Sharad Ritu, known as Autumn in the heart of India, is a time of exquisite grace and enduring beauty. The Indian months of Ashwina (October to November) and Kartika (November to December mark the period of this season. During Sharad Ritu, nature herself becomes an artist, painting the world with warm hues and subtle fragrances. It is a season of sustenance, where the earth shares its bounteous gifts, and the spirit of gratitude fills the hearts of all. Join us as we delve into the enchanting realm of Sharad Ritu, a time when nature's poetry unfolds in every rustling leaf and golden sunset.

The ancient Acharyas describe Sharad Ritu as a season when the heavens adorn themselves in unblemished blue, bereft of clouds. It's a time when life awakens anew, as water-seeking plants like lilies, Kasa grass, and paddy gracefully flourish.

Understanding Doshas and Restoring Inner Harmony

In the grand rhythm of seasonal change, we witness Chaya (mild accumulation), Prakopa (high aggravation), and Prashamana (natural balance) of our doshas. Just as the elements shift and sway, so does our inner harmony.

As we transition into Sharad Ritu, the Vata Dosha, previously in a state of prakopa (aggravation) during Varsha, goes back to a state of natural balance. Meanwhile, the Pitta Dosha, which was previously in a state of Chaaya (mild accumulation), rises to Prakopa (aggravation).

In Sharad Ritu, the Pitta Dosha reigns supreme, echoing the strength of the sun during this season. Pitta dosha is the vital force that governs digestion, skin, hair colour, focus, and even intelligence. It plays a profound role in our well-being. The dosha orchestrates the creation of pristine blood, known as Rakta Dhatu, which is essential for overall health. However, when Pitta dosha becomes excessively intense and highly aggravated, it tends to slead to digestive issues. Leading to discomforting conditions like diarrhoea, ulcers, and excessive acidity.

Ayurveda imparts a timeless wisdom rooted in a simple yet profound principle for nurturing – Dinacharya (daily routine) and Ritucharya (seasonal regimen). By adhering to crafted regimen that aligns with your unique Prakriti (individual constitution) while considering the ebbs and flows of the doshas through the seasons, you foster not only vitality but also resilience. This holistic approach empowers you to uphold a state of well-being, fortitude, and enhanced immunity year-round.

A Symphony of Flavors for Holistic Well-Being

The incoming Sharad Ritu welcomes in new crops, and the choice of nourishment takes centre stage. Embrace this season's symphony of tastes by consuming Madhura (sweet), Tikta (sharp), and Laghu (light) elements.

To navigate the prevailing Pitta phase with mindfulness, steer clear of the Katu (bitter), Amla (acidic), and Ushna (hot) tastes. Instead, relish the Lavana (salty) essence of the season, extending a warm welcome to wheat, green grams, and gifts from the land (Jangala Mamsa).

By aligning your diet with the rhythms of Sharad Ritu, you embark on a journey of holistic well-being and culinary delight.

Cultivating Holistic Well-Being Through Dinacharya

Harmonise your daily routine with the cycle of Sharad Ritu. Rising early and engaging in pranayama and yoga helps cultivate a sense of calmness, which can ready you for the day. After this, you should freshen yourself with a warm bath, washing away accumulated humidity for a sense of cleanliness and well-being.

Abhyanga, a self-massage with warm oils, is also recommended as it enhances circulation and rejuvenation. Amla, Chandan, and Shatavari are gentle healers and can help alleviate excessive heat and invoke inner harmony.

By integrating these mindful Dinacharya rituals, you can harmonise with Sharad Ritu's essence and nurture balance, vitality, and holistic well-being.

Cultivate a symphony of equilibrium through a curated selection of yoga asanas and pranayama, thoughtfully designed to balance the season's fiery energy. Postures like Shavasana (Corpse Pose), Shitali Pranayama (Cooling Breath), and Chandra Namaskar (Moon Salutation) are ideal postures which help calm and cool the body.

Nourishing your Skin and Hair

As Sharad Ritu unfolds, the sun's warmth breaks through the once-clouded skies, but it also intensifies dryness, leaving your skin looking lacklustre and parched. To restore your natural radiance and maintain inner harmony, prioritise skin hydration and consider using a humidifier to replenish moisture levels. SoulTree offers a range of moisturisers, including Hemp Treat and Nourish Youth Day Cream, as well as Nourishing Cream - Saffron and Almond Oil with Natural Vitamin E. These products are ideal for sealing in moisture and addressing any dryness your skin may be experiencing.

During Sharad Ritu, hair often becomes dry, and the natural cycle of hair fall occurs more prominently. Ayurvedic ingredients like Honey and Aloe Vera provide deep moisturization from root to tip, leaving your hair vibrant, healthy & full of lustre. SoulTree’s Hibiscus Shampoo with Honey and Aloe Vera is your best ally against the harsh dryness of this season.

As nature undergoes its transformation during Sharad Ritu, our bodies and minds also adapt to these changes. Understanding the dosha dynamics during this season is key to achieving inner harmony and well-being. By following Ayurvedic principles tailored to Sharad Ritu, we can embrace the beauty of autumn while nurturing our health and vitality.