Last verified: April 2026
Grishma — Summer
ग्रीष्म — Grishma — Mid-April – Mid-June
Grishma is the season that tests the body most. Despite external heat, Agni paradoxically weakens — the body conserves its internal fire. The classical summer regimen is the most conservative and nourishing of the six seasons.
Ashtanga Hridayam, Sutrasthana 3.5
Grishme ushna vata: pittam pravarddhate — In summer, hot wind increases and Pitta accumulates. Bala Kshaya and Deha Shoshana occur progressively through the season.Classical summer regimen
Diet
Sweet, cool, liquid-dominant
Sweet, cold, liquid, and oily foods. Rice with milk, cooling dairy, sweet fruits, plenty of fluids. Shali Mantha (rice water with cooling herbs) is a classical summer preparation. Avoid: pungent, sour, salty, alcohol, heavy meals.
Exercise
Minimum — gentle only
Not the season for vigorous exercise. Mild walking and gentle Yoga only. Swimming specifically documented as beneficial in Grishma.
Sleep
Afternoon rest permitted
The only season permitting brief daytime rest — nights are short.
Pitta accumulation for autumn
Pitta accumulated silently in summer manifests as Pitta diseases in Sharad (autumn). Summer dietary discipline directly prevents autumn inflammatory conditions.