Hemanta Rutucharya (हेमन्त ऋतुचर्या) - Revision history

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The diet and lifestyle guidelines given by Ayurveda which should be followed to preserve and promote health in Hemanta rtu are discussed under Hemanta rtucharya. These are the guidelines given by Ayurveda acharyas to help one to prevent illnesses occurring due to the beginning of cold and dry weather of Hemanta rtu folllowed by Shishira rtu of excess cold and dryness. When this regimen is followed appropriately it helps one to maintain the balance of body energies called as doshas. This inturn help to maintain health and wellness in this season.

== What is Hemanta rtu? How is it characterized? ==
Hemanta rtu is the coldest season of the year. It comes after Hemant rtu and before Shishira rtu. It is characterized by cold climatic conditions. <s>During this time some regions even witness snowfalls with temperatures falling to below zero degrees centigrade. Cold winds, dryness, occasional clouds and rainfall</s> are some of the features that describe Shishir Rtu. <s>This season is associated with dryness and dehydration. The cold air leads to increase in kapha as well as vata dosha levels. However the accompanying dryness in the weather leads to accumulation of Kapha Dosha and aggravation of Vata Dosha.</s>

== Months of Hemanta rtu as per calendar ==
Margashirsha and Pausha are the 2 months in the lunar calendar which fall under Hemanta rtu. While, as per Gregorian calendar Hemanta is grossly a a period from <s>Mid- to Mid January.</s>

# <s>Magha OR Tapa- Mid-January to Mid-February</s>
# <s>Phalguna OR Tapasya-Mid-February to Mid-March</s>

== Hemanta- The start of Uttarayana (Northern solstice) ==
Hemanta Ritu <s>starts with the solstice, called Uttarayana in Vedic astrology.</s> In the northern hemisphere, which includes India, the solstice signals the beginning of winter. In the southern hemisphere, it is the start of summer. Thus in Bharata, Hemanta marks the <s>beginning of Uttarayana or Adana kala.</s> Adana kala is that kala in which the outside environment is such that it absorbs moisture and fluid from body leading to dehydration and reduction in energy levels. Hemanta which marks the beginning of adana kala is characterized by climate having cold winds and dryness. Such environment leads to loss of moisture and increase in dryness of body. Acharya Charaka has described thee changes in environment and body as below,<blockquote>तत्र रविर्भाभिराददानो जगतः स्नेहं वायवस्तीव्ररूक्षाश्चोपशोषयन्तः शिशिरवसन्तग्रीष्मेषु यथाक्रमं रौक्ष्यमुत्पादयन्तो रूक्षान् रसांस्तिक्तकषायकटुकांश्चाभिवर्धयन्तो नृणां दौर्बल्यमावहन्ति||६||</blockquote>Meaning: In adana kala the Sun with its hot rays absorbs moisture from the environment. The excessively dry wind by virtue of its absorbing quality further causes dryness in Hemanta, vasanta, and grishma seasons progressively, leading to the predominance of tikta, kashaya, and katu rasa respectively and gradual increase of weakness in human beings during these three seasons.

Therefore, Ayurveda believes that Hemanta rtu which comes at the beginning of adana kala and end of visarga kala is one of the seasons that have maximum physical strength that one can have throughout the year. Hemanta is the ideal period to build strength, stamina and immunity in our bodies.

== Hemanta specific Diet and lifestyle regimen ==
Ayurveda believes that <s>Katu, Tikta and kashaya</s> rasa increase in the outer environment in Hemanta Rtu. Increase in these rasas, cold wind and dryness in outer environment lead to aggravation of <s>vata dosha. Aggravated Vata dosha</s> might cause health related issues and thus it is important to know what food and lifestyle elements can help one balance naturally aggravated vata dosha and keep all the other body energies in balance in the season of cold and dry winters.

=== Diet regimen ===
One can have more of sweet, sour, and salty foods this season. This season also necessitates intake of food that is unctuous in nature. Naturally sweets, desserts and creamy foods can be enjoyed in this eason with little health risk. Cereals and pulses, new rice, flour preparations, green gram, Black gram, etc. should be used. Various meats, fats, milk and milk products, sugarcane products, ''Shidhu'' (fermented preparations), ''Tila'' (sesame), and so on, are also beneficial at this time.

Any type of diets which possess capacity to develop feeling of lightness, cold, and dryness in body should be avoided.

In Hemanta rtu, agni (the digestive fire) is strong and it can smoothly digest even the foods that are otherwise heavy on digestion. The key mantra is to eat food and drinks that are predominantly <s>Amla (sour) as the predominant rasa (taste) are preferred. While those having pungent, bitter and astringent in taste, cold, dry in nature or inherently light to digest are best to be avoided.</s>

* Cereals and pulses, wheat/gram flour products, new rice, corn, and others, are advised. Ginger, garlic, Haritaki (fruits of Terminalia chebula), Pippali (fruits of Piper longum), sugarcane products, and milk and milk products are to be included in the diet.
* Consumption of non-vegetarian food specially the sea food, meat in this season doesnt cause harm instead it helps enhance the energy since it is well digested and also contain more percentage of fats which are recommended in this season. After consumption of such food drinking of madira and sidhu type of wines and honey is advised. These are inherently sour in rasa and hot in veeryam. Thus, the combination of food and drink results in proper digestion and metabolism of such food to fulfill the requirements in this season. Overall it helps to keep check on aggravation of vata and increases strength of the body.
* Use of warm water for drinking is recommended.
* Foods having Amla (sour) as the predominant taste are preferred. Also Madhura (sweet) and lavana (salty) rasa dominant food helps to keep check of aggravated vata. However there should be a balance while making food choices and overindulgence in specific foods again and again may cause lead to health concerns in future.
* Cereals and pulses, wheat/gram flour products, new rice, corn, and others, are advised. Ginger, garlic, Haritaki (fruits of Terminalia chebula) with Pippali (fruits of Piper longum), sugarcane products, and milk and milk products are to be included in the diet.
* Food and drinks that cause vata vitiation and inherently light to digest in property, inadequate quantities of food, and intake of diluted gruel are contraindicated. Foods having Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent) predominant Rasa are to be avoided. Laghu (light) and Shita (cold) foods are advised to be prohibited.

=== Lifestyle ===

Waking up early

exercise

ratricharya

Vyayama (Exercise), abhyanga (body and head massage), use of warm water, sunbath, application of fragrant herbs having hot potency can be used, sufficient warm clothing, sexual indulgence with one partner, residing in warm places is recommended

Must avoid exposure to strong and cold wind. Better to avoid diwaswapa daytime sleep.

The lifestyle in Hemanta should be such that it will help to maintain the body temperature to the optimum level. Activities that increase warmth and protect from cold are encouraged.

* In order to protect one's body from cold and dryness of winters it is necessary to avoid (getting exposed to) strong cold winds. In case it is not possible, on should at least use clothing that can protect one from cold and dry winds. one should specially stay in less windy and warm shelters (homes).
* Also, excessive walking, sleep at late night are to be avoided which causes vata aggravation (Thakkar J, Chaudhari S, Sarkar PK. Ritucharya: Answer to the lifestyle disorders. ''Ayu''. 2011;32(4):466-471. doi:10.4103/0974-8520.96117)
* Abhyangam: Although a part of dinacharya or daily routine, abhyangam is must in Hemanta rtu. Massage with luke warm oils help to keep check on vata dosha in body, reduce skin dryness by locking the moisture.
* Udwartanam: Helpful for maintaining the good skin health and strength.
* Snanam: Bathing with luke warm water after abhyanga and udwartanam. Sun bath in region where the view of sun is obstructed for long time due to snowfall, cloudy atmosphere etc.
* Vyayama: Best season for doing exercise to build strength.
* Other: Physical activities that need strength and give pleasure are best suited for this season since in this season such activities do not lead to energy loss.
* Avoid: Diwaswapa (day time sleeping)

== Festivals celebrated in Bharata to encourage people to adopt Hemanta rutucharya ==
(Festivals of hemanta:

Deepawali- sweets, snacks- तस्मात्तुषारसमये स्निग्धाम्ललवणान् रसान्| औदकानूपमांसानां मेद्यानामुपयोजयेत्||११||

बिलेशयानां मांसानि प्रसहानां भृतानि च| भक्षयेन्मदिरां शीधुं मधु चानुपिबेन्नरः||१२||

In the period of snowfall, unctuous, sour and salty food items should be consumed predominantly. Meat of fatty, aquatic and marshy animals should be taken. Meat of burrowing animals and roasted meat of animals that eat by snatching the prey should be consumed and after that drinking of madira and sidhu type of wines and honey is advised. [11-12]

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गोरसानिक्षुविकृतीर्वसां तैलं नवौदनम्| हेमन्तेऽभ्यस्यतस्तोयमुष्णं चायुर्न हीयते||१३||

A person who is habituated to consuming milk products, cane sugar products, fats and oils, new rice and warm water during hemanta ritu, never sees his lifespan decrease ( i.e. these help in prevention from early aging and diseases). [13]

तस्माद्धैमन्तिकः सर्वः शिशिरे विधिरिष्यते| निवातमुष्णं त्वधिकं शिशिरे गृहमाश्रयेत्||२०||

Therefore, the whole regimen advised for hemanta should also be followed in Hemanta ritu. In addition to that, one should specially stay in less windy and warm shelters (homes).

== Seasonal produce in Hemanta: Fruits and vegetables and how they are helpful[edit | edit source] ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+Winter
!Fruit
!Benefits
!Vegetables
!Benefits
|-
|Amla
|Amla dominant all 5 tastes and rejuvenating, adaptogenic, antioxidant effects
|Green garlic
|
|-
|Orange
|Madhura and Amla rasa dominant, hot in veeryam, Vata pacifying
|Kand (Purple yam)
|
|-
|Sweet lime
|Madhura and Amla rasa dominant
|Surati papadi
|
|-
|Guava
|Madhura and Amla rasa dominant, pulpy fruit
|Beans various types
|
|-
|Fig
|Madhura and Amla rasa dominant
|Chawli
|
|-
|Pinapple
|Madhura and Amla rasa dominant
|Carrots
|
|-
|Strawberries
|Madhura and Amla rasa dominant
|Radish
|
|-
|Dates
|koshthavatahara
|Cauliflower
|
|-
|Chiku
|
|Cabbage
|
|-
|Indian jujube (Ber)
|Madhura and Amla rasa dominant
|Fenugreek
|
|-
|
|
|Hurda
|
|}

== Traditional Indian recipes done in Hemanta and how they help ==
The eating practices in much of India come from the principles of Ayurveda. According to Ayurveda, the human body is a constitution of bioenergy or life forces. These are known as the doshas vata, pitta, and kapha. “The agni is stronger during winter, which increases pitta in the body. This is the time for foods with sweet, sour, and salty taste as they are considered warm; hence wheat, whole grains, dairy, and fatty food is recommended,” she says. However, the diet may vary from region to region since winter in southern India is not as harsh as in the north. (available from <nowiki>https://www.healthline.com/health/seasonal-guide-to-eating-in-india#Seasons-of-India</nowiki> )

Recipes from Maharashtra and Gujarat

# Diwali sweets and savouries
# Oondhiyu - Winter veggies, heavy, green garlic, beans
# Carrot halwa - carrots, sweet, unctuous
# Popati - simila rto oondhiyu
# Deep fried foods- especially sweets
# Sarson ka saag -
# Besan laddoo
# Gond laddoo
# bajra roti/ khichari
# baingan bharta
# Golpapdi
# Adadhiya pak
# Til-gur roti/chikki/ rewadi/ gujiya

== References ==

@@ Line 4: / Line 4: @@
 == हेमन्तमासाः ॥ Months of Hemanta rtu as per calendar ==
-Margashirsha and Pausha are the 2 months in the lunar calendar which fall under Hemanta rtu. While, as per Gregorian calendar Hemanta is grossly a a period from Mid November to Mid JAnuary
+As per Hindu calendar in Bharata, for every 2 months there is one season. Therefore for 12 months there are 6 seasons. However the seasons are listed with little variation in the names in 2 different cases. The list of season and months in Hindu calendar is given below,
 # Margashirsha or Saha - Mid November -Mid December
@@ Line 18: / Line 66: @@
 == हेमन्ते अग्निदोषादीनां गतिः॥ The status of bio-energies in body in Hemanta ==
-A specific weather condition in Hemanta rtu leads to changes in the bio-energies like Doshas, Dhatus and malas. Outside temperature becomes cold in this season. Because of this and the windy weather, the heat in the body is trapped inside (which otherwise gets eliminated as and when required through sweating and other means). Since there is no or very little sweating is in winter acharyas say that the heat gets trapped). Heat is present in the form of pitta in our body. Thus, pitta especially the pachaka form of pitta dosha which is also known as Jatharagni (agni) becomes strong and powerful. As a result appetite increases in this season. If this powerful digestive fire does not get sufficient and appropriate food (which is collated with the fuel) it starts taking required material from the dhatus and as a result dhatus break down. Dhatus are the building blocks of our body hence their breakdown leads to lowering strength, immunity and life as a whole. Thus, it is important to provide sufficient fuel in the form of food to this powerful digestive fire of Hemanta rtu. This food should be predominantly sweet, sour, salty in taste.  <blockquote>बलिनः शीतसंरोधाद्धेमन्ते प्रबलोऽनलः||७|| भवत्यल्पेन्धनो धातून् स पचेद्वायुनेरितः| अतो हिमेऽस्मिन्सेवेत स्वाद्वम्ललवणात्रसान्||८|| Asht. Hrud. 3. 7,8</blockquote>Although the modern science adopts and proposes the concept of rise in core body temperature by reduction in peripheral circulation in winters, the same has been explained simply by calling this phenomena as entrapment of heat in body by Ayurveda scholars.
+A specific weather condition in Hemanta rtu leads to changes in the bio-energies like Doshas, Dhatus and malas. Outside temperature becomes cold in this season. Because of this and the windy weather, the heat in the body is trapped inside (which otherwise gets eliminated as and when required through sweating and other means). Since there is no or very little sweating is in winter acharyas say that the heat gets trapped). Heat is present in the form of pitta in our body. Thus, pitta especially the pachaka form of pitta dosha which is also known as Jatharagni (agni) becomes strong and powerful. As a result appetite increases in this season. If this powerful digestive fire does not get sufficient and appropriate food (which is collated with the fuel) it starts taking required material from the dhatus and as a result dhatus break down. Dhatus are the building blocks of our body hence their breakdown leads to lowering strength, immunity and life as a whole. Thus, it is important to provide sufficient fuel in the form of food to this powerful digestive fire of Hemanta rtu. This food should be predominantly sweet, sour, salty in taste.  <blockquote>बलिनः शीतसंरोधाद्धेमन्ते प्रबलोऽनलः||७|| भवत्यल्पेन्धनो धातून् स पचेद्वायुनेरितः| अतो हिमेऽस्मिन्सेवेत स्वाद्वम्ललवणात्रसान्||८|| (Asht. Hrud. 3. 7-8)<ref name=":0">Ashtanga Hrudayam (Sutrasthanam Adhyaya 3 Sutra 7-8)</ref></blockquote>Although the modern science adopts and proposes the concept of rise in core body temperature by reduction in peripheral circulation in winters, the same has been explained simply by calling this phenomena as entrapment of heat in body by Ayurveda scholars.
 {| class="wikitable"
 |+The status of body elements in Hemanta Rtu
@@ Line 27: / Line 75: @@
 |1
 |[https://dharmawiki.org/index.php/Doshas_(%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%8B%E0%A4%B7%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%83) Doshas]
-| Vata with kapha slightly elevated
+| <nowiki>Pitta is pacified due to cold and Vata & Kapha start accumulating. Hence in this season all 3 doshas are in almost equilibrium naturally. No one is aggravated beyond its level due to environmental factors. (पित्तं शाम्यते, तच्छैत्याद्वायुः श्लेष्मा च चीयते |) </nowiki><ref>Hemadri's Ayurevdarasayana commentary on Ashtanga Hrudayam (Sutrasthanam  Adhyaya 3 Sutra 7-8)</ref>
 |-
 |2
 |[https://dharmawiki.org/index.php/Agni_in_Ayurveda_(%E0%A4%86%E0%A4%AF%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B5%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87_%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%97%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%83) Agni]
-| Strong
+| Strong <ref name=":0" />
 |-
 |3
 |[https://dharmawiki.org/index.php/Dhatus_(%E0%A4%A7%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%83) Dhatus]
-|Highest strength
+|Highest strength<ref name=":0" />
 |}
@@ Line 61: / Line 109: @@
 * [[Vyayama (व्यायामम्)|Vyayama]]: Best season for doing exercise to build strength.
 * Other: Physical activities that need strength and give pleasure are best suited for this season since in this season such activities do not lead to energy loss.
 === अपथ्यानि ॥ What should be strictly avoided in Hemanta rtu? ===

@@ Line 3: / Line 3: @@
 The diet and lifestyle guidelines given by Ayurveda which should be followed to preserve and promote health in Hemanta rtu are discussed under Hemanta rtucharya. These are the guidelines given by Ayurveda acharyas to help one to prevent illnesses occurring due to the beginning of cold and dry weather of Hemanta rtu folllowed by Shishira rtu of excess cold and dryness. When this regimen is followed appropriately it helps one to maintain the balance of body energies called as doshas. This inturn help to maintain health and wellness in this season.
-== Months of Hemanta rtu as per calendar ==
+== हेमन्तमासाः ॥ Months of Hemanta rtu as per calendar ==
 Margashirsha and Pausha are the 2 months in the lunar calendar which fall under Hemanta rtu. While, as per Gregorian calendar Hemanta is grossly a a period from Mid November to Mid JAnuary
@@ Line 9: / Line 9: @@
 # Pausha or Sahasya - Med December to Mid January
-== What is Hemanta rtu? How is it characterized? ==
+== अव्यापन्नहेमन्तऋतुलक्षणानि॥ What is Hemanta rtu? How is it characterized? ==
 This ancient Ayurvedic wisdom and philosophy direct the need for correcting lifestyle patterns as per the environmental changes. Hemanta Rtu marks the beginning of Winters in Bharata. After the onset of Hemanta  rtu,  the  surrounding  environment appears  smoky  with  a  covering  of  thick  mist and fully surrounded by  snow (especially in the northen part of Bharata), the Sun is also covered   likewise, cold breeze from north creates horripilations, trees like Lodhra (Symplococos racemosa), Priyangu (Callicarpa macrophylla), Punnaga (Calophyllum inophyllum), Lavali (Phyllanthus acidus) become  splendid with  flowers. Animals  like  elephants, goats, buffaloes, horses, crow and pigs become more energetic and vigorated. Resources of water (natural and artificial) are covered with thick layers of snow and mist with the inert fish and birds. Water of wells is warm.
-== Hemanta- The end of Dakshinayana (Southern solstice) ==
+== दक्षिणायनस्य अन्तिमऋतुहेमन्तः॥ Hemanta- The end of Dakshinayana (Southern solstice) ==
 Hemanta Rtu marks the end of Southern solstice called as Dakshinayana in Vedic astrology. Varsha (Pravrt), Sharada and Hementa are the 3 rtus that appear in sequence in Dakshinayana period. In all these rtus, heat in the environment reduces and coldness increases in a stepwise gradual manner. The sun is situated in southwards position, and due to its position with respect to earth, and also due to clouds, wind and rain, the heat in the environment slackens. The power of the moon is predominant. All thee lead to the abundance and predominance of panchamahabhutas in the surroundings that are non-dry and generate amla (sour), lavana (salty), and madhura (sweet) rasa respectively and gradual increase of body strength in human beings during these three seasons. Thus in Hemanta, MAdhura (sweet) rasa is abundant in the environment and the physical strength or Balam is the highest. Acharya Charaka has described these changes in a following way,<blockquote>
 वर्षाशरद्धेमन्तेषु तु दक्षिणाभिमुखेऽर्के कालमार्गमेघवातवर्षाभिहतप्रतापे, शशिनि चाव्याहतबले, माहेन्द्रसलिलप्रशान्तसन्तापे जगति, अरूक्षा रसाः प्रवर्धन्तेऽम्ललवणमधुरा यथाक्रमं तत्र बलमुपचीयते नृणामिति||७||</blockquote>Therefore, Ayurveda believes that, Hemanta rtu which comes at the end of Visarga kala is one of the 6 seasons that gives maximum physical strength one can have throughout the year. Hemanta is the ideal period to build strength, stamina and immunity in our bodies.
@@ Line 37: / Line 37: @@
 |Highest strength
 |}
 == Hemanta specific Diet and lifestyle regimen ==
 The diet and lifestyle elements that will help balance the disturbances in bioenergies or body constituents that happen due to Hementa rtu are discussed under Hemanta rutucharya regimen. Agni or the digestive power is strong in this season and thus taking advantage of it less restrictions on diet are put and rather consumption of food that is usually preferred by the food lovers is accepted and recommended. Therefore Hemanta could actually be the most awaited season of the year for many such reasons, food being the main element!
@@ Line 53: / Line 54: @@
 The lifestyle in Hemanta should be such that it will help to maintain the body temperature to the optimum level. Activities that increase warmth and protect from cold are encouraged.
-* Since the nights are longer and the days are shorter (due to sou
+* Since the nights are longer and the days are shorter (due to southern solstice) sleeping for a long time in the morning due to late sunrise is not recommended. Instead it is advisable to wake up early and start the daily activities.
 * [[Abhyanga (अभ्यङ्गम् )|Abhyangam]]: Although Abhyanga a part of [[Dinacharya (दिनचर्या)|dinacharya]] or daily routine, it is must in Hemanta rtu. Massage with luke warm oils help to keep check on vata dosha in body, reduce skin dryness by locking the moisture, improve peripheral blood circulation and keep skin soft, hydrated, smooth.
@@ Line 73: / Line 73: @@
 == Festivals celebrated in Bharata to encourage people to adopt Hemanta rutucharya ==
-Deepawali is the most widely celebrated festival in India.
+Deepawali festive rituals: A guide to the Hemanta Rtucharya
 sweets, snacks- तस्मात्तुषारसमये स्निग्धाम्ललवणान् रसान्| औदकानूपमांसानां मेद्यानामुपयोजयेत्||११||
@@ Line 90: / Line 90: @@
 Therefore, the whole regimen advised for hemanta should also be followed in Hemanta ritu. In addition to that, one should specially stay in less windy and warm shelters (homes).
-== Seasonal produce in Hemanta: Fruits and vegetables and how they are helpful[edit | edit source] ==
 {| class="wikitable"
 |+Winter

@@ Line 38: / Line 38: @@
 |}
 == Hemanta specific Diet and lifestyle regimen ==
-The diet and lifestyle elements that will help balance the disturbances in bioenergies or body constituents that happen due to Hementa rtu are discussed under Hemanta rutucharya regimen. Agni or the digestive power is strong in this season and thus taking advantage of it less restrictions on diet are put and rather consumption of food that is usually preferred by the food lovers is accepted and recommended. Therefore Hemanta could actually be teh most awaited season of the year for many such reasons, food being the main element! The lifestyle in Hemanta should be such that it will help to maintain the body temperature to the optimum level. Activities that increase warmth and protect from cold are encouraged.
+The diet and lifestyle elements that will help balance the disturbances in bioenergies or body constituents that happen due to Hementa rtu are discussed under Hemanta rutucharya regimen. Agni or the digestive power is strong in this season and thus taking advantage of it less restrictions on diet are put and rather consumption of food that is usually preferred by the food lovers is accepted and recommended. Therefore Hemanta could actually be the most awaited season of the year for many such reasons, food being the main element!
 === पथ्यानि॥ What should be followed in Hemanta rtu? ===
-In Hemanta rtu, [[Agni (अग्निः)|agni]] (the digestive fire) is strong and it can smoothly digest even the foods that are otherwise heavy on digestion. The key mantra is to eat food and drinks that are predominantly sweet, sour, and salty in taste. One can enjoy more desserts, creamy foods or sweets in this season with little health risk.
+In Hemanta rtu, [[Agni (अग्निः)|agni]] (the digestive fire) is strong and it can smoothly digest even the foods that are otherwise heavy on digestion. The key mantra is to eat food and drinks that are predominantly sweet, sour, and salty in taste. However there should be a balance while making food choices and overindulgence in certain foods may cause health problems in future.
-Food with more calories can also be consumed in this season since the dryness in the weather necessitates intake of unctuous or fatty food. Fats help in reducing dryness and also are digested smoothly. However there should be a balance while making food choices and overindulgence in specific foods again and again may cause lead to health concerns in future.
+* One can enjoy more desserts, creamy foods or sweets in this season with little health risk.
-Various meats, fats, milk and milk products are beneficial and should be deliberately included in the diet.
+The lifestyle in Hemanta should be such that it will help to maintain the body temperature to the optimum level. Activities that increase warmth and protect from cold are encouraged.
-New rice, Cereals, pulses, corn, flour preparations (rich in carbohydrates), green gram, Black gram, sugarcane products etc. should be included in the diet.
+* Since the nights are longer and the days are shorter (due to sou
-One can make use of sufficient amount of Ginger and garlic in the food and also the medicinal fruits of Haritaki (fruits of Terminalia chebula), Pippali (fruits of Piper longum) should be consumed.
+* [[Abhyanga (अभ्यङ्गम् )|Abhyangam]]: Although Abhyanga a part of [[Dinacharya (दिनचर्या)|dinacharya]] or daily routine, it is must in Hemanta rtu. Massage with luke warm oils help to keep check on vata dosha in body, reduce skin dryness by locking the moisture, improve peripheral blood circulation and keep skin soft, hydrated, smooth.
+* [[Ayurvedic method of body scrub (उद्वर्तनम्)|Udwartanam]]: Helpful for maintaining the good skin health and strength.
-''Shidhu'' (fermented preparations), ''Tila'' (sesame) are also beneficial at this time since they generate little pitta (heat) as well as not dry in nature.
+* [[Snana vidhi(स्नान विधि)|Snanam]]: Bathing with luke warm water after abhyanga and udwartanam. Sun bath in region where the view of sun is obstructed for long time due to snowfall, cloudy atmosphere etc.
+* [[Vyayama (व्यायामम्)|Vyayama]]: Best season for doing exercise to build strength.
 * Other: Physical activities that need strength and give pleasure are best suited for this season since in this season such activities do not lead to energy loss.
 === अपथ्यानि ॥ What should be strictly avoided in Hemanta rtu? ===
-Avoid: Diwaswapa (day time sleeping)
+* Any type of diet which generates feeling of lightness, cold, and dryness in body should be avoided. Laghu (light to digest) and Shita (cold) foods are prohibited.
 == Festivals celebrated in Bharata to encourage people to adopt Hemanta rutucharya ==
-(Festivals of hemanta:
+Deepawali is the most widely celebrated festival in India.
-Deepawali- sweets, snacks- तस्मात्तुषारसमये स्निग्धाम्ललवणान् रसान्| औदकानूपमांसानां मेद्यानामुपयोजयेत्||११||
+sweets, snacks- तस्मात्तुषारसमये स्निग्धाम्ललवणान् रसान्| औदकानूपमांसानां मेद्यानामुपयोजयेत्||११||
 बिलेशयानां मांसानि प्रसहानां भृतानि च| भक्षयेन्मदिरां शीधुं मधु चानुपिबेन्नरः||१२||
@@ Line 85: / Line 81: @@
 In the period of snowfall, unctuous, sour and salty food items should be consumed predominantly. Meat of fatty, aquatic and marshy animals should be taken. Meat of burrowing animals and roasted meat of animals that eat by snatching the prey should be consumed and after that drinking of madira and sidhu type of wines and honey is advised. [11-12]
 गोरसानिक्षुविकृतीर्वसां तैलं नवौदनम्| हेमन्तेऽभ्यस्यतस्तोयमुष्णं चायुर्न हीयते||१३||

@@ Line 2: / Line 2: @@
 The diet and lifestyle guidelines given by Ayurveda which should be followed to preserve and promote health in Hemanta rtu are discussed under Hemanta rtucharya. These are the guidelines given by Ayurveda acharyas to help one to prevent illnesses occurring due to the beginning of cold and dry weather of Hemanta rtu folllowed by Shishira rtu of excess cold and dryness. When this regimen is followed appropriately it helps one to maintain the balance of body energies called as doshas. This inturn help to maintain health and wellness in this season.
 == Months of Hemanta rtu as per calendar ==
@@ Line 11: / Line 8: @@
 # Margashirsha or Saha - Mid November -Mid December
 # Pausha or Sahasya - Med December to Mid January
 == Hemanta- The end of Dakshinayana (Southern solstice) ==
 Hemanta Rtu marks the end of Southern solstice called as Dakshinayana in Vedic astrology. Varsha (Pravrt), Sharada and Hementa are the 3 rtus that appear in sequence in Dakshinayana period. In all these rtus, heat in the environment reduces and coldness increases in a stepwise gradual manner. The sun is situated in southwards position, and due to its position with respect to earth, and also due to clouds, wind and rain, the heat in the environment slackens. The power of the moon is predominant. All thee lead to the abundance and predominance of panchamahabhutas in the surroundings that are non-dry and generate amla (sour), lavana (salty), and madhura (sweet) rasa respectively and gradual increase of body strength in human beings during these three seasons. Thus in Hemanta, MAdhura (sweet) rasa is abundant in the environment and the physical strength or Balam is the highest. Acharya Charaka has described these changes in a following way,<blockquote>
-वर्षाशरद्धेमन्तेषु तु दक्षिणाभिमुखेऽर्के कालमार्गमेघवातवर्षाभिहतप्रतापे, शशिनि चाव्याहतबले, माहेन्द्रसलिलप्रशान्तसन्तापे जगति, अरूक्षा रसाः प्रवर्धन्तेऽम्ललवणमधुरा यथाक्रमं तत्र बलमुपचीयते नृणामिति||७||</blockquote>Therefore, Ayurveda believes that Hemanta rtu which comes at the end of Visarga kala is one of the seasons that have maximum physical strength that one can have throughout the year. Hemanta is the ideal period to build strength, stamina and immunity in our bodies.
+वर्षाशरद्धेमन्तेषु तु दक्षिणाभिमुखेऽर्के कालमार्गमेघवातवर्षाभिहतप्रतापे, शशिनि चाव्याहतबले, माहेन्द्रसलिलप्रशान्तसन्तापे जगति, अरूक्षा रसाः प्रवर्धन्तेऽम्ललवणमधुरा यथाक्रमं तत्र बलमुपचीयते नृणामिति||७||</blockquote>Therefore, Ayurveda believes that, Hemanta rtu which comes at the end of Visarga kala is one of the 6 seasons that gives maximum physical strength one can have throughout the year. Hemanta is the ideal period to build strength, stamina and immunity in our bodies.
-A specific <blockquote>बलिनः शीतसंरोधाद्धेमन्ते प्रबलोऽनलः||७||
+== हेमन्ते अग्निदोषादीनां गतिः॥ The status of bio-energies in body in Hemanta ==
-भवत्यल्पेन्धनो धातून् स पचेद्वायुनेरितः|
+A specific weather condition in Hemanta rtu leads to changes in the bio-energies like Doshas, Dhatus and malas. Outside temperature becomes cold in this season. Because of this and the windy weather, the heat in the body is trapped inside (which otherwise gets eliminated as and when required through sweating and other means). Since there is no or very little sweating is in winter acharyas say that the heat gets trapped). Heat is present in the form of pitta in our body. Thus, pitta especially the pachaka form of pitta dosha which is also known as Jatharagni (agni) becomes strong and powerful. As a result appetite increases in this season. If this powerful digestive fire does not get sufficient and appropriate food (which is collated with the fuel) it starts taking required material from the dhatus and as a result dhatus break down. Dhatus are the building blocks of our body hence their breakdown leads to lowering strength, immunity and life as a whole. Thus, it is important to provide sufficient fuel in the form of food to this powerful digestive fire of Hemanta rtu. This food should be predominantly sweet, sour, salty in taste.  <blockquote>बलिनः शीतसंरोधाद्धेमन्ते प्रबलोऽनलः||७|| भवत्यल्पेन्धनो धातून् स पचेद्वायुनेरितः|
-अतो हिमेऽस्मिन्सेवेत स्वाद्वम्ललवणात्रसान्||८|| Asht. Hrud. 3. 7,8</blockquote>
+अतो हिमेऽस्मिन्सेवेत स्वाद्वम्ललवणात्रसान्||८|| Asht. Hrud. 3. 7,8</blockquote>Although the concept of rise in core body temperature by reduction in peripheral circulation in winters is approved by the modern science, the same has been simply explained by entrapment of heat in body by Ayurveda scholars.
 == Hemanta specific Diet and lifestyle regimen ==

@@ Line 4: / Line 4: @@
 == What is Hemanta rtu? How is it characterized? ==
-This ancient Ayurvedic wisdom and philosophy direct the need for correcting lifestyle patterns as per the environmental changes. Hemanta Rtu marks the beginning of Winters in Bharata.
+This ancient Ayurvedic wisdom and philosophy direct the need for correcting lifestyle patterns as per the environmental changes. Hemanta Rtu marks the beginning of Winters in Bharata. After the onset of Hemanta  rtu,  the  surrounding  environment appears  smoky  with  a  covering  of  thick  mist and fully surrounded by  snow (especially in the northen part of Bharata), the Sun is also covered   likewise, cold breeze from north creates horripilations, trees like Lodhra (Symplococos racemosa), Priyangu (Callicarpa macrophylla), Punnaga (Calophyllum inophyllum), Lavali (Phyllanthus acidus) become  splendid with  flowers. Animals  like  elephants, goats, buffaloes, horses, crow and pigs become more energetic and vigorated. Resources of water (natural and artificial) are covered with thick layers of snow and mist with the inert fish and birds. Water of wells is warm.
 == Months of Hemanta rtu as per calendar ==
 Margashirsha and Pausha are the 2 months in the lunar calendar which fall under Hemanta rtu. While, as per Gregorian calendar Hemanta is grossly a a period from Mid November to Mid JAnuary
-# Margashirsha or Saha
+# Margashirsha or Saha - Mid November -Mid December
-# Pausha or Sahasya
+# Pausha or Sahasya - Med December to Mid January
-== Hemanta- The end of Dakshinayaan (Southern solstice) ==
+== Hemanta- The end of Dakshinayana (Southern solstice) ==
-Hemanta Rtu marks the end of Southern solstice called as Dakshinayana in Vedic astrology. In the northern hemisphere, which includes India, the solstice signals the beginning of winter. In the southern hemisphere, it is the start of summer. Thus in Bharata, Hemanta marks the <s>beginning of Uttarayana or Adana kala.</s> Adana kala is that kala in which the outside environment is such that it absorbs moisture and fluid from body leading to dehydration and reduction in energy levels. Hemanta which marks the beginning of adana kala is characterized by climate having cold winds and dryness. Such environment leads to loss of moisture and increase in dryness of body. Acharya Charaka has described thee changes in environment and body as below,<blockquote>तत्र रविर्भाभिराददानो जगतः स्नेहं वायवस्तीव्ररूक्षाश्चोपशोषयन्तः शिशिरवसन्तग्रीष्मेषु यथाक्रमं रौक्ष्यमुत्पादयन्तो रूक्षान् रसांस्तिक्तकषायकटुकांश्चाभिवर्धयन्तो नृणां दौर्बल्यमावहन्ति||६||</blockquote>Meaning: In adana kala the Sun with its hot rays absorbs moisture from the environment. The excessively dry wind by virtue of its absorbing quality further causes dryness in Hemanta, vasanta, and grishma seasons progressively, leading to the predominance of tikta, kashaya, and katu rasa respectively and gradual increase of weakness in human beings during these three seasons.
+Hemanta Rtu marks the end of Southern solstice called as Dakshinayana in Vedic astrology. Varsha (Pravrt), Sharada and Hementa are the 3 rtus that appear in sequence in Dakshinayana period. In all these rtus, heat in the environment reduces and coldness increases in a stepwise gradual manner. The sun is situated in southwards position, and due to its position with respect to earth, and also due to clouds, wind and rain, the heat in the environment slackens. The power of the moon is predominant. All thee lead to the abundance and predominance of panchamahabhutas in the surroundings that are non-dry and generate amla (sour), lavana (salty), and madhura (sweet) rasa respectively and gradual increase of body strength in human beings during these three seasons. Thus in Hemanta, MAdhura (sweet) rasa is abundant in the environment and the physical strength or Balam is the highest. Acharya Charaka has described these changes in a following way,<blockquote>
+वर्षाशरद्धेमन्तेषु तु दक्षिणाभिमुखेऽर्के कालमार्गमेघवातवर्षाभिहतप्रतापे, शशिनि चाव्याहतबले, माहेन्द्रसलिलप्रशान्तसन्तापे जगति, अरूक्षा रसाः प्रवर्धन्तेऽम्ललवणमधुरा यथाक्रमं तत्र बलमुपचीयते नृणामिति||७||</blockquote>Therefore, Ayurveda believes that Hemanta rtu which comes at the end of Visarga kala is one of the seasons that have maximum physical strength that one can have throughout the year. Hemanta is the ideal period to build strength, stamina and immunity in our bodies.
 Status of Doshas and Bodily elements in Hemanta
-बलिनः शीतसंरोधाद्धेमन्ते प्रबलोऽनलः||७||
+A specific <blockquote>बलिनः शीतसंरोधाद्धेमन्ते प्रबलोऽनलः||७||
 भवत्यल्पेन्धनो धातून् स पचेद्वायुनेरितः|
-अतो हिमेऽस्मिन्सेवेत स्वाद्वम्ललवणात्रसान्||८|| Asht. Hrud. 3. 7,8
+अतो हिमेऽस्मिन्सेवेत स्वाद्वम्ललवणात्रसान्||८|| Asht. Hrud. 3. 7,8</blockquote>
 == Hemanta specific Diet and lifestyle regimen ==

@@ Line 18: / Line 18: @@
 == हेमन्ते अग्निदोषादीनां गतिः॥ The status of bio-energies in body in Hemanta ==
-A specific weather condition in Hemanta rtu leads to changes in the bio-energies like Doshas, Dhatus and malas. Outside temperature becomes cold in this season. Because of this and the windy weather, the heat in the body is trapped inside (which otherwise gets eliminated as and when required through sweating and other means). Since there is no or very little sweating is in winter acharyas say that the heat gets trapped). Heat is present in the form of pitta in our body. Thus, pitta especially the pachaka form of pitta dosha which is also known as Jatharagni (agni) becomes strong and powerful. As a result appetite increases in this season. If this powerful digestive fire does not get sufficient and appropriate food (which is collated with the fuel) it starts taking required material from the dhatus and as a result dhatus break down. Dhatus are the building blocks of our body hence their breakdown leads to lowering strength, immunity and life as a whole. Thus, it is important to provide sufficient fuel in the form of food to this powerful digestive fire of Hemanta rtu. This food should be predominantly sweet, sour, salty in taste.  <blockquote>बलिनः शीतसंरोधाद्धेमन्ते प्रबलोऽनलः||७|| भवत्यल्पेन्धनो धातून् स पचेद्वायुनेरितः|
+A specific weather condition in Hemanta rtu leads to changes in the bio-energies like Doshas, Dhatus and malas. Outside temperature becomes cold in this season. Because of this and the windy weather, the heat in the body is trapped inside (which otherwise gets eliminated as and when required through sweating and other means). Since there is no or very little sweating is in winter acharyas say that the heat gets trapped). Heat is present in the form of pitta in our body. Thus, pitta especially the pachaka form of pitta dosha which is also known as Jatharagni (agni) becomes strong and powerful. As a result appetite increases in this season. If this powerful digestive fire does not get sufficient and appropriate food (which is collated with the fuel) it starts taking required material from the dhatus and as a result dhatus break down. Dhatus are the building blocks of our body hence their breakdown leads to lowering strength, immunity and life as a whole. Thus, it is important to provide sufficient fuel in the form of food to this powerful digestive fire of Hemanta rtu. This food should be predominantly sweet, sour, salty in taste.  <blockquote>बलिनः शीतसंरोधाद्धेमन्ते प्रबलोऽनलः||७|| भवत्यल्पेन्धनो धातून् स पचेद्वायुनेरितः| अतो हिमेऽस्मिन्सेवेत स्वाद्वम्ललवणात्रसान्||८|| Asht. Hrud. 3. 7,8</blockquote>Although the modern science adopts and proposes the concept of rise in core body temperature by reduction in peripheral circulation in winters, the same has been explained simply by calling this phenomena as entrapment of heat in body by Ayurveda scholars.
-अतो हिमेऽस्मिन्सेवेत स्वाद्वम्ललवणात्रसान्||८|| Asht. Hrud. 3. 7,8</blockquote>Although the concept of rise in core body temperature by reduction in peripheral circulation in winters is approved by the modern science, the same has been simply explained by entrapment of heat in body by Ayurveda scholars.
+=== पथ्यानि॥ What should be followed in Hemanta rtu? ===
-== Hemanta specific Diet and lifestyle regimen ==
+Food with more calories can also be consumed in this season since the dryness in the weather necessitates intake of unctuous or fatty food. Fats help in reducing dryness and also are digested smoothly. However there should be a balance while making food choices and overindulgence in specific foods again and again may cause lead to health concerns in future.
-=== Diet regimen ===
+Various meats, fats, milk and milk products are beneficial and should be deliberately included in the diet.
-Any type of diets which possess capacity to develop feeling of lightness, cold, and dryness in body should be avoided.
+New rice, Cereals, pulses, corn, flour preparations (rich in carbohydrates), green gram, Black gram, sugarcane products etc. should be included in the diet.
-In Hemanta rtu, agni (the digestive fire) is strong and it can smoothly digest even the foods that are otherwise heavy on digestion. The key mantra is to eat food and drinks that are predominantly <s>Amla (sour) as the predominant rasa (taste) are preferred. While those having pungent, bitter and astringent in taste, cold, dry in nature or inherently light to digest are best to be avoided.</s>
+One can make use of sufficient amount of Ginger and garlic in the food and also the medicinal fruits of Haritaki (fruits of Terminalia chebula), Pippali (fruits of Piper longum) should be consumed.
-* Cereals and pulses, wheat/gram flour products, new rice, corn, and others, are advised. Ginger, garlic, Haritaki (fruits of Terminalia chebula), Pippali (fruits of Piper longum), sugarcane products, and milk and milk products are to be included in the diet.
+''Shidhu'' (fermented preparations), ''Tila'' (sesame) are also beneficial at this time since they generate little pitta (heat) as well as not dry in nature.
-=== Lifestyle ===
+Use of warm water for drinking is recommended.
-Waking up early
+* Abhyangam: Although a part of dinacharya or daily routine, abhyangam is must in Hemanta rtu. Massage with luke warm oils help to keep check on vata dosha in body, reduce skin dryness by locking the moisture.
-exercise
+=== अपथ्यानि ॥ What should be strictly avoided in Hemanta rtu? ===
-ratricharya
+Food and drinks that cause vata vitiation and inherently light to digest in property, inadequate quantities of food, and intake of diluted gruel are contraindicated. Foods having Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent) predominant Rasa are to be avoided. Laghu (light) and Shita (cold) foods are advised to be prohibited.
-Vyayama (Exercise), abhyanga (body and head massage), use of warm water, sunbath, application of fragrant herbs having hot potency can be used, sufficient warm clothing, sexual indulgence with one partner, residing in warm places is recommended
+Must avoid exposure to strong and cold wind.
-Must avoid exposure to strong and cold wind. Better to avoid diwaswapa daytime sleep.
+In order to protect one's body from cold and dryness of winters it is necessary to avoid (getting exposed to) strong cold winds. In case it is not possible, on should at least use clothing that can protect one from cold and dry winds. one should specially stay in less windy and warm shelters (homes).
-The lifestyle in Hemanta should be such that it will help to maintain the body temperature to the optimum level. Activities that increase warmth and protect from cold are encouraged.
+Also, excessive walking, sleep at late night are to be avoided which causes vata aggravation (Thakkar J, Chaudhari S, Sarkar PK. Ritucharya: Answer to the lifestyle disorders. ''Ayu''. 2011;32(4):466-471. doi:10.4103/0974-8520.96117)
-* In order to protect one's body from cold and dryness of winters it is necessary to avoid (getting exposed to) strong cold winds. In case it is not possible, on should at least use clothing that can protect one from cold and dry winds. one should specially stay in less windy and warm shelters (homes).
+Avoid: Diwaswapa (day time sleeping)
 == Festivals celebrated in Bharata to encourage people to adopt Hemanta rutucharya ==

@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
+{{ToBeEdited}}
 The diet and lifestyle guidelines given by Ayurveda which should be followed to preserve and promote health in Hemanta rtu are discussed under Hemanta rtucharya. These are the guidelines given by Ayurveda acharyas to help one to prevent illnesses occurring due to the beginning of cold and dry weather of Hemanta rtu folllowed by Shishira rtu of excess cold and dryness. When this regimen is followed appropriately it helps one to maintain the balance of body energies called as doshas. This inturn help to maintain health and wellness in this season.
@@ Line 161: / Line 161: @@
 == References ==