Good health is a life-long process. Ayurveda,
the ancient Indian system of health and longevity offers us
many simple yet profound tips for maintaining a lifestyle
that can be sustained for an entire lifetime. “Ayur’
means longevity, ‘veda’ means science, this science
of longevity is user-friendly and is applicable universally.
Ayurveda states that there are three body/mind constitutions
that are formed by pairing up the five elements, namely Vata,
Pitta and Kapha.
Vata
is composed of air and space; and governs all movement within
the body. Vata is responsible for nervous system function,
respiration, elimination, childbirth and menstruation. Pitta
is made up of fire and water and is responsible for digestion
and metabolism. Kapha, composed of earth and water is responsible
for structure, immune function and mucus production. The greatness
of Ayurveda is the wisdom that we are all made of these five
elements albeit in varying degrees. To experience health and
well-being, these doshas must be balanced by adjusting the
individual’s lifestyle and food habits.
This new year, Ayurveda can inspire us to
make small and gradual changes to our lifestyle for optimal
bliss and health. We can begin with a commitment to moving
slower and giving every task and person your full attention.
Relish and savor your interactions and activities. Be present
to yourself and with others.
Consider the wisdom of doing less to accomplish more. Although
this is contradictory to our social conditioning of constant
activity, try it. Spend time taking care of yourself. Meditate,
buy new japa mantra beads, learn one new mantra and chant
it. Focus on what you wish to manifest and allow it the space
to come to fruition.
Good communication reflects well on us and
brings us joy. This is one way to generate saatvic energy
and it is good for cultivating emotional health.
No matter what task is begging for your attention, give sleep
a chance. Get to bed by 9:30p.m. Adequate sleep is good for
the nervous system, and for strengthening immune function
and rejuvenating the body.
Eat vata pacifying food such as warm soup and sip ginger tea.
Avoid dry foods such as popcorn, chips, crackers etc. Do not
skip meals as this aggravates both vata and pitta. Consider
eating stewed apples each day for it is warm, nourishing and
light. It has more fiber than a raw apple and is beneficial
for elimination. Give up coffee and stimulants or at least
use in moderation. Commit to using fresh and organic foods
as much as possible.
Relish in the healing fragrances of aroma oils.
Vatas can use: basil, citrus, clove, lavender,
frankincense, jatamansi, vetivert and sage
Pittas will enjoy: ylang-ylang, sandalwood,
rose, jasmine and neroli
Kaphas should favor: basil, eucalyptus, rosemary,
tulsi or holy basil, lemon and juniper.
Spend some time learning pranayama. The breath can used to
pacify the nervous system and to heat and cool the body. Continue
to maintain your daily routine. Stay committed to being in
alignment with cosmic rhythms. If your body experiences good
routines, you will have better sleep, digestion and elimination.
Exercise every day. 80% of all diseases are caused by stress.
And exercising is one of the best ways of reducing stress.
Be in nature, talk a walk, go swimming, practice yoga outdoors.
Stay motivated to make lifestyle changes. Go easy on yourself.
One change a week is a good start. Spend time in silence reflecting
on your experiences and life's journey. Try to find ways to
see it as a gift and treasure the wisdom you derived from
it. And always remember to be grateful for what you have and
enjoy it!
Stewed Apples and Pears
This is a wonderful and delicious breakfast for improving
digestion and elimination. You can use apples alone or pears
alone or together as in this recipe. You can also add figs
and raisins soaked overnight.
Ingredients:
1 apple peeled and chopped coarsely
1 pear peeled and chopped coarsely
3 cloves
1 cup water
Preparation:
Place all the ingredients in a medium sized pot and cover
and cook on medium heat till the fruit is soft – about
20 minutes. If the fruit dries out, add another 1/8 cup of
water and cook till it is tender.
