What are Vata, Pitta and Kapha Doshas in Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine. Beyond that, it is a way of life that helps you reach the ultimate goal of overall wellness. In Ayurveda, the status of your health primarily  revolves around the balance of  your biophysical energies or Doshas.  There are three types of Doshas – Vata, Pitta and Kapha, collectively called Tridoshas.  They are derived  from the 5 basic elements known as “Panchamahabhutas.” The Panchamahabhutas are space or ether, air, fire, water and  earth. All these Doshas must be known to understand the unique constitution of one’s body and how to maintain a balanced manner to attain good health.    The Panchamahabhutas: The Basis of Doshas   The Panchamahabhutas are the fundamental elements that all matter in the universe is based on. These elements, in different combinations, make up the Doshas.  Knowing them can delve deeper into the Doshas’ nature and influence on our bodies and minds. Ether (Space): This is the most subtle of all the elements. It symbolizes emptiness and the possibility of creation. Air: Associated with motion, lightness, and actionability. Fire: Associated with transformation, heat, and metabolism. Water: Fluidity, cohesion, lubrication. Earth: Most solid elements are related to stability and structure. Each Dosha gets its uniqueness from a different combination of these elements, which explains their distinct characteristics and effects on our bodies.   What Are the Doshas?   Doshas are biophysical energies that govern our inner and  outer environments. These energies or Doshas, are present in everybody and everything. They are found in a unique ratio in each individual. This determines one’s Prakriti or physiological and psychological profile.  If your Doshas are in balance, you have health and well-being. They, when in imbalance due to diet, lifestyle, or environmental factors, give rise to diseases.   Vata   Vata is the energy of movement. It constitutes air and  ether.  Vata Dosha governs  bodily functions, like breathing, nerve impulses, and  circulation. When in balance, there is much creativity and vitality. If it’s out of balance, the result is anxiety, dryness, and irregularity in the functions. Characteristics: Light, cold, dry, irregular, quick. Physical Characteristics: Thin build, dry skin, cold hands and feet. Mental Characteristics: Imaginative, anxious, quick learner. Imbalances: Result in anxiety, insomnia, xerosis, and constipation. You can balance your Vata Dosha by following a routine that includes warm, nutrient packed food, proper sleep, and activities like yoga or meditation.   Pitta   Pitta is composed of fire and water. It governs your digestion and metabolism. This fuels the drive of appetite, intelligence, and body heat.  A balanced Pitta Dosha is marked by clarity and energy. However,when it’s out of balance, it results in anger, inflammation and digestive problems. Characteristics: Sharp, oily, hot, intense, and light Physical Traits: Medium build, warm skin, sharp features. Mental Traits: Intelligent, competitive, driven. Imbalances: Marked by symptoms, such as anger, indigestion, skin rashes, heartburn. Balancing the Pitta would require cooling food, relaxing exercises or techniques, and avoiding overwork. Fresh fruits, lots of vegetables and whole grains can nullify the inflamed nature of the Pittas.   Kapha   Kapha Dosha constitutes earth and water. It is the energy of body stability and structure. It controls growth, hydration and immune responses. A person with a proper and well-balanced Kapha will be calm, patient and an endurance expert. A Kapha  imbalance will result in lethargy, weight increase, and congestion. Characteristics: Heavy, slow, steady, oily, and cool. Physical Traits: Compact, soft-skinned, big-eyed. Mental Traits: Loyal, patient, compassionate. Imbalances: Results in obesity, slowdown in digestion, depression, and allergies. Massage-reviving functions and a balanced diet with light spicy foods maintain Kapha. Exercise and abstinence from heavy, oily foods will keep Kapha in harmony.   What is Prakriti?   Your Prakriti is your constitution and  fixed at the moment of conception. This is a blueprint of your inborn strengths and weaknesses.  By knowing your Prakriti, you can devise your lifestyle in a manner that will maintain a balance of your Doshas. Are you looking for more valuable insights? Head onto our blog section!   How to Know Your Prakriti?   Knowing your Prakriti means knowing which Doshas are most operative in your constitution based on that knowledge. We can guess these by looking within ourselves or consulting an Ayurvedic professional. Here’s a brief overview of how the Doshas may manifest in your physical and mental attributes: Vata Dominant: Thin and lean, dry skin, quick mind, active, anxious, and sleepless. Pitta Dominant: Medium-built, warm-skinned, sharp intellect, ambitious, irritable, and easily inflamed. Kapha Dominant: Heavier in build, smooth skin, calm disposition, steady energy, tends to put on weight and become lethargic. Knowing your Prakriti helps you tailor a diet, exercise, and daily routines suitable for bringing out balance in life. Balancing the Doshas   Keeping your Doshas in balance is what keeps you healthy. The Doshas are particularly sensitive to continued influences, such as diet, lifestyle, stress and environmental elements that disturb your balance.   What to do to Balance Vata?   Diet: Have warm, freshly-cooked food with spices, such as ginger and cinnamon. Lifestyle: Follow a daily routine. Engage in activities that ground you in life, such as meditation and yoga. Season: Vata is provoked by a cold, dry & windy climate. Keep warm and moist.   Tips to Pacify Pitta   Diet: Consume cooling foods like greens, melons and cucumbers. Stay away from hot, spicy, and oily foods. Lifestyle: Moderate work and exercise. Engage in cool recreation activities like swimming or walking in nature to calm down. Season: One shouldn’t disturb the natural order of Doshas. Avoid hot and humid seasons. Always be cautious at the seasonal end.   Tips for Balancing Kapha   Diet: Light, spicy foods; avoid dairy and heavy foods; include stimulating spices like black pepper and turmeric. Lifestyle: Be active & get regular exercise, but avoid too much sleeping and sedentary habits. Season: In cold, damp weather, Kapha Dosha is dominant. So, stay warm and dry.   Consult an Ayurvedic doctor to guide you regarding your right diet and lifestyle plan… Continue reading What are Vata, Pitta and Kapha Doshas in Ayurveda?

Fertility Boosting with Ayurveda

Every year, I have a lot of patients who approach me seeking treatment for infertility. For most of them, Ayurveda is the last option after having tried every other treatment and not finding a result. Many are often surprised that there are no invasive procedures and yet Ayurveda can help them find their way to boost fertility.   About 1 in 6 people around the world experience infertility. Some of the main reasons include stress, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, etc. Ayurvedic conception treatment includes correcting all these factors to boost fertility and to prepare the body for conception.    In this blog, let us delve deeper into how Ayurveda helps boost fertility.   Understanding Fertility in Ayurveda   In Ayurveda, fertility is considered to be the obvious result of a harmonic body and mind. It is integral to our physical, mental and emotional state. According to the ancient scriptures, the body’s Doshas, Agni and Dhatus, when in harmony,  become the reason for improved reproductivity.   Fertility Determiners in Ayurveda   The concepts of Ojas, Shukra Dhatu, and Prakriti are connected with reproductive health. Ojas represents the essence of vitality and immunity within an individual. Shukra Dhatu is the reproductive tissue that is responsible for the formation of sperm in men and ovum in women. Prakriti is the unique body of each person and determines the requirements for reproductive health.    Factors Affecting Fertility   Several factors could affect fertility, such as: Eating habits: Poor nutritional intake, processed food, spicy and junk foods could affect reproductive health too.   Lifestyle and stress: With today’s hectic schedules, higher stress and unhealthy lifestyle adversely affect fertility levels.   Other health conditions: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and low sperm count could affect the fertility levels.   Ayurvedic Approach to Enhancing Fertility   Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to enhancing fertility, focusing on balancing the Doshas, strengthening Agni and nourishing the Dhatus. Here are some key Ayurvedic practices to boost fertility.   Dietary Recommendations   To enhance fertility, one should surely manage their diet. Below, you will find lists of foods that one should either include or exclude from their diet: Eat Sattvic food: Fresh, organic and easily digested products help to balance the Doshas and enhance Agni. This group includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and dairy products.   Avoid Ama-producing food: One should avoid processed products, too much sugar, caffeine and alcohol as they take time to digest. Undigested food, consequently, turns into Ama (toxins). As a result, the accumulation of Ama weakens the Agni and, in turn, causes diseases.   Avoid excessive salty and spicy foods: Such foods can aggravate your Pitta Dosha, causing Dosha imbalance that in turn affects your fertility.   Foods to enhance fertility: You can have almonds, walnuts, ghee, milk, sesame seeds, and dates, but in moderation.   Kapha and Pitta: Encourage the use of light food in Kapha-type patients and refreshing tastes for Pitta.   Vata: Avoid raw, dried food. Use good fats, like ghee.   These are some general suggestions.    Ayurveda does not follow a one size fits all approach. Every person is unique. So the diet for each person differs, primarily based on their Prakriti, Dosha imbalances, health conditions and more. You can consult an Ayurvedic doctor to determine your Prakriti and Dosha imbalances and to help you plan a diet that aligns with your preferences.        Herbal Medicines for Fertility   In my conception treatment, herbal medicines are given to the couple to treat any underlying health conditions, improve their strength and immunity and also to enhance their reproductive health.  The medicines are prescribed based on the couple’s Prakriti, Dosha imbalancers and health conditions. I do not prescribe any medicines that have strong herbs like Shatavari, Ashwagandha, or Shilajit; moreover, I also avoid those with heavy metals as ingredients. Their continuous usage can have side effects.    Panchakarma therapy   This detoxification therapy rejuvenates the body by flushing out toxins and besides balancing the Doshas. It helps heal from any underlying health conditions and furthermore resets the body and mind, making it capable for conception.     Panchakarma has 5 cleansing procedures – Vamana, Virechana,Nasya, Kashaya Vasti and Sneha Vasti.  These therapies cleanse the body, improve digestion and also, promote health and longevity.   Lifestyle Modifications   Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is equally important to enhance your fertility.   Manage stress: Practices like yoga, meditation, and pranayama (breathing exercises) can help reduce stress and improve mental clarity, which are crucial for fertility.   Regular exercise: Engage in regular physical activity; consequently, this helps to maintain a healthy weight and improve circulation, which, in turn, supports reproductive health.   Sleep quality: Ensure you get adequate, restful sleep to support overall well-being and hormonal balance.   Avoid bad habits: Smoking and consuming alcohol can have an adverse effect on your fertility. So, it’s better to quit. Ayurveda says that having a healthy mind is really important for being able to reproduce whether it’s male or female. Doing things like being mindful, writing in a journal, and spending time outside in nature can make your mind feel calm and less stressed.  These activities increase mental strength and hence reproductivity.  Following a daily routine or Dinacharya will also bring discipline and consistency in your life.    Importance of Balanced Doshas   Balanced Doshas are crucial for reproductive health. Each individual has a unique Prakriti, which is their natural constitution of the three Doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Imbalances in these Doshas can affect fertility.    Vata imbalance: Can lead to irregular menstrual cycles and anxiety, affecting conception.   Pitta imbalance: Can cause inflammation and hormonal imbalances, impacting fertility.   Kapha imbalance: Can result in weight gain and sluggish metabolism, hindering reproductive health.   By identifying and correcting Dosha imbalances through diet, lifestyle changes, and Ayurvedic treatments, you can, therefore, enhance fertility and, consequently, increase the chances of conception.   Practical Tips for Enhancing Fertility   Here are some practical tips that… Continue reading Fertility Boosting with Ayurveda

What makes Ayurveda different?

When we talk about Ayurveda, we think about Yoga, Satwik, spiritual science and many more. But the truth is they are not the same.   Ayurveda is different. Yoga and Satwik and spiritual sciences are associated with lifestyle practices for leading a harmonious and healthy life. Meanwhile, Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that helps people heal from their health conditions physically, emotionally and spiritually.    This blog will dig deeper into these concepts and give a brief outcome of Ayurveda.   Yoga   Yogic refers to practices and principles related to Yoga. In Sanskrit, the term “yoga” originates from the word “yoke” or “union.” Yogic refers to a discipline that unites an individual’s physical, mental, and spiritual aspects with a universal consciousness.   Yoga is a discipline that aims to create harmony between the mind and body. It derives from a spiritual practice and a nuanced area of study. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle requires both creativity and knowledge.   Yoga, as described in Yogic scriptures, aids in aligning our thoughts with those of others, illustrating the harmony of our mind and body with the world. Contemporary scientists call quantum particles the basic elements that form everything in the universe. A person who feels a deep connection to everything is known as a yogi. They have achieved a state of liberation known as Mukti, Nirvana or Moksha.   Yoga is intended to assist individuals in gaining insight into themselves and overcoming their pain, ultimately achieving a state of liberation known as Moksha or Kaivalya. Yoga is focused on living a life of freedom and achieving overall health and balance. It provides a method for individuals to reconnect with themselves and assert authority over their lives. It has existed for an extended period and supports individuals in their growth and improvement, both in practical and spiritual aspects—the principles of yoga center around embodying virtuous behavior.   Satwik   Satwik life refers to following lifestyle practices with the intent of being pure, positive, clean, responsible and honest. This is achieved by following the best practices for a Satwik life.  Following them influence our bodies’ health and our minds’ state and help us lead a balanced life.    Sattvic diet emphasizes the consumption of foods with Sattva (pure) quality. It  consists of natural and healthy foods that benefit the body and mind. Foods that are included are natural, unadulterated and packed with energy. It also abides by causing no harm to other living creatures. This is one explanation for why yogis frequently opt for a vegetable-based diet.   Sattvic diet includes fresh, natural foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains. It also comprises proteins from sources other than meat. Good dairy products are the result of cows being fed and milked correctly.   Spiritual Science   The concept of spiritual science combines elements of spirituality, moral beliefs and empirical knowledge. According to spiritual science, the world consists of tangible and visible elements and spiritual components. Spiritual science provides an alternative approach to understanding the world that diverges from traditional scientific and religious views. It demonstrates an alternative world perspective, distinct from science and religion. According to spiritual science, self-awareness is crucial, and our spiritual understanding can enhance scientific progress. It is an approach to understanding the world based on spiritual concepts rather than materialistic ones.   It is presented as an alternative to conventional science. Both spirituality and science aim to comprehend the fundamental aspects of the universe and our place within it. Science attempts to address this question through observation and experimentation, while spirituality examines it through introspection and personal experience. Spirituality involves contemplating and understanding concepts such as love, kindness, selflessness, afterlife, wisdom and truth.   Ayurveda   Ayurveda, on the other hand, is a traditional system of medicine that has been in existence for over 3,000 years. The tern “Ayurveda” is a combination of two words – Ayu meaning life and Veda meaning science or knowledge. Ayurveda, therefore, means science of life.    This traditional system of medicine emphasizes on the importance of maintaining a well-rounded balance between the mind, body, spirit, and environment for overall health. It strives to maintain people’s wellness, prevent them from becoming ill and address their ailments.     Ayurveda focuses on the entirety of the body, including the mind and spirit. According to Ayurveda, Doshas are the biophysical energies that represent the distinctive traits of individuals and influence their mental and physical health. There are three Doshas – Vata, Pitta and Kapha.   Every living thing in this universe consists of 5 “panchamahabhutas,” or five elements.  Now, you might be working on what this term is. Panchamahabhutas are the five vital elements in Ayurveda, including Earth, Air, Water, Fire and Ether. The human body composes all these five elements, but in different proportions.   Depending on the proportions of these elements, Doshas are categorized into Vata, Pitta and Kapha, and the best way to understand them is by observing their qualities.   Vata   Vata has more of the air element. The air has the property of moving and instability; similarly, Vata people show the same characteristics. They are always active and continuous to move, as they never sit idle. Anybody symptoms related to dryness are closely related to Vata Dosha. Whenever you feel lightness in your body, it means Vata is affecting your body.    Pitta   Pitta means fire. Fire denotes aggression, passion, etc., and therefore, Pitta people have more fire in them, depicting an aggressive and tenacious nature. Whenever you feel a rise in body temperature like fever, you should understand that Pitta in your body is increasing. One can conceptualize pitta as burning liquid fuel.   Kapha   Kapha is predominantly the Earth element, and people with Kapha are sluggish, slow, lazy and lethargic. Whenever you feel heaviness in your body, it depicts that Kapha is influencing your body. Kapha is predominantly present in heavy-weight or overweight people. The stiffness and rigidity in the body related… Continue reading What makes Ayurveda different?

Yoga Poses That Help Relieve Stomach Upsets Naturally

Most stomach issues arise due to an imbalanced digestive fire (Agni) – a topic Ayurveda gives utmost importance to. While diet and Ayurvedic medicines give long-term relief to the issues, it obviously takes time. Meanwhile, yoga poses can give you faster relief from the symptoms.    Yoga poses for stomach issues    Here are a few yoga poses you can try for your stomach issues:    Uthana Padasana        To do Uthana Padasana pose, you keep your legs stretched at a perpendicular position (at a 90-degree angle) from the ground.    Also called the raised leg pose, Uthana Padasana strengthens the abdominal muscles, improves digestion and relieves digestive problems, such as acidity, constipation and flatulence.    Malasana      To do Malasana pose, you squat down with your feet flat on the ground and your hands together at your chest.    Also called the garland pose, Malasana strengthens your digestive system along with your lower back and hips. This pose is great for improving your metabolism and digestion. It also helps relieve digestive issues.    Pavana Muktasana      To do Pavana Muktasana, lie on your back, hug your knees to your chest and gently rock back and forth.    Also called the wind-relieving pose, Pavana Muktasana helps relieve bloating and gas. This pose is great for constipation, indigestion and other similar stomach problems.    Naukasana      In the Naukasana pose, you lie on your back, lift your legs and upper body off the ground, balancing on your buttocks while extending your arms forward.    Also called the boat pose, Naukasana stimulates the digestive system and helps alleviate constipation, bloating and gas. It also increases the blood flow to the abdomen, thus improving your digestion as well as the health of your internal organs.    Sethubandhasana      To do Sethubandhasana, lie on your back, bend your knees, lift your hips, and hold the pose, like a bridge.    Also called the bridge pose, Sethubandhasana helps stimulate the thyroid gland, which can aid in regulating metabolism and digestion. Relieves stress and anxiety, which can contribute to digestive issues.      Another yoga pose for stomach issues is Kapalabhati Pranayama. It offers long-term relief from stomach issues like gas, bloating and indigestion.      If the issues do not subside, having Ayurvedic preparations like Hingwashtaka churna and lavana bhaskara with buttermilk can help. But first consult your Ayurvedic doctor, as each individual is different and each one of us has a unique state of balance and imbalance.     As the saying goes, “one man’s medicine is another man’s poison” and this is very true about Ayurveda.  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.

What is real yoga?

YOGA   Today, you can see different forms of yoga in the internet. But, are all of them real yoga? My answer is no. Then, what exactly is real yoga? Let’s explore… According to Ayurveda, real yoga is a complementary exercise that can assist people in achieving this balance by enhancing their physical and mental well-being, enhancing their digestion and lowering their stress levels. It comprises exercises like Pranayama (breathing methods), meditation and mantra chanting in addition to physical postures or Asanas. These techniques support people in balancing their Doshas or energies and advancing general wellness and vigor. Ayurveda regards the idea of Ahimsa or non-violence as one of the fundamental tenets of true yoga. This idea encompasses not just what we do physically, but also what we think and say. Ahimsa practice can help people develop a deeper sense of kindness and compassion for both themselves and others, which can help them feel better emotionally and experience less stress.   The emphasis on the breath in authentic yoga, according to Ayurveda, is another crucial component. The breath is utilized to help people balance their Doshas and encourage better physical and emotional health in Ayurveda is considered to be the link between the mind and body. The breath is considered the link between the mind and body. People can learn to control their breathing and reach deeper levels of relaxation and inner calm by using Pranayama practices. Ayurveda’s definition of real yoga emphasizes the value of leading a healthy lifestyle and eating well. Ayurveda views food as medicine and advises people to follow a diet that is suitable for their Dosha type to promote their overall health and well-being. In a similar fashion, individuals should regularly practice self-care, yoga, and meditation to maintain emotional balance and reduce stress. Last but not least, genuine yoga as defined by Ayurveda is a comprehensive practice that necessitates a customized approach. Each individual, according to Ayurveda, should customize their practice to meet their unique needs and Dosha type. Working with an Ayurvedic practitioner or yoga instructor can help individuals create a personalized practice for a healthy lifestyle.    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.

Vata Mind : Ways to Tackle It.

According to Ayurveda, there are three biophysical energies based on which every human being is classified into a specific Prakriti (unique constitution and identity of an individual). The energies are Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Everyone and everything in this world is made of energy. This energy is comprised of five elements: space, air, fire, water, and earth. Vata is a combination of space and air elements. Pitta is a combination of fire and water elements, whereas Kapha is a combination of earth and water elements. Do you have a Vata mind? Imagine driving a car. You know where you are going, but 1000 other things are running in your mind, like the stove you forgot to switch off, the email you have to reply to, the dress you wanted to buy, the lunch plan, and 996 others. Your mind is all over the place and it lingers around 100 different thoughts at a time. You feel restless and alert at the same time, which confuses people. You find it difficult to concentrate on a single task and  lose interest and focus easily. Confusion is your other name; you always face a, this or that situation in your mind, when it comes to making decisions. If this is you, you have a Vata mind. How to tackle a Vata mind? First of all, having a Vata mind is not a bad thing at all. You are the energy that lights up the whole room! You are the enthu bomb!!! No Pitta or Kapha mind can beat your zest for life, energy, and optimism; furthermore, your enthusiasm truly sets you apart. Like Beyonce says, ‚ÄúI am not bossy, I am the boss,‚Äù we, Vata minds, rule the world. However, things can go wrong when Vata gets out of balance and it is necessary to tackle it. Here are a few tips to be the master of your own Vata mind. Oil Massage Vata is dry (Ruksha). The opposite of dry is oily. The best way to tackle Vata is to do daily oil massage (abhyanga) using organic black sesame oil. Do a five-minute foot massage before going to bed. This will help you to calm your mind. Earthing Practices Vata is light. The opposite of light is heavy, which equals Earth. Doing earthing or grounding practices therefore, can help you to tackle your Vata mind. Get outdoors and connect with nature. Get out of concrete and, in addition, get your feet on the soil, grass, sand, or any natural surface. But, walking barefoot on a cold surface may increase Vata. Warm Practices Vata is cold (Sheeta) and the opposite of cold is warm. Doing warm practices can be of great help. Cover yourself from everything cold and do not expose yourself to cold conditions, cold food, or cold people. Eat warm food, such as warm spiced soups, porridges, khichdi, etc. Furthermore, these options can provide comfort and nourishment.  You can also spend time with warm people and stay in warm places, and notice your Vata mind being pacified. Yoga and Meditation Vata is moving (chala). One of the best ways to tackle an always-moving mind is Yoga and meditation. Do real Yoga – the satwik kind, not the exercise one. You might find it, initially, difficult in the beginning to concentrate.  But slowly, you will get used to it, as Kapha takes over and keeps you grounded. 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. You can also follow me on Instagram.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

Satwik Life Practices

  A  Satwik  Life  Origin   Just like we have three doshas (biophysical energies in our body) ‚ Vata, Pitta and Kapha, our mind has three gunas or qualities ‚ Satwa, Rajas and Tamas. A Satwik mind is predominant of Satwa gunas, which are all the nice, good and ideal qualities you can think of. Susruta ‚ one of the 3 main acharyas of Ayurveda has mentioned about Satwik traits in his book, Susruta Samhita. Kindness and compassion are some of the main traits of people with Satwik minds. They also live a simple life without being obsessed with material things. People with Satwa guna treat everyone equally and live their life without hurting anyone. They always speak the truth and are unbiased. They are in constant search of the ultimate truth ‚ Moksha (higher consciousness), and always accept both negative and positive outcomes in the same manner. Satwik minds have faith or belief and would involve themselves in reflection and meditation. They are also very interested in acquiring knowledge of the self.  Curiosity and openness are also traits of people with Satwik predominant minds. They have a good memory, and often work to improve memory and recollection. They are also determined. Last but not least, individuals with Satwik traits demonstrate a service-minded attitude and work without motive. Satwa guna is a quality that brings stability to your mind. The moment you feel stability, happiness and wholeness in your mind is when Satwa guna is predominant in you. This quality brings out a balance in our lives and is the purest of all three gunas. Satwa guna is often dominant in us for a specific period only. But, there are ways you can make these qualities last longer. Best practices Caraka Samhita – the ancient Sanskrit text on Ayurveda suggests best practices for a Satwik life. Uplift your prana (vital energies) by practising Ahimsa ‚Äìnot hurting anyone intentionally. You can also engage yourselves in activities that make you happy while being helpful to others. This will help improve your Satwik traits. Try to find eternal happiness by controlling all five senses.  Organise your life by maintaining a routine, in terms of meals, work, exercise and sleep. Meditate and pray before you begin your day and before you go to bed. This allows you to focus on yourself and will have a positive effect on your overall physical and mental health. Nourish the mind by seeking ‚ the truth.‚ Be aware of your emotions, surroundings, actions, and overall physical and mental states that define the present you. This helps you learn something new about yourself with each passing moment. Improve mental strength by facing adversities with a smile, with courage. If your daily activities give you anxiety, fear and sadness, you must look for a change in environment. You can take a break from your daily activities, and involve yourselves in something that would help you calm your mind. Do the right things by practising abstinence from worldly pleasures. Prioritise activities that help you maintain Satwik states, like calmness, positivity, presence of mind, happiness, honesty, gratitude, compassion and much more, over those that give you momentary pleasures.   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.   You can also follow me on Instagram.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          

COVID Care‚ the Ayurveda Way

If you or someone you know just recovered from COVID, kudos! The main threat is over, but you still have a huge hurdle to overcome – dealing with the aftereffects. The virus might have caused damage to both your physical and mental health without you even realising it.  Now that you have recovered, it is time to focus on healing. Your primary aim must be to bring back your lost immunity over anything else. Immunity is not in the decoctions or supplements you have. It is in the food you eat, the exercise you do, the sleep you get – the quantity and quality of it, the way you go about your whole day – your ROUTINE! Immunity is a cumulative effect of all these small healthy habits you do every single day of your life. Get back to eating healthy slowly and steadily. Start with fasting, let your digestive fire build slowly, and then increase the quantity of food progressively. Start by consuming light, warm cooked foods with good fats and continue until your digestion is back to normal. Get back to exercising regularly. Just because you feel weak or tired, do not skip exercise. Do some kind of movement or activity. Simple walking or Yoga would also do. It is a known fact that Vitamin C boosts immunity. But, do not overload with Vitamin C and citrus fruits to gain back the immunity while your digestion is still a question mark. Work on your mind. The virus affects your brain function and clearly, the mind. The best way to relax your mind is to have a good sleep and breathing exercises and meditation. Make this a triple-lined part of your schedule. Post-COVID hair fall Another aftereffect of COVID is hair fall. About 90% of post-COVID hair fall is due to a condition called Telogen Effluvium. This condition is a result of your body being subjected to a phase of physical and mental stress. The bright side is that this hair loss is reversible and the hair will grow back. But it may take some time to get back to its fullness. During this condition, if you are someone with good iron levels, it will compensate for hair loss. Else, the body will use the iron reserves to build red blood cells. Hence your iron levels are important for reversing Telogen Effluvium and getting your hair volume back to how it was. In Ayurveda, a low haemoglobin level is called Pandu. In Sanskrit, Pandu means ‚ a pale whitish discolouration.  Pandu is a disease caused by the vitiation of Rakta Dhatu (blood tissue) in the body. Caraka Samhita‚ the ancient Sanskrit text on Ayurveda, suggests a few natural tips that help improve haemoglobin levels in the body. Consume a teaspoon of Amla powder with ghee before lunch. Reduce consumption of salty and sour foods. Stay away from alcohol. Exercise regularly. Include red grapes and black raisins in your diet. Reduce consumption of Vidahi‚ foods, which combine pungent, sour, oily and heavy qualities and cause burning. Some examples are apple cider vinegar, coffee, tomatoes and potatoes. Include dry ginger in your diet. Have 15ml of the Ayurvedic formulation‚ Draksharishta post dinner.   If you find your iron levels are still not improving despite following the above-mentioned tips, consult an Ayurvedic doctor.   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. You can also follow me on Instagram.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          

Treatment for Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Ayurvedic Treatment of PCOS   Ayurveda considers PCOS as “artava dushti” which translates to menstrual abnormality. This happens due to vitiation of Vata, Pitta & Kapha. However, the highs and lows of vitiation varies from patient to patient. There are various treatment in Ayurveda for PCOS.       Types  of   Treatment protocols     1 – Vihara (Lifestyle)   Sleep is the most important parameter to corrected as sleep irregularities are one of the main causes of PCOS as per Ayurveda Moderate exercise to half of one’s strength and capacity is ideal. No extreme, strenuous workouts are advised. Meditation, breathing exercises like Kapalbhati, daily Abhyanga (oil massages) are also helpful.    2 – Ahara (food)   A customized diet that balances the vitiated doshas is ideal. Eg. If the patient presents with PCOS due to excess Kapha imbalance, the diet should be light. Vata imbalance – the diet should be nourishing. Reducing inflammatory foods like black gram, yoghurt and night shades like capsicum, potatoes, tomatoes, eggplants etc will also help. Overall, having light, easily digestible well cooked foods with good fats added is important.    3 – Internal medicines   In my practice, for most cases of PCOS that come to me, I do not usually prescribe medicines. I put them on a 3-month diet and routines protocol based on their imbalance and they get better. In cases where internal medicines are required, there is no one-size fits all in Ayurveda. The medicines vary from patient to patient depending on the imbalances.       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. You can also follow me on Instagram.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                … Continue reading Treatment for Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Plum – The One Ayurvedic fruit you can have everyday

According to Ayurveda, eating too many fruit is bad for you. You must limit your fruit consumption.   I’ve previously discussed Amla, grapes, and pomegranate, and how all of these fruits are extremely beneficial to us in a variety of ways.   Today, I’d like to introduce you to a fruit that is not only healthy, but also does not increase any of the three Doshas.   It is remarkably easy to digest, and anyone can consume it without regard for how it affects digestion or whether it is hot or cold.   Ripe Plum is the name of that fruit. The one that is very ripe and sweet, but not sour. It is a magical fruit that is suitable for everyone. In Ayurveda, plums have several health benefits depends on their properties, which were considered to cool, hydrate, and detoxify. Here’s a closer look at the Ayurvedic benefits of plums:    Balancing Doshas   Plums are good for balancing Vata dosha due to their cooling and hydrating nature. The cooling effectiveness of plum can balance Pitta dosha which is related with heat and inflammation. You can consume plums, due to their light and slightly acidic nature, to avoid the Kapha if you have excess mucus.       2.  Digestive Health   Plums are rich in dietary fiber; consequently, this helps in healthy digestion and regular bowel movement. Plums helps in promoting gut health. The natural laxative properties of plums helps in detoxifying the body  by flushing out toxins through digestive system        3.  Rich in Nutrients   Plums contain different kinds of antioxidants such as vitamin C and polyphenols, which fight off oxidative stress for overall health. They contain vital vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and iron, all of which participate in numerous functions of the body.       4. Skin Health   Plums are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that help in healthy skin; they help in hydration and reduce oxidative damage. They can be useful in fostering good, glowing skin.      5.   Immunity   The vitamin C content of plums strengthens the  immune system, thereby increasing its capacity to fight against infections and diseases     How to Eat   The fresh plum can be consumed as a snack, added in salads, or blended together in smoothies. The fresh juice of plum is refreshing and hydrating, but since it contains natural sugar, it should be consumed in moderation. The important thing is, you don’t overdo it.   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.  You can also follow me on Instagram.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            … Continue reading Plum – The One Ayurvedic fruit you can have everyday