and night. At any moment in time, one half of the Earth is in sunlight, while the other half is in darkness. The Earth's rotation axis is not fixed in the space. The direction of the rotation axis executes a slow ‘Precession’, caused by the gravitational pull of the Sun and the Moon on the Earth. Through each 26000-year cycle, the direction in the sky to which the axis points goes around a big circle, the radius of which covers an angle of about 23.50. This precession also has an effect on the seasons. The orbit of the Earth around the Sun is called an ‘Earth Revolution’. This celestial motion takes 365.26 days to complete one cycle. Further, the Earth's orbit around the Sun is not circular, but oval or elliptical. An elliptical orbit causes the Earth's distance from the Sun to vary over a year.

The solstices, together with the equinox, are connected with the seasons. They are considered to start or separate the seasons, or fall nearer the middle. A solstice is an astronomical event that happens twice each year when the Sun’s apparent position in the sky, as viewed from Earth, reaches its northernmost or southernmost extremes. This usually happens around June 21st and December 21st. An equinox occurs twice a year, when the tilt of the Earth’s axis is inclined neither away from nor towards the Sun, the center of the Sun being in the same plane as the Earth's equator. Around the equinox, the night and day have approximately equal length and the rays of the Sun shine directly on the equator. This happens on approximately March 20th and September 22nd. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) designates four different seasons – winter, summer or pre-monsoon, monsoon or rainy season, and post-monsoon season.

Qualities of seasons

The qualities of different seasons are to be understood in three aspects viz. masa (month), rashi (stellar constellations) and svarupa (characteristic features). The regimen prescribed for each season should be followed in mild, moderate or full degree in the succeeding order of strength of seasons. Importance is given first to the appearance of svarupa in reckoning season, then to the rashi and last to the masa. The regimen prescribed for the season should be mild or part, if only masa has commenced without commencement of rashi or svarupa; it should be moderate, if rashi has commenced, but svarupa has not yet; and regimen should in full measure if svarupa has commenced ever without rashi.

The characteristics of normal seasons have been described in terms of various environmental factors. Knowledge of these characteristics is important to differentiate between deranged (abnormal) and normal seasons so that precautions can be taken to prevent the adverse effect of abnormal season. [Su.Sa.Sutra Sthana Chapter 6][1]

Importance of ritucharya(seasonal regimen)

One’s various type of diet leads to promotion of strength and luster only when he knows the wholesomeness according to different seasons dependent on behavior and diet.[Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 6/3]

If one follows the regimen as described for different seasons, he never suffers from diseases due to the aggravated dosha under the seasonal impact. [Su.Sa.Uttara Sthana 64/55][1] [B.P Purvakhanda 5/356][2]

A man always becomes healthy only when he properly follows dinacharya (daily regimen), nishacharya (night regimen) and ritucharya (seasonal regimen), otherwise he will have disease. [B.P Purvakhanda 5/13][2]

Basic principles of ritucharya

  1. While passing through six seasons our body is bound to face different variations and accordingly it is likely to get affected if the same regimen is followed in all seasons.
  2. The basic principle of ritucharya is to preserve the equilibrium of dosha through the concept of samanya and vishesha.
  3. Knowledge and regular observance of suitable ritucharya (ahara and vihara for different seasons) is mainly for the maintenance of health and prevention of diseases. For diseased persons ritucharya has to be modified accordingly.
  4. The seasons are differentiated according to month, rashi and characteristics. More importance has been given to the appearance of characteristics.
  5. Every person should take diet including all the six rasa (tastes), in each and every season; however, the indicated rasa should be taken in predominant quantity in particular season. Regular intake of all rasa is best strength promoter and regular use of any one rasa debilitates strength.
  6. Follow the regimen carefully during ritusandhi and yamadamshtra period to live healthy.

Concept of ritusandhi

The last seven days of preceding ritu and first seven days of following ritu are together known as ritusandhi (meeting of two seasons). During this period the regimen of the previous season should be discontinued gradually and those of the succeeding season adopted slowly. Particular padamshika krama (sequential regimen) has to be adopted i.e. Unhealthy things which one has become accustomed should be discontinued gradually. Similarly healthy things (food etc.) should be made use of (gradually) with intervals of one, two or three days.[Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 7/36-37] On the other hand, if they are discontinued or adopted suddenly, diseases due to unaccustomed foods and activities develop.[3] It is a significant advice, as the changeover of external environment from one season to other is very rapid, but our endogenous system needs some time for smooth change over.

Yamadamshtra (period of increased mortality)

The duration of last eight days of Kartika month and first eight days of Margashirsha month is termed as yamadamshtra. It is advised to take little food during this period for healthy living otherwise it may be fatal.[4]

Concept of satmya and okasatmya

Satmya means any substance or behavior which is suitable and beneficial to the self. Satmya being used constantly has wholesome effect. It is divided into two types:

  1. Prakritisatmya
  2. Abhyasasatmya
    1. Prakritisatmya is also called as ajanmasatmya[5] i.e. the satmya since birth, like madhura rasa.
    2. Abhyasasatmya includes four types of satmya, i.e. vyadhisatmya, deshasatmya, okasatmya and ritusatmya.
      1. Vyadhisatmya: Adaptation to a disease. There are things which cannot be taken in normal health but have to be tolerated during the period when a person falls sick. It is also called amayasatmya or rogasatmya.
      2. Deshasatmya: Adaptation to locality or country. There are many things which may be used constantly at a particular place in a particular time but may not be in practice at a different place in same time.
      3. Okasatmya (Acquired adaptation): Anything such as a poisonous or an intoxicating thing or habit which if resorted to is capable of producing deleterious or injurious effect upon ones health. If taken bit by bit, by an individual continuously it loses its grip to produce deleterious or injurious effect and keeps the individual in normal health, it then becomes okasatmya to the user. This is not only true for poisonous things. Sometimes particular way of living is injurious to one’s health in a particular season but if continues that habit it will lose its power to produce harmful effect. This is one of the reason why all the individuals not affected by seasonal diseases in spite of not following seasonal regimen.
      4. Ritusatmya: Seasonal adaptation has been described in the ritucharya (seasonal regimen), which is dependent upon ahara (food articles) and vihara (lifestyle).

Seasonal Regimens

Hemanta ritucharya (Regimen for Early winter)
Ahara (diet) Vihara (lifestyle)
Indicated Amla(sour), Lavana(salty), Madhura(sweet), Guru (heavy in digestion) and Snigdha dravya(unctuous food), new rice and wheat, fats and oils, black gram and its products, milk and its products, sugarcane products, warm water, honey, anupa (meat of animals of marshy land) and audaka mamsa (meat of aquatic animals), liquor protection from cold by warm clothes and beddings, Living in warm house, regular use of shoes, bathing with warm water, abhyanga (therapeutic massage), utsadana (powder massage), vyayama ( physical exercise), atapa sevana(exposing body to sun light), intercourse
Contraindicated Laghu (light in digestion) and vata provoking dravya, pramitahara(food in proper quantity), udamantha( groat) Divasvapna (sleeping in day time), direct air

Shishira ritucharya (Regimen for Late winter)

Hemanta and shishira are similar with the slight difference in that the latter has more roughness due to beginning of Adana and cold due to clouds, winds and rains. Hence the entire routine of living prescribed for Hemanta is to be followed in Shishira also. During Shishira, one should specially live in warmer settings and protect oneself from direct air. Avoid katu(pungent), tikta (bitter), kashaya(astringent), laghu(light to digest), sheeta (cold) and vata provoking food and drinks.

Vasanta ritucharya (Regimen for Spring)

Ahara (diet) Vihara (lifestyle)
Indicated food articles having taste like katu(pungent), tikta(bitter) and kasaya(astringent), ruksha(ununctous), laghu (light in digestion) and ushna dravya(hot substances) , old wheat, rice and barley, water medicated with ginger, khadira(acacia catechu,Linn), Musta(cyperus rotundus Linn) and Honey; Jangala Mamsa( meat of terrestrial animals), Liquor kavala (medicated gargling), anjana(application of collyrium), dhumapana(medicated smoking), vyayama, udvartana, application of chandana and aguru , sexual intercourse, vamana( therapeutic emesis) and nasya(nasal errhines)
Contra-indicated Madhura(sweet), amla(sour), guru( heavy in digestion), snigdha and sheeta(cold) dravya, curd direct sunlight, divasvapna( day sleep), sleeping under dew

Grishma ritucharya (Regimen for Summer)

Ahara (diet) Vihara (regimen)
Indicated madhura, drava, sheeta, laghu and snigdha [[dravya, mantha with sugar, rice, ghee, milk, shali rice, Jangala Mamsa (meat of terrestrial animals) divasvapna, living and sleeping in cold place, protection from heat, bathing with cold water, local application of chandana , wearing of light clothes
Contra-indicated lavana, amla, katu and ushna dravya, curd, liquor vyayama, atapa sevana, sexual intercourse

Varsha ritucharya (Regimen for Rainy season)

Ahara (diet) Vihara (regimen)
Indicated madhura, amla, lavana, snigdha and ushna dravya, old wheat, rice and barley, gruel prepared with pulses, Food and drinks with honey, boiled and cold water, jangala mamsa, liquor living in dry place, wearing of light clothes, pragharshana, udvartana, basti, virechana, vamana, Use of flowers and perfume
Contra-indicated ruksha and ati-drava dravya (excessive water), udamantha (groat), river water divasvapna (day sleep), vyayama (physical exercise) living under dew, eastern wind, excessive sunlight exposure, intercourse

Sharada ritucharya (Regimen for Autumn)

Ahara (diet) Vihara (regimen)
Indicated madhura(sweet), tikta(pungent) and kashaya(astringent) dravya, laghu (light for digestion), ruksha(rough) and sheeta(cold) dravya, wheat, rice, barley and mudga (green gram), milk, sugar and sugarcane, tikta sarpi (ghee prepared out of bitter drugs), river water, Hamsodaka, Jangala mamsa(meat of arid animals) virechana( therapeutic purgation), raktamokshana (blood letting), living under moon light, wearing of flowers, pearls, clean clothes
Contra-indicated amla(sour), katu (pungent), tikshana(sharp) and ushna(hot dry) dravya, kshara(alkaline preparations), oils and fat, curd, ginger, anupa (animals of marshy land) and audaka mamsa (aquatic animals), liquor divasvapna (day sleep), vyayama (physical exercise), eastern wind, living in dew, atapa sevana(exposing body to sun light)

Common diseases due to non-observance of ritucharya

Many diseases described in Ayurveda have their own peculiar causes to develop in particular season, like jwara, tamaka shvasa, pratishyaya, amlapitta, shirahshula, sandhi-shula, atisara, sheetapitta, kushtha etc.

  1. Jwara (fever) is of two types, viz., prakrita (natural) and vaikrita (unnatural) based on prognosis. On the basis of prakriti (basic constitution) of time the fever is termed as prakrita (natural). Kaphaja jwara occurs in vasanta and pitta dominant in sharada (autumn), are known as prakrita (normal) and are easily curable, while vata dominant jwara in prakrita season (pravrita) is not easily curable. Fever occurs in seasons other than that responsible for vitiation of the concerned dosha is known as Vaikrita (unnatural) which is troublesome. [Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/42]
  2. Tamaka shvasa (bronchial asthma) is aggravated by cloudy, cold, rainy weather and easterly wind and kapha increasing factors. On the other hand warmth relieves the symptoms.
  3. Pratishyaya (rhinitis): Seasonal irregularity is one of the causative factors of pratishyaya.[Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/104] Thus pratishyaya can occur in any season if we do not follow seasonal regimen and especially in exposure to too much of cold.
  4. Amlapitta (acid peptic disorder) is prevalent in rainy season because of natural accumulation of pitta in rainy season. Indulgence in foods which are incompatible, spoiled, very sour, causing burning sensation in epigastrium cause increase of pitta to produce amlapitta, in persons in whom pitta has already increased. [M.N 51/1][6]
  5. Shirahshula (headache) is a common feature of all types of shiroroga and is of three types:
    1. Vata dominant shiroroga:
      1. Aggravating factors: Cold season; Rainy season and cloudy days
      2. Relieving factors: Hot season, clear and shiny sky i.e. cloud free days
    2. Pitta dominant shiroroga:
      1. Aggravating factors: Hot season, Intake of hot food
      2. Relieving factors: Cold season
    3. Kapha dominant shiroroga:
      1. Aggravating factors: Vasanta season, cold season
      2. Relieving factors: Hot season
  6. Shula (pain)
    1. Vata dominant shula: Vata dominant shula especially gets exacerbated after digestion of food, in the evening time, at the end of night, during cloudy and rainy days, in cold climate, and due to direct and eastern wind exposure.[M.N 26/4][6] [Su.Sa.Sutra Sthana 21/20][1] It gets relieved by swedana(sudation), abhyanga(oil massage), mardana(massage), unctuous, and hot food items. On the basis of site of the vata, the different sites are affected.
    2. Pitta dominant shula: It gets exacerbated during mid day, mid night, at the time of digestion of food, and during sharada ritu. It gets relieved by cold season, cold and madhura food. [M.N 26/8][6]
    3. Kapha dominant shula: This type of pain gets exacerbated just after intake of food, during early morning, at the beginning of night, and during shishira and vasanta seasons. [M.N 26/10][6]
  7. Atisara (diarrhea): Rituviparyaya (any deviation from seasonal regimen) is an important cause of atisara .[Su.Sa.Uttara Sthana 40/4][1]
  8. Sheetapitta (urticaria): Exposure to cold air aggravates kapha and vata dosha, and along with pitta cause sheetapitta. It increases during rainy and winter seasons and especially in shishira ritu. [M.N 50/1][6]
  9. Kushtha (skin diseases): The first important cause of kushtha is viruddha anna-pana (intake of antagonistic food), which includes kala viruddha also for e.g. during hot season intake of katu and hot variety of foods and during cold season ruksha (rough) and sheeta (cold) foods are kala viruddha. [Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/4-8]

Effect of seasonal changes on health

Various researches have proved the direct relation of seasonal variation on physiological and pathological changes in body:

  • Climate change has a profound effect on human health and well-being. The impact of climate change on human well-being goes beyond mortality; even birth rates and sperm counts appear to be affected by meteorological phenomenon.,[7] [8] [9]
  • Morbidity attributed to pneumonia, influenza, bronchitis, and probably many other illnesses are also weather-related.[10]
  • Medical disorders such as bronchitis, peptic ulcer, adrenal ulcer, glaucoma, goiter, eczema, and herpes zoster are related to seasonal variations in temperature.[11]
  • A Canadian Climate Center study (1981) found that migraines were most likely to occur on days with falling pressure, rising humidity, high winds, and rapid temperature fluctuations.
  • Weather has an important influence on morbidity in the winter because cold, dry air leads to excessive dehydration of nasal passages and upper respiratory tract, and increased chance of microbial and viral infection. In general, total mortality is about 15% higher on an average winter day than on an average summer day, according to National Center for Health Statistics, 1978.
  • Mortality rate during heat waves increases with age.[12] [13] The elderly seem to suffer from impaired physiological responses and often are unable to increase their cardiac output sufficiently during extremely hot weather.[14]
  • It was noted that men who had taken bath in 15 degree Celcius water for one-half hour over nine consecutive days before a trip to the Arctic showed less signs of cold-induced stress than non-treated men. It indicates that adaptation to cold temperatures can occur through repeated exposures. [15]
  • To a great extent, the seasonal changes in the immune system are controlled by changes in the levels of various hormones, particularly melatonin. Serum levels of melatonin were found to be highest in the winter months in both normal individuals and SLE patients.[16] There is natural increase in bala (strength/immunity) of individuals during winter i.e. hemanta and shishira ritu.
  • Striking seasonal variations have been demonstrated in the plasma and saliva levels of the glucocorticoid, cortisol, which promotes carbohydrate metabolism. The lowest levels of cortisol were found in healthy individuals during spring and summer, while the highest levels were found during autumn and winter seasons.[17]
  • Agni (digestive power) of individuals is strong during winter i.e. hemanta and shishira ritu, and weakest during grishma and varsha ritu.
  • Rheumatic diseases vary in severity by season. The incidence of acute gouty attacks (an inflammatory arthritis) is highest in the spring season.[18] Schlesinger N.et al. (2009) explained in his paper “Seasonal Variation of Rheumatic Diseases” that seasonal variation has been shown in a number of rheumatic diseases.[19]
  • Coronary artery disease shows a winter peak and summer trough in incidence and mortality.[20] Leo Sher also proposed that seasonal mood changes may contribute to the increased incidence and mortality of coronary artery disease in winter. Depression is associated with increased incidence, morbidity, and mortality of coronary artery disease.
  • “Seasonal affective disorder” is a condition where depression in the winter and fall alternate with non-depressive periods in the spring and summer. The degree to which seasonal changes affect mood, energy, sleep, appetite, food preference, or the wish to socialize with other people has been called "seasonality." Recent studies have demonstrated that seasonal mood changes are related to the genetic factors. It means that people may have genetically‐determined sensitivity to seasons.
  • Jaiswal et al, 2011, in a clinical survey[21] found a significant relation between seasonal variation and prevalence of some diseases viz. jwara (viral fever), amlapitta (acid peptic disorders), tamaka shvasa (bronchial asthma), pratishyaya (rhinitis) and shirashula (pitta dominant shirashula and ardhavabhedaka, migraine). They also observed that there is seasonal variation in the state of agni and bala (strength) of the person, as stated by our ancient seers.
  • Nathani et al, 2013, in a clinical research[22] found that maximum number of patients of tamaka shvasa (bronchial asthma) were registered in winter seasons (hemanta and shishira), vasanta and varsha. These seasons were the predominant period of asthma attack in majority of cases. In maximum number of cases the attack of tamaka shvasa gets precipitated by intake of kapha and vata vitiating sheeta, guru, madhura and amla rasa predominant ahara like ice-cream, cold drink, cold water, fruit juices, curd, sweets, rice, pickle, salad with lemon etc. in all seasons.

Research on Hamsoadaka

A research was conducted with the objective of revalidating the principle of checking the purity of hansodaka. Physico-chemical and microbiological analysis of water during the rise of the Canopus star in the autumn season in different water reservoirs was carried out. In 2015, two litres of water was collected in sterilized glass bottles from water reservoirs, Rakkaskoppa and Fort Lake. In 2016, water samples were collected from Jamboti water. Physico-chemical and microbiological analyses were done at three different periods, like before 15 days of rise of Canopus star, during rise of Canopus star and after 15 days of rise of Canopus star.The physico chemical analysis of water during Canopus star showed that the values of pH, total alkalinity, CaCO3, sulphates, chlorides, biological oxygen demand level were decreased. A reduction in microbiological bacterial count was observed but no changes were noted with fungal count. From these results, it can be interpreted that there was a positive effect of Canopus star on the purification of water, physico chemical and microbiological parameters.However,the results may vary on the level of contamination and environmental conditions.[23]

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References

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  8. Tjoa et al, 1982
  9. White and Hertz, 1985
  10. White et al, 1985
  11. Tromp, 1963
  12. Oechsli et al, 1970
  13. Buechley et al, 1972
  14. Sprung C.L., 1979
  15. Radomski MW, Boutelier C. Hormone response of normal and intermittent cold-preadapted humans to continuous cold. J Appl Physiol Respir Environ Exerc Physiol. 1982;53(3):610‐616. doi:10.1152/jappl.1982.53.3.610
  16. Nelson et al., 2000
  17. Walker et al, 1997
  18. Schlesinger N et al., 1998
  19. Schlesinger N et al, 2009
  20. Sher L., 2001
  21. Jaiswal Rahul et al, 2011
  22. Nathani Neeru et al, 2013
  23. Savita Sajjan,Vedantam Giridhar.A Novel Study on Physico Chemical and Microbiological Analysis of Water During Rise of Agastya Nakshatra (Canopus Star) in Autumn Season.RJAS,2021;8(2):35-40