The Circadian Rhythm is being talked about very much these days. Lets first know what is the circadian rhythm and then we will understand how is it related to the age old Ayurvedic Principles of Dincharya.
The term circadian comes from the Latin phrase “circa diem,” which means “around a day”. Circadian rhythm is the 24-hour internal clock in our brain that regulates cycles of alertness and sleepiness by responding to light changes in our environment. In human beings, circadian rhythm coordinate mental and physical systems throughout the body. Circadian rhythm influence important functions in the human body, such as: Sleep patterns, hormone release, appetite and digestion, temperature etc
Short term disruption in the circadian rhythm can cause drowsiness, poor coordination, and difficulty with learning and focus while long-term disruption can increase the risks of obesity, diabetes, mood disorders, heart and blood pressure problems, and cancer, and can also worsen existing health issues.
In Ayurvedic texts the concept of Dincharya was mentioned ages ago, and the modern world’s circadian rhythm is very much in sync with it. According to the Ayurvedic scriptures each 24-hours day is divided into six, four-hour zones as per the predominance of each dosha in every zone. Everyday we cycle through the three doshas-vata, pitta and kapha twice. The more closely we align our daily rhythms with the rhythms of nature, the more we support our well being. When we go against the natural daily cycles of energy, we disrupt our health.
Day Cycle (comprised of Kapha, Pitta, and Vata)
6 am–10 am - Kapha Time: Time periods always begin with Kapha
dosha. As per Ayurveda, getting up (ideally before 6 am) freshening up, following a good oral hygiene routine and engaging in certain early morning exercise or activity to get our heart pumping with an energetic start is considered the best practice as it removes body sluggishness, ignites the digestive fire, burns fat and promotes feelings of peace and joy.Thereafter bathing to wash away the dirt and grime followed by prayer and meditation. Also, having a light breakfast is advised.
10am-2pm - Pitta Time: Kapha time flows into Pitta time. It is the time
when the sun is highest in the sky and so is called the time of
productivity when there is sufficient heat in the natural world. During
this time, heat naturally predominates our body and mind; thus,
making it ideal for physical activities. This is the best time to have the
largest meal of the day which is our lunch.
2 pm - 6 pm - Vata Time: As the day passes, the pitta period time fades
and the Vata time begins. Thus, Vata represents the time of transition
and characterized by calm and peaceful environment allows the best of
creative and expansive thinking, making it an ideal time for problem-
solving and creative pursuits.
Night Cycle (the cycle ruled by the three doshas of Kapha, Pitta, and
Vata repeats)
6pm-10pm - Kapha Time: As we move towards night, the cycle
continues and times ruled by the doshas again repeats. Kapha becomes
once again dominant and its heavy qualities indicate that it’s time to
wind down, have a light dinner, and settle in for the night. When the Kapha time starts, it is considered best to snug in bed and have a sound sleep.
10pm - 2am - Pitta Time: It is vital to sleep during this time as the activities inside the body mainly related to internal cleansing and repair takes place.
2am - 6am - Vata Time: The Vata time of the night cycle marked
another time of transition.The ideal time to wakeup is in brahmamuhurta i.e. 96 mins before sunrise. This time which represents the early
morning is not an ideal time of creativity; instead considered best for
receptivity. Hence, it is the best time for prayer, meditation, and other
spiritual practices.
Knowledge of this Ayurvedic routine has been around for thousands of years and it has been passed down through the sciences of yoga and Ayurveda. However, our modern lifestyle has made it difficult for us to comply with natural rhythms. These rhythms are the basic needs of our body and mind. By understanding our dosha and how it functions, we can better understand how the energy around us affects our c
onstitution and inner being.