One of the most fundamental Ayurvedic principles is the importance of synching up with the natural rhythms of the world that we live in. Natural rhythms exist all around us and within us. Without the rhythms of our breath, our brainwaves, our heartbeat and our lymphatic system pulsing through us, we would cease to exist. Women are especially affected by the daily and monthly hormonal cycles that determine their energy, moods and sleep. Learning to tune into and go with these cycles helps women really appreciate and understand the wisdom of their own bodies.
These natural and universal rhythms of the body are called circadian rhythms. When we listen to them, we know when to wake up, when to go to sleep, when to be alone, when to connect with others, how hungry we are, how tired we are and when we need to tap into our inner world. If you’ve ever gone camping, you might recall that your were very in tune with your own body clock and you felt better for it.
Mother earth also pulses, with the rising and setting of the sun, the cycles of the moon, changes in the seasons, the ebb and flow of the tides. When we live in alignment with these natural and perpetual rhythms we tap into the source of the best natural healing. When we ignore the inner and outer rhythms, we fight against nature and are likely to suffer with chronic challenges such as deep fatigue, poor digestion, anxiety and/or depression, insomnia, appetite disturbances and poor immunity.
Rhythms of the Day
Before 6 am is vata time in Ayurveda. Vata is governed by air and ether and is when you are at your lightest and most creative. It is a good time for meditation, yoga, breathing exercises or pranayama. Walking towards the sunrise is considered to be a cure for depression. It’s also a great time for releasing both mental and physical wastes. Waking before 6 helps us to connect with the energy of the sun and really tap into some great morning energy.
Between 6 and 10 is kapha time and this is a good time to eat a nice breakfast and maybe get some exercise. It’s a time for connecting with others and getting some work done.
Between 10 am to 2 pm is the pitta time, it is when the sun is highest in the sky, so the fire of the sun also intensifies our digestive fire or agni as it is called. Because our digestion is at it’s strongest, this it the ideal time to eat your main meal. It is also the time when we are capable of carrying out our best thinking and mental activities. It’s good to avoid being outside if the weather is too hot.
From 2 pm to 6 pm is a vata time again, and so it’s a great time for meditating, yoga, creative activities and having a light evening meal. It is good to stop eating for the day, ideally before 6pm. This allows the body to digest food before you go to bed and this will help you to sleep better at night.
The second kapha time of day is between 6 and 10 when it is time to get yourself ready for bed and sleep. It’s a good time to connect with others, do some nice activity and then slow down and maybe enjoy a cup of golden milk. Aim to be in bed before 10 and take advantage of the kapha energy which is heavy and will help you fall asleep. If you don’t sleep before 10, you are in danger of tapping into the pitta energy which is fiery and will propel you straight into the second vata period, also known as the second wind!
Between 10 pm and 2 am during the pitta time, the liver is actively detoxifying and cleansing the body. It’s good to allow the body this time to digest properly by not eating just before or during this time period.
Seasons of Life
We have a natural life cycle, we are born, we become a baby, a child, an adult and then an older adult if we live a full life. Health results from embracing the rhythms and cycles of each stage, and working with them instead of against them or trying to prevent aging.
Traditionally all indigenous cultures have lived in harmony with the natural rhythms and cycles, honouring the changes with festivals, special days and auspicious times. These events were held outdoors and people were much more in tune with changes and wonders of nature.
Ayurveda teaches us to return to our connection with the earth and her rhythms. When we do, we really reap the benefits of much better mental and physical health.
I have found that the more I learn to listen to my body the more I live rhythmically because that is what it is telling me to do. When I listen I feel better, I eat better, I sleep better and I have better energy. When I start my day with a water, meditation, yoga and some walking everything else falls into place. When I stop pushing myself when I’m tired and go to bed before 10 I sleep well and I have a good appetite for healthy food the next day. I feel like I’m in control of my choices and not so impulsive. These cures are so simple for anyone who wants to get in control of their habits and once you start living in tune with nature you will wonder why you didn’t do it sooner!