All about Ayurveda

Charaka Samhita states ‘Evamkurvati hi arogya-bala-varna-samvahana-sampadamupetamjnatinamshreshtamapatyamjanayati’. If a pregnant woman is taken care of as advised, she will give birth to a child who does not have any diseases - a healthy, physically strong, radiant and well nourished baby. Advice on Preconception Just as a healthy seed bears healthy fruit, if the parent’s sperm and ovum are healthy then the child is more likely to inherit a healthy gene and immunity. Conversely if parents conceive when mentally or physically weak this may impact negatively on the child’s condition. Ayurveda suggests parents observe a preconception regime called Vajikarana. The aim of Vajikarana is to enable a couple to produce healthy offspring. About six months before conception an Ayurveda physician prescribes a personalized purification and rejuvenation regime for the couple to ensure optimal ovum and sperm quality and quantity. For a couple to produce healthy offspring

Clearing of bowels is a step towards good health. There is a feeling of being uncomfortable and routine work is hampered when the bowels of a person are not cleared. Though the disease of constipation has not been discussed separately in Ayurvedic texts, its occurrence as a symptom of various diseases and ways to tackle it has been described. Constipation is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts by the name of Vibandha meaning obstructing or binding of stool. Vibandha occurs when something is wrong somewhere in our food habits. Ayurveda internal medicines along with changes in diet and lifestyle help relieve constipation.    Simple tips to relieve and prevent constipation One should increase water intake. Drink small sips of water, preferably warm water at frequent intervals.     Take fiber rich diet. Diet should compose mainly of freshly cooked vegetables, soups and fresh fruits. Cereals such as barley, wheat, oat, w

Vision is the priceless gift from God, blessing us to enjoy the beauty of this world. Eyes, being the most delicate organ in the human body, need special care. Today, millions of people in our country are deprived of God-given gift of vision. Unfortunately, many people do not take good care of their eyes. In course of time they do harm to their eyes due to carelessness and by not taking necessary steps to protect the eyesight, eventually leading to fatal damages. Ayurvedic ophthalmology or 'Netra Chikitsa' as it is known is a well-documented branch of Ayurveda, the ancient holistic medical science. Today's life style and work atmosphere along with the use of modern appliances and gadgets for work and entertainment, like televisions and computers are taking a heavy toll on the general health and well being of eyes. People tend to forget that eyes too need exercise as well as rest for its proper functioning. Working for continuous long hours before computer or watch

Shirodhara is commonly called as the third eye treatment. Shirodhara is a special treatment, where medicated oil is poured on the forehead and head in a systematic manner. This is said to cure psychiatric and neurological ailments. After a head massage, the soothing and fragrant oils flow in a continuous, rhythmic stream for approximately 30 minutes over the forehead with the patient in the lying position. Mode of action - As the oil strokes the third eye, it has a balancing effect on the deepest recesses of the brain, stimulating the endocrine system, the pituitary and pineal glands (relieves hormonal upsets) and pleasure neurotransmitters (relieves fear, trauma or emotional insecurity). The procedure is also said to synchronize alpha brain waves, enhancing blood circulation to the brain, improving mental clarity and generally releasing deeply trapped toxins (called ama in ayurveda). It releases serotonin and encourages a balance of mind body & spirit.

Stress build-up in our brain can lower our immunity, increases our susceptibility to diseases, increases the levels of blood cholesterol and other lipids, exacerbates pain and increases the risk of death from cardiovascular diseases. Ayurveda advises us to follow Achara Rasayana (Code of good conduct) for a healthy and happy life. Effective management of stress is a way to healthy mental and physical health. One has to make changes in his daily routine and find time to practice the following Ayurvedic advises. 1. A night bath in warm water aids a good night and restful sleep. 2. Ritucharya (Seasonal regimen) – Our individual nature must also flow in harmony with nature and natural cycles of life. As the leaves and the trees change color in the fall and birds migrate to South in winters, they are innate organic calls to maintain balance. Simple seasonal adjustments to our routine play a critical role in maintaining health. 3. Exercise - Exercise is not only good