Life on earth is interdependent through an ecological balance.
The ecosystem is challenged by varying changes in nature. Living beings adapt to these changes by bringing a physiological shift to sustain life. One such substantial variation is the seasonal change. Flora and fauna abide by the laws of nature and adapt to seasonal rhythms. Humans fail to comply with this and work of their free will and choice. If one is not aligned with nature, there is a possibility to maladapt to seasonal rhythms, leading to illness.
Our ancient healing wisdom has more understanding of these physiological shifts. Bodily changes were addressed through certain dietary specifications between the seasons. This was executed through cultural and religious practices to follow a specific diet. One example is no grains during Navratri, the transition period between the monsoon and winter.
There are four seasons – Spring, Summer, Monsoon, and Winter. The Indian subcontinent experiences two monsoons – south-west and north-east – soon after summer and before winter, respectively.
Monsoon washes away the impurities and replenishes the minerals in the soil. Unfortunately, rapid urbanization has led to concrete surfaces, not allowing this nurturing work of Mother Nature. This leads to uneven distribution, which causes nutrient depletion from the soil. Instead of an increase in the water table levels, we see more floods and water logging. This leads to water pollution and becomes the breeding ground for illnesses.
Illnesses during monsoon
- Illnesses brought about due to disharmony in the external environment
The external environment’s disharmony brings water-borne diseases such as diarrhea, mosquito-borne diseases, and fungal infections.
- Illnesses resulting from disharmony in the internal physiological shift
Disharmony within the body happens due to an impaired immune system succumbing to many secondary infections.
Illnesses affecting the elderly population
Other than water-borne illnesses, there are a few conditions that the elderly need to be aware of. As a part of aging, the gut becomes sensitive and cannot absorb nutrients completely. This hampers metabolism. The immune system is also compromised, making them vulnerable to many infections and diseases.
Since there is a loss of subcutaneous fat as one age, thermoregulation is also at a low threshold. The probability of catching chills and pneumonia is higher during the monsoon. Pre-existing illnesses such as diabetes predispose the risk for foot infections and their complications.
Tips to stay healthy during the monsoons.
- Prime the gut towards the season by eating seasonal vegetables and fruits.
- Wear warm clothes even when indoors.
- Always carry a raincoat to avoid getting wet. A raincoat is preferred over an umbrella, so hands are free if elders use a walking stick.
- Wear appropriate footwear when stepping out in the rain. Proper foot care is essential during monsoons.
- Always go out with a companion, especially during the rainy season.
- Safe drinking water is a must. Drink only boiled water.
- Avoid uncooked food from outside.
- Always wash the vegetables and fruits before consuming them.
- Avoid eating leafy vegetables during monsoons.
