75 hard - #17477
So I recently started the 75 Hard challenge because I wanted to build discipline and improve my fitness. It sounded great at first—two workouts a day, drinking a gallon of water, sticking to a strict diet, reading every day, and taking progress pictures. I was super motivated, but now that I’m three weeks in, I’m starting to feel completely drained. My energy levels are crashing, my digestion feels off, and my sleep is getting worse. One of the biggest issues I’ve noticed is my body feels inflamed—my joints are hurting, and I constantly feel sore. I thought my body would adjust, but it’s just getting harder. I’m also feeling unusually hot inside, like my body is producing too much heat. Could this be related to Pitta imbalance? Does Ayurveda see something like 75 Hard as being too extreme for certain body types? I’m also worried about my diet. The challenge requires you to follow a strict meal plan, but it doesn’t specify what kind. I cut out all sugar and processed food, which is great, but I think I’m not getting enough nourishment because I feel fatigued all the time. Could this kind of intense program be affecting my doshas in a negative way? How can I balance my body while still continuing 75 Hard without completely burning out? Are there any Ayurvedic herbs or practices that can support the body through such an intense regimen? I don’t want to quit, but I also don’t want to harm myself. If anyone has done something similar or has Ayurvedic tips to maintain energy and recovery while following 75 Hard, please share.
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Doctors’ responses
It sounds like 75 Hard is pushing your body into a state of overexertion, which Ayurveda would likely view as an aggravation of Pitta and Vata doshas. The constant workouts, strict discipline, and high mental pressure can overheat the body (Pitta imbalance) while also depleting energy and causing dryness (Vata imbalance). Symptoms like inflammation, joint pain, poor digestion, and disturbed sleep are signs that your body is struggling to recover. Ayurveda emphasizes sustainability and balance, so an extreme regimen like this may not be ideal for long-term well-being.
To balance Pitta and Vata, focus on cooling and nourishing foods rather than just cutting things out. Make sure you’re getting enough healthy fats, whole grains, and warm, easy-to-digest meals instead of relying on raw or restrictive foods. Ashwagandha and Shatavari are excellent Ayurvedic herbs for reducing stress, supporting recovery, and maintaining stamina. You might also benefit from Chyawanprash, a rejuvenating herbal jam that boosts energy and immunity. Since hydration is key, add cooling herbs like fennel, coriander, or mint to your water to counteract excess heat.
For recovery, self-massage (Abhyanga) with cooling oils like coconut or Brahmi oil can soothe sore muscles and calm the nervous system. Try gentle yoga and pranayama (breathwork) to release tension rather than just pushing harder. If you want to continue 75 Hard, consider modifying your approach by listening to your body’s signals—maybe making one workout a restorative activity like walking or stretching. The goal is discipline without depletion, so adjusting the challenge to suit your body type can help you stay strong without burning out.
It sounds like your body is reacting to the extreme physical and mental demands of the 75 Hard challenge, and Ayurveda views this kind of intensity as potentially too harsh, especially for those with a Pitta imbalance. The heat and inflammation you’re feeling, along with joint pain and fatigue, are signs that Pitta may be aggravated. Ayurveda recommends a more balanced approach, focusing on nourishing and calming practices. To support your body, consider incorporating cooling herbs like Ashwagandha, Turmeric, and Triphala, which can reduce inflammation and support recovery. Also, focus on eating grounding, easily digestible foods like cooked vegetables, grains, and healthy fats to replenish your body. Yoga and gentle practices for recovery, such as restorative poses and Pranayama (breathing exercises), can help reduce internal heat and improve your energy. While it’s great to be disciplined, it’s also important to listen to your body’s signals and avoid pushing it too far, especially if you’re feeling drained and stressed. A more balanced approach could be more sustainable in the long run.
It’s commendable that you’re committed to building discipline through the 75 Hard challenge, but it seems that the intensity of the program may be overextending your capacity, especially if you’re experiencing fatigue, inflammation, and joint pain. These symptoms suggest that your Pitta dosha is indeed heightened, leading to an imbalance. In Ayurveda, extreme programs can overwhelm the body, especially if it’s not aligned with your individual constitution and current health status.
For your situation, I recommend the following steps to help balance your body while still engaging in the challenge:
Dietary Adjustments: 1. Nourishing Foods: Focus on a Pitta-pacifying diet that is cooling and hydrating. Include: - Sweet fruits like melons and pears, and cooked vegetables such as zucchini and cucumbers. - Whole grains like rice and barley. - Healthy fats such as ghee, coconut, and avocados.
2. Gentle Proteins: Incorporate lighter proteins such as mung beans, lentils, and white fish to avoid heaviness.
3. Hydration: Continue drinking plenty of water, adding cooling herbs like mint or cilantro to infuse it for better digestion.
Ayurvedic Herbs and Practices: 1. Herbs: Consider taking: - Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, incorporate it in your food or take a capsule. - Ashwagandha: A great adaptogen for stress, it can help with fatigue and support recovery. - Amla: Rich in Vitamin C, it can enhance your energy levels and digestion.
2. Routine: - Gentle Yoga: Instead of high-intensity workouts, include restorative yoga or gentle stretching practices to reduce inflammation and help with recovery. - Meditation: Implement a daily meditation practice to calm the mind and body, helping to balance the strain of the challenge.
3. Self-care: Schedule downtime for relaxation and recovery, ensuring you’re getting quality sleep. You might benefit from a warm oil massage (Abhyanga) before bed to promote relaxation and reduce inflammation.
Monitoring and Adjustment: Listen to your body. If you continue to feel drained, consider scaling back the intensity of your workouts—perhaps opting for one workout a day that combines moderate cardio with mobility work.
Balancing this challenging program with Ayurvedic principles can help you nurture your body without compromising your goals. It’s essential to give yourself grace and adjust as needed based on your body’s signals.

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