Understanding the Monsoon Blues

 While the monsoon is a welcome relief from the summer heat, it also brings a host of mental health challenges for many Indians. Grey skies, continuous rain and increased humidity can often lead to a dip in energy and mood.

This condition, often referred to as a form of seasonal affective disorder, is characterised by lethargy and a lack of motivation. Health experts are now shedding light on simple, natural ways to beat the low mood and maintain mental wellness during the rainy season.

The shift in weather during Varsha Ritu, as Ayurveda calls it, can disrupt the body's internal balance. The damp and cool weather can increase Vata dosha, which may manifest as restlessness, poor sleep and a feeling of being mentally scattered. The decrease in sunlight can also affect the production of serotonin, a key hormone that stabilises our mood.

Flood Anxiety on the Rise

India's monsoon season brings much-needed relief from scorching summer temperatures, but comes with flooding, waterlogging, traffic snarls, power outages and constant weather alerts. Flood anxiety is rising during India's monsoon, causing stress, sleep problems and worry.

Experts recommend preparedness, limited news exposure and emotional support. Maintaining a structured daily routine, eating balanced meals, staying hydrated and getting adequate sleep can also help regulate stress levels.

Ayurvedic Rituals for Stability

Ayurveda offers a wealth of simple practices to combat the monsoon blues. One such ritual is Pada Abhyanga, or oiling the feet before bed. Massaging the soles of the feet with warm sesame oil or ghee for a few minutes is a deeply grounding practice that can calm the nervous system and promote restful sleep.

Another effective habit is starting the day with a glass of lukewarm water to flush out toxins and gently prepare the body for the day. These small, consistent habits can create a profound sense of stability.

The Power of Movement and Breath

Yoga and pranayama are powerful tools for monsoon mental health. Gentle yoga practices help manage the seasonal lethargy that many feel during the rains. Breath-focused exercises, or pranayama, are particularly beneficial.

Techniques like Kapalabhati help purify the respiratory system and clear the nasal passages, while also having a calming effect on the mind. Even a 20-minute yoga or Pilates flow can build strength, improve flexibility and significantly uplift one's mood.

Nourishing the Mind and Body

What we eat also affects our mental state. Consuming warm, cooked foods, as opposed to cold or raw meals, is recommended during the monsoon. Herbal teas made with tulsi, ginger and black pepper offer a soothing way to begin the day and provide a comforting sense of warmth.

These practices, rooted in ancient wisdom, are proven to be effective monsoon wellness strategies.

What Next?

As awareness of mental health grows in India, there is a corresponding increase in the adoption of these holistic practices. The focus is shifting towards preventive care, with more people embracing Ayurvedic and yogic principles to maintain their emotional equilibrium and beat low mood throughout the year.

Monsoon Brings Health Challenges; Experts Recommend Kitchen Remedies

As the southwest monsoon finally covers most parts of India, bringing relief from scorching summer heat, health experts are warning about the seasonal spike in infections, digestive issues and respiratory illnesses. With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting below-normal rainfall for July 2026 at less than 94 per cent of the long period average, the unusual weather pattern makes it critical for individuals to strengthen their natural defences.

Hospitals Report Rise in Viral Infections

Hospitals across major cities are already reporting a rise in respiratory viral infections. In Bengaluru, doctors are detecting an increase in influenza cases, particularly Influenza A H1N1 and H3N2 strains, alongside a slight rise in Covid-19 infections.

"More than Covid-19, it is seasonal influenza that has increased. We are seeing around 10 to 15 influenza cases a day," said Dr Ankitha Teja Narayan, Internal Medicine, KIMS Hospitals. The reopening of schools is also contributing to the spread of viral infections.

Turmeric with Black Pepper: A Powerful Combination

Health experts emphasise that the most effective immunity boosters are often found in Indian kitchens. Dr Sujit Paul, Group Chief Executive Officer and Health Expert at Zota Health Care Ltd, told news agencies that turmeric, a staple in every household, contains curcumin, a powerful compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Regularly incorporating turmeric into meals may help support normal immune function. Pairing turmeric with black pepper enhances curcumin absorption significantly. Black pepper contains piperine, a compound that blocks digestive enzymes trying to flush out curcumin, increasing turmeric absorption by two thousand percent.

Amla: The Vitamin C Powerhouse

Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is another powerhouse ingredient. Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, amla strengthens the immune system and protects the body against oxidative stress. One amla contains 20 times the vitamin C of an orange.

Ginger and Tulsi for Respiratory Health

Ginger, a kitchen staple, supports healthy digestion, helps relieve bloating and provides a warming effect during damp weather. It may also support respiratory health by soothing throat irritation.

Tulsi, or holy basil, is one of Ayurveda's most celebrated herbs for supporting immunity and respiratory health. Rich in antioxidants, tulsi helps the body cope with seasonal coughs, colds and allergy-related discomfort.

A Holistic Approach to Monsoon Wellness

While these Ayurvedic ingredients have stood the test of time, experts stress they should be viewed as part of a holistic lifestyle. A balanced diet, safe drinking water, adequate sleep, regular physical activity and good personal hygiene remain the foundation of good health during the monsoon.

The 'Ritu Suraksha-2026' programme, launched under the AYUSH department at Mar Sleeva Medicity in Pala, Kerala, aims to prevent illnesses and ensure health protection during the monsoon.

As the 2026 monsoon continues to unfold, incorporating these natural health hacks into daily life could make a significant difference in staying healthy and infection-free throughout the rainy season.

While the monsoon is a welcome relief from the summer heat, it also brings a host of mental health challenges for many Indians. Grey skies, continuous rain, and increased humidity can often lead to a dip in energy and mood. This condition, often referred to as a form of seasonal affective disorder, is characterized by lethargy and a lack of motivation. Health experts are now shedding light on simple, natural ways to beat the low mood and maintain mental wellness during the rainy season.

Understanding the Monsoon Blues
The shift in weather during Varsha Ritu, as Ayurveda calls it, can disrupt the body's internal balance. The damp and cool weather can increase Vata dosha, which may manifest as restlessness, poor sleep, and a feeling of being mentally scattered. The decrease in sunlight can also affect the production of serotonin, a key hormone that stabilizes our mood. Recognizing these factors is the first step towards effectively managing mental well-being during this time.

Ayurvedic Rituals for Stability
Ayurveda offers a wealth of simple practices to combat the monsoon blues. One such ritual is Pada Abhyanga, or oiling the feet before bed. Massaging the soles of the feet with warm sesame oil or ghee for a few minutes is a deeply grounding practice that can calm the nervous system and promote restful sleep. Another effective habit is starting the day with a glass of lukewarm water to flush out toxins and gently prepare the body for the day. These small, consistent habits can create a profound sense of stability.

The Power of Movement and Breath
Yoga and pranayama are powerful tools for monsoon mental health. Gentle yoga practices help manage the seasonal lethargy that many feel during the rains. Breath-focused exercises, or pranayama, are particularly beneficial. Techniques like Kapalabhati help purify the respiratory system and clear the nasal passages, while also having a calming effect on the mind. Even a 20-minute yoga or Pilates flow can build strength, improve flexibility, and significantly uplift one's mood.

Nourishing the Mind and Body
What we eat also affects our mental state. Consuming warm, cooked foods, as opposed to cold or raw meals, is recommended during the monsoon. Herbal teas made with tulsi, ginger, and black pepper offer a soothing way to begin the day and provide a comforting sense of warmth. These practices, rooted in ancient wisdom, are proven to be effective monsoon wellness strategies.

What Next?
As awareness of mental health grows in India, there is a corresponding increase in the adoption of these holistic practices. The focus is shifting towards preventive care, with more people embracing Ayurvedic and yogic principles to maintain their emotional equilibrium and beat low mood throughout the year.

The monsoon season in India, while romantic and refreshing, can be a nightmare for your skin. The increased humidity and moisture in the air create a perfect breeding ground for a host of skin issues, including excessive oiliness, acne breakouts, and fungal infections. Dermatologists across the country are now sharing simple, natural skincare hacks to help you maintain a healthy and glowing complexion throughout the rainy season. The key is to adapt your routine to the season's specific challenges.

Cleanse, but Don't Over-Cleanse
One of the most common mistakes people make during the monsoon is over-washing their face to combat the greasy feeling. While cleansing is crucial, doing it too frequently can strip the skin of its natural protective barrier, leading to irritation and even more oil production. Experts recommend using a gentle, mild cleanser twice a day, especially after excessive sweating or outdoor exposure. This balanced approach helps remove dirt, sweat, and pollutants without compromising skin health.

Lightweight Hydration is Essential
Many people mistakenly skip moisturizer during the monsoon because their skin feels oily. However, hydration and oiliness are not the same thing. Stopping moisturization can worsen dehydration and disturb the skin barrier. Instead of heavy creams, choose lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers. Gel-based formulations are particularly well-suited for oily and acne-prone skin. This simple switch is one of the most effective natural skin care hacks for the season.

Protection and Prevention
Don't be fooled by cloudy skies. A significant amount of harmful UV radiation can penetrate clouds and contribute to tanning and premature aging. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is a non-negotiable step in your monsoon skincare routine, even on rainy days. Furthermore, to prevent fungal and bacterial infections, it's important to keep skin folds dry, change out of wet clothes promptly, and maintain good personal hygiene.

Home Remedies for a Natural Glow
Turning to nature’s bounty can also help. Ayurveda recommends using gentle herbal ubtans (face packs) instead of heavy body care products. Ingredients like neem, known for its antibacterial properties, and aloe vera, for its soothing and moisturizing effects, can be highly beneficial. These natural skin care remedies work in harmony with the skin, protecting it from monsoon-related damage without harsh chemicals.

What Next?
As the monsoon progresses, dermatologists are likely to continue emphasizing the importance of these adapted routines. By following these simple, expert-approved hacks, you can enjoy the rains without worrying about your skin, ensuring a healthy and vibrant glow all season long.

As the monsoon rains continue to lash across India, bringing relief from the scorching summer heat, they also bring a surge in seasonal illnesses. From the common cold and flu to more severe infections like dengue and chikungunya, the rainy season poses a significant challenge to public health. Health experts across the country are now advising people to adopt natural health hacks to boost immunity naturally and build a strong defense against these monsoon-related ailments. This approach focuses on simple, sustainable lifestyle changes rather than relying on expensive supplements.

Nutrition as the First Line of Defense
The foundation of a strong immune system is a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Experts emphasize that the immune system depends on a balance of macro and micronutrients. To boost monsoon immunity, it is crucial to include seasonal fruits and vegetables in your daily meals. Vitamin C-rich foods like amla and guava are particularly recommended. Amla, in particular, is a powerhouse of Vitamin C, containing significantly more of the nutrient per gram than an orange. Regularly consuming these foods can help your body fight infections more effectively.

Hydration is Key
One of the most common mistakes during the monsoon is neglecting hydration. The cooler weather often reduces the feeling of thirst, leading to inadequate water intake. However, staying hydrated is vital for maintaining the body's mucosal barriers, which act as the first line of defense against infections. Health experts recommend drinking boiled or filtered water and warm liquids like soups and herbal teas throughout the day. This simple yet effective health hack can significantly reduce the risk of falling sick.

The Power of Spices
Indian kitchens are a treasure trove of immunity-boosting spices. Turmeric, ginger, and garlic are not just flavor enhancers but powerful natural remedies. Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger helps support healthy digestion and provides a warming effect that is comforting during damp weather. Incorporating these spices into daily cooking is an age-old Indian tradition that remains one of the most effective ways to stay healthy.

Lifestyle Habits for Long-Term Health
Beyond diet, other daily habits play a crucial role in building monsoon immunity. Adequate sleep is non-negotiable, as even one week of poor sleep can adversely affect the body's immune response. Managing stress through yoga or meditation is also essential. These simple, natural health hacks, when practiced consistently, can make the difference between powering through the season and spending it on sick leave.

What Next?
As India continues to navigate the monsoon season, health authorities are likely to ramp up public awareness campaigns on these natural prevention strategies. The focus will remain on empowering individuals with the knowledge to boost immunity naturally and lead a healthier life through simple, everyday choices.

Monsoon Immunity Booster: 5 Natural Hacks to Stay Healthy This Rainy Season

The southwest monsoon has finally arrived across most parts of India, bringing relief from the scorching summer heat. However, the season also brings a spike in seasonal infections, digestive issues, and respiratory illnesses. Health experts are now recommending simple, natural immunity boosters that can be easily incorporated into daily routines.

As humidity rises and temperatures fluctuate, the body's immune system faces constant challenges. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast below-normal rainfall for July, with monthly rainfall expected to be less than 94 per cent of the long period average. This unusual weather pattern, coupled with a 40 per cent rainfall deficit in June, makes it even more critical for individuals to take proactive steps toward strengthening their natural defences.

Health experts emphasise that the most effective immunity boosters are often found in Indian kitchens. Turmeric, a staple in every household, contains curcumin, a powerful compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Regularly incorporating turmeric into meals may help support normal immune function. Pairing turmeric with black pepper enhances curcumin absorption significantly.

Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is another powerhouse ingredient. Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, amla strengthens the immune system and protects the body against oxidative stress. According to Dr Sujit Paul, Group Chief Executive Officer and Health Expert at Zota Health Care Ltd, consuming amla regularly may contribute to healthier-looking skin and improved vitality.

Ginger, a kitchen staple, supports healthy digestion, helps relieve bloating, and provides a warming effect during damp weather. It may also support respiratory health by soothing throat irritation.

Tulsi, or holy basil, is one of Ayurveda's most celebrated herbs for supporting immunity and respiratory health. Rich in antioxidants, tulsi helps the body cope with seasonal coughs, colds, and allergy-related discomfort. A warm cup of tulsi tea can be a simple yet effective wellness habit during the rainy season.

While these Ayurvedic ingredients have stood the test of time, experts stress they should be viewed as part of a holistic lifestyle. A balanced diet, safe drinking water, adequate sleep, regular physical activity, and good personal hygiene remain the foundation of good health during the monsoon.

The 'Ritu Suraksha-2026' program, launched under the AYUSH department at Mar Sleeva Medicity in Pala, Kerala, aims to prevent illnesses and ensure health protection during the monsoon. The program offers traditional treatments including panchakarma therapies, along with counselling on diet, lifestyle changes, and healthy daily routines.

Health professionals advise eating loads of seasonal fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C to prevent infections. Probiotics present in curd and fermented foods build immune response. Indian herbs like turmeric, coriander, fenugreek, mustard, asafoetida, ginger, curry leaves, and garlic all help boost immunity.

As the monsoon continues to unfold across the country, incorporating these natural health hacks into daily life could make a significant difference in staying healthy and infection-free throughout the rainy season.

As temperatures continue to soar past 45 degrees Celsius across several Indian states, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar has sparked a nationwide conversation with her three simple desi hacks to beat the summer heat. The nutritionist, known for guiding Kareena Kapoor’s lifestyle, took to Instagram on May 26, urging Indians to ditch cold drinks and air conditioners for age-old remedies that cool the body from within.

The Vetiver Root Revival

The first hack involves adding two to three strands of vetiver roots (vala or khus) to drinking water. “This is India’s OG-infused water,” Diwekar said in her video. The roots naturally sweeten the water while providing a cooling effect that works internally. Diwekar pointed out that in peak summer, most people struggle to drink enough plain water. The roots can be reused for up to three days and later tossed into bathing water. Historically, hand-held fans and curtains in North Indian homes were woven from vetiver, cooling both people and rooms.

Henna – The Forgotten Cooling Ritual

The second hack is as familiar as childhood summer holidays. Diwekar recommends applying mehndi on hands, explaining that henna actively draws heat out through the palms — one of the body’s key heat-release points. “It naturally cools, but it also gives you a slow life. It works as a de-stressor,” she said. The fragrance uplifts mood and helps calm the mind.

Chaas – The Daily Essential

The third and perhaps most practical hack is buttermilk (chaas). Diwekar recommends consuming it two to three times daily during summer. “Chaas has protein, calcium, B12. We now know it also works as a prebiotic, probiotic, and postbiotic,” she explained. With salt, hing, and cumin powder, it supports digestion, maintains appetite, reduces bloating, and improves skin glow.

As India battles one of its hottest summers on record, these natural health hacks offer a timely reminder that the best solutions often lie in grandmother’s kitchen, not in a pharmacy.

Summer heat isn’t just physically exhausting — it’s taking a toll on mental health too. As temperatures soar across India, experts are reporting a surge in summer-related anxiety, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Here are five natural stress relief hacks that work without pills.

Hack One: Left Nostril Breathing

Try left nostril breathing (Chandra Nadi Pranayama) for 11 minutes when you feel summer irritability rising. Within five minutes, you’ll notice your heart rate slowing and your mind clearing. This ancient yogic technique cools the nervous system naturally.

Hack Two: Bhramari Pranayama (Humming Bee Breath)

Wake up 15 minutes earlier than usual. Sit near a window or balcony facing east. Practice Bhramari Pranayama for three minutes. The humming vibration calms the mind and reduces anxiety, making it one of the most effective mental health summer tips.

Hack Three: Flower Therapy

Place a bowl of fresh flowers near your workspace and inhale deeply every hour. Aromatherapy using natural flowers like jasmine, rose, orm mogra has been shown to reduce cortisol levels and improve mood.

Hack Four: Earthing (Grounding)Walk barefoot on grass or earth for ten minutes before sunset. This practice, known as earthing, helps discharge static electricity from the body and has been linked to reduced inflammation and better sleep.

Hack Five: Gentle Breathing Practices

Breathing practices work for everyone, irrespective of age. Whether dealing with mental health issues or physical health, adding gentle breathing practices can help manage both better.

Experts suggest waking up early, reducing screen exposure after 8 PM, and incorporating these natural stress relief hacks into daily routines. When followed consistently, these practices can significantly improve energy, enhance sleep quality, and reduce stress.

With temperatures touching 43 degrees Celsius in Ludhiana, residents are increasingly turning to traditional earthen pots, or matkas, to keep drinking water naturally cool. This trend, largely driven by Instagram reels and WhatsApp forwards promoting the health benefits of clay utensils, has seen customers queueing up at pottery stalls despite having refrigerators at home.

Shopkeepers say the trend has particularly picked up among well-off urban families seeking a "back to basics" lifestyle during the scorching summer. One buyer, Asha Bhandari, visited a local market to purchase a clay pot for her son, who wanted to try fermented rice stored in a clay pot after watching videos on Instagram and YouTube claiming it improves gut health and helps reduce body heat.

Pottery sellers across the city said demand for matkas and other clay utensils has surged sharply over the past few weeks. Another buyer, Amita Sharma, said she saw the benefits of drinking water from matkas on an Instagram reel and decided to buy one, adding that elders in the family do suggest drinking matka water to stay hydrated and maintain gut health.

Rekha, who runs an earthenware shop in the city, said clay pots sell in large numbers every summer. "Prices start from ₹100 and increase according to size and design. Customers especially prefer matkas fitted with taps. Some customers prefer painted matkas," she said. She added that people are now becoming more conscious about the health benefits of traditional products.

"Many customers believe water stored in clay pots tastes better and remains naturally cool without refrigeration," Rekha said. Another seller, Lucky, said his family has been associated with the pottery business for three generations. "We prepare simple clay pots ourselves using natural soil, while decorative and painted pots are sourced from outside," he said.

According to shopkeepers, growing awareness about sustainable living and health concerns has encouraged many residents to switch back to traditional clay utensils. They also credited social media platforms for popularising the use of matkas among younger consumers. The trend reflects a broader shift toward traditional wisdom as people seek natural, chemical-free alternatives for everyday living.

The matka revival is not just about nostalgia. Clay pots naturally cool water through evaporation, keeping it at a pleasant temperature without electricity. The porous nature of clay allows water to breathe, and many believe it adds essential minerals to the drinking water. As temperatures continue to rise across India, this simple, sustainable solution is gaining traction in cities and towns alike, proving that sometimes the oldest answers are the best ones.

As mercury touches 46°C in parts of India, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar recommends three traditional, science-backed remedies to cool the body from within without relying on air conditioners.

With the India Meteorological Department recording temperatures soaring past 46°C in the national capital region, the search for effective cooling solutions has become a matter of daily survival. While air conditioners and coolers provide temporary relief, they cannot address the fundamental issue—cooling the body from the inside out.

On May 26, 2026, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar, known for her work with Kareena Kapoor and other Bollywood stars, took to social media to share three traditional Indian remedies that have been used for centuries. These ancestral practices, she emphasised, offer sustainable, nature-based methods to manage dehydration and maintain physical wellness.

The first recommendation is to add two or three wala or vetiver roots to your daily drinking water. The roots naturally add a mild sweetness and, more importantly, bring a cooling effect that works from the inside out. You can reuse the same roots for up to three days before tossing them into your bathing water.

Diwekar pointed out that in peak summer, most people genuinely struggle to drink enough water because plain water doesn’t feel appealing. The vetiver roots solve that problem naturally. Interestingly, the traditional hand-held fans used in India before electricity were often woven from vetiver, and the grass curtains behind coolers in North Indian homes also came from these roots.

The second hack is applying natural henna or mehndi on the hands. Diwekar stresses that this age-old technique, which many grew up with but have now forgotten, not only cools the body naturally but also gives a sense of a slow life. Henna has properties that actively draw heat out through the palms, which is one of the body’s key heat-release points.

The third recommendation is consuming buttermilk or chaas two to three times a day during the summer season. The whey in buttermilk contains protein, calcium, and B12, and works as a prebiotic, probiotic, and postbiotic. Adding a little salt, asafoetida, and cumin powder to buttermilk corrects electrolyte imbalance caused by dehydration, aids digestion, and prevents loss of appetite.

While these are things individuals can do at home, Diwekar also noted that the need of the hour is for policymakers to step in and protect homes from getting overheated. As India continues to grapple with extreme weather events, a combination of individual action and systemic change will be crucial.

As the scorching heat and demanding lifestyles take a toll on mental health, experts are advocating for yoga and meditation as vital tools for stress management this summer.

Experts warn that rising stress among the youth due to digital and social pressures is becoming a significant concern. The International Day of Yoga 2026 celebrations across India have highlighted the integration of Ayurvedic principles and classical yogic practices for holistic wellness.

Practices like meditation and pranayama (breathing techniques) can improve resilience, focus, and mental well-being. Yoga is more than just physical exercise; it is a holistic practice that connects the body, mind, and breath. Modern research highlights yoga’s benefits, including reduced stress, anxiety, and improved cardiovascular health.

Specific breathing techniques like Sheetali Pranayama, which involves curling the tongue and breathing through the mouth, are recommended not just for cooling the body but also for calming the mind. This technique directly cools the blood and helps reduce heat stress.

Health experts suggest incorporating simple activities like walking in green spaces and listening to classical music to relieve stress. These activities, combined with meditation (Dhyana), can help achieve emotional balance and enhance quality of life.

The Ministry of AYUSH and various state governments are promoting holistic wellness programmes. These sessions focus on integrating yoga, pranayama, and mindfulness-based interventions to help people manage stress and maintain mental well-being during the challenging summer months.