Kapha summer wellbeing guide

The winds of change are regularly upon us, the seasons consistently roll from one into another.

Ayurvedic medicine recognises that this has a profound effect on our health and recommends many helpful suggestions for how we can adapt our lifestyle to stay balanced in each season. Each individual is unique with an equally unique doshic balance. Each individual is unique with an equally unique dosha balance, so remember to read the other doshas and see which resonate.

The kapha dosha embodies the principles of love and structure and is responsible for stability and moisture in the body. Kapha literally takes charge of the ability of the body to store energy. Kapha is made up of the elements earth and water and ‘holds’ the body’s structure together, supporting growth and development. Kapha’s are full of compassion and love, you can always rely on them in a time of need.

The earth and water elements found in kapha mean that they are most aggravated in cold and damp environments. So, actually, the summer season can be very balancing for those with a strong kapha dominance because they benefit from hot and dry and environments and may feel more energized during the summer. But, remember that kapha is constitutionally cool and damp, so they may struggle with intense heat and find it uncomfortable, even if it’s good for them!

What are the signs of an increase in kapha?

If the weather takes a turn for the cold and damp, an increase in kapha is possible and means a decrease in energy and a tendency towards becoming more reclusive. You might find that there is a tendency to sleep during the day, or comfort eat.

However, if the weather is truly reflective of ‘summer’ then you should see a kapha brimming with energy.

How can you help balance kapha in summer?

Luckily, if we have a good summer, the weather will naturally support a reduction in kapha due to the warm and dry weather. However, we are not always that lucky. So, the best way to tackle this is through changes to diet and lifestyle and increasing warming, drying and stimulating foods whilst also getting out into the great outdoors and increasing physical exercise to create a level of internal heat.

Diet for kapha in summer

Increasing naturally bitter, drying and spicy foods will help heat up the digestion and remove any built-up cold and damp congestion from the winter months.

Dry spicy dry curries and warming stimulating herbal teas that include spices such as ginger,  turmeric and cinnamon. Herbs that will boost the digestion such as fennel are also beneficial. Try and stay clear of cold, damp and refrigerated foods such as dairy products and raw foods.

Try Pukka Three Ginger tea and Three Fennel tea.

Daily summer rituals for kapha

• Keep active and make the most of the energising sunshine!

• Try and integrate some invigorating and energising exercises into your daily routine; either at the beginning or end of the day. Try some Ashtanga yoga, or take a walk in the great outdoors when the sun is at its peak.

• Try an invigorating massage or skin exfoliation to get the blood flowing. Using more energising oils can help heat up the skin surface.

Summer herbal heroes for kapha

The key for kapha types is to stay active and warm. So, increase herbs that will revitalise, energise and stimulate the body such as ginseng, ginger, turmeric and green tea.

Try Pukka's Ginseng Matcha Green tea.

Don't know your dosha? Take our dosha quiz to find out.