RUTU-SANDHI

A liminal space between the seasons, means last 7 days of current season /rutu & starting 7 days of next season / rutu In Ayurveda, we call it the "Rutusandhi," the borderland, where the doshas churn and realign according to the subtle shifts of nature's breath.

As the seasons turn, a vulnerability arises – our immunity dips, and the chances of falling prey to illness increase.

The vata dosha, like the autumn wind, picks up, swirling emotions and digestion. Pitta, the fiery energy, can flare or simmer depending on the approaching season's heat. Kapha, the heavy earth element, resists change, clinging to the routines of the previous season.

Here, in this sacred space of rutu sandhi, we enact specific protocols, adjustments as subtle as the blossoming of a night jasmine.

Dinacharya, our daily routine, becomes even more crucial.

Early to bed, early to rise: Align your sleep cycle with the changing daylight hours. As the days lengthen or shorten, adjust your sleep accordingly.

Agni, the digestive fire, needs stoking. Opt for light, easily digestible meals during rutu sandhi. Favor seasonal produce – think cooling cucumbers in the summer's wane, or warming ginger soups as winter loosens its grip.

Abhyanga, self-massage, becomes a ritual. Use appropriate oils – cooling coconut for the summer's end, or warming sesame as winter approaches. Abhyanga pacifies vata dosha, the main culprit during rutu sandhi.

Shamana chikitsa, pacification therapies, take center stage.

For the vata-dominant experiencing restlessness: Gentle yoga postures that ground and lengthen, like downward-facing dog (adho mukha svanasana) or bridge pose (setu bandhasana). Breathwork (pranayama) like alternate nostril breathing (anuloma viloma) calms the mind.

For those with lingering pitta fire: Avoid spicy foods and excessive sun exposure. Cooling herbs like coriander and aloe vera soothe the pitta.

For those sluggish with kapha: Introduce light exercise like brisk walking or invigorating yoga flows. Stimulant herbs like triphala or ginger kickstart sluggish digestion.

Remember, rutu sandhi is a time for introspection.

Listen to your body. Is it dry and craving moisture? Or perhaps sluggish, yearning for stimulation? Observe your emotions. Are you restless or withdrawn?

Scrape your tongue gently (jihwa scrapping) each morning. This Ayurvedic practice eliminates accumulated ama, toxins, that can exacerbate imbalances during rutu sandhi.

By following these protocols, we navigate the rutu sandhi with grace. We emerge not just unscathed, but stronger, more attuned to the ever-changing symphony of nature. So, step into this liminal space with reverence, for it is an opportunity to reset, a chance to cultivate a vibrant health that resonates with the rhythm of the seasons.

Vd. Kirti Amol Gite

MD (AYU) , fellowship in Panchakarma

Shree Ayurved clinic & Panchakarma center.

ph. 8149302754.