When one season begins to tip into another, Ayurveda invites us to pause. This shift—called ṛtu sandhi, or the juncture between seasons—is the perfect time to gently cleanse and recalibrate.
As we move from the damp heaviness of spring (Kapha season) into the heat and intensity of summer (Pitta season), many of us start to feel more energized. That’s good news—but for those in the Vata stage of life (roughly age 50 and beyond), that rising fire can quickly dry out the system and lead to overwhelm, anxiety, or burnout.
Instead of pushing harder, we can use this seasonal edge as a time to slow down, simplify, and support our body’s natural rhythm. Below is a gentle Ayurvedic seasonal cleanse you can do for 3 to 5 days—or even just over a weekend. It’s not about restriction, but nourishment.
Morning Rituals to Set the Tone
Wake with the sun if possible, and begin your day with a few quiet minutes of breath awareness. A few rounds of nadi shodhana (alternate nostril breath) can bring immediate balance to the nervous system.
Follow this with abhyanga, self-massage with warm sesame or almond oil. Use long strokes on the limbs and circular motions on the joints. Let the oil sit for 15 minutes, then rinse off with a warm (not hot) shower. Abhyanga grounds Vata, supports lymph flow, and soothes inflammation.
Move through a gentle yoga practice with flowing, grounded movements like cat-cow, gentle sun salutations, forward folds, and seated twists. Keep your breath smooth and even. You’re not trying to “sweat it out,” you’re trying to tune in.
Midday Nourishment with Kitchari and Herbal Teas
For meals, keep it simple and warm. Kitchari is a one-pot combination of mung dal, rice, digestive spices, and optional seasonal vegetables—is the ideal cleanse food. It’s nourishing, easy to digest, and calming to the mind.
Throughout the day, sip a CCF tea (equal parts cumin, coriander, and fennel seeds steeped in hot water) to support digestion and reduce bloating. You can also try teas with rose, mint, or tulsi to cool pitta without disturbing Vata.
Avoid caffeine, sugar, and raw or dry foods during your cleanse. If you’re hungry between meals, try a few soaked almonds, a baked pear, or a spoonful of ghee in warm water for nourishment.
Evening Practices for Deep Sleep
As the sun sets, begin to wind down. Dim the lights and unplug from screens. A short walk outside, barefoot if you can, is a lovely way to ground your energy.
Before bed, sip a small cup of warm golden milk (with turmeric, nutmeg, and a pinch of cinnamon) or steep ashwagandha and chamomile tea to support restful sleep.
Do a few restorative poses like legs up the wall, supta baddha konasana, or supported child’s pose, and then lie down for a short body scan meditation. Focus on softening the face, jaw, belly, and palms. This helps release residual tension and prepares your body for deep, healing sleep.
Why This Cleanse Works
This kind of seasonal cleanse doesn’t deplete, it nourishes. It reduces complexity, stabilizes digestion, and gives the nervous system a break. For those of us navigating the Vata years of life, that’s essential.
Rather than forcing detox or restriction, we’re returning to simplicity. Warm foods, daily rhythm, steady breath, and enough rest. These are the foundations not just of a cleanse—but of sustainable wellness all year round.
Would you like a printable version of this cleanse, or a video of the morning movement practice? Let me know, and I’ll send it your way.
Warmly,
James
