Coming from a family of Ayurvedic practitioners, Ayurveda has always been a part of my life. But it took me years and a personal experience to cement my trust in Ayurveda. I’ve diligently followed Ayurvedic practices in every aspect of my life since then. That includes things I have to avoid. Things I won’t do as an Ayurvedic doctor As an Ayurvedic doctor, here are 5 practices I would never do: Waking up late For many years, I have been waking up at 5 am – be it on a regular day, during weekends, or even when I am on vacation. My first consult starts at 6 am every day and I am proud to say my team who assists me in my morning consults are also early risers. Waking up early before sunrise is, in fact, the first Ayurvedic daily routine mentioned in the Samhitas. Additionally, this practice sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. Sleeping after 6 am I don’t do day naps. Like I always say, day napping is not for all. It is a Kapha increasing and Vata decreasing activity. You shouldn’t day nap if you are overweight or obese, consume oily and fatty foods excessively or if you have any Kapha-related conditions like diabetes, PCOS, hypothyroidism, etc. Having cold water/drinks/juices or raw salads Raw salads, cold drinks, cold juices, cold water – all of these are Vata increasing and make digestion sluggish. You cannot live an Ayurvedic life without, therefore, taking care of your Vata! Oiling hair overnight Leaving hair oil overnight is a 100% no-no for me. This may be a “traditional practice” but it is not an Ayurvedic practice. Leaving oil overnight, consequently, increases the mucous and accumulation in the body. Shower after meals As the sun sets, digestion also sets down. Hence if you eat after sunset, chances are you will not be able to digest the food completely leading to Ama- toxic waste build-up in the body. Showering is a cold practice. Digestion needs a warm environment. These two do not go well with each other. I try to take a shower 1 hour before a meal and never after a meal. If I have to, I would, however, do it after the meal has been completely digested. As an Ayurvedic doctor, these are some of the practices I often recommend to my patients to avoid. Following the above-mentioned practices has been helping me lead a healthy life. What are the changes you have brought to your life after you started following me? Let me know in the comments ❤️ You can join our Health Programs for mind and body detox. 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.