Dr M Punyakishore Singh and Dr Ng Joykumar Singh
Contd from previous issue
We are the subset of nature so our system also works optimally when there is a rhythm. Our 24-hour ayurvedic biological cycles are called the circadian rhythms that influence the sleep wake cycles, hormone release, eating habits, digestion, body temperature and important bodily functions. The rotation of the Earth in relation to the Sun creates a 24-hour light and dark cycles that have been shown to impact the human health in more complex ways. The Ayurvedic clock or circadian rhythm is broken down into six cycles. Three cycles occur during the day and three during the night. Before laying out the clock, it is beneficial to understand the energies which guide us. Ayurveda is based on the five great elements: earth, water, fire, air and space. These elements combine to create three doshas. Dosha is a Sanskrit word which provides understanding to the elements and relating qualities. The three doshas govern mental and physical response.
Vata is the lightest dosha comprising of air and space.
Pitta is the hottest dosha comprising of fire and a little water.
Kapha is the densest dosha comprising of earth and water.
a) Day Cycle
6am - 10am - Kapha Time
Time periods always begin with kapha dosha. It’s best to get up before 6 am, and engage in some early morning activity to get our heart pumping and day off with an energetic start. Eat a light breakfast that is well spiced.
10am - 2pm - Pitta Time
Kapha time flows into Pitta time. Pitta governs the time of productivity, the time that the sun is highest in the sky and there is more heat in the natural world. During this time of day, heat will naturally predominate in our bodies and minds. By harnessing this midday heat, we are propelled to be productive and accomplish our goals. This is the best time to have the largest meal of the day that is our lunch.
2pm - 6pm - Vata Time
The pitta time of the day fades as the Vata time of the day begins. Vata governs the time of transition. The natural light, etheric qualities of this time of day allow creativity and expansive thinking to peak, making it a great time to engage in creative pursuits and problem solving.
b) Night Cycle
6pm - 10pm - Kapha Time
As the cycle continue, as we move towards night, times ruled by the doshas repeat. Kapha becomes dominant again. These heavy qualities tell you it’s time to wind down, eat a light, early dinner, and settle in for the night.
10pm - 2am - Pitta Time
As Kapha time rolls around, hopefully you are snug in bed, sound asleep. It is important to sleep during this time, because the activity that now takes place is inside you; this is the best time of internal cleansing.
2am - 6am - Vata Time
This Vata time marks another time of transition. However, the early morning Vata time is not a time of creativity, but rather of receptivity. This is the best time for meditation, prayer, chanting and other spiritual practices.
We are all familiar with the phrase early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise. This is resetting our clock with a natural clock with the nature’s clock. These days everyone is super busy instead of listening to our body, we listen to our work and technology more. It has become a very common thing eating late and sleeping late and this has had a huge impact on our mind-body system and there is steady rise in life style disorders and can lead to different kinds of diseases and can weaken our immune system. Moreover, the alteration in sleep and eating patterns may disturb the host circadian system which influence the gut microbiome resulting in metabolic health issues. Due to the different kinds of disorders and weakened immune system, it is more likely to get severely ill from any diseases including Covid-19 as compared to those who strictly follow the ayurvedic clock. So, it can be overwhelming to think about switching this routine up and encourage making small changes and adjusting habits over time during the present pandemic time.
The writers are with College of Food Technology, CAU, Imphal For further details contact:- Public Relation & Media Management Cell, CAU, Imphal. Email:
[email protected]