Ayurvedic Lifestyles

The word “Ayurveda” is derived from combining two Sanskrit words: “Ayus” (life) and “Veda” (knowledge). Ayurveda translates to “the knowledge of life.”  The holistic science dates back to 5000 years. Ayurveda is based on the philosophy of a lifestyle that’s in harmony with nature. Ayurvedic treatment is given using traditional oils herbal preparations and other natural processes that help to reverse t chronic diseases, troubled minds, wear and tear of the body and restore the harmony of the body, mind, and soul.

Related: Importance Of Knowing Ayurvedic Doshas

The three factors that disturb the balance in the body are known as Doshas namely Vata, Pitta, and Kapha that affect the natural harmony in the body. They are structural components made up of the elements present in the universe such as air, ether, water, fire, and space. In totality, Ayurveda is a time-tested science of health and healthy living.  Being an ideal combination of science and philosophy, Ayurveda insists on the balancing of the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual components to achieve holistic health. Ayurveda is the world’s oldest healing science that offers a rich, holistic approach to a healthy life.

Related: How Ayurveda Works

Ayurvedic lifestyle is based on a preventive approach that keeps the body and minds healthy and also recommends methods of correcting imbalances through lifestyle modifications as far as possible.  As human beings are not only materialistic, we are also energetic. Ayurveda addresses both of these aspects to provide a wholesome way of life. It also recommends what food to eat, what to avoid and when, what are the lifestyles to be followed according to changing seasons, and more.

Ayurvedic lifestyle suggests the observation of health principles such as Aahar (Food), Nidra (Sleep), Dincharya (daily regimen), Ratricharya (Night routine), Rutucharya (Seasonal regimen), Sadvritta and Achar Rasayan (Ethical and Moral activities), and Brahmacharya (Regulated Action).

Related:Pharmacology Of Ayurveda

Ayurveda Food

Ayurveda food has been categorized into three basic types namely Sattvic (light and pure), Tamasic (dulling), and Rajasic (indulgent). Ayurvedic diet is prescribed according to the individual’s body constitution and dosha imbalance. Ayurveda also recommends a wholesome diet that comprises the six tastes that are required to maintain the physical and mental equilibrium according to their Dosha.

Ayurvedic Lifestyle during Summer

Do not cause over-exertion by doing excess physical work

Always try to be in cool surroundings

Should avoid exposure to sunlight during daytime

Apply a mixture of Chandan and Kapur on the body to protect oneself from heat.

Avoid overindulgence in sexual activities

Try to wear soft, light-colored, and thin clothes made out of cotton

Related:Scriptures of Ayurveda

Related:Analgesics In Ayurveda

The suggested diet during summer

Avoid the use of katu, amal and lavan rasa and foods that contain this rasa.

Avoid heavy and oily food

Avoid alcohol intake as it dries up the body fluids and weakens them.

Consume more chilled and sweet-tasting extracts of juicy fruits

Consume plenty of fluids to combat the loss of fluid of the body through sweating.

Draksha (Vitis vinifera), nariyal (Cocus Nucifera) should be consumed with lots of water.

Take dairy products to soothe and lubricate the inner organs.

Related:Lifestyle In Ayurveda

Related:Treatment Procedures In Ayurveda

Ayurvedic lifestyle also comprises yoga, meditation, and physical exercise to maintain a healthy body and mind.   Yoga helps in making the body flexible and improves blood circulation.  Meditation helps in calming of the mind and removes emotional disturbances.  Physical exercise done early in the morning enhances the secretion of body enzymes and improves metabolism.  A good night’s sleep is also advised to maintain the right balance in the body and mind.