The new year is a time for many people to begin focusing more on their mental, physical, and spiritual health, and Ayurveda is quickly becoming a popular path for achieving this balance. Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that originated in India and has been practiced for over 5000 years. It is based on the belief that good health and wellness result from a balance between the mind, body, and spirit.
The Doshas
In Ayurveda, it is said that everything in the universe is made up of five elements: earth, air, fire, water and space. These elements combine in the human body to form three life forces or energies known as doshas: vata (air and space), pitta (fire and water), and kapha (earth and water). A person’s individual constitution, or prakruti, which is established at birth, is comprised of a unique combination of the three doshas. This will guide their physiological and psychological tendencies in life.
Maintaining balance among the doshas is essential for good overall health in Ayurveda. Imbalances, due to improper diet and lifestyle, can lead to physical and emotional problems.
In terms of treatment, Ayurveda aims to correct imbalances at the root cause(s), rather than simply treat symptoms. Natural remedies such as herbs, specific foods and massage are often used to bring balance back to the doshas again. Ayurveda also recognizes the mind's role in healing and may use techniques such as meditation, breath work, chanting and yoga to promote emotional and spiritual well-being.
Preventive care, however, is a key principle of Ayurveda, with practitioners believing it is better to prevent a disease from occurring in the first place rather than trying to treat it once it has developed. To this end, Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a healthy daily lifestyle and diet, appropriate for one's unique constitution and current state of health.
The Koshas
The koshas are described as the five layers of the self - as it is believed that we are more than just a physical body. These layers are:
Each kosha is associated with a different aspect of the self and they are believed to all be interconnected. In this way, imbalances in one kosha, can bring imbalance to the others.
The Dhatus
The dhatus are the tissue layers of the body. There are seven dhatus:
The nutrients from food that we have digested are passed from one dhatu layer to the next, nourishing each one, beginning with rasa dhatu and culminating in shukra dhatu. It is believed that the end product of the nourishment of the deepest dhatu layers is ojas - the vital energy that is responsible for our happiness, immunity and strength. Weaknesses in one dhatu can lead to imbalances in others, leading to a variety of ailments.
Individualized treatment is crucial in Ayurveda, as what works for one person may not work for another. An Ayurvedic practitioner will assess imbalances in a variety of areas including the doshas, koshas and dhatus and will help guide their client to finding the right daily practices for their unique needs.
]]>Luckily, there are natural ways to nourish your mind and body to support its stress response and maintain balance. One of the most recommended Ayurvedic practices to ease the nervous system is Abhyanga - self oil massage.
In India, oil massage starts as early as birth, helping to build strength and immunity for new babies. This practice can be continued throughout life to support health and longevity.
In addition, massage has been shown to increase oxytocin - the feel good hormone, making it an excellent practice to support emotional health.
There are many benefits of doing a regular Abhyanga practice including:
Oils according to the doshas
Different oils are recommended to pacify the various doshas or to support specific doshas. For vata imbalance/vata dosha, untoasted sesame oil is the best. To increase strength and stamina, Ashwagandha/Bala oil may be used as well. For added joint support, Mahanarayan Oil is a great choice.
For pitta imbalance/pitta dosha, cococnut oil or sunflower oil are ideal. For hair and scalp support, Bhringaraj oil is excellent.
Sesame oil or almond oil can be used for kapha imbalance/kapha dosha, if ama is not present. Otherwise a massage with a silk glove, known as Garshana is recommended.
How to do Abhyanga
Abhyanga is traditionally practiced in the morning before a warm bath or shower. This is to support the body in releasing toxins from the day before.
Heat 1/4-1/2 cup oil in a jar (ideally glass). Heat some water in a pot, pour into a bowl and place jar into the bowl. You do not want to heat the oil directly in the pot!
Put a towel on the floor incase any oil spills. Pour a bit of oil into the palms of your hand and massage into the scalp. Continue to add more oil as needed as you move through the process. Next, move onto the face, gently massaging the forehead, cheeks, ears, nose and chin in circular motions.
Moving on, massage the front and back of the neck with long, firm strokes.
Next, massage the arms with long, firm strokes and then using circular motions massage the elbow joints, shoulders and wrists. Make sure to massage the hands and fingers as well. Massage armpits moving the strokes towards the center of the body.
Massage the chest and abdomen next with circular motions. For the abdomen, move the hands in a clockwise motion, which will support healthy bowel function. Then move onto the sides and back of the torso, massaging with long, firm strokes.
Next, move onto the hips and buttocks, using circular motions. Then, using long, firm strokes massage the legs from top to bottom and use circular motions around the knees and ankles.
Finish by massaging both feet.
Complete the massage by taking a warm bath or shower. This helps the oil absorb into the skin and remove toxins. It is recommended to not use too much soap as this can dry out the skin. In addition, to better remove the oil from the hair, apply shampoo to dry hair first and then rinse with water.
]]>"Sahana is an amazing person with a deep understanding of Ayurvedic and Indian cuisine. Her natural grace in preparing foods, along with her patience in teaching, make her an extremely nurturing teacher and simply a joy to be around."- Anna Blackwell
These seasonal transitions can be hard on the body and therefore are the ideal time to partake in gentle Ayurvedic cleanses to help the body adjust to the new phase of the year, shed accumulated toxins and support proper digestion and immunity.
The characteristics of kapha dosha are cool, wet, heavy, cloudy, oily and inert. Our bodies naturally take on these characteristics during the winter, which is vata season, in order to pacify vata dosha. This is why we also tend to eat heavier, richer foods during this time of year and much of nature hibernates. This perfectly exemplifies the Ayurvedic principle of opposites as vata is light, dry, rough and mobile.
However, too much kapha qualities in the foods we eat during the spring can lead to kapha aggravation and symptoms such as allergies, congestion, digestion issues and lethargy. It’s important to note also that those with kapha dosha dominance will be more likely to experience some of these symptoms during this time of year.
The 6 Tastes
In Ayurveda, all foods can be described in terms of the six tastes and their effect on the body. These are sweet, sour, salty, bitter, astringent and pungent. In order to keep kapha dosha in balance during the spring, it’s best to favor foods that are bitter, pungent and astringent. Foods that are sweet, sour and salty are ideal for pacifying vata dosha during the vata season of winter, but not ideal now.
Kapha Pacifying Diet
Avoiding or reducing heavy, cool foods such as ice cream, yogurt, cheese, refined sugars, fatty meats and fried foods is important during this time. Instead, favor dark leafy greens, vegetables such as radishes, asparagus, eggplant, beets, broccoli, potatoes, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery and sprouts, moderate amounts of whole grains, small amounts of honey, fruits such as apples, pears, pomegranates, cranberries, persimmons and if eating meat, small amounts of chicken and turkey are ideal.
Make sure your biggest meal of the day is during lunch, when digestion and metabolism are at their peak. Try to continue emphasizing cooked foods as raw foods may be difficult on digestion right now. Kapha tends to dominate in the early morning and evening so you don’t want to overload your digestive system with too much food at these times.
To support digestion, you can make a simple ginger tonic to have about 10 minutes before your meal. Simply juice some fresh ginger until you have about 1-2 tsp of ginger juice. Add a pinch of sea salt and a squeeze of lime and drink. Alternatively, you can just slice a piece of ginger into small bits (about a teaspoon) and sprinkle with salt and lime and eat.
This is also the ideal time to eat spicier foods and add some more spices such as turmeric and ginger to your meals. You can try this simple Kapha Churna spice mix and using when cooking vegetables:
Kapha Churna
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Exercise
In addition, getting outdoors and partaking in regular walks and hikes is a great way to support the body in detoxifying any accumulated kapha from the winter and prevent lethargy which is common with aggravated kapha dosha.
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However, thinking of what to eat day after day can feel overwhelming. This is why we reached out to our Ayurveda and Yoga community for some of their favorite easy plant based meals to make at home.
Dhadood's Carrot Ginger Soup
Makes 4 servings
By Katie O'Connell, Ayurvedic Health Practitioner, Yoga Instructor and Founder of Dragonfly Yoga Barn
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Adzuki Bean Burgers (V, GF)
Makes 6 large patties
By Pooja, Ayurvedic Counselor and Founder of Honey, Ghee and Tea
Ingredients:
Instructions:
**Stove Top Adzuki Bean cooking instructions: Rinse Adzuki beans and place in a large pot with 8 cups of water. Bring to a boil. Once boiling, lower heat to bring to a simmer, cover pot, and allow to cook for 45-50 minutes stirring occasionally.
Arroz sin Pollo
By Kimberly Washington M.S., RYT, Certified Yoga Teacher, Ayurvedic Lifestyle Consultant and Founder of Yoga by Kimberly
Ingredients:
Instructions:
*Top with optional garnish and served with warmed tortillas*
Baked Beet Root
Serves 2
By Dr. Michael Bittner E-RYT700, Ayurvedic Practitioner, Yoga/Feng Shui/Qigong Teacher and Co-Founder of The ZenSpot Institute
Check out the instructional video on how to make this dish here.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Kitchiri/Kichidi (spiced rice and lentil porridge)
Makes 4 servings
By the Lotus Blooming Herbs Kitchen
Ingredients:
Instructions:
*All the spices can be adjusted to taste. This version uses larger quantities of spices. Feel free to use less and add more as desired.
Want more recipes?
For more healthy meal inspiration, click here to check out the other delicious recipes on our blog!
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Turmeric Milk
In Ayurveda, spices are never taken alone. They are always first cooked in some type of oil or fat and then consumed. This helps to release the beneficial oils in the spices so the body can absorb them better. In addition, spices are often consumed with other spices, which help to balance any qualities that could be overly heating, cooling or drying.
Turmeric milk, (haldi doodh), or “golden milk,” is a popular tonic today among the health conscious community. However, it has been a staple in Indian households for thousands of years. It is important to note that milk is also never taken cold or alone in Ayurveda. To support the digestibility of the dairy, it is always heated with spices.
Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric has immense anti-inflammatory properties and is loaded with antioxidants that help to fight against free radical damage. This is why it is so popular with people suffering from joint pain. Ginger and cinnamon, two other spices common in turmeric milk, have also been shown to have strong anti-inflammatory properties.
Curcumin, ginger and cinnamon have also been shown to have some anti-bacterial, antiviral and antifungal activity.
Spices are often prescribed in Ayurvedic medicine to support digestion as well. As we have discussed, digestion impacts immune health, so this can be extremely helpful in supporting overall health and well being.
Here is a basic recipe for 1 serving of Turmeric Milk:
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Detox Tea
This wonderful immune boosting detox tea was contributed by Resident Ayurveda Expert at Atmananda Yoga in New York City, Amita Banerjee. She has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to Ayurveda, so make sure to check out her site here.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
IMMUNE BOOSTERS WHEN SYMPTOMS PRESENT
Lotus Blooming Herbs Kashayam
This is one of our favorite recipes for building immune strength. Kashayam refers to a water decoction of herbs that is used for a variety of different ailments. This recipe is a bit more time intensive but well worth it. It is especially good for when you are feeling something coming on or just want to keep your immune system strong.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
*You can find jaggery in most Indian grocery stores or online.
Throat Soothing Tea
This mixture was recommended by one of our Ayurvedic teachers, Dr. Paul Dugliss M.D., founder of New World Ayurveda. This is ideal to take if you you feel a sore throat coming on. We also highly recommend this course for anyone that is interested in learning more about Ayurveda.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Dissolve all powders in a cup of boiled water. Drink.
NEXT WEEK
Next week we will be sharing some easy, healthy meals you can make at home!
Other articles about immunity:
]]>One of the most important concepts in Ayurveda is Ojas. Ojas is said to be the end product of perfect digestion. It is the subtle life essence that provides vitality, longevity, strength and youth.
There are seven tissue layers, or dhatus, present in the body – Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle), Meda (adipose/fat), Asthi (bone), Majja (bone marrow/nervous system) and Shukra (reproductive fluids - sperm and ovum).
When we eat food, it is digested through each of the dhatus, beginning in the rasa dhatu and finally being digested through the shukra dhatu, where ideally it produces ojas.
Making sure we are nourishing all of the tissue layers and supporting overall digestion is of the utmost importance when it comes to immunity and health.
IMPORTANT: Consult a doctor or health professional before beginning any new supplements or dietary protocols, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, on medications or have any other pre-existing health conditions.
DIETARY GUIDELINES
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
Nature provides a myriad of essential nutrients that we need to stay healthy and strong. Making sure to include a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables on a daily basis is an easy way to support your health. Try to include at least 3 different vegetables at each meal, making sure to emphasize dark leafy greens, which are nutrient powerhouses.
Eat primarily warm, cooked foods
Digestion and immunity are one in the same. To understand this, we must understand the function of digestion (and its counterpart - elimination). When your body is digesting food, it is breaking it down so that it can absorb the healing nutrients your body needs and eliminate the harmful toxins it doesn’t. When your body can’t properly break down food and absorb vital nutrients, immunity is naturally hampered. In addition, when elimination is impaired, ama (toxins) build up in the body and eventually cause disease. If you are suffering from weak digestion, prioritizing warm, cooked, easy to digest foods like broth based soups/stews, cooked vegetables/lentils with rice and warm porridges are going to serve you much better than cold, raw foods. In addition, sipping on warm water throughout the day will help to keep your digestive muscles fluid and functional. You also want to reduce or avoid refined sugars, alcohol, too much caffeine and packaged/processed foods.
RASAYANAS
Rasayanas are a class of herbs and herbal formulas in Ayurvedic medicine that are known to rejuvenate and revitalize mind and body. They work on nourishing the dhatus and support overall immunity. You can learn more about Rasayana Ayurvedic Medicine on our site.
Two of the most well known rasayanas are Shilajit and Chyawanprash.
Shilajit
Shilajit is said to be the “Ojas of Mother Earth.” When the Himalayas were formed millions of years ago, due to the collision of the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate, plant matter became trapped within the rocks. Over time and from the extreme tempurature changes, this mineral-rich plant matter transformed into the dark, oozing substance called Shilajit.
Minerals are necessary for every essential function of the human body. Many health issues can be linked to some type of mineral deficiency, including decreased immunity, fatigue, digestive issues, irregular heart beat, anemia, PMS, depression, and cognitive difficulties. Because the soil in the United States is so depleted of minerals due to overfarming, even the fruits and vegetables we eat have less minerals than they did 30 years ago.
Shilajit is a powerful substance that is rich in trace minerals that our bodies need. Considered to be the ultimate adaptogen, it has a wide variety of benefits, including supporting immunity, boosting energy, promoting muscle recovery and supporting cognitive health. In addition, the naturally occurring fulvic acid in Shilajit helps to deliver the minerals directly into the cells where they are needed. Shilajit also contains a property known as Yogavahi, which means it increases the absorption and efficacy of any herb it is taken with.
Our gold grade Authentic Shilajit™ is praised for its ability to create the essence of any dhatu. For example, it will bring shape to the mamsa dhatu (muscle), life to the rakta dhatu (blood) and knowledge to the majja dhatu (bone marrow/nervous system. Learn more about the benefits of our Shilajit here.
Chyawanprash
This ancient formula was cognized by the Rishi Sage Chyawan about 5000 years ago, as a means to reverse the aging process and restore youth. It is considered to be the ultimate Rasayana in Ayurvedic medicine. Chyawanprash has many benefits including supporting digestion, immunity, cognition and skin health.
Our Authentic Chyawanprash™ multi-herbal jam is made from 35 ingredients including herbs, botanicals and alpha-linoleic rich fats. Its main ingredient is Amla Berry (also called Amalaki), which is an extremely rich source of Vitamin C - a powerful immune supporting antioxidant. In addition, the variety of spices including pippali, ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom are natural antivirals and are excellent for supporting digestion. The ethically procured ghee and sesame oil provide heart healthy fats excellent for cardiovascular health. You can read more about the amazing benefits of Chyawanprash here.
Triphala
Triphala is an ancient herbal remedy that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for supporting digestive, oral and skin health. It is made of three berries that are rich in antioxidants: Amalaki, Haritaki and Bibhitaki.
Some studies have shown that triphala mouthwash may reduce plaque and gingivitis. Other studies have shown triphala to potentially lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels and also improve the production of collagen and reduce inflammation.
One of the most popular uses of triphala, however, is for digestive health. It helps to support proper digestion and elimination. Unlike laxatives, which do the body’s job for it, triphala taps into the body’s innate knowledge and encourages it to function as it should. Supporting regularity and natural cleansing is essential for immune health.
OTHER IMMUNE BOOSTING HERBS + AYURVEDA SUPPLEMENTS
Black cumin seed oil (Nigella Sativa)
This potent oil has been used for centuries. The ancient Egyptians and Greeks would use it to treat various ailments from headaches to parasitic infections. Black cumin seed oil is a rich source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as various minerals, phytochemicals and B vitamins.
It has many benefits including reducing inflammation, supporting digestive and cardiovascular health, supporting the immune system and healthy lung function, promoting joint health and reducing free radical damage. It even contains anti-bacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential nutrient that has long been known for its positive effects on immune health. It is responsible for proper immune cell functioning and the reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation, therefore a zinc deficiency can lead to a weakened immune system.
Studies have shown that if zinc is taken within 24 hours of the onset of cold symptoms, it can reduce the duration of the illness.
Zinc is also known for its role in growth development, metabolism, protein synthesis, digestion, nerve function and wound healing. It is found naturally in a variety of plant and animal foods such as legumes, nuts, seeds, dairy, dark chocolate, kale, peas, asparagus and mushrooms.
Always consult a physician or health professional to assess the proper dosage as too much zinc can also lead to deficiencies in other nutrients.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells of the body from free radicals that can cause oxidative stress. Oxidative stress has been shown to contribute to many diseases and chronic conditions including:
Vitamin C is also a key player in the production of collagen that helps to heal wounds, and aids in the absorption of iron.
While studies haven’t shown that Vitamin C alone will prevent any diseases, they have shown that it may:
It is important to note that getting Vitamin C in the form of whole foods has been shown to be more beneficial than supplements as there are other essential antioxidants and nutrients in whole foods that support its delivery and absorption.
Immunity boosting foods in Ayurveda that are high in Vitamin C include:
Immune Boosting Tonics
Next week, we will be sharing some immune boosting Ayurvedic tonics. Don't forget to sign up to our newsletter so you can be the first to get this information and more!
]]>In traditional Ayurveda, there is great emphasis on consciousness and the role it plays in healing. Our consciousness, that is our connection to the life force energy, vibrates at a certain frequency. The more connected we are, the higher our frequency. Ayurveda teaches us that lower frequencies play a crucial role in suppressing our immune system and creating the fertile ground for disease to manifest.
There are many things you can do right now to raise your vibration and support your mind and body during these unprecedented times. It is more important than ever that we should all be practicing awareness and good hygiene such as washing your hands with warm soap and water often, social distancing and covering your mouth/nose with a tissue or your elbow anytime you sneeze or cough.
Over the next few weeks, we will be sharing a series of articles on ways you can support your immune health through powerful daily rituals, lifestyle practices, dietary recommendations and more. In the meantime, you can check out our older articles to help naturally boost your immune system.
Today’s article will focus on simple yet powerful natural ways to boost your immune system - mind, body and spirit.
Meditation
From an Ayurvedic perspective, meditation is one of the most powerful ways to raise your vibration, increase consciousness and improve overall health. From a scientific perspective, studies on the benefits of meditation have shown that it may be effective in improving blood pressure, sleep issues, IBS, pain, stress, depression, anxiety, memory loss and increasing focus, self-awareness and compassion. Regular meditators have been shown to have increased telomere activity. Telomeres have been linked to increasing the lifespan of cells - therefore increasing longevity.
There are many types of meditation techniques, each with their own benefits. If you are interested in beginning a meditation practice, one of our teachers, Dr. Paul Dugliss, M.D. is teaching a free virtual course on Heart Based Meditation this Saturday, March 28, 2020. You can find out more and sign up here: https://www.heartbasedmeditation.com/. We highly recommend it.
Sleep
In an ideal world, we would all be waking up with the sun and settling into bed once the sun goes down. Living in tune with the natural rhythms of nature helps to regulate our own circadian rhythms and maintain health. However, most people these days stay up way too late, stare at screens until right before their eyes close and don’t get enough sleep.
In Ayurveda, there are four pillars of health – Digestion, Elimination, Menstruation and Sleep. Without proper sleep, our bodies don’t have the time to rest, recover and rejuvenate. There is a reason why you feel so tired when you are under the weather. It is your body begging you to sleep so it can do its job and get you well. It truly is one of the most important things to focus on when you’re feeling ill. Try to get into a regular sleep and wake schedule, ideally getting to bed no later than 10pm and making sure to get 6-8 hours of sleep. If you are ill, remember that you may need more shut eye than normal. If it’s difficult to get the recommended hours of sleep, including 10-20 minute meditation sessions a few times throughout the day can help to give your body the much needed rest it needs.
Here are a few things you can also try if you are having trouble sleeping. According to Ayurveda, sleep disturbances are typically a sign of aggravated Vata and Pitta doshas. Excess mental or physical exertion can disrupt sleep. To support this kapha time of the night, try the following tips:
Positive mindset
Love is considered to be the highest vibration. The more we can live our lives from a place of compassion, forgiveness and understanding, the better for our health and the health of those around us. Positivity is contagious! This doesn’t mean you can never be angry or sad, but focusing on those emotions for long periods of time will only bring your immune system down. Instead, try these natural ways to boost your immune system:
Visualization
Ask any pro-athlete and chances are they have practiced visualization in some way to improve their skills and mindset. Visualization has also been shown to reduce negative energy, increase confidence, boost creativity, and decrease blood pressure and inflammation.
In addition, studies have shown that people who visualize eating healthier, working out, keeping calm in the face of difficult situations and even healing, have been more successful at completing those tasks than those that did not. The point here is to understand that there is a profound connection between the mind and the body.
In 1975, the term "psychoneuroimmunology" was coined by psychologist Robert Ader and Immunologist Nicolas Cohen, which describes the impact that the mind has on stimulating the immune response. The research that has been done since then has revealed that the mind's reaction to stress can impair immunity and promote illness, while techniques such as visualization can support the immune system in better fighting disease.1
There are tons of free guided visualizations focused on supporting immunity available on the web. Try a few out and see which one(s) resonate with you. Then consider setting aside some time each day to do it.
Pranayama
This powerful yogic controlled breathwork practice has been used for thousands of years because of its immense benefits on the mind and body. “Prana” means life force and ‘ayama” means extension. It is seen as a means to prolong health and longevity in the yogic and Ayurvedic traditions. Kumbhaka or breath retention is seen as the most important aspect of pranayama. A study by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that holding the breath increased immune fighting white blood cells and even changed their genetic activity.4
There are many different techniques of pranayama, each with their own benefits including weight loss, detoxification, stress reduction, clearer skin, better digestion, improved sleep, respiratory support and stronger immunity.2 ,3
Here is a simple immune supporting pranayama practice you can start with today:
Calm with Yoga Pranayama Practice
For respiratory specific pranayama, the Ujjayi Pranayama is great. However it is not recommended for pregnant women or those that have chronic migraines or heart conditions.
Ujjayi Pranayama for Respiratory Health
Next week…
In next week’s newsletter, we will share some helpful dietary recommendations including foods and herbal supplements that will keep your immune system strong.
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This simple turmeric tea is a recipe for inflammation and coughing that has been passed down from generations. It will help to soothe inflamed air passages and break up mucus so that you can find relief faster.
Add ingredients to a glass. Stir until all ingredients are dissolved. You may need to stir the tea from time to time as the turmeric may settle. Take this tea 1-3 times a day as needed.
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Buddha said our body is precious. It is a vehicle for awakening, and we must take the utmost care of this sacred vehicle. This is where Ayurveda comes in. Ayurveda provides the means to take care of this divine-human body.
Ayurveda is based on healing the human body, mind and soul through herbs, natural medicines and daily practices. Ayurveda and Yoga perfectly complement each other for this journey.
Ayurveda is an ancient science that was discovered more than 5000 years ago somewhere in India.
Since then, Ayurveda has spread like wildfire and helped heal thousands of people, not only in India but all over the world. One of the things to know about Ayurveda is that even today it is considered a sacred self healing path.
The practices of Ayurveda, the natural medicines and the herbs are all considered to be sacred and used with deep respect and reverence.
To experience the power of this healing system, you can work one on one with an Ayurvedic Practitioner or enrol yourself in an Ayurveda retreat.
Ayurveda has many self healing benefits on many different levels.
Here are 6 benefits of Ayurveda to know about:
CLEANSING AND PURIFYING
We live in a time and age where most of our food is grown chemically, the air we breathe is toxic and polluted, and the water we drink is often contaminated with harmful substances.
Apart from the environmental toxicity our bodies are faced with, thoughts and emotions can also become toxic because of excessive stress on the nervous system.
With all the physical and emotional toxins within us, we fall sick, are unable to function and in need of deep healing. This is where Ayurveda and Mother Nature come in.
Ayurveda practices facilitate detoxification of the body from toxins on the physical level with practices such as panchakarma, bio purification practices, and so much more.
In panchakarma, a cleansing therapy designed to detoxify and rejuvenate the body, Ayurvedic physicians check the constitution of the three doshas in our bodies – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The three doshas indicate the balance of the 5 different elements in our body – earth, air, fire, water and ether/space. If any of these elements are imbalanced, it can lead to diseases. The physician checks the doshas and the current situation of the physical and emotional body of the person.
Depending on the diagnosis, the physician suggests the best panchakarma treatment for the person, which may include abhyanga (warm oil massage), swedana (herbal steam therapy), basti (herbal enemas), nasya (nasal oil administatraion) or virechana (vomiting).
Panchakarma is mainly done to rid the body of toxins on a cellular level and discard the undigested food that stays in the body and can lead to illness and disease.
The cleaner the body is from within, the clearer the mind starts to get from within. The cleansing and purification of the body that is possible with Ayurveda is one of the most precious gifts of Ayurveda to the world.
PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL HEALING
Working with the ancient science of Ayurveda leads to healing on all levels. When we begin to work with Ayurveda, the healing can start on the physical, emotional or spiritual levels first – this depends on the method of treatment.
For many people, physical ailments are often addressed first. Once the physical healing and cleansing have begun, the healing moves to deeper layers within our being where our mental body, emotional body and spiritual body starts to heal.
As the physical body starts to heal, we begin to become clearer in our minds, have more clarity in our day to day lives, and we feel free from the dense fog of toxins that we were living under before.
Many people have reported having profound changes in their lives after working with Ayurvedic treatments using herbs and natural medicines.
One of the things to know about Ayurveda is that many a time, a lot of suppressed emotions begins to surface when we begin the process of physical purification with Ayurveda.
Once we feel these suppressed emotions and release them from our bodies, we begin to heal emotionally as well.
Emotional healing leads to spiritual healing, and we start to feel alive and energetic again.
INCREASED AWARENESS
As mentioned previously, as we begin to heal emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually, our level of awareness starts to expand.
When our body is filled with toxins and undigested food, our energy becomes dense, and our level of awareness drops down.
With a dense awareness comes confusion and stress. However, with the help of Ayurveda and the healing, detoxification, cleansing and purification that comes with it, our bodies can feel lighter, and this naturally elevates the level of our awareness.
With increased and sharper awareness, we make better decisions in our day to day lives. Where we first reacted out of our habits and conditioning, we gradually tend to respond to a situation in a conscious manner.
For example, a situation in which we would have reacted with anger and agitation, we respond with patience and a deeper understanding of the situation.
With an increase in our level our awareness, we become more aware of our thoughts, emotions, our energy and the effect and power of our actions. With increased awareness, we start to become aware of our true selves and find a deeper meaning to life.
DEEPER CONNECTION
Going on a healing journey, whether it is an Ayurvedic retreat in India or anywhere in the world, will lead to a deeper sense of connection to all of life.
All of Ayurveda is based on Mother Nature and the natural world. Everything used in Ayurveda comes from natural plants, herbs, soil and other natural materials.
This is one of the main reasons Ayurveda promotes a sense of deeper connection to mother earth and all of life. Once we begin healing and cleansing with Ayurveda, we also feel more connected to ourselves and each other.
The clearer and cleaner we are within, the more connected we feel to the divine force that flows through all of life.
LIFESTYLE CHANGE
As we begin to heal and evolve spiritually with the guidance of Ayurveda, we naturally begin to make changes in our day-to-day – what we eat, what time we sleep, what we think about, and so much more. We slowly start to align ourselves with the energies of mother earth and the natural world.
Our lifestyle begins to take a healthier and holistic turn, structured more around taking care of our bodies and our mental, emotional, spiritual and physical health.
In other words, we start to become more aware of our bodies and do what is in the highest good for ourselves.
DE-STRESS – RELAX – REJUVENATION
Ayurvedic practices and therapies such as healing massages can be a fantastic and effective stress reliever. Massage helps regulate the blood in the body and gives the muscles of our body the energy movement that they need.
This helps in feeling profoundly relaxed and rejuvenated. Massages and bodywork have been known to produce deeply healing effects by moving the stagnant energy in our bodies which can cause stress and anxiety. This leaves us feeling relaxed, fresh and alive.
Other Ayurvedic therapies such as panchakarma treatment, shirodhara, basti and more ancient remedies are excellent methods for healing, relaxation and rejuvenation as well.
Many of us attend parties, dinners, holiday lunches and once January comes around our digestion is fairly compromised which can lead to further ailments in the upcoming months. In Ayurveda, we say it's what you do most of the time that counts, so if you have one holiday party a week and follow these healthy ayurvedic tips for food digestion and you will feel vital, happy and peaceful!
Eat breakfast before 7am. Preferably something cooked and warm like amaranth porridge or oatmeal.
Avoid cold/frozen smoothies, cold yogurt, fruit or vegetable juice, cereal with cold milk, raw fruit, heavy things (meat, coconut products, fried food and refined sugars) and avoid skipping breakfast and only having coffee.
For those of you who are curious about Intermittent fasting you can try an Ayurveda style of fasting which is typically the last meal of the day around 6pm and breakfast at 6:30am the following day. Skipping breakfast can increase anxiety throughout the day as well as put out Agni (digestive fire). If you don't have an appetite in the morning, check out the recipe below for my Breakfast Stew or as my friend Dayle likes to call it, “apple pie in a bowl!” This is light, warm, delicious and will stoke your digestive fire for healthy metabolism, vigor and a balanced mind for the rest of the day.
Breakfast Stew (can be made in the Vitaclay or stovetop)
Ingredients:
Instructions:
*If you have a crock pot this is a great recipe to throw in overnight and cook on low so that it’s ready when you wake up.
*If you have a VITACLAY this can be put on the timer so that it’s ready when you wake up in the am. I use the stew setting for 1 hour.
On to lunch... Skip snacking but don't skip meals and especially not lunch! Even if you don't have the best quality food around it's better to eat something between 10am-2pm than to not eat anything at all. If there is no food to digest the internal heat can spread all over the body and create inflammation, headaches, irritability, rashes and other Pitta (fire/heat) aggravated conditions. This can also be the underlying cause of high blood pressure. Some people have a higher metabolism and will need to eat twice during this time period which is fine. Make your snacking conscious: choose wisely and eat mindfully.
One of my favorite digestive aids is the ‘Ginger Pickle’!
Take it 5-30min before your meals especially before dinner when Agni (digestive fire) is a little lower (bloating, gas, lethargy, foggy mind) and it will help with digestion, assimilation and reducing ama (toxins). If you have heat symptoms such as intense hunger all day long and/or any burning sensations in the gut then avoid using Ginger Pickle and visit an Ayurvedic Practitioner for other herbs and remedies to help balance the body/mind.
Ginger Pickle Recipe
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Take this 5-30 min before each meal. If you need to be out and about during the day put them in a little container and carry with you. It doesn’t need to be refrigerated. Make fresh daily.
Turn your Beer Belly into a CCF Tea Belly...
During the Holidays we can end up eating a great deal of heavy foods, over eating, poor food combining, eating late at night and drinking a lot of alcohol which will compromise digestion causing things like gas, bloating, constipation and/or diarrhea, fatigue and foggy mind to name a few symptoms. CCF tea can be a lifesaver! Instead of other tea, drinks and even plain water you can drink this all day long.
When it comes to your digestive system, this tea is a game changer. A combination of three classic culinary spices—cumin, coriander, and fennel—this tea aids in the absorption of nutrients and stimulates the lymphatic system.
Let’s look at the ingredients to understand the power of this tea...
CCF Tea
Ingredients:
Instructions:
If you get into the habit of making this tea daily, here are two CCF pro hacks:
Scoop half a teaspoon of each seed into each compartment of a seven-day pill organizer, so your seeds are premixed for the week.
Add half a cup of cumin, half a cup of coriander, and half a cup of fennel to a glass jar and shake well to mix. Each morning, simply add 1 ½ teaspoons of the blend to the hot water.
This may seem like a no-brainer, but this tea should be consumed hot. Cold creates constriction, while heat opens up the blood vessels. The ultimate goal is to increase blood circulation in the digestive system, so that everything is working at full capacity.
Eating in peace... Over the holidays we might end up eating in some very active environments such as parties, family dinners and restaurants. It could be more excitement for your digestion than what you're used to. Eating in a peaceful environment helps us to focus our senses on our food. When we are distracted with conversations, television, loud surroundings, mental busyness, emotional turmoil, etc. our senses get taken elsewhere and digestion can be comprised. We digest everything that we hear, see, touch, smell as well as taste. A wonderful practice to try is to eat in silence (no TV, computer, cell phone or conversations). Focus on the aroma, texture and flavors of the food. Try it for one meal a day and see how you feel afterwards!
What to do after you finish eating... sit at the table for 10min before getting up or lay down or lean on your left side for 10 minutes. After breakfast and dinner you can take a gentle stroll (after your 10 minute resting period). Avoid lots of activity right after eating. Be mellow and let your digestive system do its thang!
If you've been attending many parties that involve eating all sorts of food that you're body isn't used to and your digestion becomes sluggish you can try eating more meals like this:
Eat one of each - protein, carb, fat/oil and vegetable. example: lentils, basmati rice, bok choy and ghee. And spices of course!
Also, you might like to try a vegetable broth for dinner to really let your digestive system rest.
Here are some broth recipes:
Bieler Broth
Makes 2 quarts
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Vegetables may be eaten whole with cooking water, or blended into a thick soup with a handheld blender.
Maverick physician Henry Bieler recommended this broth for energy and for overall health. He felt that this combination of veggies was ideal for restoring acid-alkaline and sodium-potassium balance to organs and glands, especially the sodium loving adrenal glands. Bieler broth is highly recommended for those under stress or suffering from stress-related conditions, such as back pain and ligament problems.
Potassium Broth by Sally Fallon, “Nourishing Traditions”
Makes 2 quarts
Ingredients:
Instructions:
This is a wonderful pick-me-up, drunk warm like tea: a great rejuvenator for those who have been sick or are recovering from childbirth.
If you don't want to end up like this sleepy Santa try not to snack in between meals. Of course if your metabolism is high you can sit down and have a mindful snack but avoid the kind of snacking that goes on all day long, while watching TV, while driving and generally not paying attention to actual hunger...Eating out of boredom or for soothing/avoiding emotions and/or a general old habit. If you're not aware of what/how/when you're eating/drinking it's a good practice to write it down for one week. Food journals give great insight and once we're aware we can begin to make better choices. Eliminate snacking and eat 3-4 nice sit down meals per day. This will reduce ama (toxins) greatly and will eliminate sleepy Santa syndrome (foggy mind, bloated belly, gas, lethargy).
This tip trumps all the rest! The number one tip for optimal digestion during the holidays and ALWAYS is to have a pleasant attitude when eating.
Sometimes we don’t get to eat the highest quality food, best food combination, perfect time of the day, etc. The most skillful action we can take is to have an attitude of gratitude. With feelings of peace and love in your heart you can digest anything with ease. And that goes for everything in life, not just food!
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Vata’s qualities are cool, light, dry, rough and changing – similar qualities to the type of weather many regions on this side of the world experience during the fall and winter.
It’s important to remember that dosha means “weakness,” so those with vata dominance or imbalances will be more likely to experience vata symptoms during this season.
One of the most common symptoms of vata imbalance is joint pain. Those with weak or inflamed joints or arthritis may often find their symptoms increase during the cooler months of the year. To bring this dosha back into balance and treat bone pain, Ayurveda recommends introducing diet and lifestyle practices that are warm, lubricating and grounding – or vata pacifying.
Abhyanga
This self oil massage is one of the most nourishing and soothing bone pain treatment practices in Ayurveda. For vata imbalances, organic sesame oil is recommended. Add about ¼-½ cup oil in a glass jar. Head some water in kettle or pot and then add to a deep bowl. Place the jar in the water for 5-10 minutes to heat the oil. Once ready to use, begin massaging the oil into your body. Start at the scalp, then move to the face, ears, neck and shoulders. Work your way down to the chest, back, and torso. Massage in a circular motion around the abdomen area. Next, move to the shoulders and work down your arms to your hands. Move in circular motions around your joints, really working the oil in. Next, massage your hips, legs and feet, once gain working in circular motions around the joints. Allow the oil to soak into for 15-20 minutes, preferably in a warm room or you can even relax in a warm bath. Finish with a shower. If you don’t have the time for the full abhyanga, you can also begin by just massaging oil into the achy joints area before a shower.
Eat a primarily vata pacifying diet
Supporting digestion is key for overall well being. Proper digestion helps to remove ama (toxins) from the body, which can lodge into weak areas and cause pain and inflammation. Ensuring proper digestion, assimilation and elimination will help to purify the body and support healthy joints. Focus on warm, cooked food that are as fresh as possible (avoid leftovers and packaged food whenever possible.) Include moderate amounts of healthy oils such as ghee, olive oil and sesame oil. Eat foods with predominantly sweet, sour and salty tastes. Root vegetables such as beets, carrots, potatoes and sweet potatoes are good, as are winter squashes. All nuts are good for vata, however, consider soaking or sprouting them prior to eating if you have sensitive digestion. Whole grains such as rice and organic wheat are recommended and warming spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, turmeric, black pepper, cardamom, cumin, mustard seeds, fenugreek and hing (asafoetida). Lastly, consume warm beverages. Sipping on hot water throughout the day is an extremely beneficial practice that supports digestion. Do your best to avoid caffeine and alcohol which can further aggravate vata.
Support Joints with Shilajit
This mineral and fulvic acid rich substance has been used for thousands of years in Ayurveda to support arthritis and other joint related diseases. A 2018 study on rats with arthritis revealed that Shilajit significantly reduced cartilage degeneration and inflammation. In fact, Shilajit supports healthy tissue regeneration and supplies essential minerals that are vital to bone and joint health. Shilajit’s detoxification properties also help to dissolve ama in the body, naturally remedying pain that can come along with joint issues.
Learn more about the benefits of our Authentic Shilajit here.
Maintain a regular routine One of the main characteristics of vata is lack of focus and the tendency to jump from one activity to another. Maintaining regular routines around eating, waking and sleeping are extremely beneficial in grounding vata, although this Ayurveda natural remedy for joint pain may feel unnatural or too constricting at first.
]]>In Ayurveda, this time of year is governed by Vata dosha. The qualities of vata dosha are light, cold, hard, dry, rough and changing. Therefore, best things we can do for our health during the cooler months are to engage in warm, nourishing practices and keep regular routines for Ayurveda flu prevention.
When we get sick, our immune system gets compromised. It’s important to remember that the digestive system is directly connected to our immune health. Therefore, supporting digestion with a vata-pacifying diet, which includes more warm, cooked foods and beverages is helpful. If digestion is impaired, nutrients can’t be properly assimilated and toxins can’t be properly eliminated. This causes ama to build up in the body which will lead to weakened immunity and make the body more susceptible to viruses.
If you feel a cold or cough coming on, there are a few Ayurvedic tips to reduce your chances of being laid up in bed for days.
1. Gargle with salt water
If you feel that itch in your throat and some congestion coming on, dissolve ½ tsp sea salt in a cup of warm water and gargle it 2-3 times a day. The salt helps to break up mucus and also remove bacteria from the throat.
2. Sip hot water
One of the simplest yet most effective Ayurvedic remedies to support digestion and dissolve ama is to sip hot water every 20 minutes until about 6pm. Supporting digestion helps to bolster the immune system get you feeling better faster.
3. Kashayam
Kashayam refers to a water decoction of a single herb or group of herbs. It is extremely popular in the Ayurvedic tradition for its benefits for colds and coughs. Here is the recipe for 1 serving. It is best to make this fresh each time, but you can make 2-3 servings if you wish as you should drink it throughout the day.
Ingredients:
• 12 oz water
• 1 tsp jaggery (optional)
• ⅛ tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• ½ tsp lime juice
• ¼ tsp Himalayan pink sea salt
• 1 tsp whole black peppercorns
• ¼ tsp cloves
• 5 whole cardamom pods
Instructions:
1. Put water in a sauce pan and bring to a slow boil.
2. Add jaggery if using and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Add turmeric and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Add ginger and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add lime juice and cook for 2 minutes.
6. Add Himalayan sea salt and cook for 2 minutes.
7. Add 1 teaspoon of peppercorns and cook for 2 minutes.
8. Add ¼ teaspoon of cloves and heat up for 2 minutes.
9. Add cardamom pods and cook for 2 minutes.
10. Stir mixture and cook for another 3 minutes. Turn off heat, strain mixture and drink hot.
4. Eat a light, nourishing diet
When the immune system is compromised, the last thing you want to do is overload it with food. It’s best to stick to a warm, light diet with mainly clear liquids and foods. Broth based soups are ideal when you’re not feeling well. Avoid processed foods, dairy, alcohol, fried food and cold foods.
5. Turmeric honey paste
Another helpful remedy when your throat is itching or sore is to make a paste from ground turmeric, ground ginger and manuka honey (raw honey is an ok substitution.) Simply add ¼ tsp each of turmeric and ginger into a small plate or bowl. Add in a spoonful of honey and mix to form a paste. Lick this mixture slowly and allow the honey to coat the throat. You can also try our turmeric tea recipe.
6. Get your Vitamin C with Chyawanprash
Of course one of the best things you can do to survive cold and flu season is to boost your immune system. Taking a teaspoon of Authentic Chyawanprash with its high Vitamin C content is an excellent way to support your health all vata season long!
7. Sleep
Getting adequate sleep is always important but even more so when you are under the weather. Make sure you are getting at least 8 hours of sleep during this time to allow your body the rest it needs to recover and rejuvenate.
8. Use a humidifier
Fall and winter are particularly dry so using a humidifier can help keep your respiratory channels clear, skin moisturized and your environment free of allergens, dust and harmful bacteria.
The weather in many places in the northern hemisphere is getting cooler, and with that the body will begin to require warmer foods to keep digestion in check and the immune system strong. This Ayurvedic Chyawanprash Pear Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe is the perfect Vata season breakfast. Feel free to substitute apples for pears if you like!
CHYAWANPRASH OATMEAL WITH SPICED PEARS
1 serving of Ayurveda oatmeal
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Sometimes you need an afternoon pick me up or a little bit before a workout. Most energy and nutrition bars on the market are full of processed ingredients and loads of sugar.
Over time, too much sugar and processed foods will interfere with digestion and cause the buildup of Ama (toxins) in the body. This will eventually deplete the body of energy (Prana) and can lead to illness.
Making healthy treats at home can be super easy and fun. Try these super satisfying and delicious cocoa powder energy balls which we’ve infused with our powerful Authentic Shilajit. This ayurvedic snack recipe is full of natural ingredients that are good for your mind and body!
COCOA SHILAJIT ENERGY BALLS
Makes 16 energy snack balls
Ingredients:
To roll:
Instructions:
They both:
While maca alone is incredibly beneficial for Ayurveda hormone balance and health, when combined with Shilajit, the results are multiplied. Shilajit has a property called Yogavahi, which means that it enhances the absorption and efficacy of any herb it is taken with.
This vegan Shilajit Maca Latte Recipe is the perfect alternative to coffee, which can actually stress the adrenals and cause further hormone imbalances. We recommend using gelatinized maca powder as it is easier to digest.
SHILAJIT MACA LATTE
1 serving
Ingredients:
Instructions:
WANT MORE RECIPES? Click the BLOG link above to explore our library of healthy herbal tonics and treats!
]]>HERBAL SHILAJIT CHOCOLATE
Recipe makes 9-10 ayurvedic chocolate discs
Ingredients:
Instructions:
During the transition period from one season to the next, the body and mind can undergo various changes depending on one’s constitution and dosha imbalances. Those with dominant vata dosha or vata imbalances will be more likely to experience vata-type symptoms as we move into the Fall and Winter months. Amongst these are digestive issues, such as gas, bloating and constipation. Digestive discomfort can be incredibly frustrating, especially when it feels like no matter what you eat (or don’t eat), the symptoms persist.
In Ayurveda, everything that happens within the body can be described in terms of the three doshas. Gas, bloating and constipation are classic symptoms of vata aggravation. Vata is made of the elements of air and space and lives in parts of the body such as the colon and bladder. When any of the doshas are aggravated by factors such as improper diet, lifestyle or environmental factors, they can move from their "seat" in the body and bring their qualities to areas where they are not meant to be. The qualities of the air and space elements are cold, dry, hard, rough, light and changing. In the case of gas and bloating, which are air-like in quality, vata moves from the colon to the small intestine and causes these uncomfortable symptoms.
In addition, over aggravation of vata in the colon will cause constipation.
Ayurvedic remedies for bloating, gas, and constipation
According to Ayurveda, like increases like. Vata diets and lifestyle habits will increase the predominance of vata-like symptoms in the body and mind, and those with vata dominance or imbalance will be more likely to experience vata symptoms as well.
Too much cold, dry, raw food is not suitable for those with vata dominance or vata imbalances. Instead, choose warm, cooked food that is easier to digest. Whole grain porridges (quinoa, oats, rice, millet) and stewed apples are a much better choice than cold smoothies for breakfast. Vegetable soups, stews, stir-fries and curries with rice are great for lunch or dinner. This is not to say you can never have smoothies or salads. Ayurveda is about balance. Add warming spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger to smoothies and avoid frozen fruit. Instead, use fresh fruit or refrigerated fruit. Make salad a side dish instead of a main dish and consider topping them with warm grains and vegetables.
In addition, don’t eat too fast or while doing other tasks when practicing Ayurveda for gas and bloating. Sit to eat in a calm, settled environment, eat slowly and thoroughly chew your food to ensure proper digestion and assimilation of your meal. Avoid drinking cold liquids with your meals and having too much liquid right before, during and right after your meals.
Sip on some CCF tea: Steep 1/2 tsp each of whole cumin seeds, whole coriander seeds and whole fennel seeds in boiling water in a 40oz thermos. Let steep for at least 15 minutes. Sip on this tea every half hour throughout the day until about 6pm.
Adding Authentic Chyawanprash™ to your daily routine is another Ayurvedic treatment for gas and a great way to promote proper digestion. This delicious multi-herbal jam helps to kindle agni (the digestive fire) and support regular elimination.
The mental/emotional side of vata
The doshas are not just about our physical bodies. Mentally, vata people have trouble focusing on one thing. They are quick to learn information, but also quick to forget it, and often jump from one thing to the next. When out of balance, vata can also cause anxiety and worry, insomnia and a general sense of not being grounded. This is why establishing a daily routine which includes regular wake, sleep and eating times is extremely supportive for vata dosha.
Regular meditation, adequate sleep, warm oil massages and gentle physical activity are also beneficial. For a delicious morning treat that supports digestion and elimination, try this Ayurveda gas relief stewed apple recipe.
AYURVEDIC STEWED APPLES
Ingredients:
• 1 apple, peeled, cored and chopped
• 3-4 whole cloves
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• ¼ cup pure, filtered water
• 1 tsp ghee (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in a small sauce pot and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes until apples are tender.
3. You may follow with a small breakfast if you are still hungry.
Most matcha lattes are sweetened with sugar. Using our Chyawanprash instead lends sweetness from raw honey and jaggery, which have numerous health benefits, along with a variety of antioxidant rich, immune boosting and digestion supporting herbs and spices.
Matcha itself is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, fiber and chlorophyll. It has a much more gentle caffeine boost than coffee. It supports metabolism and detoxification, eases the mind and relaxes the body, and promotes better mood and concentration.
MATCHA "CHY" LATTE
1 serving
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Pastry Chef and Food Photographer, Dora Cavallo (@mgracebakeshop) created this beautiful recipe and shared it with us and we are just loving it! Her chocolate coconut almond butter recipe contains a variety of healthy Ayurveda ingredients including dark cocoa, dates and our Authentic Chyawanprash. It's such a great way to upgrade a classic almond butter and we can't wait for you to try it!
CHOCOLATE COCONUT ALMOND BUTTER RECIPE
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Blend all ingredients until smooth in a blender or food processor.
PITTA BALANCING CILANTRO JUICE RECIPE
Ingredients:
Directions:
Cilantro Juice Health Benefits
Pitta imbalances manifest in many different ways throughout the body and mind Here are some of the most common ones:
MENTAL/EMOTIONAL
SKIN/HAIR/MOUTH
DIGESTION
OTHER
There are many natural ways to stay cool during pitta season. You don’t need to do everything at once. Choose a few Ayurveda tips for summer to begin with and consider what areas may make the most difference for you. For example, if you eat spicy food regularly, minimize or avoid it for a few weeks and see how you feel.
PITTA PACIFYING DIET AND LIFESTYLE GUIDELINES DIET
Favor cooling Ayurvedic foods that are bitter, sweet and astringent in taste. Bitter foods include dark leafy greens (kale, collard greens, dandelion), bitter melon, basil, aloe vera, nettle, fresh lime juice and barley. Astringent foods include pomegranate, cranberry, lentils, legumes, beans, apples, pears, parsley, dill, cilantro, rosemary and quinoa. Sweet Ayurveda foods that cool the body include sweet fruits (not sour), cashews, almonds, dates, rose, whole grains and organic dairy.
Spices that are particularly good for pitta are saffron, turmeric, fennel, fenugreek, cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg and caraway.
Rose petal jam, aloe vera juice (1/4 cup twice a day in between meals) and warm turmeric milk are fantastic foods to include into a pitta pacifying diet. Or try this delicious Pitta Balancing Cilantro Juice!
It is also important to eat at regular times throughout the day as pitta dosha can get aggravated if there is too much time in between meals, causing irritability, nausea, vomiting and acidity.
LIFESTYLE
Reduce or eliminate alcohol, nicotine (smoking) and excessive caffeine (especially coffee).
Spend time in nature as it helps to relieve stress and ground pitta’s intense energy. However, do not spend too much time in the sun.
Wear more loose fitting clothing and natural fibers such as linen.
MOVEMENT
Physical activity is important but for pitta types, it’s best to do more cooling types of exercise such as hiking/walking in the early morning or evening, yoga (not hot yoga), cycling or swimming.
Forward bend poses in yoga are cooling and are great to focus on when it’s hot outside or you are experiencing pitta imbalance. Examples of these are corpse pose (shavasana), child’s pose (balasana), supine spinal twist (supta jathara parivartanasana) and standing wide-leg forward bend (prasarita padottanasana).
MENTAL/EMOTIONAL
Begin a daily meditation practice, even if it’s just 5 minutes a day to start.
Try cooling pranayama breath such as Sheetali. To do this, sit comfortably, begin natural, slow diaphragmatc breathing. Stick your tongue out halfway and create a tight “u” shape with the tongue, almost like a straw. Slowly breathe in the air through the tongue, while expanding the rib cage. Close the mouth, and slowly exhale through the nose. Repeat this process for 2-3 minutes, then return to regular breathing for a few minutes. You can eventually increase this practice to 10 minutes.
Listen to calming music such as classical music, flute or anything low key.
In addition to making time for these natural ways to stay cool, it is also important to balance activity and rest. Overworking is all too common in this day and age and can throw the body and mind out of balance.
AROMATHERAPY
Fill your home with the scent of cooling flowers such as rose, jasmine and geranium. Or use a diffuser for essential oils of these scents.
Want more daily inspiration like these Ayurveda tips for how to keep your body cool in the summer naturally? Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter filled with articles, recipes, discounts, special events and more!
]]>There are many benefits to beet powder (in addition to regular beets):
We combined vibrant beet powder with our Authentic Shilajit in this delicious Shilajit Beet Powder Latte recipe. The Shilajit in this drink provides essential trace minerals and enhances the absorption of the minerals and other nutrients. The benefits of both of these superfoods creates a powerful energy boosting Ayurvedic tonic that just may replace your morning coffee.
SHILAJIT BEET LATTE RECIPE
Ingredients:
Instructions:
In this delicious herbal hot cacao contributed by Wellness Consultant, Jaime Lynn Ruiz, Shilajit is combined with Ashwaghanda and Rhodiola, two herbs known for their ability to support energy, hormones and stress reduction.
Learn how to make this cacao drink below! The cacao powder (not to be confused with processed cocoa powder) along with honey and coconut butter make this a delicious creamy treat that will soothe you from the inside out. If you are pure vegan, you can substitute the honey in this cacao drink recipe for maple syrup, agave or monk fruit sweetener.
Shilajit Cacao Latte Recipe
By Jaime Lynn Ruiz
Ingredients:
Instructions:
This past year has been an incredible evolution in my practice as an Ayurvedic Clinician. More and more women are stepping forward and asking for help – from a place of strength and inner knowing that has been a long time coming and a long time ignored. They no longer want to “just keep moving,” “have it all” or “stick it out for the betterment of _________ (fill in the blank).”
They have nothing to prove and quite frankly they don’t care - they’re done with that paradigm. These women, of all ages and backgrounds, want their health back, their minds back and their souls to lead the way. They have concluded that all the information they have been fed about what it means to be a woman through social media, magazines and YouTube videos is a material world illusion and the result of marketing that does nothing but hold them back because when a woman roars it is loud, deep and profound.
Ayurveda and its core principles are helping women tackle the physical, mental-emotional and spiritual layers that have been covered with debris for most of their adult lives. As the sacred Vedic text the Charaka Samhita says (Sutrasthana Chapter 1, Sloka 43):
“As it is beneficial to mankind in respect of both the worlds (i.e. this life and the life beyond), Ayurveda, the most sacred and honoured by those proficient in the Vedas will now be expounded.”
This quote alone provides the understanding that Ayurveda is not just a healing modality while we dwell in this body, in this lifetime, but as the most sacred of the traditional Vedas because it does good, creates balance, for all personkind in respect to their present life as well as the life beyond. This is precisely what women are craving – balance in this life and in the life beyond.
“All we are doing is drinking tea and eating berries,” I tell my current group of ladies that are part of my yearlong sangha program called The Ayurvedic Woman. They chuckle and with wide eyes are still amazed at how simple and easy it can be. It’s a joke amongst us but seriously, not a joke at all – it CAN be simple.
Many women I see in my practice weekly are dealing with digestive issues, brain fog, anxiety, depression and overall lack of energy. They feel drained, disempowered and have had physical and emotional pain that they have come to accept as part of everyday life- just plain normal.
Ayurveda creates a “new normal,” I share with them, and this is how….
There are daily Ayurveda practices for women's health, known as the Dinacharya, that are simple to implore that help with resetting the body, a variety of herbal regimens that support a positive gut-brain connection and lifestyle routines such as yoga, meditation, pranayama and Ayurveda female health diet that create a deep connection between a balanced constitution and the burgeoning empowered woman that is ready to live her Dharma. Until we get the physical body on the right path we cannot connect to our spiritual calling and practice. It is just plain logic.
Cleaning out our nasal passages, oil pulling and scraping the tongue may seem like a simple yet oddly different way of starting your morning bathroom routine but, guess what? This Ayurveda health care tip works. Drinking tea made up of cumin, coriander and fennel seeds may not be the popular item on the menu at the local coffee shop but, guess what? It works. Eating berries – Haritaki, Bibhitaki, and the Amla berry - may be a total and complete foreign language but, guess what? That Ayurveda health care tip works too.
Whenever I do a consultation for a woman and provide Ayurveda recommendations for women's health, I try to keep it simple and say: “just focus on one thing.” Why one thing? Because we want to make the one thing a habit and then when it is we do another ONE thing and so on. Soon, those “one things” add up to many things and before we know it there is a new routine in place and a shift in lifestyle. Just from doing one thing.
So what can that ONE thing be? Here are a few Ayurveda practices for women's health to get you started:
This list of Ayurveda health care tips is hardly extensive but it is a great place to start. The women I work with have done some, if not all, of these Ayurvedic tips for women's health and have slowly seen the veil of illusion lifted. They are feeling better and as a result are rising up to their calling, speaking their truth and breaking down doors they thought were permanently shut. The wisdom of Ayurveda for women's health gave them a new way of being in the world – one that comes from an inner knowing – the one that the Universe intended for them to hear since the day they were born. It is a process – always a marathon and never a sprint – but one that has transformed lives, “one thing” at a time.
Summer or Winter, we all have our very own time zones and this calls for a versatile recipe; a recipe that soothes the craving of the taste buds while nourishing the body at the same time. That is where my recipe for Fig-Date Ayurveda Milk with Cardamom and Pistachios comes in - flavorful by the sip, delightful by the aromas and comforting by either a fireplace or a cool evening rooftop summer party! So, what’s the wait then? Let’s get started on how to make cardamom milk with figs and dates!
Fig-Date Milk with Cardamom and Pistachios
1 serving
Ingredients:
Instructions:
*You can also use unsweetened dairy-free milk and add 1/4 tsp of vanilla extract
**If you don't have salted pistachios simply add a pinch of sea salt along with unsalted pistachios.
This fig and date cardamom milk recipe can be enjoyed warm or cold. No sugar is needed here as the sweetened milk, dates and figs give it enough sweetness. The salted pistachios take it to another dimension and also add wonderful aroma. Cardamom adds in more aroma and aids in digestion.
This fig and date cardamom milk recipe is great for all – kids, adults, and seniors.
Figs and dates are revered in all cultures for their amazing nutrient profile and energy giving properties. Ayurveda considers figs as tridoshic – meaning they help all the doshas, hence an Ayurvedic spiced milk recipe like this can be of great benefit to everyone.
Both figs and dates with milk are considered as ‘cooling’ foods by Ayurveda whereas cardamom and pistachios are considered as ‘warming’ foods. This fig and date cardamom milk recipe brings perfect balance to satisfy the body’s needs whether one lives in cold or hot weather.
Spring is a time of renewal! Nature, with her generous abundance, is inviting us to simply start anew. Many of us feel this spirit of rebirth.
Look around. What do you see?
Here in Southern California, after much needed rain, everything is in bloom. Explosions of colors, sweet aromas and birdsongs fill the air, deeply nourishing all our senses and our Soul. Signs of new life are everywhere. Driving on our busy freeways, we are greeted by luminous patches of blossoming petals that make this springtime scenery look like an Impressionists’ painting.
Let’s heed the calling and support our body/mind/spirit through this process of renewal. This process is timed and orchestrated to perfection at this time of the year.
How can we do this?
It is easier than you might think. In fact, with Her universal and unifying intelligence, Nature provides a clear blueprint for all of us to follow in order to find harmony, health, happiness through ALL the seasons. Through primordial engineering, Nature provides exactly what we need at the perfect time.
If you think that bitter bright green Dandelions, orange lymph-loving Calendulas, dark red liver friendly beets and purple astringent Berries pop up at our Farmers’ Markets in Springtime just by chance, think again! We are witnessing displays of powerful medicine lovingly offered by Mother Nature for us to restore balance. All we have to do is align ourselves with this wisdom by following these ayurvedic beauty tips for glowing skin.
What’s happening as Winter turns into Spring?
In Springtime our body/mind/spirit are primed to detoxify all that has been accumulated during Winter. In Nature, snow is melting, rivers are flowing after much stagnation and new life is popping up everywhere. This process of letting go and renewal is mirrored within our bodies at this time of the year!
In Ayurveda, the science of renewal and rejuvenation is called Rasayana. Rasa means life giving lymph. Rasa is also the tissue layer that nourishes every single tissue in the body. Ayurvedic medicine counts 7 tissue layers making up our physical body. Lymph carries out the dual function of both nourishing every single cell and detoxifying the body. Therefore, when Rasa is healthy, our bodies are more likely to be functioning optimally.
What happens when lymph gets congested?
The lymphatic system is an exquisitely complex network of vessels that transport lymph, a fluid that contains crucial infection-fighting white blood cells, throughout the body supporting the health of our immune system. These tiny vessels are connected to lymph nodes, where the lymph is filtered. Important glands such as our tonsils, adenoids, spleen and thymus are also part of the lymphatic system.
Just like a river whose waters aren’t flowing freely, when lymph becomes congested, we might feel tired, with aches and pains that move around while lacking a zest for life. We might also notice that we are more prone to catching colds. Also, symptoms of allergies might appear as toxins accumulate.
The ancient alchemical traditions teach that “as above, so below and as within so without.” This is a time to take a deeper look at our skin and do a little checking in.
Go ahead. Take a look at yourself in the mirror.
At the beginning of Spring, signs of stagnation might appear as lackluster complexion, impurities and general dullness. This potential accumulation of Kapha, the Earth and Water element, can set the stage for deeper imbalances if not dealt properly.
We have heard this before. Our skin is our largest organ. It literally holds us together with love while helping us digest our life as impressions coming from both our inner and outer world. Many of us might now also be familiar with the term “microbiome” thanks to the widely available information about gut health and its connection to emotional and mental health. Did you know that your skin has its own unique and distinctive microbiome that greatly contributes to your overall health? Our skin mirrors our internal environment and shows us where attention might be needed on the inside. Everything we apply on the skin goes quickly into our circulatory system.
Many species in the animal kingdom literally shed their skin in Springtime. Through a proper Ayurvedic skincare routine, we can also renew our largest organ and allow our natural Beauty to be expressed outwardly more authentically. Yes, we are designed to bloom and blossom just like flowers!
Would you like to know HOW?
Remember that Ayurveda face care is a system of “opposites”. Where there is heaviness, we offer lightness, where there is oiliness, we invite a little dryness, and where there is congestion, we stimulate flow.
Thinking of the image of the flowing river and the melting snow in Springtime as the owner and Ayurveda skin care formulator at Aromavedic Healing with Nature, I will select herbs that gently warm, decongest and detoxify, nourish and support lymph flow while tonifying tissues.
Wait a second, are we going to apply herbs on the skin or ingest them? BOTH!
Our lovely skin breathes and eats, so, let’s feed it properly while we also sip a lovely lymph moving tea!
As Ayurveda teaches, transdermal delivery is a great opportunity to take “medicine” into the body via the skin without overburdening the digestive system. I only have one very simple rule for you. On your skin, use only what you would ingest.
It is my pleasure to share with all of you an Ayurvedic face mask and cleanser recipe for glowing skin that includes ingredients from your kitchen cupboard, plus a few Ayurvedic herbs and spices.
This combination of powdered herbs features “Shilajit Tea” as the wet medium adding and extra antioxidant boost to the formula. Shilajit has many benefits for the skin as it contains minerals and trace elements that the human body needs to function optimally as well as fulvic acid to help the body absorb these minerals at a cellular level.
You can even sip Shilajit as tea while you sit back and enjoy a moment of relaxation in your own home spa.
3 IN 1 AYURVEDIC FACE MASK, CLEANSER, AND SPOT TREATMENT RECIPE FOR GLOWING SKIN
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Add enough Shilajit Tea to make a paste.
Use this paste in 3 convenient ways: As a quick cleanser, a mask (5-7 minutes) or a spot treatment if there are small areas (did I say pimples?) that need more attention.
NOTE: For Vata skin, add warm cream or full fat milk because it is much easier to get than GF Oat flour. For Kapha skin type add a little honey. For Vata skin type, add warm cream or full fat milk. For Pitta skin type, add Aloe Juice.
Ayurveda doesn't consider foods inherently "good" or "bad." Rather, it's about what is good for the individual based on their health, age, etc.
Coffee is a stimulant and is very heating. Therefore it is Pitta in nature. For people that tend to be anxious, angry, impatient, or suffer from chronic inflammation, rashes, indigestion, heartburn and skin rashes – which are all signs of pitta imbalance – coffee will most likely aggravate those symptoms, especially when consumed on an empty stomach.
Weaning off of coffee is recommended more than quitting abruptly as the body may have certain "detox" symptoms such as headaches and even pain. If you like a little caffeine in the morning, you can try switching to black or green tea which are less heating and acidic.
For a delicious, coffee alternative that tastes almost exactly like it, try this creamy Shilajit latte recipe! This Ayurvedic energy drink is caffeine free, yet provides a stable, balanced energy boost from the Shilajit.
DANDY SHILAJIT LATTE RECIPE
Makes 1 dandy blend latte recipe serving.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Winter is associated with vata and the elements of air and space. These cool, dry qualities make us want to eat more heavy, warm and rich foods to offset vata.
Spring is associated with kapha and the elements of water and earth, which are heavy, moist and cool. This is why we naturally begin to crave lighter and more cleansing foods that offset these kapha qualities, and why improper diet and lifestyle habits during this time can leave you feeling weighed down and congested.
Common signs of kapha imbalance include:
To support the body in gently cleansing without resorting to expensive juice cleanses or our Ayurvedic juice cleanse recipes, follow the guidelines below:
KAPHA SPRING DIET
LIFESTYLE
There are various supportive herbs one can use during an Ayurvedic spring cleanse as well, but these are typically recommended on an individual basis by an Ayurvedic practitioner. In the meantime, these diet and lifestyle guidelines will help support the body during its natural detoxifying process. As the cool winter months leave us and make way for spring, incorporating simple diet and lifestyle changes can positively impact your health for the short term and long term.
]]>Falafel made with Ayurveda’s favorite bean – mung beans – are a wonderful alternative to traditional chickpea versions. These little emerald balls are baked instead of fried, making them a better choice for springtime, when lighter foods are prescribed to counterbalance the predominant seasonal energy of kapha dosha (earth + water elements).
This Ayurvedic kapha food is also a wonderful way to utilize the abundance of fresh herbs that are popping up this time of year. You can customize this baked vegan mung bean falafel with tahini sauce recipe in innumerable ways so feel free to add in different herbs, powdered spices or other add-ins (seeds, chopped nuts, etc.)
Baked Vegan Mung Bean Falafel with Tahini Sauce Recipe
Makes about 2 dozen pieces
Soaking time: Overnight
Prep time: 20 minutes
Resting time: 20–30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
Falafel:
Sauce:
* Feel free to substitute chopped baby spinach or kale (or additional parsley) in place of the cilantro in this ayurvedic mung bean recipe if you have an aversion to it.
Instructions: