Vata 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 on how we can adapt our lifestyle to stay balanced in each season. Each individual is unique with an equally unique dosha balance, so remember to read the other doshas and see which resonate. 

The vata dosha embodies the principles of communication and movement, acting as a messenger and is comprised of the qualities of space and wind (air). Vata is like a current of electricity, busy, and vatas will go wherever the wind may take them. Vata is responsible for carrying information in and out of the body and mind.

In the summer, there are higher levels of heat and sunshine. Therefore, the environment becomes naturally drier. Just as we might put our washing out to dry on a windy day, a vata exposed to excess levels of air will become constitutionally drier, causing ‘dryness’ to become increased in the system. But, what does this mean?

For a vata, this means the onset of dry conditions such as hot, dry itchy skin conditions such as eczema or dry coughs.

What are the signs of an increase in vata?

Typical signs of an ‘out of balance’ vata during the summer would be increased dryness, often affecting the skin and potentially a disruption to the digestion in the form of constipation or irregularity.

Higher levels of vata can also cause spikes in anxiety and feelings of insecurity.

How can you help balance vata in summer?

To balance the cold and airy tendencies of vata, you need to increase its opposing qualities of warmth and moisture. As we are focusing on the season of summer, warmth should be in abundance, so focus more on the moisture by increasing hydrating food and drink into the diet and keeping the skin surface fully moisturised.

Diet for vata in summer

Increase foods full of oil and moisture, to prevent dryness from setting in and causing concerns with constipation and a tendency towards irregularity. Use oils such as ghee and coconut oil to cook with and drizzle oils such as hemp and olive oil over your meals.

Steer clear of dry foods such as crackers, crisps and bread. Increase your intake of refreshing herbal teas that will hydrate the system such as licorice, peppermint, fennel and rose.

Ensure that you are eating and drinking regularly; routine is key for keeping vata in balance.

Daily summer rituals for vata

• Increase self-massage rituals to keep the skin moisturised and hydrated

• Keep a regular eating and drinking routine to support a healthy digestion

• Introduce relaxation techniques and calming yoga practices into the beginning and end of the day to keep the mind cool and calm

Summer herbal heroes for vata

For vata types, it’s all about keeping calm and hydrated. Top yourself up with adaptogenic and grounding herbs that will help you feel rooted and strong.

Try Pukka Relax tea.

Make sure you stay hydrated with naturally refreshing herbs such as aloe vera, peppermint, licorice and fennel.

Take our dosha to find out what dosha you are.