Ayurveda You Can Live
Namaste !
"I bow to the divine spirit in you!"
Ayurveda literally means "wisdom of life". Ayurveda is not a mere alternative therapy but a way of life. More than treating diseases, Ayurveda puts forward the theory to maintain health. For this purpose Ayurveda has described in detail the daily regimen as well as seasonal regimen and ethical regimen.
The basic rule is "whatever we can do for ourselves to improve our own health is more effective in the long run than whatever another person can do for us".
We must establish the right rhythm in our lives. This rhythm should mirror the order of nature that is never rigid but yet never chaotic.
Ayurvedic life-regimens are simple, non-invasive, non-traumatic and generally do not interfere with other form of treatment. The entire practice of maintaining health is raised on essential concept of 'Dincharya' daily regimen.
Right from waking up in the morning till sleeping at night all daily routines have been given the ceremonial importance in Charak Samhita and Ashtang Hridaya.
The detailed rules for the daily regimen are discussed in brief as follows:
Arising
Since our biological clocks are attuned to rising and setting of the sun, it is obvious to wake up at sunrise in perfect synchronization to the natural clock. Drinking a glass of Luke-warm water helps to flush out all toxins accumulated overnight in the body.
Natural urges
Dawn is the best time to eliminate body's physical waste. Defecation once or twice daily is best. Preferably not immediately after a meal. But urination then is wise. Examine your elimination every day and if you notice any disturbance go on fast. It will allow the body to rest and correct the system before dis-ease sets in. Never suppress the natural physical urges as elimination, hunger, thirst, coughing, belching, sneezing, yawning, passing gas; it will lead to discomfort and even disease.
Cleanliness
Clean teeth and mouth. Brushing of teeth should be repeated after every meal. Cleaning of tongue freshens up the mouth and also stimulates the secretions of digestive enzymes. Proper cleaning of nose, ears and washing eyes with warm water held in mouth for moments (saliva being very good for eyes) is advised.
Keep your hair trimmed, nails filed and wear clear, clean clothes. Feel free to use perfumes in moderation and feel good.
Massage
A regular self massage with herbal oil is necessary for every person. It makes the skin supple, enhances blood circulation, encourages quicker removal of the wastes and relaxes the body. Follow the normal direction of hair growth. Massage scalp and head at least weekly and just the soles of feet if short of time.
Bath
Bathe everyday to create a sense of bodily freshness. Use cool or Luke-warm water on head.
Exercise
Regular light exercises helps body to shape up, increase muscle strength, improve appetite and maintain health. Never exert more than half of your capacity, during illness, just after meal and without rhythmic breathing. Yoga, swimming, walking and even laughing are excellent options.
Meditation
Anything can be meditation so long it is sincere and heartfelt. One should at least meditate for 20-30 min. (time is not that important).
Clothing
Always wear clean, airy and light clothes of natural fibers like cotton, wool, linens, or silk.
Breakfast
It may follow exercise and meditation. It is a fast break between dinner and lunch, so eat light breakfast. Do not take breakfast after 8 am.
Employment
Since our work consumes at least one-third part of our lives - it is important that the nature of work should match well with your body-type.
Morning time is best for getting actual work done
Afternoon time (after 3 pm.) is ideal for planning, meeting, strategizing, accounting, intuitive work, or planning for the next day.
Lunch
Around noon is an ideal time for a main meal. Sit down, take time and enjoy eating. Do not work on computer, no telephone calls, no eating on go.
Take a leisure walk as it helps to improve digestion.
After work come home, rest for a while and go for exercise if not done in the morning.
Dinner
Dinner should be before sunset. Food should be light, cooked and easy to digest.
Family time
Relax, watch TV, read, and listen to music, (wash dishes ).
Sleep
It is best to go to bed before 10 o'clock. To carry out various tasks with full strength and vitality one should get enough sleep. Usually 6-7 hr. of sleep give sufficient rest to the body and mind. Night is natural time to sleep and mid-day catnaps should not be more than 15 min. long. Avoid having full meal just before retiring to bed. Sleeping on right side is most relaxing and suggested by Yoga theories. Sleeping with crown of head facing east and feet into the west promote the best meditative sleep.
These regimens helps us establish a daily, monthly and yearly program for optimal health. One of the failings of modern culture is that it deprives us of the time that we need to take care of ourselves. We are caught in a process of expending energy but not renewing it. The responsibility is ours.
Be respectful to your own life and give reverence to the Divine spirit within you. Be the master of your destiny!