We live in a culture that glorifies doing the maximum, being everything to everyone all at once. We place so much importance on the hustle, the early start, the high output, that many of us are depleted, exhausted and trying to give to others from an empty cup.
In recent times, we label this 'burnout', but perhaps this is too simplified a view. Ayurveda invites a more nuanced perspective. It asks us not just what's happening, but why, and how the elements within us have drifted from harmony.
Understanding Pitta: The Fire Within
In Ayurvedic philosophy, the Pitta dosha is made of the fire and water elements. It governs transformation in the body and mind - from digestion and metabolism to focus and ambition.
When balanced, Pitta gives us clarity, courage and drive. When imbalanced, it can manifest as:
- Irritability or anger
- Overheating (internally or externally)
- Acid reflux or inflammation
- Perfectionism or harsh self-criticism
- Restless sleep or early waking
- Feeling "tired but wired"
Is It Burnout...or Too Much Pitta?
Burnout and Pitta imbalance share many symptoms: exhaustion, emotional volatility, mental fog, digestive disruption. But where burnout is a result of prolonged overexertion, Pitta imbalance is often the driver of that pattern - the inner fire that refuses to dim.
Ask yourself:
- Am I holding myself to relentless standards?
- Do I feel frustrated when others move slowly?
- Is my digestion overly sharp, or do I skip meals entirely?
- Do I find it difficult to relax, even when tired?
If yes, it may be time to calm the inner heat.
Restoring Balance: Cooling Rituals for Pitta
Pitta needs more than rest, it needs gentleness. Here are a few ways to begin:
1. Embrace cooling foods and herbs
Favour foods that are hydrating, sweet, bitter and astringent:
- Cucumber, coconut water, leafy greens, rose petals, fennel, aloe vera.
- Avoid too much spice, caffeine and alcohol which can inflame.
2. Rituals of release
- Swap high intensity workouts for walks in nature, yin yoga or gentle stretching.
- Try self-massage (abhyanga) with a cooling oil infused with sandalwood or vetiver.
3. Protect your inner peace
- Create boundaries around your time and attention - especially screen time.
- Unplug in the evenings and allow your nervous system to slow.
- Practice moonlight bathing or journaling to cool mental heat.
4. Sleep as medicine
- Go to bed by 10pm, before the second Pitta surge activates.
- Diffuse calming essential oils like rose, lavender, or chamomile to promote deep rest.
Burnout is real, but it's also a symptom of imbalance. In tending to your dosha, you tend to your whole self. The Ayurvedic approach is not about doing more. It's about honouring your nature, deeply and without judgement - and returning, always, to balance.
