Ayurveda 101
When you enter natural stores or hair salons, you may hear rumbles of the work Ayurveda. Hair and beauty products use this word as a powerful selling point. Although primarily marketed to a specific group, Ayurveda is an awesome technique that anyone can benefit from.
While this exotic term may ring with unfamiliar beauty, it’s actually quite powerful and is filled with a rich history.
What is Ayurveda
Centuries ago, ancient Indian practitioners laid the groundwork for what Ayurveda is today. Based on the connection between the mind, body, and soul, Ayurveda is rife with science and wellness. It’s a complete lifestyle change that is used to increase your quality of life.
When broken down, the modern translation of Ayurveda is, “A science of life.” Ayur, meaning life and Veda meaning science or knowledge. It’s based on the notion that humans must use an integrative approach to reach their actualized self.
Like most ancient beliefs, Ayurveda has two simple principles. The first being simple; the mind and body are interchangeable. You cannot have a healthy mind with an unhealthy body and vice versa.
The second principle places great emphasis on the power of the brain. A person cannot live to their fullest potential unless they have a strong mind. The term, “Mind over matter” is crucial to understanding Ayurveda as a whole.
The Ayurvedic Lifestyle
To completely transform your life and start living to your fullest potential, you have to incorporate all aspects of Ayurveda into your daily routine. This means shifting your meals, activities, and energy. Let’s consider each category.
Food
Food is our primary source of energy. We need it to become productive and ultimately survive. To abide by Ayurvedic teachings, one must eat nourishing food that’s filled with variety and color.
Expand your palate to reflect all six tastes. Those are sweet, salty, sour, pungent, bitter, and astringent. By incorporating these notes into your meals, you’re eating a balanced diet.
Eliminate Toxins
A healthy digestive system is vital to cleansing the body and increasing mental clarity. It’s also an essential part of Ayurveda. This goes deeper into the connection between eating food and creating a mood.
Instead of rushing through your meals or binge eating in front of the television. It’s suggested it eat sitting down and away from your T.V.
This gives you the time to think about what you’re eating and how it’s making your body feel. This mindfulness prevents overeating and prompts you to really feel how full or empty your body is. You’ll notice that the slower you eat, the fuller you’ll get. Practice chewing your food for at least 20 seconds to get the full effect.
In addition, don’t eat when you’re upset. The trick is to not associate food with distraction or unpleasantness.
Finally, add routine exercise and hydration to your routine. This will help you remain healthy and active.
Sleep
Getting restful sleep is key to being alert and keeping the mind sharp. Via Ayurvedic teachings, sleeping is the gateway to revitalization. The body and mind can relax and prepare for the next day.
Make your sleeping routine comfortable. Meaning, avoid distractions such as television or music to get in the way of your restful sleep. Instead, make your bedroom a sanctuary of peace.
Ayurveda is an awesome way to recharge your mind and start living a productive and healthy life. Take time to meditate and unplug from the world. This will give you a clearer insight into the world around you and yourself.
Eliminate negativity from your life and only focus on positive energy. This will help you live a happy and purposeful life.