UNDERSTANDING OF HEMANTA AND SHISHIRA RITU IN AYURVEDIC AND MODERN PERSPECTIVE AND ITS UTILITY IN PRESENT ERA

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UNDERSTANDING OF HEMANTA AND SHISHIRA RITU IN AYURVEDIC AND
MODERN PERSPECTIVE AND ITS UTILITY IN PRESENT ERA
Dr. Mydeen Sadik*1, Dr. Amit Upasani2, Dr. Sreekanth V. M.3 and Dr. Rathod Krishna4
1Final Year PG Scholar, Department of Samhita and Siddhanta, Parul Institute of Ayurveda, Parul University, Tal.
Waghodia, Dist. Vadodara, Gujarat, India.
2Associate Professor, Department of Samhita and Siddhanta, Parul Institute of Ayurveda, Parul University, Tal.
Waghodia, Dist. Vadodara, Gujarat, India.
3,4Assistant Professor, Department of Samhita and Siddhanta, Parul Institute of Ayurveda, Parul University, Tal.
Waghodia, Dist. Vadodara, Gujarat, India.
Article Received on 20/08/2017 Article Revised on 09/09/2017 Article Accepted on 29/09/2017
.
INTRODUCTION
In the present era, various types of diseases are newly
originating and some other diseases are getting
disappeared. Then also the Ayurvedic approach towards
diseases and health remains the same. Ayurveda gave
more emphasis on how to maintain health and how to
prevent the diseases by properly following healthy
Aharas and Viharas according to different Ritus. By
following these principles, we can avoid all types of life
style disorders. In Swastha Chatushka of Charaka
Samhita, Acharya clearly mentions about the Pathya
Aharas and Viharas that everyone should follow for
attaining healthy state of both Shareera and Manas. And
also explains about its importance in preventing the
diseases that can occur in future.[1] These should be
followed by considering the Ritus. The main aims of
Ayurveda are.
1. Swasthasya Swasthya Rakshanam
2. Athurasya Vikara Prashamanam[2]
Therefore for maintaining the healthy state, Dinacharya
and Ritucharya have been explained by different
Acharyas. Ritucharya is defined as the dietary and
behavioural regimens that we should follow in different
seasons for the maintenance of health and also for
preventing the diseases. At present time, we don’t have
enough time to think about our health and other things as
we all are behind our life goals. Changes in season will
affect the environment in which we are living. As we
human beings are also a part of this environment, any
change in it will affect our body also. So our body should
have to get familiar with this changing environment. If
we are not doing so, it will affect our Doshas and will
lead to Dosha Vaishamya and finally to diseases. The
main key for the survival in this changing environment is
to adapt quickly to these changes. In the 6th chapter of
Charaka Sutrasthana, Tasyashitiya Adhyaya it is told
like “If a person understands and follows diet and
regimens in accordance with different seasons will help
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*Corresponding Author: Dr. Mydeen Sadik
Final Year PG Scholar, Department of Samhita and Siddhanta, Parul Institute of Ayurveda, Parul University, Tal. Waghodia, Dist. Vadodara,
Gujarat, India.
ABSTRACT
As per Ayurveda, to maintain Swasthya Avastha (Healthy state) of both Shareera and Manas, we should have to
follow dietary and behavioural regimens according to different Ritus which is defined as Ritucharya. It is widely
explained in different classics of Ayurveda. The Change of season will affect the external environment where we
are living which in turn will affect our body. Therefore our body should adapt to this changing environment
without disturbing the Homeostasis of the body. The important principle of Ayurveda deals with the preventive
aspects which can be achieved by properly following regimens which are mentioned in our classics. Dietary and
behavioural regimens of Hemanta and Shishira Ritus are highlighted here along with its modern aspects. These can
be correlated to winter season in modern perspective. The main points going to deal here includes: What are the
changes that are occurring in our body during these Ritus, What are its adverse effects on our body, How to
overcome these adverse effects, How can it be correlated with modern aspects. By proper understanding of these
aspects, we can easily make out whether this season will lead to good health or ill health. Lifestyle disorders are
becoming a serious problem now a days. How to prevent these is the point of discussion here. For preventing these
types of disorders the only way is to understand Ritucharya and makes the body to adjust with this changing
environment.
KEYWORDS: Ritucharya, Swasthya Avastha, Dietary and Behavioural Regimens.

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the person to get Bala(strength) and Varna(complexion).
By these we can prevent life style disorders.[3]
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
1. To highlight the basic concepts of Hemanta and
Shishira Ritu with dietary and life style regimens
explained in Ayurveda classics.
2. Understanding of these two in modern perspective.
3. Importance of its understanding in present era.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
1. Ritucharya which has been explained in
Brihatrayees with its commentaries.
2. Websites and other relevant articles related to
Ritucharya.
3. All these are properly analyzed and arranged in such
a manner for the proper understanding of disease
prevention and health maintenance.
RITU: It is derived from the Sanskrit root “Ri” that
means “to go” It denotes time or suitable time.[4]
The year is divided into two periods i.e. Ayana (Solstice)
depending on the direction of movement of the sun i.e.
Uttarayana (Northern solstice) and Dakshinayana
(Southern Solstice). Each of these is formed of three
Ritus. A year consists of six seasons.
1. Shishira- Extreme Winter
2. Vasantha- Spring
3. Grishma- Summer
4. Varsha- Monsoon
5. Sharad- Autumn
6. Hemanta- Early Winter[5]
HEMANTA RITU
Hemanta Ritu is considered as Mid- November to Mid-
January. General conditions of the body include.
1. Predominant Rasa- Madhura.
2. Predominant Mahabhoota- Prithvi and Ap
Mahabhoota.
3. Predominant Guna- Snigdha, Sheeta and Guru.
4. Effect on Dosha- Pitta Prashamana.
5. Deha Bala- Pravara (Maximum).
6. Agni Bala- Pravara (Maximum).
AHARAS (Diet Regimens)
In Hemanta Ritu, the duration of night is long when
compared to other Ritus. Due to this, feeling of hunger
starts from the early morning.
 Snigdha, Amla and Lavana Aaahara.
 Anoopa Mamsa
 Mamsa Rasa prepared by adding Ghrita.
 Sura prepared with Molasses and rice flour.
 Pastries prepared with Godhuma (Wheat).
 Masha
 Ikshu Rasa (Sugarcane juice).
 Ksheera and Ksheera Dravyas (Milk and Milk
products).
 Navamannam (Newly harvested grains).
 Tila Tailam (Gingili oil).
 Vasa (Bone Marrow).
VIHARAS (Lifestyle Regimens)
 Vyayama (Exercise)
 Snana with Kashaya Dravya prepared Jala.
 Lepana (application) of kukuma Kalka (paste of
Saffron).
 Agaru Dhupana (Fumigation with Agar)
 For Shaucha (Toiletry purposes) Sukhodaka (Hot
water) should be used.
 Covering the body with Ushna and Laghu
Praavarana (Blankets).
 Agaru Lepana.
 Yukyarkakiranaan (Exposing to the sun judiciously).
 Padatranam (Wearing Shoes).
 Vyavaya (indulging in Sexual pleasure).
 Residing in underground cellar,
 Taking rest on bed covered with Ajina (Hide of
Antelope), Kousheya (Cloth prepared with silk).
 Niyuddha (Wrestling)
OTHER VIHARAS (including treatment procedures)
 Abhyanga
 Murdha Taila application (Oil application on head).
 Vimardana (Body massage using palms) with Taila
which are Vatahara.
 Jentaka Sweda.
APATHYA AHARAS
 Vata Prakopa Aharas like Laghu, Sheeta and Ruksha
Guna predominant.
 Consuming Sheeta Jala (Cold Drinks).
APATHYA VIHARAS
 Exposing itself to direct and strong wind.
 Divaswapna (Day sleep).[6,9]
SHISHIRA RITU
Shishira Ritu is considered as Mid January to Mid March
approximately. General conditions of the body include.
1. Predominant Rasa- Tiktha.
2. Predominant Mahabhoota- Akasha Mahabhoota.
3. Predominant Guna- Ruksha, Laghu and Sheeta.
4. Effect on Dosha- Kapha Chaya.
5. Deha Bala- Pravara (Maximum).
6. Agni Bala- Pravara (Maximum).
The Hemanta and Shishira Ritu in its nature are almost
similar. The two differences between these Ritus are.
1. Rukshata as it is the beginning of Adana Kaala.
2. Sheeta Adhika (more cold) due to Megha Marutha
Varsha (Cloud, Wind and Rain).[8,9]
SEASON
For proper understanding of Hemanta and Shishira Ritu
in modern perspective, it can be correlated with the
winter season. The Earth is tilted at an angle of 23.44
degree to the plane of its orbit. It causes different
latitudes to face the sun directly as the Earth moves

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through its orbit. Due to these variations, Seasons get
produced. Winter Season is produced by the axis of the
Earth in that hemisphere which being oriented away
from the sun. During this time, there will be shortest day
and longest night. When we go through the different
aspects of this season, a question will be raised like: Is
cold season always bad or good for our health? For
that, we have to understand its effect on our health and
how our body respond to this changing condition i.e. low
temperature.
WINTER
Etymology: The word winter derives from the Proto-
Indo-European root “wend” which relates to “water”.
Definition: Winter is the coldest season of the year in
polar and temperate climates between autumn and spring
season.[10]
Diet Regimens: This is the best season for improving the
Immunity. So Immunity boosting foods which possess
the qualities like fresh, organic, easy to digest, pure and
wholesome should be included. Mainly these include
fresh vegetables and fruits, dairy products, nuts, oil
seeds, whole grains/legumes and ghee, spices. During
this time, warm foods are needed to satisfy craving and
also for providing nourishment to the body.
 Vegetables which take time to grow, the edible part
of it which grows beneath the surface of the ground
usually possess the quality of warming and it should
be taken.
 Certain dry fruits (Dates), Nuts, Oil seeds (Sesame).
 Spices
 Foods coming under animal category like meat, fish
etc.
 Whole grains cereals, proteins and healthy fats.
 Carrot- Beta-carotene present in it is a great source
of Vitamin A and also a powerful antioxidant.
 Potato- They help in providing the energy needed
for our body.
 Onion, Garlic, White radish- They provide good
flavour for our food and is rich in isothiocynates and
phyochemicals which is good in preventing cancer.
 Leafy vegetables- like palak, pudina, coriander,
amaranth etc. Are good sources of Beta-carotene and
Vitamin C which will help our body to fight against
diseases and for improving immunity.
 Green beans and Peas.
 Fresh fruits- Pappaya and Pineapple because of their
warming quality.
 Indian Gooseberry- A great source of Vitamin C and
a good aid for providing immunity.
 Dry fruits- Dates possess the qualities like
warmness, good source of iron, magnesium, calcium
and vitamins C and B3. They can be consumed
alone or by adding it in shakes etc.
 Spices- Mustard, black pepper, turmeric etc are good
sources for acting against microbes and also a good
immunity builder.
 Tulsi- protects against fever and coughs and will
improve the immunity.[11]
Behavioural regimens that should be followed
 Staying in Inner Furnace- It helps to generate heat
from within.
 Use of layering principle in dressing- Dressing
should be done with layer containing dresses which
contains three layers. A close fitting base layer to
wipe out the sweat if any physical exertion occurs,
insulating mid layer and outer layer which is
waterproof and loose fitting.
 Routine of sleep should be modified. As days get
shorter, we have to shift the routine of our sleep like
going to bed earlier and that allows the body to take
more rest.
Physical risks
 Heart Attacks- The increase of heart attack
frequency is more in winter season and it is usually
affecting those who have already the history of it.
 Blood Pressure
 Hypothermia- Condition in which temperature of the
body core falls less than 35C.
 Skin will become super dry by winter air as there is
less humidity in air.
 SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder)- In winter,
people become more depressed as Brain is sensitive
to low temperatures.
 Gaining Weight.
 Disturbance in sleep cycle
Disease risks
 Colds and Flu
 Influenza
 Sore throats
 Asthma
 Migraines
 Swelling in joints
 Irritation in eyes
Behavioural regimens that should be avoided
 Staying late at night.
 Working at night.
 Exposing the body to more stress and fatigue.
 Sleeping during day time.
Health Benefits
 Burning Fats
 Reduction in disease carrying organisms.[12,13]
DISCUSSION
Charaka Acharya mentions that if we follow Pathya
Aharas and Pathya Viharas daily, it is the best way to
attain Swasthya Avastha (Healthy state) and to prevent
Ajathanam Vikaranaam (those diseases that can occur in
future.
The forthcoming diseases can be compared to life style
disorders.[14] So for preventing these, Ritucharya plays a

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vital role as for the above mentioned we have to take in
account about the different seasons also. In Hemanta
Ritu due to its Sheeta Guna the air in the atmosphere is
cold. Due to the Yogavahi quality of Vata, the Sheeta
Guna will do Agni Avarodha in humans. By the coldness
in the environment, it obstructs the normal flow of the
Agni to the outside. A potter who is making earthen
vessels by placing them in a pit and covering them after
keeping the fire will produce more heat. Same is
happening in our body like Sheeta Vata will cover our
whole body which has already Agni inside. Due to these
more heat will be produced in our body i.e. Agni
(Digestive fire) will become more. This enhanced Agni is
capable of digesting large quantities of food. Therefore
Guru Aharas are to be properly given during this Ritu
which includes Newly Harvested grains etc. If not giving
proper Aharas at proper time, Agni will start to attack the
Rasa Dhatu and will finally lead to Vata Prakopa.
Therefore we should provide Guru Aharas and proper
food at proper time inured to prevent this Vata
Prakopa.[15]
Life style disorders are the outcome of inappropriate or
improper relation of humans with their environment.
These life style disorders will occur in our body very
slowly and they are difficult for curing. A study
conducted jointly by the All India Institute of Medical
Sciences and Max Hospital shows that the incidence rate
of Hypertension, Obesity and Heart diseases are
increasing in an alarm rate. According to the opinions of
experts, the main reasons for these disorders are
sedentary life style along with increased usage of fatty
food and alcohol.[16] Asthma symptoms will get worsens
during this time due to the more dryness of the air.
Barometric pressure will get decreased by cold
temperature and due to these drastic changes, it will lead
to migraine. Due to low temperature, swelling in the
joints will increase and will be very difficult for patients
suffering from Arthritis. Dry air will cause eye irritation.
Due to lack of light in this season, it will adversely affect
the sleep cycle and make the people feels like tired
throughout the day.
As in this season hunger is more, our body will crave for
food. So we have to provide rich foods which will
provide warmth and nourishment to the body. This is the
good season for improving immunity because during this
season, hunger will be more and the digestive system of
our body works better. As a result, foods are digested
easily. By this it will help in providing nourishment to
the body. So during this season, our body should be
provided with more nourishing foods like spices having
anti microbial properties that will help us to get
protection from cold and other infections. They will act
as a media for increasing digestive enzymes and cellular
metabolic functions and thus ensuring the complete
assimilation of nutrients.
Peripheral vasoconstriction and Cold Diuresis- When
our body becomes cold, it will reduce the circulation to
the extremities and skin surface by the process called as
Peripheral Vasoconstriction and will result in
concentrating a greater volume of blood in the body core.
Due to these, arterial blood pressure will get increase.
The body will response to this by trying to reduce this
increased arterial blood pressure. The kidneys will
reduce the volume of circulating blood by removing
water and this will go outside in the form of urine which
is defined as Cold Diuresis.
Heart attack frequency- will be more in this season as
during this season there will be drop in temperature. This
drop in temperature will increase the blood pressure.
This will create more strain on the heart. At the same
time, our body has to work harder for generating
additional heat when it is cold. To prevent this, the best
way is to keep warm all the times. As a response to the
low temperature of this season, constriction of blood
vessels take place and in turn it will raise the blood
pressure.
Human body contains several types of fat. Among these
the prominent ones are White and Brown fats. White fats
have the quality of storing extra energy. It is one of the
important features of Obesity and Diabetes. Brown fat
has the quality of burning chemical energy for creating
heat and will help in maintaining body temperature.
Studies have proved that when humans were exposed to
cold climate overnight for one month, it will lead to an
increase in brown fat. This can be used for burning fat
and also to corresponding changes in body metabolism.
Best way to escape from this cold climate is to warm up
by wearing more clothes. Layer principle of dressing is
mentioned as it is one of the effective ways of staying
warm as air gets trapped between the layers and within
the layers. Flu virus flies more easily in cold air. So we
have to take care as chances of Flu occurrence are
more.[17]
CONCLUSION
Ayurveda makes the people understand about their body
types and insist them to live according to this. As
changes in the environment affect our body also, it is
very important for our body to get familiar with these
changes. If we are not doing so it will affect our body
and mind leading to Dosha Vaishamya. In the latter
stages, these imbalances will lead to various types of life
style disorders. So for preventing these disorders, the
best way is to understand Ritucarya which explains
about the various dietary and behavioural regimens
according to different seasons. By proper understanding
and following these regimens, we can easily achieve our
primary goal “Swasthasya Rakshanam”. It also brings
about Strength, Complexion and longevity without
disturbing the equilibrium of the body and mind.

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