Healthy Living in Ayurveda

Concept of Healthy Living in Ayurveda

Ayurveda, “the awareness of life,” is a System of health that originated during the Vedic culture of India almost five thousand years ago. We see a growing interest in Ayurveda in the Western world that speaks of how much the principles of this type of healing can improve lives in many ways. Ayurveda helps find the balance between the body, mind, and spirit as all three of these are connected. Ayurveda teaches us to achieve optimal health by adopting healthy practices to prevent illness and achieve an optimal sense of well-being.

 

Maintain body balance- Maintaining a balance of the body and mind is the natural way of life.  With the help of this ancient ayurvedic wisdom, we can make choices in our diet and lifestyle that will lead to health and longevity. According to the Ayurvedic philosophy, each of us has a body type called Dosha — a combination of Air (Vata), Fire (Dosha) and Earth (Kapha). Inconsistent eating habits, no physical activity, and being exposed to chemicals or germs are harmful to health. Also, disadvantageous is not getting enough sleep and having emotional disturbances causing an imbalance in our body.  We can restore the balance with this holistic practice of Ayurveda.

 

Let’s learn the right ways of life that will benefit us-

*A Proper and healthy breakfast– We have all heard this phrase many times—”Breakfast is Brainfood”. That’s how important breakfast is. So, skipping breakfast or not having a healthy portion of it can affect your entire working system. Eat breakfast like a king [ the most substantial meal of the day].

 

*Average Portion during lunch- this meal is lesser in portion size than breakfast. A balanced diet of calories, fat, protein, vitamins and minerals is what forms a balanced diet.

 

*Light dinner – To improve digestion and the quality of sleep, Ayurveda suggests to have dinner by 8 PM so that the body can digest it before bedtime. Our bodies need Agni [fire] to digest the food. Due to less Agni after sunset, overeating can be a disadvantage. If you eat just enough, your body can concentrate entirely on giving you restorative sleep rather than working extra on your system.

 

Neti Pot

Neti poti is very vital in preserving health by helping your nose get rid of the toxins, pollution, and allergens. Using the neti pot to flush saline water up each nostril, helps to flush out excess mucus along with impurities, for deeper breathing and relieving the symptoms of allergies and colds.

 

Eat Fresh, Seasonal and Local

The remarkable principle in Ayurveda is to eat food that is fresh, seasonal, and locally grown. Maintain your internal balance by eating seasonal fruits and vegetables of the best quality possible.

Using spices to heal

Ayurveda considers spices to be a healer as well as a flavor enhancer. Use turmeric to reduce inflammation and protect your heart.  Ginger can aid better digestion and cinnamon can regulate your blood sugar. All other spices should be added to the dishes for an antibacterial effect that can help you fight infection.

 

Exercise

Incorporating exercise in the form of yoga is very beneficial for a good quality of life. Our bodies are designed to move, and so if it does not get the exercise it needs, the body starts becoming weak. Give work to your body and avoid being sedentary. 

 

Meditation

According to ayurvedic philosophy, there seems to be a link between the health of the mind and body–being inseparable. Disturbances in your mind can start as physical ailments. A regular meditation practice helps maintain the balance necessary for health by reducing stress, having a better sleep, thereby, increasing your sense of well-being.

 

Oil Pulling

The practice of detoxification, as well as naturally brightening your teeth, can be done in the morning. About 20 minutes of swishing with a natural oil in your mouth (organic coconut or sesame are good choices) and spitting out the white substance is very beneficial. That white substance is bacteria and toxins. Your immune senses will thank you for helping it preserve your health. This ancient ayurvedic system has flourished in modern-day because it still has plenty to offer to the world. 

 

Connect with our team at ‘The Madras Institute of Ayurveda’, sharing ancient wisdom with modern technology. This institution was established to bring the same genuine treatments that are offered in Kerala. So, come and benefit from our various treatment types. 

Log on to www.miayurveda.org to learn more. 

 

Addressing Acid Reflux

Addressing Acid Reflux -The Ayurvedic Way

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) or Acidity as its commonly called. It is a chronic digestive disorder where acids in the stomach or, occasionally stomach contents, flow back into the food pipe (oesophagus). A valve called the Lower oesophagal sphincter opens between your throat and stomach to allow food and liquids to enter the stomach. If the lid doesn’t close all the way, or if it opens too often, stomach acid can move up into your oesophagus, causing Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Symptoms of GERD

  • Burning sensation in the chest
  • Sour belching.
  • Nausea
  • Regurgitation of food or sour substance
  • Gaseous distention of abdomen
  • Heaviness in abdomen
  • Indigestion.
  • Aversion towards food.
  • Pain in the stomach.
  • Severe burning sensation over feet and hand
  • Mouth ulcer
  • Fatigue (especially in legs)
  • Tiredness

Preventing ‘GERD’ – the ayurvedic way

 “Prevention is better than cure”- We have all heard this phrase. So, avoid all the causative factors of acid disorder. 

  • Avoid excessive salty, oily, sour and spicy foods
  • Avoid cumbersome and untimely food
  • Avoid smoking and alcohol intake
  • Include barley, wheat, old rice and green gram in the diet.
  • Avoid overcooked, stale and contaminated food.
  • Cook food thoroughly before consuming.
  • Follow relaxation techniques

 

Medical management

  • Avoid inducive causes
  • Palliative treatment – Since the disease is of Pitta origin, measures are taken to pacify pitta.
  • When oral medications don’t work, ‘Panchakarma procedures’ like Vamana (emesis) or virechana (purgation)is administered. 

 

Some important roots helpful in Amlapitta

  • Shatavari – 2-3 gm twice a day with milk
  • Yashtimadhu – 3-4 gm twice a day with milk
  • Amalaki (Indian gooseberry) – 2 gm twice a day with water
  • Sunthi (dry ginger) – 1- 3 gm twice a day with water

Do’s (Pathya)

  • Eat on time
  • Light food, Coconut water, food having cooling properties
  • Vegetables like white pumpkin, bitter gourd, matured ash gourd, leafy vegetables except for fenugreek leaves
  • Wheat, old rice, barley, green gram, sugar candy, cucumber,
  • Fruits like gooseberry, dry grapes, black grapes, sweet lime, pomegranate, fig, dry fig,
  • Take adequate amount of fluids like pomegranate juice, lemon juice, amla juice, sweet lime juice,
  • A cup of lukewarm milk every two to three hours.
  • Have one teaspoonful of ghee with warm milk
  • Take adequate sleep & rest
  • Practice Yoga, Pranayam, meditation & exercise regularly

 

Don’ts (Apathya)

  • Avoid excessively spicy, sour and salty foods
  • Avoid fried and junk foods
  • Do not remain hungry. Avoid fast.
  • Do not overeat, take small frequent meals
  • Avoid untimely and irregular food habits
  • Avoid foods containing an excess amount of garlic, salt, or oil
  • Avoid lying down immediately after eating
  • Avoid, smoking, alcohol, tea, coffee and aspirin type of drugs.
  • Avoid stress

It is not difficult to control GERD, provided the instructions given by the Ayurvedic Vaid [Doctor] are pursued, correctly.

Let’s consult the expert—

Visit ‘The Madras Institute of Ayurveda’ to experience the real authentic Ayurvedic treatment.

Authentic Ayurvedic treatment from hip pain treatment to the management of paralysis is available in the heart of Chennai city. An ambience of greenery offers comfort and therapy, crafted with maximum care to promote holistic healing. So, log on to www.miayurveda.org for any further questions.

 

Managing Obesity

Managing Obesity with the Help of Ayurveda

‘Overweight, if left uncontrolled, can lead to Obesity’.

Known as Sthaulya or Medas (fat) in Ayurveda, obesity is not just a disease in itself but a “signal” for many other major illnesses. Adding extra pounds leads to overweight and obesity. Obesity can lead to diabetes, hypertension, osteoarthritis, cardio disorders, liver disorders, infertility, varicose vein etc. Therefore, controlling body weight is very crucial because, with the passing time, metabolism gets weaker, resulting in a rapid weight gain.

Let’s see how Ancient Ayurveda can help manage overweight and obesity.

Managing Obesity, ayurvedic obesity treatment programs are planned based on the body condition and body type (Vata, pitta, Kapha) of the patient. The patients need a holistic approach to reduce weight. Ayurvedic weight loss treatments facilitate quick results. Along with the Ayurveda weight reduction programs and Panchakarma treatment (five detoxification processes), yoga and meditation also help in the improvement of the overall physical, mental and emotional health of obese patients. Obesity is treated not just for weight loss or loss of centimeters but also for adjusting metabolic processes, by reducing Ama and the excess fat to regulate the function of Kapha without vitiating Vata.

There are many ways to lose excess weight

*Triphala, Brahmi and Garcinia Cambogia are some of the many medicinal plants that help in weight reduction. 

*Deep massage with herbal powder and herbal paste (Udwarthanam), synchronized massage with specific oils (Abhyanga), and herbal steam bath help move the accumulated fat; and designed diet and yoga programs prevent its accumulation, further. 

*Appropriate Panchakarma therapies are administered based on the requirement of the individual.

* Dhanurasana, bhujangasana, shalabasana, ardhamatsyendrasana, trikonasana and vakrasana are a few of the asanas or yoga postures for losing extra fat which will be more effective when practiced with pranayama and proper diet. 

*Regular exercise helps in maintaining good health. Practicing brisk walk for about half an hour in the morning helps burn excess fat. 

*Drinking a glass of lukewarm water with lime juice and honey everyday first thing in the morning, are added benefits. 

*Eating smaller meals, every three hours is beneficial. Increase the number of fruits and vegetables and include low-calorie foods. 

*Raw vegetable salad such as carrot, cucumber, cabbage, tomatoes and, fruits like papaya and pineapple are perfect since they are full of fiber and fill you up soon.  

*Avoid refined foods and fat-rich food including milk products such as paneer, cheese, butter. 

“A Natural way of weight loss is the best way to shed out the excess fat in the body”.

At ‘The Madras Institute of Ayurveda’ [MIA], the center for Ayurvedic medicine and treatment in Chennai, where age-old tradition meets modern techniques, procedures from Panchakarma to rejuvenation are all offered. This Institute provides facilities for a whole range of ‘quality ayurvedic treatments.’ It has a full-fledged out-patient department with facilities for consultation in different specialties.

So, let’s connect with MIA at www.miayurveda.org for any queries.

Treatment of Digestive Disorders

Treatment of Digestive Disorders with Ancient Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, indigestion is, considered to be the root cause of almost all diseases. So proper management of digestive disorders during initial stages prevents the onset of many other major illnesses in later stages of life. 

Digestive problems are no fun at all, especially- for those who suffer from them frequently. Digestive issues could be due to bacteria in food, infection, stress or chronic conditions such as colitis. 

Let us look at the Ayurvedic– herbs [Remedies] for improving any digestive disorders-

                                  HARTAKI (TERMINALIA CHEBULA

This herb is helpful to treat digestive disorders such as diarrhea, constipation and indigestion from ancient times. Eating terminalia chebula regularly, reduces constipation. You can take it in the form of powder or candy sugar.

                                 ISABGOLE [ PLANTAGO OVATE]

Isabgole is an excellent remedy for constipation. Besides, it is also useful in reducing cholesterol and regulating bowel movement. So, Let’s try this herb to get the digestive system back on track!!!

                                NISOTH (IPOMOEA TURPETHUM)

Leaves and roots of Nisoth plants are useful as a laxative.  Ipomoea turpethum is quite effective in treating digestive disorders, but it is better to take in moderation. 

                               

                               

                         YATIMADHU (GLYCYZRRHIZA – GLABRA)

Another effective remedy comes with the help of Yatimadhu. The antacid properties of Yatimadhu, help in reducing acidity. It is also useful in reducing ulcers and chest congestion.

                              LAVANGA (SYZYGIUM AROMATICUM – CLOVE)

Although spices can aggravate acidity, one should not stop eating clove. Clove can provide quick relief from acidity, therefore Chew on a clove to cure acidity.

                                GINGER (ZINGIBER -OFFICINALE)

Ginger offers fantastic health benefits that make it a common ingredient for tea in India. It can also be beneficial in keeping the digestive system function properly. Starting the day with ginger tea can give the digestive system a good start.  Ginger is also helpful, in curing flatulence and congestion.

                                ALSAREX, AYUCID, AVIPATRIKAR CHURNA

The combination of the above herbs – help in treating stomach ulcers. A combination of the herbal formula eg, Kutajghan Bati, Kutajarishta and Issabale can be used to treat diarrhea.

With so much said about the herbs to treat digestive disorders, let’s connect with our experts at The Madras Institute of Ayurveda [MIA] – the center of Ayurvedic medicine and treatment in Chennai, where age-old tradition meets modern techniques. MIA was established to bring the same genuine treatment with all facilities to a more accessible location. The Madras Institute of Ayurveda (MIA) has a full-fledged out-patient department with facilities for consultation in different specialties, regular check-ups, etc. Treatment programs for an entire array of diseases are available here.

So, log on to www.miayurveda.org to get more information on Digestive Disorders. 

respiratory diseases

Respiratory Diseases – Cured with Ayurveda

The increasing air pollution has become a universal concern for Respiratory Diseases. Sadly, the air we breathe, is full of impurities, harmful gases & dust particles making our body more prone to diseases caused by such impurities. Diseases of the lung and airways are some of the most common cause of illness in developed countries.

Respiratory problems can be as minuscule as the common cold or as serious as pneumonia. They may affect the upper respiratory system (nose, mouth, throat, sinuses) or the lower bronchial tubes and lungs. Ayurvedic herbs, help to overcome these problems.

Treatment with Ayurveda–

Special herbs & Panchakarma therapies are very beneficial in rejuvenating the body.

Ayurvedic herbs for strengthening the lungs —-are available all around us. One just needs to be aware of what to use, and when.

Bala, which translates into “strength,” is the ayurvedic term for the western concept of immunity. There are two major factors that affect bala–they are Ama and Ojas.

Ama, is the sticky by-product of the food that is left undigested. Ama decreases the efficacy of the body’s immune system. It does this by clogging or blocking the channels that perform the important function of carrying food products to the cells and carrying waste products out of the cells.  Ama also obstructs the finer micro-channels that form an important part of the immune system. All these blocked channels can lead to a cesspool of infection and other particles that affect the body’s functioning. Ojas is a result of perfect digestion, and enhances the body’s immune system, purifies the mind and the consciousness that resides within. Ojas helps maintain good health, and most of the Ayurvedic treatments focus on enhancing Ojas in the body. Ojas is represented by health, happy feelings, elation, feeling of lightness, strong immunity and complete bodily strength. There is a theory in the ancient texts of Ayurveda called the Land and the Seed theory. The body is considered land where the seeds are spread. Now, if the seeds of Ama are spread, then the result of the fruits will always be ill health and misery. On the other hand, if the seeds of Ojas are spread, the body will always have strong immunity and strength from within.

The rejuvenating herbs in the treatment module, help to nourish the channels thereby protecting the lungs to promote easy breathing.

Example of the herbs used in treatment–

Bibhitaki is an exotic fruit. It is the size of a walnut and has an astringent taste to it. The Triphala composition includes this exact herb of Bibhitaki, as Bibhitaki is extremely useful to reduce any symptoms of Kapha disorder. Therefore, Bibhitaki can be used whenever there is any sort of Kapha disorder in any part of the body. Because of the astringent taste, it tends to absorb the micro-water particles present in the Kapha dosha.

Similarly, there are many such herbs that have multi-purpose benefits in healing the body, especially the lungs and other aspects of the respiratory tract. With so many different herbs that are prescribed by the Ayurvedic system of knowledge, an individual can easily harness their power to heal, and bring in loads of relief from respiratory problems, once and for all. After all, everyone has a right to a sigh of relief.

Our respiratory system is a complicated and dense network of channels and systems that carry prana, (the vital life-force), along with oxygen.

So, log on to wwwmiayurveda.org to learn more about Respiratory treatments with Ayurveda………….

 

hip pain treatment

Hip Pain Treatment- The Ayurvedic Way

Hip pain is a sign of high Vata dosha according to Ayurveda.  It is a common complaint that can be caused by a wide variety of problems. Hip pain on the outside of your hip, upper thigh or outer buttock is usually caused by problems with muscles, ligaments, tendons and other soft tissues that surround your hip joint Hip Pain Treatment.

In the Ayurvedic tradition, regular oil massage, or snehana, is revered as a highly effective form of therapy for all sorts of ailments. Massage helps reduce pain because it tames vata, allays joint and muscle stiffness, increases circulation, mobilizes toxins, and relaxes the body.

Understanding Chronic Pain

Ayurveda welcomes and accepts pain, even while trying to relieve it, for Nature intends pain to be a multi-layered message to us. Underlying the immediate directive—stop using that body part lies a request to look into our lives and see what we are doing to create this misery.”

If you tend to ignore your body’s messages until pain overwhelms you, problems get out of control. Certain unconscious habits—holding your breath, chronically tensing your muscles, suppressing your emotions, eating over processed, refined food, ingesting too much caffeine or not enough water—make us more susceptible to pain because they aggravate vata, the dosha that is involved when there is pain. If you can step back and observe which of your activities and habits contribute to the problem, you can start to undo your pain naturally.

All-Natural Pain Remedy—Ayurveda Suggests—–

  1. Systematic relaxation

The next time you’re inclined to pop a pill for your symptoms, spend 10 minutes doing a systematic relaxation in Shavasana (corpse pose) instead. This practice can reduce muscle spasms, relieve tension, and calm the mind naturally.

 

  1. Massage

In the ayurvedic tradition, regular oil massage, or Snehana, is revered as a highly effective form of therapy for all sorts of ailments. Massage helps reduce pain because it tames Vata, allays joint and muscle stiffness, increases circulation, mobilizes toxins, and relaxes the body. Once a week would be good.

Ayurvedic physicians can choose ideal combinations for each individual. The therapies like Tailadhara (pouring of medicated oils), Nhavarakkizhi (massage with bolus of rice boiled in medicated milk) and Ksheera vasthi are among the most effective therapies for preventing degeneration and strengthen the joints.

  1. Diet

Food is a powerful healer. Follow a Vata-pacifying diet of warm, moist, mildly spiced, nourishing foods for a month and see if it makes a difference. The sweet, salty, and sour tastes are all Vata pacifying—just make sure you find natural, healthy sources of sweets (like ripe plums, pears, or dates) but don’t overdo it. Overeating aggravates Vata.

  1. Gentle Asana

Pain can discourage us from stretching and moving the way we normally do, restricting your movement will only compound the problem. Toxins accumulate where there is stagnation and congestion in the body, and this causes pain. Contracting and relaxing our muscles with gentle asanas relieves the stagnation by mobilizing blood, lymph, and synovial fluid. Even 15 minutes of stretching every morning or evening will make a world of difference.

  1. Aromatherapy

Studies show that the essential oils of rosemary and thyme increase blood flow to muscles and create warmth, while peppermint and myrtle have temporary painkilling effects.

 

 

  1. Herbs

Turmeric and ginger help reduce inflammatory pain, while valerian, kava kava, chamomile, skullcap, passionflower, hops, and jatamansi (the “Indian valerian”) help combat tension-related pain. Chronic pain is often a combination of inflammation and tension.

Therefore, Ayurveda’s insightful perspective on chronic pain—combined with natural remedies—can help soothe the symptoms of hip pain.

 

  • Come let’s learn more on how to conquer this pain at’ Madras Institute of Ayurveda’, Chennai. They have dedicated service by trained physicians and therapists.

 

So, connect with the expert at www.miayurveda.org for an Authentic Kerala Ayurvedic treatment.

rejuvenation therapy

Rejuvenation Therapy with Ayurveda

In the Ayurvedic texts, rejuvenation has been termed as ‘Rasayana’. The definition of Rasayana in Ayurveda is described as: “That which destroys the old age and disease”. The Rasayana or rejuvenation therapy aims at keeping the enzymes in the tissue cells in their normal functioning condition. These cells are revitalized with this therapy. The tranquility of the mind is promoted and the nerves as well as bones are kept soft and soothing. This prevents the process of ageing and makes the individual free from any disease even during an advanced age.

Rejuvenation Therapy (Rasayana Chikitsa) in Ayurveda, aids in toning up the skin and strengthening body tissues, so- as- to, facilitate longevity. The overall resistance of the body increases as well, due to the optimization of the ‘Ojas’ (primary vitality) and the ‘Sattva’ (mental clarity). The therapy also includes body and face massages using special herbal oils and creams that are tailor made as per the needs of the patient. Other treatment methods include special medicines as per the constitution of the patient along with medicinal steam baths.

* Immunization and Longevity Treatment (Kayakalpa Chikitsa)
This method is used to stifle the ageing process and stop the degeneration of body cells. It is known to help the body’s immune system as well. It is said to be most effective before the age of 50 and includes the Rasayana (special Ayurvedic medicine and diet).

*Body Sudation (Sweda Karma)
Special steam baths help in improving the skin tone and aid in weight loss as well. This is highly recommended for rheumatic diseases and are known to give relief from pain. Herbs are steamed and passed over the human body for up to 20 minutes A special hand massage with herbal oils helps with muscle toning and blood circulation.

*Maintaining Body Weight
To maintain the correct body weight, herbal oils and powders are prescribed. The treatment also includes special herbal juices that help with improving the overall condition of the body.
*Skin Care
Herbal face packs, herbal oil massages and the intake of herbal tea,  help with improving the skin and rejuvenating it.
*Mental and Physical Wellbeing (Meditation and Yoga)
These treatments are designed to achieve mental tranquility and improve one’s concentration beyond the physical being. One aims at attaining peace through the 8 steps of training, which are:

1)Disciplined behavior (Yama)
2)Self-Purification (Niyama)
3) Bodily postures (Asana)
4)Control of breathing (Pranayama)
5)Control of the senses (Pratyahara)
6)Fixing of the mind on a chosen object (Dharana)
7)Meditation (Dhyana)
8) State of absolute tranquility and wellbeing (Samadhi)

At Madras Institute of Ayurveda, Chennai, this rejuvenation therapy is performed elaborately. The core of the rejuvenation treatment involves a lifelong change in your lifestyle to restore your body’s health.

So, log on to www.miayurveda.org for any questions you may have.

Osteoporosis Treatment

Osteoporosis Treatment- An Ayurvedic Approach

Osteoporosis Treatment – it is a condition in which the density of bone decreases, thereby making the bones fragile. It leads to unusually porous bones that can be compressed like a sponge.  Osteoporosis results in recurrent fractures in the bones particularly the spine, hips, ribs, and wrists bones. Both women and men can be affected by this disorder.

 

Risk factors of Osteoporosis-

Age. Bone density peaks around age 30 after which bones begin to lose mass.

Gender. Women over the age of 50 are most likely to develop osteoporosis. The condition is 4 times as likely in women than men.

Family history. If parents or grandparents have had osteoporosis, then chances are higher.

Bone structure and Body weight Petite and thin men/women have a greater chance of developing osteoporosis. One of the reasons being that they have less bone to lose, than women with more body weight and larger frames.

Broken bones. Fractured bones are more susceptible to osteoporosis.

Certain diseases. Some diseases such as osteoarthritis raise the odds of getting osteoporosis.

Smoking. Bad for the bones.

Alcohol. Heavy drinking can lead to thinning of the bones and cause fractures.

So, how can we treat osteoporosis with help of Ancient Ayurveda?

Ayurvedic cure for osteoporosis is simple to follow and helps relieve the problem naturally.

 

The “Ayurvedic Approach” to preventing and treating osteoporosis involves restoring balance to all three doshas, and most particularly pacifying Vata energy.

As per Ayurveda, all the food that we eat, converts into different tissues because of Dhatu Agni (Metabolism). Calcium and vitamin D conversion to bone tissues happens with the help of Asthi Dhatu Agni. When this Asthi Dhatu Agni or metabolism does not function very well, in spite, of taking calcium and vitamins, bones start degenerating and lead to osteoporosis.
Besides this, excess vata (air) in the body also cause degeneration.

In Osteoporosis, it is very important to increase metabolism, nourish bones constantly and reduce vata regularly, which can help stimulate dhatu Agni and metabolism. The calcium and vitamin D in our body, then starts working and producing bone tissues again and Improving bone density.

Ayurveda Treatment for Osteoporosis suggests…………

 

  • Developing regularity in life. …
  • Meditating on a regular schedule. …
  • Consuming– nourishing and easy-to-digest hot and cooked food. 

 

Moreover, ayurvedic treatments such as Panchakarma are practiced to, treat osteoporosis since ages.

So, let’s consult an expert to follow this age-old ayurvedic therapy—-

The ‘Madras Institute of Ayurveda’ (MIA) has a full-fledged out-patient and in-patient department with facilities for consultation in different specialties, regular check-ups, etc.  Successful treatment programs for an entire spectrum of diseases are offered.

Contact MI Ayurveda Clinic Chennai for any further questions you may have about Osteoporosis. You can also log on to www.miayurveda.org or call at +91-9444615161.

arthritis

Treating Arthritis chronic condition – With Ayurveda

Arthritis is a chronic condition of the joints in which the cartilage, cushioning the ends of the bones, gradually loses its elasticity and wears away. Without this cartilage, the bones begin to rub against each other, causing stiffness, inflammation and loss of movement. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis worldwide, with symptoms ranging from minor discomfort to debilitation. It can occur in any of the body’s joints but must often develops in hands and weight bearing joints including the knees, hips and spine.

How can ‘Natural Remedies’ help relieve pain in Arthritis?

Ayurveda is an ancient form of medicine that started in India. It uses nutrients, exercise and meditation together to encourage, good health. Combining certain nutrients and other supplements with modern medicine may be beneficial if you have arthritis. These natural treatments may help to ease some of the arthritis symptoms and help prevent progression. Natural herbs like turmeric, ginger, ashwagandha and a few others, have all been shown to reduce inflammation by interfering with the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body.

An Ayurvedic Approach in the Treatment of Arthritis…

Both Patients and Health care Professionals are seeking out alternative therapies, including “The Ancient Healing System Known as Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment”.  Studies show that Herbal Ayurvedic Therapy is very effective in treating knee osteoarthritis. An important principle in Arthritis is acknowledgment of the importance of emotional and spiritual aspects of health and healing. Health is achieved by balancing the body, mind and spirit as well.

How can we change our Wellbeing and Eventually relieve pain due to Arthritis—According to Ayurveda, the following are all beneficial to lead a pain free life—

*Meditation – provides a way to achieve balance. The practice of                  meditation also creates many physiological changes including reduction of inflammation in the body. Mind- Body practices have value as part of a treatment regimen for chronic pain caused by a variety of conditions. A mindful meditation can be useful in the treatment of pain syndromes. It’s a tool to diminish feelings of pain. During meditation our body enters a state of restful awareness. When we regularly practice it, the following benefits can be achieved—

-More efficient oxygen use by the body.

-Improved immune function and more restful sleep.

-Low cholesterol levels.

-Slower heart rate.

-Divert mind from pain.

*Yoga—is a time-honored science for balancing living. Since it focusses on balance, it helps alignment and improves biochemical imbalances that create stress on the joints. Misalignment of bones, dysfunctional movement patterns, lack of body awareness and poor posture, can all contribute to wear and tear of the cartilage. Yoga can retrain our body to move in ways that reduce stress on our joints. Yoga also keeps patients moving and reduces the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis overtime.

*Hot water fermentation is another way to relieve pain in arthritis, since it soothes the joints.

* Natural Relief from Arthritis— Keep an eye on your Weight, Exercise regularly, use hot and cold packs simultaneously on the painful areas, meditate, try acupuncture, include the right type of fatty foods in your diet and consider herbal supplement

Law of Nature—“Take care of every part of your body thoroughly, and the body will take care of you, in return” —–

 

Digestion

The Foundation of Good Eating Habits – With Ayurveda

‘The Act of eating’ is life giving and The Process of digestion, is the critical half of it!!! Benefits of right Eating Habits-Eating for maximum benefit requires awareness and is important for the development of consciousness as well as our physical health—

 

  • Stimulating Digestion- When we sit down to eat with our stomach in a relaxed posture and our awareness on the taste, texture and smell of the food, then digestion is greatly improved. For optimal digestion, our bodies need a suitable environment, for it to start an uplifting and a settled environment allows the body to process and absorb the nutrients from our meals. Standing, walking, driving and other similar activities can inhibit digestion.
  • Another way to improve digestion is stimulate the ‘Agni’ or Digestive fire in our stomach, before we begin eating. Weak digestive fire may result in fatigue after eating —

 

So, to handle this, “The Council of Maharishi Ayurveda Physicians” recommends Right Eating which include the following—

*Eat sitting down, in a settled environment, without the T.V on.

*Eat a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger with a few drops of lemon and a pinch of      salt, before a full meal. The blend of spices activates the salivary glands, producing the necessary enzymes to help digest the nutrients in the food and help support absorption by the body.

* Follow nature’s prescription of suitable times to eat. Our digestive system is closely tied to the solar cycle.

*Ayurveda suggests that lunch be the largest meal of the day, since that is the time when the digestive fire is at maximum potency. As the sun goes down, so does our digestive fire.

*Avoid ice-cold drinks and foods

*Chew food thoroughly.

*Stay Hydrated.

*Eat mindfully and only when hungry.

*Add healthy fats to your diet. Good Digestion requires eating enough fat.

Good Nutrition goes beyond eating foods that are fresh and wholesome. If the process of digestion is sluggish, the body creates sticky food residue called ‘Ama’, that can clog the channels in our body and hinder the process of assimilation. Proper digestion and metabolism on the other hand results in the conversion of the foods you eat into healthy body tissues.

A few Ayurvedic Dietary Rules—

-Leave 4 hours between meals with no snacking [Eating in between meals weakens the digestive fire].

-The sign that the previous meal is digested is when the breath is fresh.

-Drink hot water to stimulate the digestive fire [Agni]

-Eating foods with cold, wet and heavy qualities, weakens the Agni.

-Avoid contradicting food combinations, such as raw and cooked foods together and very hot and cold foods at the same time.

Therefore, what you eat can nourish and strengthen the digestive fire, boosting your digestive system—or on the other hand it can smother it, leading to an impaired, weakened or imbalanced Agni. So, the health goal is to balance this ‘Digestive Fire.’

“A diet of Simple Foods is the Best for your Gut”