14/01/2026
In Ayurveda, Uttarayana is the six-month period when the sun moves northward, marking the "Adana Kala" or period of "taking away". It is characterized by increasing warmth and dryness, which gradually decrease the body's strength and immunity.
Ayurvedic Effects of Uttarayana
The year in Ayurveda is divided into two kaals (periods): Uttarayana (Northern Solstice, mid-January to mid-July) and Dakshinayana (Southern Solstice, mid-July to mid-January). Uttarayana is associated with the fire element (Agni) and includes the late winter, spring, and summer seasons.
Key effects on the body include:
Decreased Strength (Bala): The intensifying sun and dry winds absorb moisture from the environment and the body, leading to a reduction in physical strength and vitality as the period progresses.
Stronger Digestion (Agni): The digestive fire is strong during the initial part of this period (late winter) and needs adequate fuel.
Dosha Accumulation/Aggravation: Kapha dosha accumulates during late winter (Shishira) and becomes aggravated (liquefies) during spring (Vasanta) due to the increasing warmth, potentially leading to respiratory issues.
Recommended Lifestyle and Diet (Ritucharya)
To maintain balance (dosha equilibrium) during Uttarayana, Ayurveda recommends specific adjustments known as Ritucharya.
Diet:
Consume nourishing, warm, and easily digestible foods such as soups, stews, and cooked vegetables.
Include foods with sweet, sour, and salty tastes in the diet to balance the dryness.
Traditional foods during this period, such as those made with sesame seeds (til) and jaggery (gur), are highly recommended as they are warming and unctuous (oily), which helps balance Vata and Kapha doshas and provides internal nourishment.
Avoid consuming cold or raw foods.
Lifestyle:
Engage in moderate physical activity and strength-building exercises to align with the body's energy during this time.
Perform daily self-oil massage (Abhyanga) to protect the skin from dryness and improve circulation.
Early morning exposure to sunlight (like during the traditional activity of flying kites) is encouraged to absorb Vitamin D and leverage the sun's medicinal effects on the