It’s that time of the year again! The monsoon season brings with it refreshing rain, vibrant greenery, and the romantic sound of raindrops on your windowpane. However, along with this enchanting season, various health challenges arise that require our attention. Dr.M.R.Vasudevan Namboothiri, a respected authority in Ayurveda, has recently shed light on this matter in his enlightening article featured in Malayala Manorama.
Attentiveness to Diet
The monsoon period is characterized by lowered immunity, necessitating the adjustment of our diet for this season. Dr. Namboothiri recommends opting for light and easily digestible foods to alleviate the burden on our digestive system.
Welcoming the morning dew, starting the day with steamed food, such as the popular idli or puttu, can lay the foundation for a healthy day ahead. Additionally, a comforting bowl of porridge is an excellent choice to satiate your appetite. However, Dr. Namboothiri advises against consuming curd for lunch or dinner as it can potentially lead to indigestion and water retention. Instead, he suggests opting for buttermilk infused with the goodness of dried ginger and turmeric. These spices are known to enhance digestion and possess anti-inflammatory properties. It is also crucial to avoid consuming raw, uncooked vegetables in the form of salads to prevent exposure to harmful bacteria or viruses that thrive during this season.
Adding pepper to your meals not only enhances the taste but also contributes to your well-being due to its antibacterial qualities. A must-try during this period is the medicinal ‘Oushadha Kanji’ or ‘Karkidaka Kanji,’ a nutrient-packed brew widely consumed in most Kerala households, which aids in boosting immunity.
Dr. Namboothiri also shares a noteworthy tip regarding the use of Panchakolam. Boiling 30 grams of this herbal mixture in 2 liters of water and reducing it to 1 liter creates a potent base for your brown rice porridge. Adding coconut milk not only enhances the taste but also increases the nutritional value, ensuring a well-balanced meal.
A Focus on Vulnerable Groups
The Ayurvedic expert emphasizes the need for extra care when it comes to children and the elderly during this season. Due to their naturally weaker immune systems, they are more susceptible to illnesses. Ensuring they adhere to these dietary guidelines can help maintain their health.
Hygiene and Health Practices
While personal hygiene is crucial, Dr. Namboothiri points out that taking a bath daily during this season is not necessary. Instead, consider using ‘Rasnadhi Podi,’ an Ayurvedic herbal powder known for its numerous health benefits.
Although being outdoors during a downpour may seem tempting, it is best to stay indoors to avoid exposure to disease-causing pathogens. Remember, prevention is always better than cure.
Exercise is essential, but it’s important not to overexert yourself during the monsoon season. Striking a balance between maintaining physical health and avoiding exhaustion is key.
Conclusion
By embracing the Ayurvedic lifestyle and dietary practices outlined by Dr. Namboothiri, you can enjoy the rainy season without the inconvenience of falling ill. Remember, our bodies respond to seasonal changes, and aligning our lifestyle habits with the environment allows us to thrive, regardless of the weather. Stay safe, stay healthy, and savor the monsoons to the fullest!
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