Erika Crotta
N.D. Ph.D.
Our physiology and the environment have many natural cycles and rhythms. A personal routine that is in accord with nature will enlist the support of nature, helping us to promote good health. When we adhere to the cycles of nature, we synchronize our biological clock, prevent premature aging and experience good digestion, absorption and assimilation. Additionally, we enjoy self-esteem, peace, happiness and longevity. Disregarding these natural cycles increases the wear and tear on the human mind/body system.
The most studied cycle in science is the circadian rhythm, the cycle of day and night, the cycle of sleep and being awake. The circadian rhythm is controlled by the pineal gland through the secretion of melatonin, which effects alertness, body temperature, appetite, hormone secretion and sleep. An imbalance in this cycle causes problems that range from sleeping disorders to mental health issues, such as bipolar disorder for example. Almost six million Americans suffer from bipolar disease, which is the sixth leading cause of disability in the world (World Health Organization) and reduces life span by 9.2 years (National Institute of Mental Health).
According to Ayurvedic Medicine, our daily routine is based on three fundamental principles found in nature called Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Vata, Pitta and Kapha are subtle but powerful organizing principles that create structures and functions within nature, including the human body. Vata governs bodily functions concerned with movement and communication. Pitta governs bodily functions concerned with heat, metabolism and energy production. Kapha governs bodily functions concerned with lubrication, physical structure and fluid balance. Imbalance of those principles is an imbalance in the expression of the body’s inner intelligence, responsible for proper functioning of all the grosser, more material aspects of the physiology.
In Ayurvedic Medicine, the circadian rhythm is defined as more then just the difference between day and night; the 24 hours cycle is divided into 6 segments of 4 hours in length. Each fundamental principle of Vata, Pitta and Kapha (and their corresponding physiological functions), is more active in nature at very specific times when they are supporting their particular bodily functions.
Here are some examples of Vata, Pitta and Kapha times and their matching functions: Vata’s movement principle is active between 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., this is why getting up in the morning before 6:00 a.m. will support elimination (a Vata function). In contrast, getting up between 6:00 am and 10:00 a.m., a slow Kapha time, will rather inhibit elimination. The evening period of light Vata (2:00 pm -6:00 p.m.) is a good time for dinner, because digestion is more active than it would be during the heavy Kapha phase, later in the evening. The daytime energizing Pitta phase (10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.) is the most powerful time to digest foods, while the nighttime transformation phase of Pitta is the most important repairing phase of the body. The daytime stable Kapha phase (6:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.) is a good time for exercise, while the nighttime slow Kapha is a good time to wind down and prepare a for a good night sleep. Living in accord with these cycles of nature will improve physical, mental and emotional health and help you fight any disease condition.
It is important to know that ideal behavior includes being in-tune with our natural cycles so that we can begin to move towards better health. Once we have a clear vision of this goal, even if we are not able to achieve it perfectly right away, we can begin to experience a positive change in our well being. As our understanding of daily routine continues to expand, it becomes almost effortless to live in a way which is in complete harmony with nature.
Dr. Crotta is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor from Germany
with a Ph.D. in Physiology and Ayurvedic Medicine from the United States. She has an Ayurvedic practice in Petaluma.
www.AyurvedaND.com
