Circadian rhythm and the rhythm of the doshas

Nature during the day follows a rhythm corresponding to the actions of the doshas. Our body, which is always in tune with the rhythms of nature, follows the same rhythm.
According to Ayurveda, the day is divided into vata time, pitta time and kapha time (the 3 doshas).

Starting at 6:00 am – 10:00 am we wake up slowly, our digestion has a low capacity, so does our appetite. In this phase we are in kapha (earth) time and it is important to wake up before 6:00 am. This will help us have more energy during the day. We boost our metabolism to increase its burning by implementing a daily program of mild exercise, whatever suits us.
The first meal of the day, breakfast, should be light because the digestive fire in the stomach is still low, e.g. muesli + plant-based milk however will need to cover our needs sufficiently to make it to lunch without snacking.

From 10:00 am – 2:00 p.m. the sun is high and has its greatest potential, correspondingly strengthening the digestive fire in our stomach. It would be good to avoid direct contact with the sun at this time.
It is the ideal time to eat the main meal of the day as we are going through the pitta (fire) phase. We avoid processed carbohydrates, increase vegetable protein e.g. quinoa, soy, tofu and we consume fiber with the meal such as salad, wholemeal bread and boiled vegetables.

From 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. we pass into the vata (air) phase, our digestion is completed, we desire a sweet, a cereal bar, a piece of homemade cake, or a hot drink that will relax us from the intense rhythms of the day. It is the time of personal creation and inspiration. We enjoy hot tea with our blanket, lying in the favorite corner of the sofa.

Then from 18:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. we go through the kapha (earth) phase again, the body becomes heavy, our appetite is again low, so is the power of digestion. As we prepare for bed, we eat a light dinner such as a warm soup, fruit or a salad.
We give time to the body and mind to let go of thoughts and concepts so that it can have a good and refreshing sleep. A warm bath will help to relax and eliminate the tensions of the day. The practice of meditation, breathing techniques and yoga will also help with this.

Finally, from 22:00 p.m. – 02:00 am we are again in the pitta (fire) phase. The earth assimilates the heat and rays of the sun received during the day. The same thing happens in our body. A pleasant book will lead us to fall into a deep sleep. Our mind will process the impressions of the day and arrange them some in the memory, others in the subconscious.

Finally, from 2:00 A.M. – 6:00 a.m. the earth prepares to release its vital energy. We return to the vata (air) phase. In the event that our mind has been charged with many thoughts during the day, these thoughts may wake us up during this time and probably keep us restless until the morning.
At the same time, when we have trained our minds to tune into the morning silence through meditation and yoga, then the thoughts quieten and the body prepares for the start of the day. The ideal time to wake up is just before 6:00 am. and take care of our joints by lightly massaging with a beneficial oil containing a blend of herbs specific for musculoskeletal health.

The rhythm of nature is undisturbed and characterized by harmony. When we tune into the rhythm of the doshas we help the body and mind to perform their functions properly, we are happy and full of energy.