Circadian rhythm and rhythm of Doshas
Nature follows a rhythm throughout the day that corresponds to the actions of the doshas. Our body, which is always in tune with the rhythms of nature, also follows the same rhythm.
According to Ayurveda, the day is divided into vata time, pitta time, and kapha time (the 3 doshas).
Starting from 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. we wake up slowly, our digestion has low capacity, as does our appetite. In this phase we are in kapha (earth) time and it is important to wake up before 6:00 a.m. This will help us have more energy during the day. We boost our metabolism to increase its burning by implementing a daily mild exercise program, 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, but it will need to cover the needs. us sufficiently, so that we can get to lunch without snacking.
From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. the sun is high and has its greatest potential, correspondingly strengthening the digestive fire in our stomach. It is advisable 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 plant-based protein e.g. quinoa, soy, tofu and consume along with the meal, fiber such as salad, wholemeal bread and boiled vegetables.
From 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM we enter 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 for personal creation and inspiration. We enjoy hot tea with our blanket, lying in our favorite corner of the sofa.
Then from 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM we go through the kapha (earth) phase again, the body becomes heavy, our appetite is low again, and so is the power of digestion. As we prepare for sleep, we consume a light dinner such as a hot soup, fruit or a salad.
We give the body and mind time 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 in this.
Finally, from 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM we are again in the pitta (fire) phase. The earth assimilates the heat and rays of the sun it received during the day. The same happens to our body. A pleasant book will lead us to to fall into deep sleep. Our mind will process the impressions of the day and organize them, some in 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 phase vata (air). If our mind has been burdened with many thoughts during the day, these thoughts may wake us up during this time and will probably keep us restless until morning.
At the same time, When we have trained our minds to tune in to the morning silence through meditation and yoga, then thoughts quiet down and the body prepares for the start of the day. The ideal time to wake up is just before at 6:00 a.m. and take care of our joints by giving them a light massage with a beneficial oil containing a blend of herbs specific to musculoskeletal health.
The rhythm of nature is undisturbed and characterized by harmony.When we tune in to the rhythm of the doshas, we help the body and mind perform their functions properly, we are happy and full of energy.
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