In the dog days of summer, as the hot temperatures rise and spike, we may find that our tolerance and patience levels fall.

Short temper, frustration, and intolerance towards family, friends, coworkers, and strangers seems to become more prevalent as the PITTA fires flare up in each of us. Instances of road rage and violence increase when the sun is blaring. Even passive-aggressive behavior and depression (forms of suppressed anger) can become worse.

In balance, pitta’s passionate nature allows us to achieve our goals and accomplish great tasks. However, when pitta gets aggravated and out of balance, we tend to get burnt-out physically and emotionally. We end up functioning on a short fuse, and find that our behavior becomes more critical and impatient.

Ayurveda explains that anger is held in the liver. Therefore summer is a great time to detoxify the liver. Simple herbs that support liver balance are: Turmeric, Dandelion, Aloe Vera, Neem, Manjista, and Burdock. Taking a synergistic blend of these bitter herbs will keep those fiery emotions down.

Enjoy Pitta pacifying sattvic foods such as fresh juicy fruits, coconuts, basmati rice, and freshly prepared summer vegetables lightly cooked in ghee, cumin, coriander, and fennel.

The following 15 minute meditative exercise would greatly control Pitta stress: Massage a blend of Brahmi, Bhringaraj and coconut oils on the scalp and feet. Apply a thin layer of sandalwood powder and water paste on the forehead. Put a drop of rose essential oil on the heart charka, and on the center of the palms. Practice deep, slow, cooling breaths, and repeat the mantra “Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi”.

For Ayurvedic Consultations, Herbs, and Ayurvedic Spa Treatments, please contact:
Avani Robinson
Authentic Ayurveda of Sedona
www.ayurveda-sedona.com
(928)284-1114

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