The Alchemy Of Bliss –  “Soma” 
We all want to be happy yet one of the most elusive questions which involves our day-to-day reality is “what does it mean to be happy?”. We also know that happiness is key for overall health and in one form or another we are all seeking it. Could it be that we are searching for happiness in all the wrong places? For many of us, happiness is in the next purchase – the bigger home, the nicer car, and the newer gadget. However, the teachings of Ayurveda explain that behind all these diverse pursuits is an aspiration for happiness at the core of our being. In other words, within each one of us resides a sense of bliss called “Ananda” which is lastingly satisfying, refreshing, and that which does not diminish nor die.

Blissful Joy
To help uplift the emotions; helps balance emotional ups and downs; alleviates sadness and feelings of frustration

Blissful Heart Aroma
Helps to nourish and balance the emotions

Ananda [aa-nan-da] noun.
The condition of utter joy. Pure and absolute bliss.
An essential quality of the ultimate Reality (tattva).

Soma – The Nectar Of Immortality
According to the ancient vedic teachings of India, “Soma” was originally referred to as the nectar of immortality. Similarly, in other cultures, soma was conveyed as the “Holy Grail” being the ultimate quest for renewal and immortality. After all, we all want to live and do not want to die. In a way, Soma provides for ‘deathlessness’ and is the essence of all healing. The Ayurvedic concept of Soma is of vital importance for good immunity, longevity, and optimal health. For example, the classic teachings of Ayurveda discuss topics of rejuvenation [“rasayana”] which are lifestyle considerations to increase the quality of soma.

Soma – An Interview With Dr. Vasant Lad, MASc. 

An interview with Dr. Vasant Lad, author, Ayurvedic physician, professor and director of the Ayurvedic Institute in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Interview was filmed on April 4th, 2014, by Joey Bujold.

Lifestyle Considerations …
The modern world unfortunately provides many of us the problem of a highly stressful lifestyle. However, rejuvenation requires nourishment at all levels. Of importance is nourishing food for the physical body and equally important, is nourishment for the mind in the form of adequate rest, sleep, and relaxation. For example, a “sattvic diet” which includes good quality vegetarian food such as dairy products, whole grains, beans, vegetables, fruits, and nuts which provide purity for the body and clarity to the mind.

Deep Rest & Blissful Sleep
Better sleep = better performance.

Digestive Health
Good health depends on strong, efficient digestion.

Organic Spice Selections
Ready-to-use spice mixtures satisfy the six ayurvedic tastes considered essential for balance.

The Elixir Of Life – Soma Beverages
From the ancient of times, there have been certain beverages which have been considered an elixir which helps to revitalize the core of our body while fortifying the mind. A Soma beverage is generally considered a liquid that is deeply refreshing, stress reducing, and calming to the mind.

Examples Of Soma Beverages Include:
– Amalaki Juice
– Coconut Juice
– Sugar Cane Juice
– Aloe Juice
– Fruit Juices
– Herbal Teas
– Milk

Amalaki Juice
The fresh juice of amalaki fruit is considered one of the best rejuvenatives according to Ayurveda. Simply add a couple of teaspoons of amalaki juice with some pomegranate juice and this is an excellent elixir for longevity.

Amrit Kalash
Full-spectrum antioxidant: targets mind & nervous system

Coconut Juice
Coconut juice provides hydration to all bodily tissues and provides natural sugars and nourishing oil for the brain and nervous tissue. Coconut juice also provides a cooling and refreshing quality to the mind.

Sugar Cane Juice
Not only is sugar cane juice delicious but is also considered a rejuvenative [“rasayana”] according to Ayurveda. Sugar cane juice is hydrating and helps to prevent fever, thirst, dryness, and fatigue.

Aloe Juice
Aloe juice is particularly beneficial to help reduce heat [“pitta”] from within the body and is also a wonderful nourishing drink for women to help tonify and strengthen the uterus.

Fruit Juices
Generally, fruit juices in moderation are natural Soma beverages. Certain fruit juices such as pomegranate, guava, mango, grape, and acai juices are particularly beneficial. To help reduce sugar intake, these juice can be diluted with water and generally should not be consumed during meals.

Herbal Teas
Herbal teas are considered Soma beverages more specifically to the mind rather than the body. Herbal teas such as Tulsi, Brahmi, Licorice, and Rose are very rejuvenating to the mind and help to bring clarity to the mind.

Ayurvedic Herbal Teas
Enjoy the exotic colors and aromas of spices can elevate an ordinary dish into a sublime feast for the senses of sight, smell and taste.

Milk
Milk has rejuvenating properties and is a beverage held with great reverence in vedic culture. Milk also helps to enhances the potency of other substances and other substances also help to benefit the rejuvenating qualities of milk. For example, adding a small amount of natural sugar, honey, or ghee increases the nourishing and rejuvenating qualities of milk. Milk also acts to carry the qualities of certain herbs and spices to deeper bodily tissues. For example, mixing certain herbs and spices like ginger and/or turmeric to milk will help to improve digestion, liver function, and elimination. Similarly, mixing saffron to milk is also considered a potent rejuvenator and helps strengthen the female reproductive tract.

Mind & Memory 
Stay focused & perform under pressure.
Maintain mental calm & alertness.

What About Alcohol?
Alcoholic beverages, particularly wine in small amounts have revealed some health benefits such as improving digestion and helping to reduce the risk of heart disease. Likewise, Ayurveda has a wide range of medicinal herbal wines such as Ashwagandha herbal wine which has rejuvenative and restoring properties. Medicinal herbal wines should be used with discretion and only as indicated by a qualified Ayurvedic professional.

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.