Tackle Sugar Cravings The Ayurvedic Way

Are you really in control of your sugar cravings?   Let’s find out.   Imagine this possible scenario.    You do everything right for your health – you wake up on time, have warm water or herbal teas, do exercise, practice Dinacharya (daily routine), and eat well according to your Prakriti (body type). You feel great!   Lunch arrives, and you attempt to keep it balanced — some rice, dal, and veggies. All of a sudden, you’re exhausted. You feel sluggish. Your eyes want to shut. And then comes that craving. A strong desire for something sweet, perhaps tea with more sugar and a biscuit – anything sweet.   Sounds familiar?   You’re not alone.   Sugar cravings such as this happen to most of us on a daily basis even when we feel we have our diet under control.   But why does this happen? Is our body really in need of it ? or have we just trained to demand it at certain times?   Let’s dive deep into this sweet addiction and find out how to break free from it.     Are you dependent on sugar?     Most people don’t realize how dependent they are on sugar. It sneaks into our diet in so many ways that we don’t even notice. Processed foods, packaged snacks and even seemingly “healthy” breakfast cereals are loaded with hidden sugars.     One of the biggest signs of sugar dependence is the afternoon slump – that sudden drop in energy after lunch and you feel like taking a nap. If you experience this, chances are your body is overly dependent on it for quick energy.   Have you seen some people who add 2 spoons of sugar to their tea and still feel it is not sweet enough? That’s how they have trained their taste buds.   But here’s the good news: You can re-train your taste buds to consume less sugar too!   How?      The 14-day challenge: Reset your taste buds     Want to tackle sugar cravings? The first step is to stop eating sugar for 14 days. During this time do not have food with added sugar in it.   This also means no white sugar, no jaggery, no honey, and no hidden sugars in processed foods.   Sounds tough? Yes, the first few days will be hard. But after a week, you’ll notice something incredible – your cravings will reduce! Food will start tasting naturally sweeter, and you won’t need as much sugar to enjoy it.   Give it a try and see for yourself.     The ultimate secret to longevity     Let me tell you a fascinating story.   Once upon a time, there lived a guy called Micheal Poulain. He wanted to find out the most perfect diet in the world that suited everyone. So he set out on a journey to discover the secrets behind the perfect diet. In his journey, he discovered places called Blue Zones where people had no chronic diseases and lived till 100 years.      When he studied deeply, he found some common habits among these long-living people: They sat down to have their food.  There were no processed foods in their diet. And here’s the most shocking part – they only had sugar twice a year- during Christmas and Easter   Now think of us! How often do we have sugar?    For birthdays, anniversaries, baby showers, festivals, when we are happy, sick, sad or stressed – we make 10 million reasons!    No wonder our bodies are struggling.     Step 1: Make sugar an occasional indulgence     So the first step to good health is to reduce your intake of sugar and make it an occasional indulgence.   When you indulge, do it happily with no guilt attached because your thoughts also work in the background in how well your body digests and assimilates food.   If you eat sweets with guilt and stress, your body won’t process them well. So when you indulge, do it mindfully and happily.     Step 2: Try natural alternatives     I have seen plenty of videos where people say they have stopped having refined sugar and are using jaggery (gur) as a healthy alternative.   But according to Ayurveda, Mishri or rock sugar is the better alternative to it. It is the kind that you can have every day .   Mishri has a cooling effect on the body. Jaggery, on the other hand, has a heating effect.   Have you ever tried making your sweets with Mishri instead of refined ?  Sounds absurd, but trust me, it’s worth trying.   India is a land of festivals and no festival is complete without sweets.  So, instead of consuming lots of refined sugar, why not replace it with something beneficial.    If you must use a sweetener, Mishri is the best choice. Try replacing white sugar with mishri and notice the difference.       Step 3: Eat mindfully & reduce hidden sugars     Sugar is sneaky. It hides in foods you wouldn’t expect, like: Bread Ketchup Breakfast cereals Packaged juices Flavoured yogurts     Start reading ingredient labels. If you see words like “high fructose corn syrup,” “glucose syrup,” or “cane sugar,” avoid those products.   A simple trick? Eat more whole foods. The more natural your diet, the less sugar you’ll consume without even trying.     Step 4: Balance your meals to reduce cravings     Ever noticed that when you eat a meal rich in protein and fiber, you don’t crave sweets as much? That’s because balanced meals keep your blood sugar stable.   To reduce its cravings, make sure your meals include: Healthy fats Fiber-rich foods  Protein     These foods slow down sugar absorption and keep your energy steady.     Step 5: Keep yourself hydrated     Sometimes, what we think is a sugar craving is actually just thirst. Next time when you… Continue reading Tackle Sugar Cravings The Ayurvedic Way

Swedana : Types and Benefits

Swedana, i.e., sudation or sweating therapy, is vital to Ayurvedic treatment, particularly as a preparatory treatment in Panchakarma.    This therapy helps the body release toxins, improve circulation, and promote relaxation.   Let us explore, furthermore, the different types of Swedana and their amazing benefits in this blog.   What is Swedana?   Swedana means to “perspire” or “sweat.” As the name suggests, this therapy induces sweat which flushes the toxins out and revitalizes the system. This can be done through a variety of techniques such as steam, heat, or herbal applications, in order to promote detoxification and relaxation   Swedana is usually done after Abhyanga (oil massage) to make it more effective.   Types of Swedana Therapy and Their Health Benefits   As per Ayurveda, there are 13 types of Swedana or sudation treatments. They all have different methods but a shared purpose: to generate sweat and rid the body of impurities.   1. Tapa Sweda (direct heat application)   By using heated objects (stones or sandbags) against the surface of the body. It’s good for localized pain, stiffness or swelling.   2. Upanaha Sweda (poultice therapy)   Firstly, herbal pastes blended with oils are spread over the affected area; subsequently, they are covered with a warm cloth. Doctors often recommend it for joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness.   3. Ushma Sweda (steam therapy)   Steam generated from boiling water or herbal decoctions is directed on to the body. Among the most commonly used methods of Swedana, this is, in fact, great for detox and, furthermore, for respiratory health.   4. Avagaha Sweda (immersion therapy)   The body is submerged in a tub of warm herbal water. This method improves circulation and also soothes muscles and joints. This method is the easiest one and can be performed at home.    5. Nadi Sweda (herbal steam jet)   Steam is applied to particular areas of the body through a tube or nozzle. It works especially well for localized pain and stiffness.   6. Pinda Sweda (bolus therapy)   Heated boluses with medicated herbs, rice, or sand are then applied to the body. This method rejuvenates tissues, strengthens muscles, and often utilizes weight management.   7. Patra Pottali Sweda (leaf bolus therapy)   Herbal leaves are wrapped up in a pouch and heated; subsequently, they are massaged onto the body.  Good for joint pain and improving mobility.   8. Shashtika Shali Pinda Sweda (rice bolus therapy)   This involves a bolus made from medicated rice cooked in herbal decoctions and milk. It’s nourishing and restorative, especially to those with weakened muscles or nerves.   9. Prasthaara Sweda (bed Therapy)   The patient lies on a bed covered with medicinal herbs or, furthermore, warm substances. It is beneficial for relaxation and detoxification of the body.   10. Sankara Sweda (bundle therapy)   Herbs or substances are bundled; subsequently, they are heated, and then placed on targeted areas of the body. It’s great for pain and stiffness reduction.   11. Jentaka Sweda (herbal tent therapy)   The patient sits in a tent where steam from herbal decoctions surrounds them. This technique is perfect for respiratory problems; moreover, it also facilitates complete body detox.   12. Parisheka Sweda (pouring therapy)   Continuous pouring of warm medicated liquids over the body. It not only improves circulation and decreases stress, but also, furthermore, it soothes muscles.   13. Bashpa Sweda (steam chamber therapy)   The patient sits in a closed chamber where herbal steam circulates around the body while the head remains outside. It is amongst the best procedures to cleanse the body and enhance skin quality.   These therapies are chosen based on an individual’s Prakriti (constitution), Dosha imbalance and specific health conditions. Always consult an Ayurvedic doctor to determine the right type for your needs.   How Swedana Helps in Detoxification and Relaxation   Swedana opens up the skin’s pores, allowing toxins to sweat out. It also enhances blood circulation and promotes better distribution of oxygen and nutrients to tissues. Herbal steam therapies like Bashpa Sweda (a form of full-body steam) are especially effective in improving blood circulation. This also strengthens the Srotas (microcirculatory channels). Thus, Swedana is an effective procedure for detoxifying the body and relaxing the body and mind. Also, the warmth and aroma of Swedana comforts the nervous system. It helps you unwind and lower your stress levels.   Benefits of Swedana for Overall Health   Weight loss: Ushma Sweda (dry heat therapy), can aid in weight loss by enhancing metabolism. These therapies boost circulation and promote sweating, burning more calories and reducing water retention, thus aiding weight loss.   Rejuvenation: Swedana therapy, such as Pinda Sweda (herbal bolus massage), not only improves tissue health but also, consequently, reduces fatigue. It’s an important practice for regenerating vitality and energy.   Joint health: In Upanaha or Pattra Pottali Sweda, the heat penetrates deeply into the tissues, reducing Vata conditions such as joint pain, stiffness, and arthritis. Regular sessions can improve mobility and subdue discomfort.   Skin health: Sweating through Swedana purifies and cleans the skin of impurities leaving it glowing with health. It also hydrates and nourishes the skin, helping to promote elasticity and minimize the appearance of age.   Respiratory health: Steam therapies can open up nasal passages, decreasing sinus congestion and making breathing easier. Other ingredients such as eucalyptus or tulsi amplify these effects.   Digestive health: Being detoxifying in nature, Swedana therapy strengthens Agni (digestive fire), thereby enhancing digestion and metabolism.  Immunity booster: Regular Swedana sessions improve circulation and help drain lymphatic fluid, increasing immunity. It also balances the Doshas, specifically Kapha; consequently, it helps to prevent illnesses and improve vitality.   Which Swedana is for You?   Choosing the right type of Swedana, therefore, depends on your health goals and, additionally, your Dosha imbalances.   Each type of Swedana has unique applications based on the individual’s body constitution (Prakriti) and imbalances (Vikriti). For instance:   Dry heat therapies are better for Kapha-dominant individuals Moist heat therapies are… Continue reading Swedana : Types and Benefits

Three desires to fulfil in life

Caraka Samhita mentions three desires one should fulfil in their lifetime for a happy, successful life.    इह खलु पुरुषेणानुपहतसत्वबुद्धिपौरुषपराक्रमेण हितमिह चामुष्मिंश्च लोके समनुपश्यता तिस्र एषणाः पर्येष्टव्या भवन्ति । तद्यथा – प्राणैषणा, धनैषणा, परलोकैषणेति । । ३ ।।   Prana Eshana   The desire to live well with happiness and longevity. This is the consciousness initially confines and constrains within the body. The subconscious awareness that we are all born possessed of opened up.  Because of this awareness, we are able to continue living and take part in the play that is life.   Dhana Eshana   The desire to earn money legally, in the right way, therefore, is a fundamental aspiration for many individuals. Dhana eshana, the second kind of consciousness, connects the biological self and the phenomenal world, which is associated with the material world. The world’s material splendours now reflect the self. We pursue material possessions like designer clothes, spacious homes, real estate, land, and sizable savings accounts. This searching for outside things along with our yearnings, aspirations, desires, and dreams is a significant portion of our existence. We live through them, and in a daily sense, these material endeavours give our lives meaning.   Paraloka Eshana   The desire to attain Moksha or enlightenment, and consequently, to reach higher consciousness. Paraloka Eshana or Moksha is the playing out of an evolved awareness that has transcended the body and this bright, phenomenal world in its quest for transcendence and escape from whatever bonds that the first two may impose. This is the reason; consequently, the itinerant monk remains unconcerned about his physical form and, moreover, his worldly possessions Propelled by a spiritual inclination or awareness, he sings of realms beyond.   It is impossible to foresee when one instinct will become dominant over the others or which of the three desires in life will eventually take precedence over the others because each soul on a trip follows a road that is entirely unexplored and absolutely unique. At any given moment, the dominant instinct will trigger associated thoughts, wants, acts, and results of those actions (Karma). We can, therefore, deeply know and repair our biological, material, and spiritual selves by, in turn, letting our impulses play out.   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.

What are the three stages of life in Ayurveda?

According to Ayurveda, every human being goes through three stages in their life: the Kapha , the Pitta and the Vata phases.    What do these phases comprise?   Let us find out!   Kapha Phase   This is the growth phase, also known as the building phase. This is the time starting from your birth to the puberty phase. During this growth phase, you will feel that you mostly have mucus-related conditions and upper respiratory tract conditions because this is a Kapha-dominant phase.   The nature of Kapha Dosha   The soil and water components make up the majority of Kapha. It is, without a doubt, the densest and most substantial of the three Doshas. In addition to providing the body with structure, cohesion, lubrication, hydration, and sustenance, Kapha is heavy, slow, calm, greasy, smooth, soft, steady, gross, and foggy. It also supports anabolic (building) biological processes and growth.   Pitta Phase   It is also known as the maintenance phase, and this is the time when you reach puberty to the time you reach 50 or 60 years. During this phase, you mostly have conditions around the stomach area, and this includes menstrual issues, reproductive issues, stomach-related issues and many more.     The nature of Pitta Dosha   Fire and water make up the majority of the elements that make up Pitta. Compared to Kapha, Pitta is less dense and more solid than Vata. It controls digestion, absorption, assimilation, nutrition, transformation, and body temperature. It is light, sharp, hot, greasy, liquid, spreading, and subtle by nature.   Vata Phase   It is also called the decline phase. Around 50-60 years, your body begins declining as Vata becomes dominant. During this time, your body will feel muscular-related conditions. When Vata element rises, you experience physical and mental changes, such as dry skin and declining cognitive function.  However, wisdom and softness can also come with the Vata stage.    The nature of Vata Dosha   Vata is the most delicate of the three Doshas, mainly composed of the elements air and ether (space). Vata governs mobility, communication, creativity, flexibility, and expansiveness. It is light, chilly, dry, rough, mobile, subtle, and transparent by nature.   The Kapha, Pitta, and Vata stages of life are consecutive times in our lives when we naturally and physiologically experience an increase in the characteristics that are specific to each of the Doshas. For instance, children who are in the Kapha stage of life have greater access to the attributes of Kapha due to the inherent rise in Kapha traits in the body. However, this also raises the possibility of having a Kapha imbalance because like attracts like. Introducing Kapha-pacifying elements can help kids achieve balance and prevent Kapha imbalances.   Even though all three of these life stages are merely generalizations, this framework may be rather insightful, particularly when examined through the prism of your own experience and takes into consideration the plethora of other factors that are particular to you. You are considerably more likely to experience the effects of those energies that most correspond with your constitution and current level of balance, your mental and emotional character, and your lifestyle choices. Keep in mind that each of us progressively moves from one stage to the next. In the end, what counts is how your unique Doshas are affecting you at any given time.    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.

Is Ayurveda going to die?

An arrangement of turmeric, spice, oil bowl and bottle, and massage poultice boluses used in Ayurveda massage, with an exotic flower and incense burning in the background.

Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that has been in use for over 5000 years. It is a holistic method of treating illnesses that involves lifestyle modifications and natural therapies. It has grown in popularity recently as more individuals look for alternatives to Western medicine. Given the accelerating speed of modernization and the emergence of new medical technologies, some skeptics wonder if it will endure. Ayurveda has proven its effectiveness in treating various ailments over the centuries. Numerous studies have, in fact, documented its effectiveness in treating not only common colds but also chronic diseases.  The long-standing success of Ayurveda speaks to its value as a system of medicine. Ayurveda is not static. It has evolved over the centuries to adapt to changing circumstances and new medical knowledge. Ayurvedic practitioners have always been open to incorporating new techniques and remedies into their practice, as long as they align with Ayurvedic principles. This flexibility has allowed Ayurveda to stay relevant and effective for thousands of years, and it will continue to do so in the future.   Spirituality in Ayurveda     Ayurveda is not just a medical system, but a way of life. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining balance and harmony in all aspects of life, from diet and exercise to relationships and spiritual practices. This holistic approach to health and well-being resonates with many people who seek a more balanced and mindful way of living. As such, Ayurveda is more than just a medical system; it is a cultural tradition that has endured for millennia. The popularity of Ayurveda has been growing, and it is no longer limited to one region.  I am experiencing it personally as I have people from across the globe approach me for treatment every day. As more and more people become aware of the benefits of Ayurveda, its popularity is likely to continue to grow. In fact,  it is already gaining traction in the West, where people are increasingly turning to alternative and complementary medicine to supplement conventional treatments. Ayurveda has been in existence for over 5000 years. Over the centuries, it has been documented that it is effective in treating various ailments.. It has also evolved over time to adapt to changing circumstances and incorporate new medical knowledge. Ayurveda is not just a medical system, but a way of life that people seeking  more balanced and mindful  lifestyle.  As such, the system of medicine is likely to continue to be relevant and effective in the future.   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.