As we transition into the vibrant energy of summer, it’s the perfect time to rejuvenate our bodies and minds. One effective and gentle way to do this is through an Ayurvedic cleanse using kitchari, a nourishing and detoxifying dish that aligns beautifully with the Ayurvedic principle of Sauca, or purity.
Kitchari is a traditional Ayurvedic dish made from a combination of rice and mung beans or lentils. It is renowned for its simplicity and profound health benefits. This easily digestible meal serves as the cornerstone of many Ayurvedic cleanses, providing essential nutrients while allowing the digestive system to rest and heal. As we enter the summer months, when our bodies crave lighter, more cooling foods, kitchari offers a perfect balance, supporting our overall well-being.
In Ayurveda, Sauca represents purity and cleanliness, both internally and externally. It encompasses the cleansing of our physical bodies, as well as the purification of our thoughts and emotions. By incorporating an Ayurvedic cleanse with kitchari into our routine, we not only detoxify our bodies but also cultivate a sense of clarity and calmness in our minds.
This practice helps us to let go of accumulated toxins and negative energy, paving the way for a fresh and invigorating start to the season.
The benefits of a kitchari cleanse include:
- Detoxification: Kitchari supports the body’s natural detoxification processes, flushing out impurities and promoting optimal organ function.
- Improved Digestion: By giving the digestive system a break from heavy, complex foods, kitchari helps to reset and strengthen digestive fire, or Agni, enhancing nutrient absorption and assimilation.
- Balanced Energy: This cleanse provides sustained energy without overwhelming the body, making it ideal for the active, longer days of summer.
- Mental Clarity: The simplicity and routine of a kitchari cleanse can lead to a clearer mind, reduced stress, and enhanced focus.
To embark on a kitchari cleanse, start by preparing this simple recipe below. Don’t be afraid to adapt this to your body’s needs, but do keep in mind that we’re trying to make this easily digestible, so avoid adding chilis or strong spices. Consume this nourishing dish for all meals over a period of 3 days, allowing your body to fully experience the benefits of this Ayurvedic practice.
Ayurvedic Kitchari Recipe (Adapted from MindBodyGreen)
Serves 4
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons ghee (use sesame or coconut oil if you prefer)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons cumin seeds
- 2 teaspoons fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- ½- to 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- ¼ teaspoon asafetida (optional)
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 cup split mung beans or lentils
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro, to serve
- juice of 1 lime, to serve
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
Method
- In a Dutch oven, heat ghee over medium heat. Add cumin, fennel, and mustard seeds and cook for 3 minutes or until the mustard seeds begin to pop. Add the coriander, ginger, turmeric, and asafetida (if using). Stir to combine.
- Stir in the water, rice, and mung beans or lentils. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until rice and mung beans or lentils are cooked, about 40 minutes.
- Serve warm, topped with fresh cilantro and lime juice. Kitchari can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- To make in an instant pot, use the saute function to saute the spices, then combine rice, mung beans or lentils, and water. Set your pressure cooker function to regular pressure for 12 minutes.
As we embrace the warmth and renewal of summer, let us also embrace the principles of Sauca. A kitchari cleanse offers a holistic approach to health, aligning our physical, mental, and spiritual selves with the natural rhythms of the season.
We’ll be exploring the theme of Sauca all month as we transition from the Yamas to the Niyamas. Come join us in the studio to get more ideas of how to take your practice off the mat and into your world.
Wishing you a refreshing and revitalizing start to summer!!
Are you curious about ayurveda? Enjoy a joint workshop next month with Dr. Kulkarni, a local Ayurvedic doctor. We’ll be teaming up to offer a Yoga for the Seasons workshop on using tools from yoga and Ayurveda to find greater balance and ease. You can sign up here