In a world dominated with hectic schedules, digital distractions and growing lifestyle diseases, wellness trends, supplements and self care routines have not only become a prerequisite but also a way of life. Amongst these wellness trends and expensive self-care routines, Ayurveda the ancient wisdom of life and holistic wellness takes us back to our roots and offers us the truth of simple healing that begins with using what we already have. It is not about the usage of costly oils or exotic herbs or even practicing rare rituals to benefit from Ayurveda. In fact, most of the Ayurvedic therapies can be practiced in day to day life without using any products with simply using your body, breath and mindful awareness as tools. In this guide, we shall be looking at some easy ayurvedic therapies which you can practice every day without any products.
The Ayurvedic Dinacharaya - following the sun
Ayurveda emphasizes on balance and rhythm and this starts with the din Acharya which is the daily routine. This can be done through natural healing at home. This basic principle of Ayurveda can be followed without any products based on the simple notion to live with the nature’s cycle.
How to practice it - Ayurveda emphasizes on waking up with the sun, hydrating the right way, practicing yoga and mindfulness and eating with the sun. This means that the biggest meal of your day should be in the afternoon when the sun is at its peak and also your digestive fire Agni is the strongest. Ayurveda recommends one to finish their last meal by the sunset so that their body can naturally prepare them for having a deep slumber.
Abhyangam, but without oil
Abhyanga means self-massage. Traditionally this practice involves the application of oil and sometimes even herbs to keep the body nourished and supple. There are multiple benefits of Abhyangam which not only stop at better blood circulation and pain relief, but also in engaging in the mindful art of healing and better lymphatic drainage.
How to practice it - You can practice it without oil by simply massaging your entire body in rhythmic circulations with apt amount of pressure to improve the flow of blood, awaken the tissues and connect with your body and mind. You can do this before or after your bath by tapping and massaging your limbs while maintaining the direction of the massage towards your heart.
Nasya and deep breathing
The word Nasya comes from the word nose. The traditional practice of Nasya involves the administration of medicated oils infused with herbs meant for nasal cleansing, opening up the sinuses and refreshing the mind to balance the flow of the energy. But, Nasya can also be done in a simplified version without oils.
How to practice it – In order to do this, firstly you should ensure to sit comfortably with your spine upright and deeply inhale through both the nostrils, hold the breath for a few seconds and slowly exhale. This should be done around 5 to 10 rounds preferably in the morning. Nasya not only helps up in clearing the nostrils, sinuses and mental tension, but also improves focus and relieves tension.
Oral and mental detox
In Ayurveda, food and diet is approached in a holistic manner. This includes the thoughts, emotions, and the sensory experiences behind it. So Ayurveda recommends one to clean their tongue every morning right after brushing their teeth to scrape off the Ama (toxins) accumulated in the mouth over the night. This is not only an effective means of cleaning the mouth but also keeping bad odour at bay.
How to practice it – It is very easy to find a tongue scraper in the form of twigs. But in case you don’t have one, you can use the backside of your brush or a spoon to gently remove the toxins. Similarly for the mental detox, you can just sit in silence and try to stay in the present to observe your thoughts. This allows you to take a pause from the mental race and set an intention mindfully for the day.
Eating mindfully, treating food as medicine
In Ayurveda food is treated as medicine. Ayurveda emphasizes on how one eats being more important than what you eat. So, mindful eating not only makes food the medicine but also improves digestion and reduces tiredness, indigestion as well as mood swings.
How to practice it- Ayurvedic weight loss therapy Kerala recommended by Lokah Ayurveda suggests one to practice mindful eating. Firstly you should eat only when you’re hungry and you can avoid screens and TV while you are eating. You should chew the food mindfully because digestion starts at the mouth and expressing gratitude before eating your meals practiced in the Indian tradition allows you to appreciate the source and the energy spend behind your meals.
Chankramana - healing through walking
In Ayurveda walking has been referred to as a three dosha activity as it is effective in balancing all the 3 doshas – Vata, Pitta and Kapha. When this is done mindfully, it not only becomes a physical exercise but a means of therapy.
How to practice it- In order to pursue healing through walking, you should firstly select a certain location and a time frame in which you would want to practice this. And even though people enjoy music while walking, it is recommended to avoid distractions once in a while to be able to stay present with your body for better regulation of emotions.
Conclusion
Is not about following costly products or elaborate routine or even going for expensive retreats, it’s about acknowledging the offerings of nature which reside in your body. Each of the above mentioned therapies aim at creating a balance which will help you grow stronger and remain healthy. The beauty of Ayurveda lies in its simplicity If you are someone looking for the best Ayurvedic therapies in Kerala you can get attached with Lokah Ayurveda run under the guidance of Dr Anu S Suman to experience authentic Ayurveda.