Medicinal Plants in Ayurveda for Balancing Kapha Dosha

Kapha Dosha is responsible for giving structure and lubrication to the body. When balanced, Kapha gives us strength, protects against diseases and keeps us calm. But if it’s out of balance, it can cause weight gain, congestion and tiredness. My treatment for Dosha imbalances majorly involves dietary and lifestyle correction. And if necessary, It includes medicines in the treatment that aligns with the patients’ Prakriti (body type), Dosha imbalances and health conditions. The medicines are made in my unit using Ayurvedic medicinal Plants through traditional methods as mentioned in ancient Ayurvedic texts or Samhitas.    The Ayurvedic texts have mentions of an array of medicinal plants that help balance your Doshas. In this blog, let us discuss the top herbs that help balance Kapha Dosha.      5 Potent Medicinal Plants to Balance Kapha Dosha     These are some of the top medicinal plants that can help balance your Kapha Dosha:   Turmeric     Turmeric or Haridra is a bright yellow spice that comes from the dried rhizome of a plant in the ginger family. It’s a superstar in Ayurveda, known for its many healing properties. The herb is particularly effective in balancing Kapha Dosha. Its warming, dry and light qualities counteract Kapha’s heavy and moist nature.   Benefits   Anti-inflammatory Properties: One of the most amazing things about turmeric is its curcumin content. This compound helps reduce inflammation, which is great for managing Kapha.    Digestion: Turmeric supports the digestive fire or Agni, aiding digestion and metabolism. This is especially helpful for people with Kapha body types, who often struggle with slow digestion.    Detoxification: Another fantastic benefit of turmeric is its ability to support liver function and eliminate toxins (Ama) from the body. I often feel lighter and more energized when I regularly include turmeric in my diet.   How to Use   Turmeric is a staple ingredient in almost all Indian dishes. So, I would say it is the best way to incorporate turmeric into your routine.   You can add it as an ingredient to curries and soups or use its powder to make tea. Also, you can combine it with warm milk to make turmeric milk, which is great for coughs and colds, getting a good sleep and alleviating period cramps.   If you prefer, you can take turmeric supplements, but it’s always a good idea to consult with an Ayurvedic doctor first.    Ginger     Ginger, known as Shunti in Sanskrit, is a versatile herbal option to balance your Kapha Dosha. It has warming and stimulating properties that help in energizing the body and fighting off problems associated with Kapha, such as feeling “sluggish” or “congested.”   Benefits   Digestive Health: Works as a good appetizer and helps to improve digestion by enhancing the Agni. This reduces the accumulation of Ama as well as ensures that the food gets digested properly.   Respiratory Health: Works as an expectorant and helps remove mucus from the respiratory tract. This not only helps in relieving congestion but also makes breathing easier.   Weight Control: The herbs are able to enhance metabolism and help in weight reduction. It can prove to be especially effective if there is a Kapha vitiation in the individual’s body.   How to Use   Ginger can be used as an ingredient in cooking. You can also add it to teas, juices, smoothies, or can even be used as a spice in cooking. Ginger supplements are another option. But it is safe to consult an Ayurvedic doctor before trying them out.   Trikatu       Trikatu is a blend of three powerful spices: black pepper, long pepper (Pippali) and dry ginger. The strong heating and stimulating properties of this combination is great for balancing Kapha Dosha.   Benefits   Metabolic Booster: Trikatu helps enhance your metabolism and boosts your Agni, which helps your body process food more efficiently.   Detoxification: It helps your body get rid of Ama, reducing the risk of Kapha-related issues.   Respiratory Health: Trikatu is also good for clearing respiratory congestion and improving lung function.   How to Use   You can take Trikatu powder with honey or warm water. It’s also available in tablet form. As always, it’s best to consult with an Ayurvedic doctor before starting any new supplement.   Tulsi     Tulsi or Holy Basil is an important herb used in Ayurveda due to its numerous health benefits. It has the added advantage of helping to decrease Kapha Dosha due to its light, dry, and warm nature.   Benefits   Respiratory Support: Tulsi has a good effect on the respiratory passage and thins the mucus therefore; it is of great value in the case of Kapha respiratory disorders.   Stress Relief: It is an adaptogenic agent since it can help the body deal with stress to the point of sharpening your mind.   Immune Support: Tulsi also helps to strengthen the body’s defense and increases the body’s capability to fight diseases and infections.   How to Use   Tulsi can be consumed raw or the leaves may be boiled to prepare a tea or it can be used as a seasoning while preparing a particular dish. Tulsi capsules/tinctures are also available for those who do not want to consume leaves or Tulsi powder.   Also Read: Health Benefits of Tulsi   Cinnamon     Cinnamon or Twak in Sanskrit is a warm spice that helps in moderating Kapha Dosha. Due to its Pungent and hot like qualities, it can be used to balance excess Kapha Dosha.   Benefits   Blood Sugar Regulation: Cinnamon has a healing effect on blood sugar. Since blood sugar level is a major determinant of metabolism and weight, cinnamon is of great help.   Improved Circulation: It stimulates blood flow which combats Kapha’s tendency to cause lethargy.   Digestive Aid: Cinnamon helps in digestion and aids in getting rid of digestive problems like bloating and indigestion.   How to Use   Cinnamon is best added to teas,… Continue reading Medicinal Plants in Ayurveda for Balancing Kapha Dosha

Maintaining Kidney Health With Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, the kidney is an essential organ that remove toxins from the body and keep the fluid equilibrium in the body. They are an important part of the Mutravahasrotas (urinary system). Taking care of our kidneys becomes essential in an environment where stress, poor eating habits and environmental pollutants are becoming more and more common. Ayurvedic principles can help us build the lifespan, health and resilience in our daily lives.  The ageless knowledge of Ayurveda provides direction for cultivating ideal well-being from within, whether your goal is to support renal health difficulties already present or prevent kidney-related problems in the first place.  This article examines practical advice and Ayurvedic ideas for maintaining kidney health and avoiding kidney problems.    Root Causes of Kidney Weakness in Ayurveda   In Ayurveda, kidney weakness is frequently linked to a Vata, Pitta and Kapha imbalance in the body and other lifestyle variables. The following factors can affect the health of your kidney, as per Ayurveda:    Imbalanced Doshas   The kidneys can become abnormal due to excess Vata, Pitta or Kapha Doshas. An imbalance of Vata may induce dryness and exhaustion, an imbalance of Pitta can produce inflammation and excessive heat and an imbalance of Kapha can cause kidney congestion and slowdown.    Poor Digestion   Toxins (Ama) can build up in the body because of poor digestion, which can be brought on by excessive consumption, irregular eating patterns, or eating foods incompatible with one’s constitution (Prakriti). Over time, kidney function may be impacted by these pollutants.   Dehydration   When there is insufficient intake of fluids, particularly water, the kidneys struggle to filter waste materials from the blood, which can contribute to dehydration. Dehydration for an extended period may lead to renal problems, including kidney stones.    Poor Diet   An excessive intake of processed meals, refined sugars, fatty foods and salt can strain the kidneys and cause them to deteriorate. A diet low in whole grains, fresh produce and other nutrients deprives the body of vital elements required for healthy kidney function.    Inactive Lifestyle   Not moving around much can hinder metabolism and circulation, which can cause Ama build up in the body. Regular exercise supports kidney health by assisting in appropriate circulation and cleansing.   Stress   Emotional tension and mental strain might weaken the kidneys and upset the Dosha balance, according to Ayurveda. Over time, renal function may be compromised by adrenal exhaustion brought on by ongoing stress.  It is possible to naturally restore balance and increase kidney function by addressing these underlying reasons using Ayurvedic concepts including food change, stress management, herbal therapies and lifestyle adjustments. Consult with a skilled Ayurvedic practitioner for tailored advice and assistance in treating kidney weakness naturally.   Improving the health of the kidney through Ayurveda   Ayurveda offers complete methods to support overall health as well as the health of the kidneys. The idea of balance—achieving a state of equilibrium among the body, mind and spirit to preserve maximum health—is fundamental to Ayurvedic philosophy.  Here are some Ayurvedic ways to protect your kidneys.   Diet   Ayurvedic kidney treatment is primarily based on dietary corrections, ensuring that your diet is balanced. The kidneys receive vital nutrients when entire, unprocessed diets like fresh produce, whole grains, beans, and lean meats are prioritized. It can promote the kidneys’ optimal function to avoid items that load them, such as processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and excessive salt.   Ayurvedic herbs   Herbs from Ayurveda are essential for supporting kidney function and cleansing. Among the herbs frequently used to support the kidneys are Punarnava, Gokshura, Varuna, Chandraprabha and Shilajit. These herbs support general renal function, help cleanse the kidneys and eliminate toxins. However, do not take any of these herbs without the prescription from a qualified Ayurvedic doctor.       Hydration    In Ayurveda, kidney health is largely dependent on hydration. Throughout the day, sipping warm or room-temperature water promotes healthy kidney function, helps eliminate toxins and keeps kidney stones from forming.   Stress Management   An essential component of Ayurveda’s kidney health strategy, moreover, is stress management. Stress-relieving techniques like yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises support the body’s balance and vitality by easing mental and emotional tension.   Lifestyle changes   The emphasis is on lifestyle changes to maintain kidney health. Overall kidney strength is influenced by keeping a healthy weight, exercising often, obtaining enough rest and sleep, and abstaining from practices that harm the kidneys, such as smoking and excessive drinking.    Detoxification   Ayurveda suggests using gentle detoxification techniques to help the kidneys and remove toxins from the body. Seasonal detoxification treatments, dietary modifications and techniques like self-massage (Abhyanga) encourage detoxification and circulation.   Dinacharya    Creating a daily routine (Dinacharya) that aligns with the body’s natural cycles aids in keeping the kidneys and other organs in harmony and balance. Daily Ayurvedic practices including oil pulling, tongue scraping, and nose cleaning promote general health and vigor.   Through everyday use of these Ayurvedic practices, people can strengthen their kidneys, encourage good renal function, and avert kidney-related problems. Speaking with a trained Ayurvedic practitioner may promote a comprehensive approach to kidney health and well-being by offering individualized advice and suggestions based on each person’s requirements and imbalances.   Additional Tips   Here are some additional tips to promote kidney health:    Avoid overeating   Avoid overeating, as this can strain the kidneys and overburden the digestive system. Eat slowly, give your food a good chewing motion, and stop once full. Steer clear of large, oily, and spicy meals – especially after dark – as these can cause problems with renal function and upset stomachs.    Keep a Healthy Weight   Kidney disease is more likely in those who are obese. Eat a balanced diet and engage in regular exercise to stay at a healthy weight. Engage in enjoyable physical activities, such as yoga, swimming, or walking, to not only assist your metabolism but also enhance your general health.   Limit Intake… Continue reading Maintaining Kidney Health With Ayurveda

Kapha Time is Here! Ayurveda’s Secrets for Staying Balanced

Changing seasons can have an effect on your Doshas. That’s why it is important to understand your Dosha imbalances with each season and find the best practices that would help you to adapt and be in good health despite the changes. Kapha season usually refers to late winter and spring.   The season is typically cold, damp and stagnant. Known as Shishira Ritu in Ayurveda, this is the season where Kapha Dosha gains dominance and your Agni (digestive fire) is at its peak.    Identifying Kapha   Kapha people are most likely to have a compact big-boned structure. They have deep-set eyes and strong hair, and tend to gain weight.    Excessive Dosha can manifest as chest and lung or nasal congestions. It can also cause digestive problems due to a sluggish gut. Emotional factors might create overeating & end up in gaining weight.  Kapha’s imbalance is also associated with sadness and emotional turbulence.    It tends to favour a lethargic sedentary lifestyle. Individuals who have heightened the Dosha are likely to suffer from diabetes, gallstones, hypertension, varicose veins and oedema.    Symptoms of Kapha imbalance   A Kapha imbalance is usually marked by the following symptoms: Lethargy Excessive sleepiness Nausea Constipation Indigestion   Ayurvedic tips to balance kapha   Ayurveda works on the principles of Doshas – Vata, Kapha and Pitta. While each of us has a unique proportion of each of the Doshas, a predominant Dosha tends to increase more quickly than the others.    Kapha season tends to bring on the qualities and symptoms of excess stagnation. Its dominance  is represented as a heavy sluggish tendency, it is characterized by heaviness and slow gait. An imbalance in this can lead to stubbornness. Trying out new routines or interests can stimulate a lethargic mind.   As per Ayurveda, a healthy balance can be restored by following a lifestyle, food regimen, and exercise pattern. A vigorous self-massage with warm organic sesame oil is prescribed to invigorate the stagnant Kapha. Sesame oil abhyanga aids in balancing Kapha Dosha.    Kapha season is when the dosha is dominant. It is characterized by slow movements and grounding qualities. Those people who are prone to it must keep their feet warm and protect their chests from cold breezes.   Opt for warm food and steer clear of raw food as well as frozen foods and beverages. The consumption of bitter and astringent tastes has lowering effects on it.    Waking up before sunrise can also  be very beneficial to a Kapha personality. Do not sleep late into the day. An early start can help balance this dosha .   A glass of warm water can help activate your bowels and cleanse your body as a persons tend to suffer from constipation. Clearing of the nasal passage will provide relief from the symptoms.    Ayurvedic tips to welcome the Kapha season   Keeping warm is intrinsic to handling the Kapha season. Avoid cold and damp places. Consume warm meals, warm teas, warm water and nuts. Add Tulsi or mint leaves to your tea to stimulate the digestive system. Consumption of warm beverages and sipping hot water throughout the day help in heating and detoxifying.   Stay warm. Move out of cold damp spaces and choose warm dry places.    Kapha season tends to bring lethargy. It might herald the onslaught of depressive and stagnant thoughts and feelings. Ensure that you engage and rev up your psychological well-being.   Another often-noticed fallout of the Kapha season is the lack of energy. It can get exacerbated due to stress and inadequate sleep.  Its combat imbalance, therefore, with good sleep hygiene, can significantly improve energy levels   Activity is crucial for balancing the dosha. Yoga can help significantly during the Kapha season. You can balance Kapha by combining pranayama with yoga to ensure sufficient circulation and strengthen the respiratory system.    Alternate nose breathing works wonders for its imbalance.  You can also incorporate Surya Namaskar into your yoga routine. Activate your body during the mornings and evenings with yoga and daily walks.   Consume seasonal fruits like oranges, pears and apples. However, avoid very sour fruits. Also, do not consume heavy fruits like coconut, bananas, and dates.    Incorporate turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, fennel, and nutmeg as they can help generate heat. These spices will pacify and stimulate the digestive system.     Correcting Kapha imbalance   Ayurveda can help you manage Kapha imbalance with lifestyle modifications and the right diet. Your diet must neutralize its properties. Since it is light and cool, warm and dry foods can help restore the balance.    Foods that are light and spiced can help curtail the tendency to overeat. Heavy foods, on the other hand, tend to burden the system and, consequently, worsen Kapha symptoms. Oily and pungent foods aggravate Kapha.    Kapha tends to produce plenty of moist mucus and it is therefore recommended to eat dry foods with minimal ghee or oil. You can include grains, beans and seeds. Ayurveda does not recommend consuming buttermilk and milk products during its season.   Kapha is often aggravated by milk products. However, you can consider adding yoghurt or ghee to your diet. The consumption of wheat must be reduced too. Avoid processed foods and refined sugar. Sweets might increase the lethargic feeling. Refined foods have hardly any fibre; therefore, they can aggravate it   Ayurvedic Herbs to Combat Kapha Dosha   Ayurvedic herbs that can support Kapha include Trikatu, Bibhitaki,  and Arjuna.   People use bibhitaki, a traditional herb, to treat throat infections and other ailments related to its imbalance. Its anti-oxidant properties relieve stress and improve gastrointestinal functioning.   Turmeric has significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It works, therefore, as a soothing agent on the digestive system and, in addition, prevents the growth of yeast and bacteria.   Ginger provides relief from digestive issues and nausea. It works on diseases such as poor digestion and, furthermore, sinusitis.   You can welcome the kapha season with simple lifestyle routines such as slowing… Continue reading Kapha Time is Here! Ayurveda’s Secrets for Staying Balanced

Dosha Personality Types in Ayurveda

In a world bustling with ambitions and dreams, motivation becomes the fuel that propels us forward. But have you ever wondered why some people are naturally driven while others struggle to find their inner spark?  Enter Ayurveda, which offers profound insights into the diverse spectrum of personality types that are influenced by different factors, like Dosha.      According to Ayurvedic principles, each individual possesses a unique constitution, or “Prakriti,” determined by the balance of the three Doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These Doshas govern not only our physical health but also our mental tendencies and emotional inclinations.     Understanding the Doshas    Before we delve further into how your personality and motivation type varies with your Dosha predominance, first let us understand each Dosha.      Every living being in the universe is made up of five elements or the Panchamahabhutas – earth, air, water, fire and ether. In our body, we have these 5 elements in various proportions. Depending on the proportion of these 5 elements, we categorise people into Vata, Pitta and Kapha.       Vata Vata has more of air element. Just like how air is moving and unstable, Vata people are highly dynamic.       Pitta Pitta means fire, and fire means aggression and passion. Similarly, Pitta people are consistent.       Kapha For Kapha, Earth element is predominant. Kapha people are sluggish, slow, lazy and lethargic.      Nobody has one single Dosha. Everybody is a combination of two or sometimes even a combination of all the Doshas together.      There are tons of Dosha and Prakriti quizzes online to identify your personality type. But most of them are not accurate. The best way to identfy your Prakriti or Dosha predominance is by consulting an Ayurvedic doctor.    Personality Types Based on Dosha Predominance    Your personality can vary based on your Dosha predominance.      Vata Person   If you are a creative visionary who is artistic, inspirational, with a naturally thin body type, dry skin and often having difficulties sleeping well, you are a Vata person.     Think Steve Jobs, Sundar Pichai, Amitabh Bachchan!      Vatas have their mind all over the place. Their mind hovers around 100 different thoughts at a time. They are restless and find it difficult to focus on a single task and lose interest and focus easily. Vatas always face a ‘this or that’ situation in their mind when it comes to making decisions.       If you ask me, I am a Vata person – super creative and super unorganized with a super wandering mind. I keep changing my mind, constantly wondering, ‘should I do this or that?’      Vata is a mixture of elements Air and Ether. It is free-flowing, light-spirited, ever moving. A balanced Vata makes you a visionary, creative, dreamer who is full of ideas.      The downside is you start a million projects and leave them unfinished because your mind is always wandering, moving from one job to another. Change drives you, while routine and regularity bring you boredom. And that’s why your motivation is easy come, easy go.      However, this is not a problem, but this is who you are!      So, the best thing to do is to not be fixated on doing just one thing for a long period. Instead, split your time to do different kinds of things and then rotate the same set of things.       Just like how your motivation comes and goes easily, it isn’t hard for you to be excited again about something. Also, you can organise your day by giving yourself a deadline.         Pitta Person    Pittas in Ayurveda are the passionate bosses we all have had. They are ambitious, sharp, disciplined, determined and powerful, yet impatient, irritable, angry, and fierce with a strong drive to accomplish whatever they set their mind to.       They have a fire in them to win, to accomplish and be successful. Also, they are steady and consistent. Think Beyonce. She is not bossy; she is the boss in her own words. That’s perfect Pitta.       P️ittas are highly motivated people and their ambitions can sometimes go beyond their capabilities, leading to burnout.       So, like I said for Pittas, embrace who you are.       The truth is that, in fact, society is designed in such a way as to help Pitta people succeed.  So, you can tone down your righteousness and emotions which can save you from conflicts with other people who do not match your motivation style. You can then focus on your ultimate goal without experiencing burn out.         Kapha Person    A Kapha person is slow, steady and resilient like the earth. They are the ever-flowing love and care we all yearn to receive.      I like to call it the “mom energy.” Kaphas are the most nurturing and supportive that you just want to give them a hug and tell them all your life’s problems.      Think Oprah!     About their motivation style, Kaphas are slow to start but are powerful once engaged. However, being very self-critical, they get anxious when their progress is slow.       The best thing to do is to accept that this is who you are – you may start slow, but as you progress, you gain speed and can be at your productive best. All you have to do is to be patient.       Whether you resonate with the airy whims of Vata, the fiery ambition of Pitta, or the steadfast resolve of Kapha, remember that true motivation springs from a harmonious balance of mind, body and spirit. Embrace your innate nature, honour your unique journey and let Ayurveda lead you to a fulfilling life.     So, which dosha personality type are you?       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.… Continue reading Dosha Personality Types in Ayurveda

Summer Heat – How to Stay Cool with Ayurveda

The arrival of summer brings with it a plethora of delights – long days, outdoor adventures, and an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. However, for some, the sweltering heat of summer can also bring discomfort, especially if you’re prone to imbalances in your Doshas, particularly Pitta Dosha. In Ayurveda, Doshas are the three elemental forces that govern our physical and mental well-being. With summer health in mind, let’s explore a few Ayurvedic tips to stay cool and balanced in summer according to your Dosha.   Understanding the Three Doshas   Before delving into specific strategies for staying cool in summer, it’s essential to understand the three Doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Each Dosha is composed of a combination of the five elements – ether, air, fire, water and earth and is responsible for various physiological and psychological functions in the body.   Vata Dosha: Governed by the elements of air and ether, Vata is characterized by qualities such as cold, dry, light and mobile. Imbalances in Vata Dosha can manifest as anxiety, dry skin, and digestive issues.   Pitta Dosha: Associated with the elements of fire and water, Pitta is characterized by qualities such as hot, sharp, oily and intense. Imbalances in Pitta Dosha may lead to irritability, inflammation, and digestive disturbances.   Kapha Dosha: Composed of the elements of water and earth, Kapha is characterized by qualities such as heavy, slow, cold, and stable. Imbalances in Kapha Dosha can result in lethargy, congestion, and weight gain.   Pitta Dosha and Summer: A Recipe for Imbalance     Summer is considered the Pitta season in Ayurveda, as the intensity of the sun’s rays mirrors the qualities of Pitta Dosha – hot, fiery, and intense. During this time, individuals with a predominance of Pitta Dosha may experience a worsening of Pitta-related imbalances, such as excessive heat, inflammation and irritability. Common symptoms of Pitta imbalance in summer may include: Skin rashes or irritation Digestive issues such as acidity or heartburn Increased sensitivity to heat Emotional irritability or frustration During the summer months, Pitta-dominant individuals adopt practices that help pacify Pitta Dosha and stay cool both internally and externally.   Staying Cool in summer According to Your Dosha     Here are few ways to say cool during summer according to your Dosha:   Pitta-Pacifying Diet One of the most effective ways to balance Pitta Dosha in summer is through diet. Pitta-pacifying foods are cooling, hydrating and nourishing, helping to offset the intensity of the season. Here are some dietary tips for each Dosha:   For Pitta Dosha: Focus on incorporating sweet, bitter and astringent tastes into your meals. Opt for cooling foods such as cucumbers, watermelon, coconut, leafy greens and sweet fruits like grapes and pears. Avoid spicy, oily and overly salty foods, which can aggravate Pitta.   For Vata Dosha: Emphasize warm, grounding foods that provide stability and nourishment. Cooked grains, root vegetables, ghee and warming spices like cinnamon and cardamom can help balance Vata’s cold and dry qualities.   For Kapha Dosha: Choose lighter, stimulating foods that counteract Kapha’s heaviness and congestion. Incorporate pungent, bitter and astringent tastes, such as green leafy vegetables, beans, lentils and spicy herbs like ginger and black pepper.   Cooling Lifestyle Practices for summer   In addition to dietary modifications, adopting cooling lifestyle practices can further support your efforts to stay balanced in summer:   Stay Hydrated   Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration and help regulate body temperature. Opt for cool beverages like coconut water, cucumber-infused water or herbal teas with cooling herbs like mint and coriander. Furthermore, avoid consuming carbonated drinks as they can inhibit your digestion. Fresh fruit juices and nectar that are not chilled are nutritious, satisfying and delicious. Some revitalizing choices include grapes, tasty pineapple and succulent watermelon.    Protect Yourself from the Sun   Limit exposure to direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day (typically between 10 am and 4 pm). Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and use natural sunscreens to protect your skin from sun damage.   Practice Mindful Movement   Engage in gentle, cooling forms of exercise such as swimming, yoga, or walking in shaded areas. Avoid strenuous activities during the peak heat of the day to prevent overheating.   Cooling Breathwork   Practice pranayama techniques such as Sheetali and Sheetkari to cool the body and calm the mind. These breathing exercises involve inhaling through the mouth with the tongue curled or teeth clenched, respectively, to draw in cool air and release excess heat.   Take Regular Breaks   Listen to your body’s signals and take breaks when needed to rest and rejuvenate. Incorporate moments of stillness and relaxation into your daily routine to help soothe Pitta-related stress and tension.   In hot weather, it’s best to wear loose and soft clothing to remain comfortable and cool. Refrain from wearing clothes that are tight or cause itchiness. It is beneficial to assist your body in removing excess heat through activities such as dry brushing, consuming ample water and herbal teas, and adopting a light, fresh, and colourful diet to aid in liver detoxification.   It is recommended to avoid outdoor exercise and excessive sun exposure at this time. Conversely, numerous children participate in tennis camps and sports events, where their bodies become more active due to the sun and physical activities. It’s not the right time to be traveling to different shrines or holiday destinations, or to be moving from one relative’s house to another. In the summer months, it’s ideal to remain indoors, consume light meals, and steer clear of direct sunlight.   Conclusion   During summer, it’s essential to honor our unique constitution and adapt our lifestyle accordingly. By understanding the Doshas and implementing Pitta-pacifying strategies, we can stay cool, balanced, and vibrant throughout the summer months.   Whether you’re a Pitta-dominant individual seeking relief from summer’s heat or simply looking to optimize your well-being during this season, incorporating Ayurvedic principles into your life can provide valuable guidance… Continue reading Summer Heat – How to Stay Cool with Ayurveda

Fruits for breakfast is not a good idea, Why ?

You might have seen many sources in the internet suggesting fruits for breakfast as part of a healthy diet. But Ayurveda has a different opinion.     Fruits for breakfast is not a good idea, Why ?       #1  Mornings are cold, dewy, and moist   Fruits are cold, moist, and slimy as well. Similarly, what is cold, moist, and slimy in our body? Kapha!   #2   Fruits are sweet, heavy and cold.   What is sweet, heavy and cold in our body? Kapha!   #3   6am to 10am is Kapha Kala   This is the time Kapha is at its peak – think excessive mucous, blocked nose, runny nose, and all upper respiratory tract symptoms.   #4 The Sun has just risen   Our digestive fire mimics the Sun; however, we do not have sharp digestion in the mornings.  Hence we may not be able to digest cold, sweet, heavy foods at this time.   what is a good breakfast? Anything warm, light and freshly cooked. Example, oatmeal, porridges, rice or chickpea flour, pancakes, stewed apples, green gram pancakes etc. These are not only light but also easy to digest.   When is the best time to have fruits?   Between 10am to 4pm (Pitta Kala) before or after a meal, but not with a meal. Trust me, if you do this, your gut will thank you!       Doctor Rekha is a 4th generation Ayurvedic Medicine Doctor (BAMS) living in between Dubai and India who has patients from around the globe who believes that the wisdom of Ayurveda can help everyone lead a happy, heathy and disease-free life.   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.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          … Continue reading Fruits for breakfast is not a good idea, Why ?