Puberty

Time of fire, time of rebellion

In the various phases of life, puberty is one of the natural "crisis periods" for the body and psyche, during which the organism is subject to a strong imbalance caused by an excessive Pitta surge. The fire element unfolds with immense force in the growing person and now influences their appearance, character, hormonal system, metabolism and daily behavior.

From an Ayurvedic perspective, puberty is also seen as a time of transformation. The fire burns off excessive Kapha components of childhood (Bala) and unfolds its restorative power to prepare adolescents for life. The dosha dominance is now characterized by Pitta and Kapha and the positive Pitta traits of strength of character, courage, determination, intelligence, diligence and striving for success can take shape.

The fact that this transformation process is characterized by different phases, some of which can also be characterized by excessive and negative Pitta reactions, can be confirmed directly when we are in close contact with adolescents. Both the harried parents and stressed teachers as well as the adolescents themselves often suffer from the hot temper, the unintelligent defiance and the exuberant firepower, which can also express itself in the form of aggression, destructiveness and the strong urge for recognition, independence and self-determination.

In order to promote the dynamic balance of bodily forces, it is extremely important to support the physical cleansing process during puberty and to balance the psychological effects of pitta dominance.

Practical recommendations for the skin, metabolism and cleansing process during puberty:

  • Prefer all bitter vegetables and naturally sweet grains, fruits and vegetables. Green leafy vegetables (chard, spinach, chicory), artichokes, green asparagus, beet, barley, ancient wheat, mango, papaya, melon and sweet apples are particularly good.

  • Avoid all acidic foods. Dairy products (cheese, yoghurt), citrus fruits, sour berries, tomatoes and vinegar block the Shrotas and promote skin complaints.

  • Avoid all spicy foods (chili, pepper, garlic, mustard)

  • Take 1 teaspoon of ghee daily with food

  • Take ½ teaspoon of turmeric daily (e.g. in warm milk or water)

Experience and study the wealth of knowledge of Ayurveda at the European Academy of Ayurveda.

Kerstin Rosenberg

About the author

Kerstin Rosenberg is a well-known Ayurveda specialist and successful book author who trains Ayurveda therapists, nutritionists and psychological counselors in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Together with her husband, she is managing partner of the European Academy for Ayurveda, an internationally award-winning Ayurveda institution with its own Ayurveda training and spa center in Birstein, Hesse. As Chairwoman of the VEAT - Association of European Ayurveda Doctors and Therapists, Kerstin Rosenberg represents the professional and educational interests of Ayurveda doctors, practitioners and therapists in public and international professional bodies.