Ageing is inevitable. But it does not mean that it has to be a tough or bitter experience. Instead, it should be considered as a graceful and meaningful journey.
With the help of Ayurveda, you can make the journey towards older age beautiful by focusing on improving the quality of your physical and mental well-being.
Take care of Yourself
According to Ayurveda, ageing is a natural process regulated by the three Doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
As we age, our Vata Dosha goes out of balance and we experience it through symptoms, such as dryness, weakness and difficulty in mobility. Therefore, balancing Vata Dosha is essential to remain healthy and active in the later years.
Ayurveda recommends many natural ways to keep your Vata Dosha in balance and help you stay healthy and active in your later years.
Change Your Lifestyle
Indeed, lifestyle changes can make a whole lot of difference in the way you age.
Follow a Daily Routine
Following a structured daily routine or Dinacharya has a strong positive influence over the Doshas and is healthy for the body.
- Morning rituals
Start the day with a glass of warm water in order to wash out toxins followed by some yoga or stretching exercises to keep your body flexible and, ultimately, disease-free.
- Oil massage (Abhyanga)
Use organic black sesame oil to do a full body massage before taking a shower.
It helps to moisten and feed the skin; moreover, it prevents the formation of cracks and, in addition, relieves Vata Dosha.
- Healthy breakfast
Consume a balanced, freshly cooked breakfast; consequently, you will have energy throughout the day.
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Have a Balanced Diet
While planning for a meal, include foods that are fresh and organic and are light on the tummy.
You can seek the help of an Ayurvedic doctor for guidance regarding your diet.
- Have warm, cooked foods
As you age, your digestion may be compromised and your body may not be able to absorb nutrients properly.
Therefore, it is advisable to go for warm, cooked meals rather than raw, cold or heavy foods that may cause indigestion.
- Consume anti-ageing foods
Increase the intake of foods that can help counter the oxidative stress such as berries, green leafy vegetables and nuts.
- Stay hydrated
Have plenty of water and, in addition, herbal teas to help detoxify your body.
Sleep well
Sleep is an essential factor for overall wellness.
- Have adequate sleep
It is important that one gets quality sleep in order to be healthy and alert.
- Establish a sleep routine
Be consistent with your sleep and wake up timings. This helps to set your body clock efficiently.
- Create a calming environment
Declutter your bedroom by getting rid of all the electronic gadgets and things that may distract you at night.
- Practice relaxation techniques
Do activities that will help you relax, such as listening to music or reading a book, before sleeping.
Try Detoxification
Detoxification, therefore, flushes out toxins from the body and, as a result, revitalizes tissues.
- Seasonal detox
Discuss with an Ayurvedic doctor, and choose one suitable detox program at the beginning of every season. Detoxifying not only purifies your body but also improves your energy levels.
- Herbal teas
Have herbal teas that support liver functions and, furthermore, remove toxins from the body
Ayurvedic Practices for Ageing
Apart from diet and lifestyle practices, Ayurveda also recommends certain practices that help you age well.
Yoga and Exercise
Physical exercise is vital so as to keep your body in the best shape possible.
- Yoga
Perform relatively low impact movements; consequently, these exercises help in the flexibility of joints. Try Bitilasana Marjariasana (Cat-Cow pose), Balasana (child’s pose) and Pashchimottanasana (seated forward bend pose).
- Daily walks
Take about 45-60 minutes walks daily. It improves blood circulation; as a result, it makes you feel better and more energised.
- Strength training
Lift weights of a lighter category in order to help in sustaining muscles and bones; furthermore, this approach can also promote overall strength and endurance.
Mindfulness and Meditation
Your mental health is also of great importance in healthy ageing.
- Meditation
Incorporate meditation into your daily routine. This not only helps lower stress levels, but also enhances the ability to focus, and furthermore, improves general mental health.
- Mindful breathing
Practise deep breathing techniques like Pranayama.
- Gratitude practice
Learn to appreciate what is around you by trying, for instance, to focus on the positive things. For instance, try gratitude journaling. This reduces stress and helps you sleep well.
Social Connections
Social relationships are indeed important for one’s emotional well-being and to the process of ageing.
- Stay connected
Staying connected with your loved ones makes you feel less lonely and also has a good effect on your mental health.
- Community involvement
Engaging in community programs or volunteer work not only keeps you busy, but also makes you useful to others.
- Pursue hobbies
Learn to get involved in some activities or sports; in fact, these pursuits will undoubtedly help you find happiness in life.
Above all, keep your Doshas balanced and work on maintaining your overall health.
We cannot prevent ageing. But we can definitely work on ageing in a healthy way.
By following the above-mentioned Ayurvedic tips, you can support your body and mind as you age, maintain vitality, and enjoy a higher quality of life.
So, what steps are you taking to age gracefully? Let us know in the comments!
If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit us at our hospital.