Is Ayurveda relevant in modern times?
Is Ayurveda going to die?
I come across these questions a lot.
Recently, I read an article in Forbes about the investment opportunity of gold versus Bitcoin. It talked about the fragility of Bitcoin compared to Gold. This is because gold has been in existence for a very long time. While talking about this fragility, the article mentioned something called ‘the Lindy effect’.
Intrigued, I dug deeper into it. The Lindy effect says that any concept, any idea, and any nonperishable thing; the older it is, the longer it is going to stay in the future.
Naturally, this made me think about Ayurveda. It’s been here for over 5,000 years. So, if the Lindy effect holds true, Ayurveda isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
But what does Ayurveda look like in today’s world? Let’s take a closer look.
Modern or Ancient times, Ayurveda is timeless
Ayurveda is often perceived as an alternative medicine. It means the treatment that is used instead of standard treatments which are based on scientific research.
Sadly, this perception discourages many from switching to Ayurveda. Instead, they opt Ayurveda as their last resort when everything else does not work for them.
Ayurveda isn’t just about treating diseases, it’s also a way of living a balanced and fulfilling life. It focuses on creating harmony between the body, mind and soul, thus creating a sense of overall well-being.
What’s truly amazing about Ayurveda is that even after so many centuries, it remains as relevant as ever. Ayurveda has solutions to almost all health conditions, including those of modern times
Though the British invasion in India had dimmed its light for a while with modern medicine taking its place, today, more people are turning to Ayurveda. The pandemic has especially pushed people into considering natural ways to heal than just popping pills.
Ayurveda’s modern-day comeback
Did you know that India has a special ministry called AYUSH? It stands for Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, and its sole purpose is to promote these traditional practices.
The Indian government is taking steps, such as integrating Ayurveda into healthcare systems through schemes like the “Ayushman Bharat” health initiative. They are also funding research to validate the scientific basis of Ayurvedic methods and make them available to nearly everybody.
Ayurveda is not limited to a region today. The interest in Ayurveda has been increasing in recent years. My patients from across the world are the best proof!
Ayurveda and the Lindy effect
How does Ayurveda connect with the Lindy effect?
It’s simple: Ayurveda is not only ancient but well-proven and enduring. For thousands of years, it has confronted health problems by fighting their underlying causes rather than just their symptoms. Its focus on prevention, personalised care, and harmony with nature has stood the test of time.
The principles do seem more relevant than ever in today’s fast-moving world. Ayurveda emphasises slowing down, being mindful, listening to your body, and incorporating practices that promote long-term health.
Now, think about it. If something has been working for over 5,000 years, won’t it be serving humanity for thousands more?
Challenges Ayurveda faces in modern times
Despite its growing popularity, there are a few challenges that pose as a hurdle for the spread of real, authentic Ayurveda:
Lack of awareness
Many regard Ayurveda as obsolete or non-scientific without realizing its fundamentals. In fact, Ayurveda is way more scientific and research based than any other medical system.
Also, there’s a general notion that all Ayurvedic medicines are safe. But the truth is many Ayurvedic medicines use strong herbs and heavy metals that can pose serious health threats if not consumed in the right doses. I, personally, abstain from using any strong metal herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatawari and Shilajit in my medicines. It’s always better to buy medicines from a qualified Ayurvedic doctor that they prepare at their clinic.
Quality concerns
Even when people are made to believe in Ayurveda, problems such as adulteration and substandard products have emerged.So, either go for trusted brands or buy products from an Ayurvedic doctor who prepares them traditionally at their clinic.
Slow but sustained outcomes
Ayurveda doesn’t provide quick fixes. Popping a pill for headache might provide relief within 5 minutes but the long term side-effects are inevitable. On the other hand, Ayurveda focuses on treating the root cause i.e. triggers, improving diet and working on your breathing. This takes time, but results are permanent without any harm.
Wrong practice
I feel ashamed to say this but the major threat to Ayurveda is Ayurvedic doctors themselves – the doctors prescribing Panchkarma to every patient, prescribing only patented medicines to support pharma companies, prescribing modern medicines along with Ayurveda, prescribing wrong dosages and not telling patients when to stop, not recommending a customised diet plan, etc.
Overcoming these hurdles can make Ayurveda even more powerful and accessible for all.
Ayurveda in everyday life
The beauty of Ayurveda lies in its simplicity. You don’t need fancy treatments or expensive products to incorporate its principles into your life. Here are some easy ways to get started:
Follow a daily routine (Dinacharya)
Wake up early, drink warm water, practice yoga, and eat meals at regular intervals. Dinacharya builds a sense of discipline in your life.
Download my ebook for free to learn more about Dinacharya.
Seasonal adjustments (Ritucharya)
Adjust your diet and habits according to the seasons. For example, have cooling foods in summer and warming foods in winter.
Focus on digestion
Ayurveda believes “Agni” (digestive fire) is the key to health. Avoid overeating and include spices like ginger and cumin in your meals.
Practice mindfulness
Involve all your senses in everything you do, including having food. This helps you focus and have control over your actions.
My Ayurvedic journey
I was born in a family of Ayurvedic doctors for generations. So, Ayurveda has always been a part of my life. But I realised the relevance of Ayurveda when I experienced its wonders personally, which led me to choose Ayurveda as my career.
What the future holds
With today’s technology and growing interest, Ayurveda’s future looks bright. While the treatment methods remain authentic, as per the ancient Ayurvedic texts or Samhitas, the use of modern amenities will lessen the distance between Ayurveda and the world.
You can consult with doctors online from any corner of the world and even have your medicines delivered at your doorsteps. The possibilities are endless!
Ayurveda isn’t just history – it’s a guide for the future. Whether you’re dealing with a health issue or just want to live a balanced life, Ayurveda has something to offer. The Lindy effect tells us it’s here to stay, and so are its benefits!
So, why not choose real Ayurveda?
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.