‘What is Ayurveda?’
whenever someone tries to search for the answer to this question one gets a typical definition that Ayurveda is an ancient traditional ‘alternative’ medical system finding its roots in India. It is ok till they use the words like ancient and traditional but what is not ok is to call it ‘alternative’. It is, in fact, one of the world’s oldest system for holistic wellness derived from nature to be specific- plants, the scope of which is much more than just providing treatments. It is the primary way of living, neither alternative nor useful only for treatments.
The word Ayurveda comes from two Sanskrit words- ‘ayu’ meaning life and ‘veda’ meaning science. Hence, it means the science of life and not science of disease or treatment.
The use of herbs in the holistic wellness started in Vedic period. However, the efforts to compile it systematically started around 3000 years ago in the foundational text called Samhitas- Charaka, Sushruta, Vagbhata and Sharangdhara. All of these books deals with various aspects of Ayurveda like medicine, surgery, diseases etc.
Ayurveda believes that every living organism in this universe is made up of five elements- Earth, Sky, Air, Fire and Water. Hence, we are all connected to each other. It is because of this reason that our wellness and health relies on co-existing in harmony with nature and its elements. However, if this harmony is imbalanced or stressed, we are likely to attract diseases and discomforts.
One may wonder how this balance and harmony be achieved. The answer lies in our daily routine i.e. diet, sleep, stress management and movement. However, it is not one size fits all. Ayurveda believes every individual is unique in itself and hence the diet, sleep, stress management and movement should be based on one’s prakriti or the body constitution.
We are guided by three types of energies, in Ayurveda called ‘doshas’- vata, pitta and kapha. A unique combination of these doshas/ energies shape us physically, mentally and emotionally. A breakout of any disease happens whenever there is an imbalance in any of these energies. Ayurveda aims to give solution to these imbalances at the root level - by methods like diet, lifestyle, herbs, daily routines and not just symptomatic solutions.
The following are certain fundamental Ayurvedic principles put forth to bring balance to the life:
1. Having a routine, dincharya: Ayurveda emphasizes on having a daily routine in harmony with nature. Wake up early before sun rise; starting the day with some herb infused warm water; eating as the sun progress i.e. heaviest meal at noon and lightest just before sun set; practicing gentle movements or yoga; meditation.
2. Figuring out one’s body type: Ayurveda believes one should choose food as one body type. For example, if somebody has vata dominant body, they should consume warm, moist and grounding food similarly a person having pitta dominant body should choose to eat cooling, light and mildly/ naturally sweet foods and kapha body type should have light, warm and spicy foods.
3. Strive to have strong Agni: As per Ayurveda, digestion is fundamental to health. A strong digestive fire or agni, as called in Ayurveda, helps in proper absorption of nutrition, eliminating toxins (Ama) from the body and hence attain stable metabolism. Digestive fire can be improved by having meals at regular time, not overstuffing food, skipping water at least 1 hr. before-after and during the meals.
4. Herbs to the rescue: Ayurvedic texts explore the scope of herbs extensively in various aspects like immunity, digestion, lifestyle diseases, energy, strength and so much more. However, it is important to always consult an expert before starting herbal supplements.
How to start your Ayurvedic journey:
First and foremost important factor is to identify your body type. Consuming foods and herbs as per your body type, improving your sleep cycle and eating during the window of sunrise and sunset.
The key take away:
In a world of chaos and trends, Ayurveda is one thing that is not a trend but a way of life. Listen to your body, live in harmony with nature and its elements, choose simple and natural ways, start small and be consistent with your daily routine, dincharya.
