The word ‘ayurveda’ means the study of life. It focuses on healthy living. In a broader sense it provides guidance for prevention of a disease by establishing and maintaining balance of the life energies within us. It is a system that believes in a collective approach towards the mind, body and soul for better living.
In todays present scenario it has become really important for each one of us to maintain a good health. With so much of pollution in the environment, food adulteration, untimely working hours and unhealthy lifestyle it has become mandatory for everyone to look after our health. That’s why the Ayurvedic way of life is to be followed in accordance with the present context. Ayurvedic life-regimens are simple, non-invasive, non-traumatic and generally do not interfere with other form of treatment.
With all the changes that the modern world has brought our lives have become more stressful and complex. Dealing with mounting crisis on a professional level; we do not devote time to our loved ones. The resultant is life-threatening diseases occurring at an earlier age, not able to cope with stress, irritability and aggressiveness. We need to develop a holistic approach towards life. Ayurveda can help us achieve this. It is a system of healing that has its origins in India and has evolved over 5000 years. It is based on accordance with the laws of nature. The fundamentals of Ayurveda revolve around the ‘tridosha theory’ of vata, pitta and kapha. These three universal energies regulate all natural processes on earth. It is very interesting how even one’s lifestyle needs are explained in Ayurveda based on constitutional types.
Yet another concept is ‘the agni concept’. Agni, meaning fire, is that source that stimulates all the biological processes of life. It helps in the transformation of one substance into another. Ayurveda attributes the etiology of all diseases to indigestion. The key function of agni is to promote digestion. When agni is healthy within ones body, one will be physiologically active, which includes good digestion, circulation, secretion of hormones, sharpened mental faculties, etc.
In the current modern world, we actually do not even have the right time to eat and let alone be able to obtain all the nutrients that our body require. In such scenario, the agni within our body becomes unhealthy. It is not ready to perform its function. This result in undigested food that forms an internal toxin, a substance called ‘ama’ in the ancient system of medicine. If proper attention is not given during this phase, then the ‘ama’ can spread throughout the body causing various diseases.
Ayurveda tells us that we need not wait till a disease develops within us. It gives in-depth knowledge about the pre-signs and symptoms before the development of a disease. It is human tendency not to pay heed to these minor signs because of work pressures. Often we hear that people are prone to specific illnesses during a particular season. It is interesting to learn that seasonal guidelines are provided in this science to keep all those unwanted ailments at bay. Not only does it offer dietary specifications but also guidelines to be followed in terms of sleeping habits, exercise and type of massage oils. For instance, during summer one needs to eat sweet, bitter and unctuous foods with a cooling effect on the body. It also advises sleep during the daytime in this season, not in any others.
Following Ayurvedic principles is not difficult. More and more individuals are moving toward nature for a better and healthier life. When it comes to health, there should be no wait and watch period. Simple modifications in our habits can help us enjoy our lives so much more.
For a more balanced, harmonious, and satisfying way of living the Ayurvedic approach is a great solution. We welcome each and every one to understand the concept of Ayurveda and its powers.