Trataka, also called candle gazing, is a meditation practice where one keeps their eyes focused on a single flame in front of them. Candle gazing helps to maintain focus and concentration, purifies the eyes, reduces stress and anxiety, and rejuvenates tired eyes that look at screens. It is a perfect way to celebrate the return of light, which will slowly return each day after the winter solstice.

Spices contain an abundance of phytonutrients not found in other foods and are unique only to spices. They contain antioxidants that reduce free radicals in the body.

Ayurveda has a self-care regimen for each season. Summer is considered Pitta season when the qualities of Fire and Water dominate the season. These qualities build as we move through summer. July through September is when we can begin to see and feel the effects of these qualities.

Ether, Air, Fire, Water, and Earth make up the five great elements, and when these elements combine they form the Ayurvedic archetypes known as the Doshas. The doshas are biological energies found throughout the human body and mind, and in nature.

Vata is made up of the elements Ether and Air and translate as “that which moves” it is also consider the “King of the Doshas” as it moves both Pitta and Kapha.

Pitta is made up of the elements Fire and Water and translate as “that which cooks” it is the energy of digestion and metabolism in the body.

Kapha is made up of the elements Earth and Water and translates as “that which holds things together” it is the energy of building and lubrication and provides the body with its physical form and structure.