Shirodhara – Healthy Ayurveda

The Social Media Detox - Yoga & Ayurveda Principles

The Social Media Detox
By now, we are all aware that social media has a tremendous impact on our culture and the world-at-large. Social media has offered the wonderful opportunity for people to re-connect with their old friends and acquaintances. However, at the same time, has social media given us a false sense of connection? According to Cornell University professor, Steven Strogatz, social media sites can make it more difficult for us to distinguish between meaningful relationships we foster in the real world, and the numerous casual relationships formed through social media. By focusing so much of our time and energy on these somewhat less meaningful relationships, our most important connection, he fears, will weaken.

“What’s on your mind?”, asks FB.

We live in a world overrun by stress and anxiety. Although one could argue that feeling overstimulated is a result of anxiety, it also could be that the overstimulation is actually causing our anxiety. Overstimulation is defined as a state of over-arousal or being stimulated to an excessive degree which can actually damage the brain. Yep. This is serious. Therefore, the next time Facebook asks, “what’s on your mind?” - the answer should be ... “nothing”.

"What The Internet Is Doing To Our Brains." - Author Nicholas Carr

"Most of us are on the Internet on a daily basis and whether we like it or not, the Internet is affecting us. It changes how we think, how we work, and it even changes our brains. We interviewed Nicholas Carr, the author of, "The Shallows: What the Internet is Doing to Our Brains," about how the Internet is influencing us, our creativity, our thought processes, our ideas, and how we think." - Epipheo

The Social Media Detox:
1. Unplug - Pratyahara
2. Breathe - Pranayama
3. Nourish The Body
4. Protect The Brain
5. Enhance The Mind

For real rejuvenation to be possible, one should generally reduce all physical activity and exercise for at least a few days. Likewise, one should start with spending more time in nature or consider a retreat in nature or simply visiting an ashram.

1. Unplug
Rejuvenation of the mind rests firmly upon stillness. Interestingly, each one of us inherently possess the capacity to access and harness higher forms of energy within which is more than what we would normally access from the outer world. For example, pratyahara, which literally means “withdrawal” is a yogic practice which helps to provide a state of deep relaxation in which the nervous system can be rejuvenated. After all, silence, rest, solitude, or simply just unplugging and letting go - are all the foundation for deep relaxation and rejuvenation.

Eight Limbs of Yoga:

Yama : Universal morality
Niyama : Personal observance
Asanas : Body postures
Pranayama : Breathing exercises, and control of prana
Pratyahara : Control of the senses
Dharana : Concentration and cultivating inner perceptual awareness
Dhyana : Devotion, Meditation on the Divine
Samadhi : Union with the Divine

Unplugging.
Pratyahara is often compared to a turtle withdrawing its limbs into its shell– the turtle’s shell is the mind and the senses are the limbs. Therefore, simply close your eyes, relax your jaw, and bring your focus and attention inwardly. As you will soon come to realize, the breath and the mind are interrelated and by becoming more increasingly aware of the breath, the senses of the outer world soon begins to diminish.

"Just as a tortoise withdraws its limbs, so when a man withdraws his senses
from the sense objects, his wisdom becomes steady."
-Bhagavad Gita

Note:
Sense withdrawal means that the senses cease to be engaged or connected to the objects traveling in the train of the mind. It does not mean the suppression, repression, or stopping of those thoughts. They may naturally slow down or decrease to some degree, but the method itself is to break the contact, to cease connecting with the thought patterns. This means allowing thoughts to flow without interruption, while the senses are simply not diverted into those thoughts.

You will notice that as the senses withdraw, the mind awakens and becomes far more sensitive and intuitive. This newly awakened mind with greater sensitivity will now intuitively want to avoid overstimulation of the senses and will naturally just want to “be” - and what is a more natural state of being than breathing?

2. Honor Your Breath
According to Vedic text, we are given at birth a certain number of breaths as part of our human endeavor and the basis for living longer is - breathing slower. The fundamental aspect of life is the act of breathing and in Ayurvedic & Yogic thought, the breath is not just the air and the action of the lungs. Instead, the breath provides the life-force [“prana”] which is the subtle energy that vitalizes and rejuvenates us every moment of the day. That said, pranayama or yogic breathing is probably the most important rejuvenating practice that we can do on a daily basis. Therefore, after unplugging from the world of overstimulation it is now time to learn how to breathe in life-giving prana.

Take Notice Of Your Breath:

sit comfortably on a chair with your feet slightly apart
place your palms on the abdomen
feel how your abdomen expands as you inhale
feel how your abdomen contracts as you exhale
slowly breathe in deeper; slowly breathe out completely
bring your attention to this rhythm of life

Congratulations.
You are now becoming more aware.

3. Nourish The Body
Now that you are becoming more aware, let us now nourish the body and mind. According to Ayurveda, longevity and wellbeing depends largely upon not being weighed down but instead allowing the spirit to move freely within us. This requires a nourishing diet. Generally, a nourishing diet from an Ayurvedic perspective is considered a “sattvic diet” and includes good quality vegetarian food, including dairy products, whole grains, beans, vegetables, fruits and nuts. This sattvic diet helps to increase purity and clarity to the mind.

Organic Churnas
Ready-to-use spice mixtures satisfy the six ayurvedic tastes considered essential for balance and good digestion.

Practical Tips For Healthy Digestion
Although simple, these principles if followed routinely, are often enough to help improve your digestion and overall health. Often it’s the simple things that are most effective and oddly enough – most overlooked. That said, let’s quickly take a look at the basics.

All food should be freshly prepared, nutritious, and appetizing
Food should generally contain all 6 tastes balanced to one’s needs
We should leave 4-6 hours between meals with no snacking in between
Eat your largest meal during the day when the sun is at its peak
Relax and enjoy your meals in a calm soothing environment

4. Protect The Brain
The human brain contains about 100 billion cells which continuously require oxygen. Because of this oxygen demand, the brain is particularly susceptible to oxidative damage; i.e. free radicals. Antioxidants are therefore crucial for longevity and continued effective functioning of the brain.

Amrit Kalash
Amrit Kalash is a powerful broad-spectrum antioxidant and contains Amalaki which is considered the richest natural source of vitamin C, along with a rich balance of other herbs. Amrit Kalash has been shown to be 1,000 times more potent as a free radical scavenger than vitamin C or E.

5. Enhance The Mind
Shirodhara is undoubtedly one of the most popular Ayurvedic treatments in the west. The word ‘shiro’ means head and ‘dhara’ means steady flow. Therefore, shirodhara involves pouring a steady stream of soothing oil over the forehead and acts as a method of relieving stress to the restless mind.

The Moving Mind
The science of Ayurveda speaks of vata as being the basis of all movement of the body and mind. When vata is in excess [within the mind] it can result in anxiety, nervousness, depression, insomnia and many other forms of difficulty handling stress. With nearly eighty percent of all diseases in the west being attributed to stress, it is no wonder why Shirodhara has been considered one of the most popular Ayurvedic treatments of modern day.

Organic Vata Calming Tea
Sweet, soothing choice to help restore balance quickly whenever life gets too hectic.

Creating Stillness
Shirodhara is a classical and a well-established ayurvedic procedure of slowly and steadily streaming medicated oil on the center of the forehead while resting quietly on a comfortable bed. Other liquids like coconut water, buttermilk, milk, etc. are also used depending on the individual need of the patient. Ultimately, this procedure helps to induce a relaxed state of awareness, mental clarity, and even thought to help produce improved “psychoneuroimmunology”; the ability to handle stress.

Stress Free Mind
Supports natural resistance to daily mental stress and fatigue; promotes peace, stability, and calmness under pressure.

Herbs – Enhancing The Mind
Ayurveda talks highly about a special class of herbs called “Medhya” herbs. Ultimately, by providing nourishment to the brain, these herbs are especially useful for the mind and helps to enhance learning while improving both the retention and recall of knowledge.

Intelligence Plus
Promotes natural intelligence; rejuvenates mental processes; supports attention span and concentration; promotes positive emotions and self-confidence.

Mind Plus
Stress and fatigue can diminish mental strength and clarity. Support mental functioning under stress and revitalize the mind with Mind Plus.

Organic Youthful Mind
Supports mental functioning as one ages; removes toxins that impede learning, memory, and recall; promotes the development of consciousness.

Benefits Of Meditation
It seems that research centered around the benefits of meditation have now been rolling in steadily validating the ancient wisdom common to both Ayurveda and Yoga. Ayurveda is an ancient science which literally means ‘the science of life’. A basic fundamental premise to both Ayurveda and Yoga is that – both a sound mind and sound body are integral to one’s overall health and well-being.

Just Some Of The Potential Benefits Of Meditation:
– greater clarity and inner calmness
– increased creativity and happiness
– improved sense of emotional stability
– reduced level of anxiety and depression
– improved brain function and memory
– reduced level of stress
… the list can go on and on …

Want More?

Oil Massage
Massage yourself with warm organic sesame oil. Sesame is warming and is generally considered beneficial to every body type for this time of year. Massaging oil on the body is a great way to keep the skin soft, supple and wrinkle free. It is a rejuvenating technique that improves circulation and, when done at night, induces sleep.

Organic Sesame Oil
Enhance immunity and experience a sense of well-being. Our pure golden Sesame Oil is organic, extra-light, chemical-free and cold-pressed, allowing its chemical composition to penetrate the deeper layers of the skin.

“Give yourself a full-body oil massage on a daily basis. It is nourishing; pacifies the doshas; relieves fatigue; provides stamina, pleasure and perfect sleep; enhances the complexion and the luster of skin; promotes longevity; and nourishes all parts of the body.” – Ancient Wisdom Of Ayurveda

Disclaimer
The sole purpose of these articles is to provide information about the tradition of ayurveda. This information is not intended for use in the diagnosis, treatment, cure or prevention of any disease. If you have any serious acute or chronic health concern, please consult a trained health professional who can fully assess your needs and address them effectively. If you are seeking the medical advice of a trained ayurvedic expert, call or e-mail us for the number of a physician in your area. Check with your doctor before taking herbs or using essential oils when pregnant or nursing.

by Mike Dhaliwal

“Prajnaparadha” - Is Ignorance The Root Cause Of All Disease?

Is Ignorance The Root Cause Of All Disease?
Man is a trinity of body, mind, and Soul and life as a whole is designed to promote human happiness, health, and growth. That said, the question naturally arises - what is the root cause of disease? According to Ayurveda, disease is often the end result of a long process and can actually be detected and addressed at the early stage of development; hence prevention being better than a cure. More simply, disease is an imbalance. Ayurveda explains that the disease process begins with disturbances in the balance of the doshas; i.e. bodily humors.

“Health results from the natural, balanced state of the doshas.
Therefore, the wise try to keep them in their balanced state.” – Charak Samhita

“Ignorance Is Not Bliss.”
We email. We google. We tweet. And of course, we facebook. In this incredible age of technology, our senses have been taken over by constant sensory stimulation. According to Ayurveda, excessive indulgence in any physical or mental activity results in excess vata which may then ] create an imbalance in the release of neurotransmitters thereby overtaxing both the central nervous and endocrine systems. As a result, this can be considered the underlying cause of certain vata imbalances such as insomnia, anxiety, irregular digestion, constipation, etc.

Lifestyle Medicine: Treating The Causes Of Disease

Three Major Causes Of Disease

wrong use of the senses
mistake of the intellect
environmental, climate & age

1. Wrong Use Of The Senses
Thousands of years ago, the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda has explained the Sanskrit term “asatmyendriyartha samyoga” which simply implies the wrong use or misuse of the senses. For example, excessive indulgence (ati yoga), misuse (hina yoga), and perverse use (mithya yoga) of the senses are considered the major causes of disease.

The Moving Mind
The concept of vata originates from the Sanskrit word “vyv” [vaya] which implies ‘that which moves things’ The science of Ayurveda speaks of vata as being the basis of all movement of the body and mind. When vata is in excess [within the mind] it can result in anxiety, nervousness, depression, insomnia and many other forms of difficulty handling stress. With nearly eighty percent of all diseases in the west being attributed to stress, it is no wonder why Shirodhara has been considered one of the most popular Ayurvedic treatments of modern day.

Stress Free Emotions
Stress Free Emotions supports natural resistance to emotional stress and fatigue. Diet, daily habits and ongoing stress are key factors that can contribute to imbalances in mind and body, leading to feelings of sadness and physical fatigue.

Worry Free
Calms the mind and emotions; supports clarity of mind and deeper sleep; natural support for everyday stress and tension.

Creating Stillness
Ayurveda describes in great detail the benefits of daily oil massage. Not only is massage comforting to the body but essential for overall health and well-being. A dry stick easily breaks but if you soak the same stick in oil it soon becomes flexible. The same happens to the human body. The influence of vata makes the body dry, brittle, and achy via the aging process. Therefore, daily oil massage helps maintain proper functions of the body and ultimately helps to reduce the effects of aging. Shirodhara is a classical and a well-established ayurvedic procedure of slowly and steadily streaming medicated oil on the center of the forehead while resting quietly on a comfortable bed. Other liquids like coconut water, buttermilk, milk, etc. are also used depending on the individual need of the patient. Ultimately, this procedure helps to induce a relaxed state of awareness, mental clarity, and even thought to help produce improved “psychoneuroimmunology”; the ability to handle stress.

Blissful Joy
Your mind and body already know how to create inner happiness — they just need a little support. You can rejuvenate your emotions with Blissful Joy herbal supplement.

The Benefits Of Meditation
It seems that research centered around the benefits of meditation have now been rolling in steadily validating the ancient wisdom common to both Ayurveda and Yoga. Ayurveda is an ancient science which literally means ‘the science of life’. A basic fundamental premise to both Ayurveda and Yoga is that – both a sound mind and sound body are integral to one’s overall health and well-being.

2. Mistake Of The Intellect
Ayurveda explains “prajnaparadha” as being a mistake of the intellect and is considered the root cause of all diseases. For example, one may choose to indulge in behaviors such as eating too much, consuming unhealthy food, and working too much which will naturally contribute to the root cause of disease. In essence, the root cause of disease originates by making one’s lifestyle choices only in terms of the five senses, rather than considering life as a whole - considering the body, mind, and Soul. The ancient wisdom of Ayurveda helps to reveal natural principles in order to help determine lifestyle choices that influence health and wellbeing. In other words, helping to live according to natural principles which support the innate intelligence of the body.

Intelligence Plus
Promotes natural intelligence; rejuvenates mental processes; supports attention span and concentration; promotes positive emotions and self-confidence.

3. Environmental, Climate & Age
Once again, according to the science of Ayurveda, disease is considered to be an imbalanced state of the doshas and changes in the environment, climate, and age can all affect the doshas. For example, Ayurveda nicely describes the three phases of life — as being kapha, pitta, the vata stages of life.

Kapha
The first phase begins with Kapha, the “Spring Type.” We all begin in the womb, a womb of sorts, and this environment is very watery. We establish the solidity of earth known as immunity. This happens from in utero and until the onset of puberty — traditionally from birth and until 15. The word “kapha” means to grow, to create form. It is anabolic. “Mother’s milk” is the primary substance that nurtures the body and mind, establishing immunity. Kapha governs immunity.

Pitta
The next phase is Pitta, the “Summer Type.” Pitta begins with puberty, where testosterone and estrogen further transform the body and mind. Pitta means “that which transforms and digests.” The average age used to be 15, but now is much earlier and lasts until between 45-50. Testosterone is high in men and estrogen is prominent in women, and appetites and metabolism increase. Pitta is about metabolism and governs the endocrine system and digestive system. Sex drive increases. Pitta phase is about establishing and exerting oneself in the world through identity, like the sun wanting to be seen more.

Vata
The last stage is Vata, the “Fall Type.” Vata begins when the processes andropause and menopause initiate. Andropause is the decline of testosterone in men, with an increase in estrogen, and menopause is the decrease of estrogen and an increase in testosterone in women. The poles reverse here. Sex drive slows down. Appetite diminishes. Vata governs the nervous system and sleep quantity and quality changes. This is a more delicate and sensitive time. This time ends when the last breath is taken.

Environmental - ex. GMOs
More and more studies reveal more evidence that GMOs should have been banned before they were even allowed on the market.

“. . . glyphosate disrupts the ability of animals, including humans, to detoxify xenobiotics. This means that exposures to the numerous chemicals in food and the environment, such as endocrine disrupting chemicals and carcinogens, could be causing levels of damage that would not occur if the body were able to detoxify them.”

Amrit Kalash
Traditional ayurvedic formula of 13 herbs that supports the health of mind, brain, and nerves; increases vitality and inner strength; powerful antioxidant — research shows it to be up to 1,000 times more effective than vitamins C and E.

Last Point!
Finally, one of the most common cause of disease according to Ayurveda is due to “vegavarodh” which is the suppression of ‘natural urges’ such as micturition, defecation, hunger, and sleep, etc. Interestingly, both the wrong use of the senses [“asatmyendriyartha samyoga”] and the mistake of the intellect [“prajnaparadha”] creates “vegavarodh” - being the suppression of natural urges and creating obstructions to proper flow of the body.

“Life is a series of natural and spontaenous changes. Don’t resist them - that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.”

- Lao Tzu

by Mike Dhaliwal

How To Reduce Stress & Improve The Sense Of Wellbeing

How To Reduce Stress
There is no event in life which is intrinsically stressful. However, stress by which we mean psychological stress may not be any more “real” than any other thought within the mind. Likewise, not all stress is considered equal and not all stress need be harmful. For example, it’s only natural to feel the excitement about an upcoming event [i.e. your wedding] while at the same time feel nervous. Interestingly, this motivated yet stressful state of the mind is sometimes referred to as eustress, or “good stress” which may be beneficial for meaningful and purposeful action. However, if this state of stress or heightened state of arousal goes unchecked - we often can feel stressed out!

“Wherever a thought goes, a chemical goes with it.”
- Deepak Chopra

Tulsi - The #1 Ayurvedic Herb For Stress By David Wolfe

Tulsi
Tulsi, also known as "Holy Basil," has been used by many cultures around the world for thousands of years. Described in the Vedas as the most sacred holy plant of India, it was traditionally used in religious ceremonies, ayurvedic formulas, and called "the wonder herb".

Ojas - The Chemical Of Bliss
According to Ayurveda, ojas is referred to as the source of vitality, immunity and provides the sense of well-being. Having strong ojas helps maintain optimum health and many diet and lifestyle factors can contribute to either depleting or nourishing one’s ojas. Low ojas and low immunity result from the same cause; excess physical and psychological stress. It is well established that the brain is the center for interpreting and integrating perception and that the autonomic nervous system modulates the stress response. Modern science also recognizes that chronic stress can cause cumulative effects of neural, endocrine, and immune stress mediators which may have adverse effects on various organ systems resulting in adverse health consequences.

Blissful Joy
Blissful Joy nourishes the mind-body connection by helping to remove toxins that make you feel dull or sad, by supporting the memory of bliss in your cells, and by helping to balance hormones that govern emotions. The result is a renewed feeling of energy and happiness — and an overall sense of well-being. Situations that used to cause stress will be easier to handle. You’ll find yourself responding to life’s challenges — big and small — with a new outlook.

"Too Blessed To Be Stressed" - Bliss

Calming The Restless Mind
Research strongly suggests that people who suffer from “hurry-sickness” which is the anxious feeling of always rushing as if there’s never enough time may be more likely to develop health related problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease. According to Ayurveda, this sense of worry and stress arises because we lose connection with our true nature and innermost needs. The wisdom of Ayurveda states that once your body, mind, and heart all want the same things, a natural state of bliss and sense of wellbeing occurs spontaneously.

The Body
On the physical level, stress can generate free radicals. Free radicals are reactive, unstable, and damaging which can disrupt normal cellular activity. For example, free radicals can wreak havoc on the brain, nervous system, heart, and overall immunity. This stresses the importance and benefit of antioxidants!!

Premium Amla Berry
Works as a powerful antioxidant for people of all ages which supports the mind, eyes, heart, skin, and digestion; helps growth of muscle tissue by promoting nitrogen balance; promotes cellular generation; supports lungs and natural immunity.

Amrit Kalash Ambrosia
Traditional ayurvedic formula of 13 herbs that supports the health of mind, brain, and nerves; increases vitality and inner strength; powerful antioxidant — research shows it to be up to 1,000 times more effective than vitamins C and E.

The Mind
The science of Ayurveda speaks of vata as being the basis of all movement of the body and mind. When vata is in excess [within the mind] it can result in anxiety, nervousness, depression, insomnia and many other forms of difficulty handling stress. With nearly eighty percent of all diseases in the west being attributed to stress, it is no wonder why Shirodhara has been considered one of the most popular Ayurvedic treatments of modern day.

Organic Vata Calming Tea
Sweet, soothing choice to help restore balance quickly whenever life gets too hectic.

Stress Free Mind
Supports natural resistance to daily mental stress and fatigue; promotes peace, stability, and calmness under pressure.

Nourishing The Brain
The human brain contains about 100 billion cells which continuously require oxygen. Because of this oxygen demand, the brain is particularly susceptible to oxidative damage; i.e. free radicals. Antioxidants are therefore crucial for longevity and continued effective functioning of the brain.

Herbs – Enhancing The Mind
Ayurveda talks highly about a special class of herbs called “Medhya” herbs. Ultimately, by providing nourishment to the brain, these herbs are especially useful for balancing the mind, reducing stress, and helps to enhance learning.

Intelligence Plus
Promotes natural intelligence; rejuvenates mental processes; supports attention span and concentration; promotes positive emotions and self-confidence.

Mind Plus
Stress and fatigue can diminish mental strength and clarity. Support mental functioning under stress and revitalize the mind with Mind Plus.

Organic Youthful Mind
Supports mental functioning as one ages; removes toxins that impede learning, memory, and recall; promotes the development of consciousness.

Benefits Of Meditation
It seems that research centered around the benefits of meditation have now been rolling in steadily validating the ancient wisdom common to both Ayurveda and Yoga. Ayurveda is an ancient science which literally means ‘the science of life’. A basic fundamental premise to both Ayurveda and Yoga is that – both a sound mind and sound body are integral to one’s overall health and well-being.

Just Some Of The Potential Benefits Of Meditation:
– greater clarity and inner calmness
– increased creativity and happiness
– improved sense of emotional stability
– reduced level of anxiety and depression
– improved brain function and memory
– reduced level of stress
… the list can go on and on …

Shirodhara – The Most Popular Ayurveda Treatment
Shirodhara is undoubtedly one of the most popular Ayurvedic treatments in the west. The word ‘shiro’ means head and ‘dhara’ means steady flow. Therefore, shirodhara involves pouring a steady stream of soothing oil over the forehead and acts as a method of relieving stress to the restless mind.

Organic Sesame Oil
Enhance immunity and experience a sense of well-being. Our pure golden Sesame Oil is organic, extra-light, chemical-free and cold-pressed, allowing its chemical composition to penetrate the deeper layers of the skin.

by Mike Dhaliwal

Natural Ways To Manage Stress + Herbs To Enhance The Mind

Healthy & Natural Ways To Manage Stress
Stress is inevitable and we all respond to stress differently as there’s no “one size fits all” solution to managing stress. It’s as if stress walks in and out of our lives on a regular basis and at times - walks all over us. Fortunately, the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda identifies three important pillars of good health which are needed in order to achieve a state of wholeness and balance.

Diet
Sleep
Lifestyle

Healthy Diet
According to Ayurveda, perfect health begins with perfect digestion. Ayurveda speaks of the digestive fire ("Agni"), located in the stomach, as being the primary location where either health or disease begins. According to Ayurveda mostly all diseases start in the digestive system; this also includes the mind since the mind also digests and transforms information that we percieve.
Simple Tips For Healthy Digestion

Organic Churnas
Ready-to-use spice mixtures satisfy the six ayurvedic tastes considered essential for balance and good digestion.

Sound Sleep
Sleep is one of the fundamental mainstays in Ayurveda. It is vital to sleep the appropriate hours at specific times in order to achieve balanced health. Sufficient sleep has tremendous health benefits including relieving stress, anxiety and restoring vitality. Before bed, try a boiled cup of milk made with a touch of ginger and sugar, Organic Rose Petal Spread, or raw honey to help relax the mind and promote falling asleep easily.

Slumber Time Tea
Helps disengage the mind from the senses to fall asleep easily and wake up refreshed and alert.

Slumber Time Aroma Oil
Diffuse a little before you go to bed, this enchanting blend of six pure essential oils will relax you for hours. Includes sweet orange, marjoram, lavender and jasmine.

Lifestyle
Daily routine [“Dinacharya”] is a vital and integral part of our state of health. A routine that is followed with care and awareness with respect to our individual constitution and balance will bring many health benefits. In Ayurveda there are certain steps to starting the day, and whilst these can take up some time, they are valuable in their relation to boosting vitality.
Daily Routine to Perfect Health

What Is Stress?

Oil Massage
Massage yourself with warm organic sesame oil. Sesame is warming and is generally considered beneficial to every body type for this time of year. Massaging oil on the body is a great way to keep the skin soft, supple and wrinkle free. It is a rejuvenating technique that improves circulation and, when done at night, induces sleep.

Organic Vata Calming Tea
Sweet, soothing choice to help restore balance quickly whenever life gets too hectic.

Stress Free Mind
Supports natural resistance to daily mental stress and fatigue; promotes peace, stability, and calmness under pressure.

Amrit Kalash
Amrit Kalash is a powerful broad-spectrum antioxidant and contains Amalaki which is considered the richest natural source of vitamin C, along with a rich balance of other herbs. Amrit Kalash has been shown to be 1,000 times more potent as a free radical scavenger than vitamin C or E.

Herbs - Enhancing The Mind
Ayurveda talks highly about a special class of herbs called “Medhya” herbs. Ultimately, by providing nourishment to the brain, these herbs are especially useful for the mind and helps to enhance learning while improving both the retention and recall of knowledge.

Intelligence Plus
Promotes natural intelligence; rejuvenates mental processes; supports attention span and concentration; promotes positive emotions and self-confidence.

Mind Plus
Stress and fatigue can diminish mental strength and clarity. Support mental functioning under stress and revitalize the mind with Mind Plus.

Organic Youthful Mind
Supports mental functioning as one ages; removes toxins that impede learning, memory, and recall; promotes the development of consciousness.

by Mike Dhaliwal

Ayurveda Oil Massage [Snehana & Abhyanga]

Ayurveda Oil Massage
The ancient Sanskrit word “Sneha” means compassion and the word “Snehi” refers to a loving friend. Daily oil massage [snehan] implies making a person loving by unfolding the healing qualities innate to the human body. In fact, Charaka - the ancient scholar of Ayurveda states that if you really want to bring happiness and joy to a client, don’t try to discuss their problems but do an oil massage and all the problems will simply dissolve.

“Love is oily, soft, and gentle.”
- Dr. Vasant Lad

The skin provides the ability to heal through touch. The healing touch may include various modalities of healing such as massage. Ayurveda describes in great detail the benefits of daily oil massage. Not only is massage comforting to the body but essential for overall health and well-being. A dry stick easily breaks but if you soak the same stick in oil it soon becomes flexible. The same happens to the human body. The influence of vata makes the body dry, brittle, and achy via the aging process. Therefore, daily oil massage helps maintain proper functions of the body and ultimately helps to reduce the effects of aging.

Interesting Video: Shirodhara - Gently Pouring Oil Over The Forehead

Shirodhara is a form of Ayurveda therapy that involves gently pouring liquids over the forehead and can be one of the steps involved in Panchakarma. The name comes from the Sanskrit words shiro (head) and dhara (flow).

Ayurveda Soothing & Moisturizing Massage Oils
Personalize your daily massage with herbal massage oils.

Benefits of snehan [oil massage] include:

Pacifies vata and pitta
Strengthens the body’s tolerance
Nourishes the body
Helps reduce the effects of aging
Increases longevity
Promotes good vision
Supports regular sleep patterns
Benefits the skin
Imparts firmness to the limbs
Imparts tone and vigor to the dhatus (bodily tissues)
Stimulates the internal organs of the body

Massaging oil on the body is a great way to keep the skin soft, supple and wrinkle free. It is a rejuvenating technique that improves circulation and, when done at night, induces sleep. Massaging the scalp can prevent hair loss and graying. In the evenings, massaging the scalp and soles of the feet with bhringraj oil can help in achieving a calm, restorative sleep. It is advisable to start with the outer extremities and work towards the heart. One should massage in a linear fashion along the limbs and with circular motions on the joints. Some popular oils used are coconut, sesame, sunflower and almond. According to one’s natural constitution, one should pick an oil that is appropriate to their state of balance.

Ayurvedic Qualities Of Snehan [Oil Massage]
Oily quality provides lubrication to tissues
Liquid quality allows for liquefaction of toxins
Heavy quality grounds the body and nourish tissues
Subtle quality allows the oils to enter into the cells
Mobile quality helps direct toxins from deep tissue to the G.I. tract
Soft quality helps to soften tissue and induce tranquility
Slow quality stabilizes the mind and promote sound sleep
Sticky quality brings support and cohesiveness to the body

Which Oils For Who:

Vata Dosha
Vata predominant types can use Sesame oil.
For the body, ears, oil pulling and enema.
Nasya could be sesame, ghee or almond.

Pitta Dosha
Pitta predominant types can use Sunflower oil.
For the body, ears, oil pulling and enema.
Nasya could be coconut, sunflower or ghee.

Kapha Dosha
Kapha predominant types can use Mustard seed oil.
For the body, ears, oil pulling and enema.
Nasya could be sesame or ghee.

Click Here - To Learn More About Oleation & Abhyanga

Amrit Kalash Ambrosia
Traditional ayurvedic formula of 13 herbs that supports the health of mind, brain, and nerves; increases vitality and inner strength; powerful antioxidant — research shows it to be up to 1,000 times more effective than vitamins C and E.

Snehan For Panchakarma
Modern living is filled with impurities. These impurities are typically stored in adipose/fat tissue and in order to remove these toxins the cleansing process of panchakarma makes use of oleation therapy called “snehana”. Sneha is the application of medicated oils to the entire body with gentle massage and allows the toxins to move into the gastrointestinal tract for easy elimination. It is also administered internally for 3 – 5 days depending on the disease and patient’s tolerance.

Some Indications Of Snehan [Oil Massage]:
- most vata disorders
- dry skin
- constipation
- worry, anxiety, stress
- excessive physical activity
- muscle weakness, tremors, twitching
- sciatica, arthritis
- emaciation or debility
- general health benefits

Few Contraindications Of Snehan [Oil Massage]:
- severe levels of toxins
- very low agni [digestive ability]
- obesity, edema, ascites
- food poisoning, nausea or vomiting
- acute infection

Disclaimer:
These are considered general and basic guidelines for overall health and wellbeing. Always first discuss with your primary care physician before considering any new health regimen. This is strictly for educational use and not to be considered medical advice.

by Mike Dhaliwal

Healthy Living With Ayurveda

Healthy Living With Ayurveda

“Samadosha, samagnischa samadhatumala kriyaha
prasanna atmenindriya manaha swasthya ityabhidheeyate”

Acharya Susruta has described the features of a healthy person in the above quote. It follows that the doshas must be in equilibrium, the digestive fire must be in a balanced state and the tissues (dhatus) and malas (wastes) must work in a normal state. The sensory and motor organs and mind, atma must be also in a pleasant state. Such a person is called a healthy person or "Swastha".

Samadosha:
The doshas that are present in the body and mind, namely vata, pitta and kapha, must be in a balanced state in order to keep a person healthy. When the balance of the doshas is disturbed, either aggravated or decreased (vitiated) it produces a state of Dosha Vaishamya, which is called disease.

Organic Teas
To Help Balance The Doshas

Samagni:
In order to keep an individual healthy and digestive fire (koshtagni) and dhatuagni (tissue enzymes) must be in a proper state. When agni is less in quality (Mandagni) it will cause many diseases (“Rogaha Sarvepi Mande Agnou”). It is a well known that the health of an individual depends on the proper strength of his digestive power.

Ayurvedic Digestive Supplements
Good health depends on strong, efficient digestion.

Sama dhatu mala kriya:
(Balanced state of dhatus and malas): According to Ayurveda there are seven Dhatus namely Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Medas, Asthi, Majja and Shukra. And the excreta or Malas – purisa (faeces), Mutra (urine), Sweda (sweat). The dhatus of the body must function properly and so also the malas of the body.

Ayurvedic Detox
11 Ayurvedic herbs to gently cleanse the liver & colon of impurities.

Prasanna Atmendriya Manaha:
In Ayurveda, the functions of the sensory and motor organs along with the mind have been given special importance. When these are not in equilibrium and not performing their functions properly, it will lead to a state called disease. Even when the bodily systems function properly the bodily activities must not vitiate or disturb the nature of the mind. The state of mental health is more important than that of physical health of a truly healthy person.

Stress Free Emotions
Powerful formulation with arjuna, amla & ashwagandha

"Swastha" - The Healthy State
"Swastha" or the healthy state maintained from birth along with the three doshas remaining in a balanced state, allowing the person to achieve a well-balanced constitution, attractive appearance, good muscular strength and complete peace of mind. Good health can be maintained until death. For this one should intelligently follow all the rules laid down according to the science of Ayurveda. Only then will a person enjoy an optimum life span of a hundred years without contracting disease. He will also gain recognition in society, friendship with people and honour and wealth as he has the energy and ability to achieve all the goals in life.

How Ayurveda Classifies Food - by Dr. Neelesh Korde

In this video, Dr. Neelesh Korde advises that before choosing a diet, we must understand how the foods we eat will affect our body. Ayurveda is based on the qualities of the food that are passed on to the person consuming that particular food.

"The aim of Ayurveda is to prevent illness,
heal the sick and preserve life."

The Aim Of Ayurveda

This can be summed up as follows:
• Swasthyas swasthya rakshanam - to protect health and prolong life
• Aturasya vikar prashamanamcha - to eliminate diseases and dysfunctions of the body

And both these are aimed towards the promotion of health on three levels:

• Mentally
• Physically
• Spiritually

How can Ayurveda help you to remain healthy?
Specialized Ayurvedic remedies such as Panchakarma chikitsa, Shirodhara or following an Ayurvedic diet, basically endeavor to restore the harmony of the tridoshas. The purpose of all Ayurvedic remedies and herbal medicines is to keep the doshas or the humors in equilibrium, since an imbalance indicates a disease condition. Samsodhana (cleansing process), samsamana (palliative measures) and nidanaparivarjana (treating the causes) are the three main stages through which Ayurvedic remedies usually progress.

About The Author:
Dr. Gaurang Joshi, B.A.M.S. (Gold Medalist, Gujarat Ayurved University) is an international Ayurveda consultant, expert Ayurveda skin specialist, Ayurveda Oncology expert and the Director of the Atharva Multispeciality Ayurveda Hospital, Panchakarma And Skin Care Hospital, Rajkot. He is President of the International Psoriasis Foundation and has been in practice for the last 19 years. Gaurang Joshi has published more than 12 papers in national and international conferences on Dermatology and Oncology research.

B.A.M.S., M.D.(Alternative Medicine),M.E.T.C.
M.D.(A.M.) from IIAM
Consulting Ayurved Panchkarma Physician
Expert In All Chronic Diseases
Ayurveda Skin Specialist
Expert In Ayurveda Oncology
President-International Psoriasis Foundation

by Dr Gaurang Joshi

Shirodhara - The Most Popular Ayurveda Treatment

Shirodhara - The Most Popular Ayurveda Treatment
Shirodhara is undoubtedly one of the most popular Ayurvedic treatments in the west. The word ‘shiro’ means head and ‘dhara’ means steady flow. Therefore, shirodhara involves pouring a steady stream of soothing oil over the forehead and acts as a method of relieving stress to the restless mind.

Great Video - Discussing Just Some Of The Benefits Of Shirodhara

Deeply Relaxing
“Shirodhara is deeply relaxing and induces a relaxant state; these effects are mediated by the brain wave coherence, alfa waves, and a down regulation of the sympathetic outflow. This procedure induces a relaxed state of awareness that results in a dynamic psycho-somatic balance.”

Just Some Of The Benefits Of Shirodhara:

Relieves stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia
Helps mental focus and concentration
Balances VATA DOSHA
Works on the cerebral system, helps to relax the nervous system, and balances the 'Prana Vayu' (life force energy) around the head
Improves the sensitivity of five senses
Reduces and relieves migraine headaches
Decreases hair loss and fatigue and makes one calm and refreshed
Deeply relaxes mind and body
Releases negative emotions and thought patterns.
Improves sleep patterns
Rejuvenates the entire face and softens worry lines
Heightens the senses
Increases spiritual awareness
Pacifies vata reducing anxiety, restlessness, irritability, nervousness, fear & excessive thinking
Improves mental focus and concentration

WANT MORE?
The classical texts of Ayurveda have explained that in order to treat a person with complete effectiveness, you must treat the person not as a set of parts, but as a whole.
CLICK HERE - To Learn More About Ayurveda

by Mike Dhaliwal