Everyday Ayurveda

ARISING

Since our biological clocks are naturally tuned to the rising and setting of the sun, it is obviously better for us to wake up at sunrise in perfect harmony with our natural clocks, ideally to let the body soak in the positive energies of the sun’s rays and to become charged for the day. Drinking a glass of warm water soon after you wake up helps in flushing out toxins accumulated overnight in the body

NATURAL URGES

The last part of the night being ruled by vata involves the process of elimination. Dawn is the best time to eliminate body’s physical waste. Proper elimination also helps remove the kapha that naturally accumulates in our bodies overnight. Defecation once or twice daily is best, preferably not immediately after a meal. However urination any time of the day is okay. Examine your elimination each morning and if you notice abnormalities, this indicates poor digestion. Consider fasting, since this helps re-balance the natural digestive process. Fasting allows the body to rest and correct the digestive system naturally, before the digestive disorder compounds. Never suppress the natural physical urges such as elimination, hunger, thirst, sleep, sneezing, yawning, vomiting, flatulence and ejaculation, since this will lead to discomfort and even disease

CLEANLINESS

Thoroughly washing the face, mouth, eyes, nose and all limbs cleans our body. Use clean warm water, accompanied by brushing of the teeth (should be repeated after every meal), scraping off toxic coating from the tongue (using a tongue cleaner), occasional gargling of salt water with a pinch of turmeric to keep gums, mouth & throat healthy

EXERCISE

Active aerobics, doing different yoga asana and regular exercise increases the body’s stamina and resistance to disease by stimulating the immune system, promoting good blood circulation, clean bowel movements and fat burning. Exercising regularly also reduces anxiety. Depending on your age & body type, it is recommended that kapha people do heavy exercises; pitta people should do exercise in moderation and vata people should do more yoga. Always do rhythmic breathing while exercising. Swimming, walking, jogging and even laughing are encouraged

MASSAGE

Ayurveda recommends massages– a regular self-massage using herbal oils is usually adequate but needs to be supplemented with professional massages as often as possible. Massages makes the skin supple, controls vata by reducing cold, dryness, rough & erratic skin conditions, enhances blood circulation, encourages quicker removal of metabolic wastes and relaxes the body

MEDITATION

Meditation is ideal for disciplining the mind, controlling stress & strain. Meditation, when done right nourishes the brain and calms the soul. Controlling our wandering thoughts and endless desires, is the key to longevity, good health and inner peace. Routine meditation acts as a shield against destabilizing influences. It promotes self-worth and self-control. Being in a state of calm and stable mind helps improve your overall health and outlook on life