This month I have been taking a course on Ayurveda which is fascinating and is surprisingly relevant for our modern lives. Often called the “Mother of All Healing”, ayurveda is a complementary system of healing originating in India over 5000 years ago. More than a mere system of treating illness, Ayurveda is a “Science of Life”, (Ayur = life, Veda = science or knowledge). The ancient wisdom of Ayurveda provides specific guidelines to help us identify our constitutional nature and provides us with ways to live gently and harmoniously on the earth while fulfilling our own health and personal needs.
Ayurveda is full of really useful guidelines which are really appropriate for modern living:
In order to be in balance, you must be mindful of diet, yoga and physical activity, mental state and meditation, and maintaining internal and external cleanliness – a truly holistic approach to your health! Many Ayurvedic practices are effective for all people and help to maintain a balance regardless of your dosha (individual constitution).
Here are a few simple Ayurvedic practices you might like to try for yourself:
1. Drink water in the morning
When you get out of bed in the morning, drink a glass of warm water with a splash of lemon juice. The water will wake up your digestive system and the citrus will help to detox your system. Warm water balances all three doshas, promotes a good appetite, helps with weight loss, and helps flush toxins from your body. What more could you ask for from a simple glass of water?
2. Boost your immune system with a hot water detox
Most of your immune system is in your gut, so you need to keep the toxins flowing and flushing out as much as possible. If you are dehydrated or if you need to boost your immune system then try this free, simple hot water detox.
Simply drink a mug of hot water with nothing in it every hour for a few days. The hot water will open up the immune system and allow it to drain naturally. Repeating it every hour or so will deep clean your gut immune system and get rid of potential illnesses. Great to do before deciding to rush of to see the Dr!
3. Eat three meals a day with no snacks
Do not drink with meals instead have a glass of water half an hour before eating and another one 2 hours after eating.
4. Eat enough at each meal to get you through your day
In the morning, eat a breakfast that’s just enough to get you to lunch. In the middle of the day, eat your largest meal as you are busiest during the day, but only eat enough to last you until dinner. For dinner, eat only enough to get yourself to sleep. For weight loss, eat less for dinner – a clear soup or green salad. It’s so simple and makes so much sense.
5. Use sesame oil to massage and moisturise yourself
When you shower in the morning or before bed, finish your shower with a few tablespoons of organic sesame oil. Massage your body well with it, especially areas of the driest skin. The oil will leave your skin healthy and glowing all day. You won’t need lotions and this way, you can avoid commercial chemical concoctions while saving money at the same time!
6. Be in bed by 10pm
Ayurveda maintains that the most nourishing sleep happens before midnight, so it is important to get a couple of hours in but try to rise by 6. (Lots of time for Sun Salutations!).
Incorporate these Ayurvedic habits into your daily routine and enjoy the simple results you’ll receive. Stay in balance and your health will dramatically improve physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually! – Worth a try