Seasonal Diet Tips

The creation of this universe according to Hindu mythology is based on the concept of Panchamaha Bhutas. Namely Prithvi, Jala, Teja, Vayu, & Aakasha.

Every matter is made up of the above entities. Even Human beings are a composition of Panchamaha Bhutas. Any changes in the universe directly affects the body.

In Ayurveda concept of Loka purusha samyatha is explained. Where it lays emphasis on the relation between Universe and a Human.

The predominance of each Mahabhuta depends on the movement of Sun, Moon, and the Wind (Surya, Chandra, & Vayu). In a Human body its co-related to the Tridoshas – Vata, Pitta & Kapha.

Doshas	Maha Bhutas
VATA	Vayu, Aakasha
PITTA	Jala, Tejas
KAPHA	Prithvi, Jala

According to ayurveda depending on the direction and movement of Sun, Moon, and Wind a year is divided into 2 Ayanas – Uttarayana and Dakshinayana.

Each Ayana consisting of 3 Ritus.

UTTARAYANA	DAKSHINAYANA
Shishira Vasanta Grishma	Varsha Sharadh Hemanta

 UTTARAYANA – this period also called as Adhana Kala. During this time there is northward movement of sun and wind. Dryness in the body and environment is increased. It starts from the month of Mid-January to Mid-July. Predominant dosha – Kapha and Vata.

DAKSHINAYANA – this period is called as Visarga Kala. During this time there is southern movement of sun and wind. Here the power of Moon is comparatively increased. Dryness in the body and earth is decreased in turn increasing Sneha / Snigdha guna. It starts from the month of Mid-July to Mid-January. Predominant doshas – Pitta and Vata.

Now we will focus on the diet and lifestyle to be followed in the month of January.

As we progress towards the month of January there is a change in Ritu from Hemanth to Shishira.

The below table mentions the major changes during this period:

JANUARY  [Shishira Ritu]

Ayana	Uttarayana
Ritu	Shishira
Mahabhuta	Akasha
Dosha	Kapha
Rasa	Tikta
Masa	Magha & Phalguna

• During the month of January there is dryness and coolness in the breeze.
• The individual will have very good strength and is active.
• The metabolism and digestive fire (Agni) of the individual is increased.
• Due to the increased metabolism person can digest heavy food.
• The severity of cold and dryness comparatively increases from Hemantha – Shishira Ritu.
• The duration of nights is longer than days.