The Ayurvedic spa sessions and the therapeutic massage may appear enticing. But these are not the be-all-end-all of this science. It is the dinacharya (daily routine) that holds the key to wellbeing.
Ayurveda means ‘life-knowledge’. The wellness science dates back to ancient Indian history and focuses on overall welfare – harmonising the physical, mental and spiritual life. The science when practiced with heart and soul promises to leave you energized, it confers longevity and acts as a potent stress-buster.
But the modern day trends have portrayed a different image of the science altogether. Lavish and luxurious spa sessions, relaxing massage sittings and a range of ayurvedic pills is all that is propagated these days in the name of Ayurveda.
It’s difficult to embrace the exact science, leaving us caught in wrong hands. Nonetheless it is of paramount importance to assimilate the right essence of this age-old therapy, which can serve as panacea for all ills.
Contrary to the popular perception, Ayurveda isn’t a rich man’s saviour. To be candid, it’s an art and science that can be practiced and adopted by all and starts with a simple set of rules that transform lifestyle. Here are some Ayurvedic principles that ensure a healthy life.
Start Early: Ayurveda strongly recommends you to start your day early. Waking up in the Brahma muhurtha which is about 90 minutes before sunrise helps your body get its natural rhythms right.
Oral Hygiene: Other than general brushing of teeth, tongue scraping and oil pulling are habits that have clear mention in Ayurveda. Tongue scraping removes the toxin build-up. If left untreated these toxins travel back to the stomach and cause digestive problems and compromised immunity. Oil pulling, on the other hand, is a practice wherein we rinse the mouth with sesame/coconut oil. When swirled around for 10-20 minutes, the oil eliminates bacteria and detoxifies the body.
Oil Massage: The positive effects of a routine body massage are more than just skin deep. Besides bestowing a radiating skin, it eliminates body of its toxic chemicals. It rejuvenates the entire body and energizes the motor system. Experts recommend a whole body massage with sesame, coconut or therapeutic oil 30 minutes before bathing for maximum absorption.
Ayurvedic Diet: Like other sciences, Ayurveda too lays great stress on a healthy and nourishing diet. Moving a step further, it highlights the importance of herbs and spices. Ayurvedic experts term cinnamon, cumin, nutmegs, turmeric and black pepper as holy spices that should be consumed daily. Add white foods to your diet (cheese, milk, lassi) for a glowing skin. Probiotic foods like yogurt, citrus fruits, honey, and fermented foods have anti-inflammatory properties and boost your immune system. A daily diet should include all flavours – bitter, sweet, sour, salty and pungent.
Lots of Water: Water is the elixir for life. It not only rehydrates the body but acts as a potent medium to flush out bodily wastes. Drinking warm water with a hint of lemon on empty stomach can work wonders for the digestive system. Avoid cold water and iced sugary fluids as they obstruct the cleansing mechanism of the body.
By closely embracing and practising these ayurvedic principles on a daily basis one can be sure of an active middle age and a healthy lifetime.