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Abhyanga: The Ancient Indian Ritual of Body Oiling for Holistic Wellness

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Body oiling is a centuries-old weekly ritual in India that holds deep cultural and therapeutic significance. This practice, often referred to as “abhyanga,” involves massaging the body with warm oil, typically before bathing, to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Here, we’ll delve into the traditions and benefits of the Indian body oiling ritual.

1. The Importance of Ayurveda:

The practice of body oiling is rooted in Ayurveda, the ancient system of holistic medicine that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. Ayurveda recognizes the connection between the mind, body, and spirit and emphasizes the importance of balance to maintain health.

2. Choice of Oil:

In India, various oils are used for body oiling, each with specific therapeutic properties. Some commonly used oils include sesame oil, coconut oil, mustard oil, and almond oil. The choice of oil depends on an individual’s constitution, known as their “dosha,” and their specific health needs.

3. Ritualistic Application:

The process of abhyanga typically involves warming the chosen oil and gently massaging it onto the body. The massage follows specific strokes, often starting from the extremities and moving towards the heart. The entire process is intended to be soothing and calming, promoting relaxation.

4. Promotes Physical Health:

Regular body oiling helps nourish the skin, making it soft and supple. The massaging action stimulates blood circulation, which can improve overall health. It also aids in the removal of toxins from the body through the skin.

5. Enhances Mental Well-being:

The act of body oiling is a form of self-care and mindfulness. It provides an opportunity to connect with one’s body, reduce stress, and calm the mind. The aroma of the oil, combined with the soothing massage, creates a sense of relaxation and tranquility.

6. Balances Doshas:

According to Ayurveda, each person has a unique constitution, or dosha, which influences their physical and mental characteristics. Regular abhyanga is believed to help balance the doshas, promoting overall health and well-being.

7. Aids in Sleep:

Many people find that body oiling before bedtime can improve the quality of their sleep. The relaxation and calming effects of the ritual can help alleviate insomnia and promote a restful night’s sleep.

8. Supports Joint Health:

Body oiling is particularly beneficial for maintaining joint health. It can help alleviate joint stiffness and promote flexibility, making it an excellent practice for individuals with arthritis or joint issues.

9. Cultural Significance:

In India, body oiling is not just a therapeutic practice but also a cultural one. It is often passed down through generations, with families and communities sharing their knowledge of oils and massage techniques.

10. Adaptation in Modern Times:

While traditional body oiling rituals are still prevalent in India, the practice has also evolved to meet modern lifestyles. Many people incorporate body oiling into their weekly routines to maintain health and well-being.

In conclusion, the Indian body oiling ritual is a time-honored practice deeply rooted in Ayurvedic traditions. It offers a multitude of physical, mental, and emotional benefits, making it a valuable self-care ritual that promotes holistic well-being. Whether performed as part of a cultural tradition or as a personal wellness practice, regular body oiling is a cherished ritual in India that continues to provide numerous therapeutic advantages.

The Benefits of Morning Meditation for Mental Clarity and Focus

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In today’s fast-paced world, many of us wake up to a barrage of emails, notifications, and to-do lists that can make our minds feel cluttered from the moment we open our eyes. The rush of daily life can leave us feeling stressed and overwhelmed, making it challenging to maintain mental clarity and focus throughout the day. However, there is a powerful and accessible solution: morning meditation. In this blog, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of incorporating morning meditation into your daily routine, and how it can help you achieve mental clarity and enhanced focus.

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Starting your day with meditation allows you to begin in a state of calmness. Meditation is a proven stress-reduction technique, as it activates the body’s relaxation response, lowering the production of stress hormones like cortisol. By easing anxiety and stress early in the morning, you set a positive tone for the day ahead, enabling you to approach challenges with a clearer mind.

2. Enhances Mental Clarity

Morning meditation acts like a mental reset button. It helps declutter your mind from the noise and distractions of the previous day, allowing you to start fresh. As you sit in stillness and silence, you gain insight into your thoughts and emotions, providing mental clarity. This clarity enables better decision-making and problem-solving throughout the day.

3. Boosts Focus and Concentration

Meditation is essentially a workout for your brain. By training your mind to focus on the present moment during morning meditation, you develop greater concentration abilities. Over time, this improved focus can translate into increased productivity and efficiency in your daily tasks.

4. Heightens Self-Awareness

Morning meditation encourages self-reflection and self-awareness. As you observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment, you gain insight into your inner world. This self-awareness can lead to a deeper understanding of your behavior, emotions, and triggers, allowing you to make conscious choices that align with your goals and values.

5. Sets a Positive Tone

Starting your day with a meditation practice sets a positive and intentional tone for the day ahead. It fosters a sense of mindfulness and gratitude, helping you appreciate the small joys in life. This positivity can have a ripple effect, improving your interactions with others and your overall outlook on life.

6. Increases Resilience

Morning meditation can help you build emotional resilience. By cultivating a calm and centered mind, you become better equipped to handle challenges and setbacks with grace and composure. This resilience is a valuable asset in navigating life’s ups and downs.

7. Improves Sleep Quality

A consistent morning meditation practice can positively impact your sleep patterns. It promotes relaxation, reduces insomnia, and improves sleep quality. As a result, you wake up feeling refreshed and mentally alert, ready to face the day ahead.

8. Enhances Creativity

Meditation has been shown to boost creativity by allowing your mind to wander and explore freely. Morning meditation can inspire fresh ideas and creative solutions to problems, making it an excellent practice for artists, writers, and innovators.

9. Cultivates Mindfulness

Morning meditation is a form of mindfulness practice. By becoming more mindful, you become more attuned to the present moment, which can lead to a richer, more meaningful life. You learn to savor experiences, build stronger relationships, and appreciate the beauty of everyday moments.

10. Promotes Overall Well-Being

Ultimately, morning meditation contributes to your overall well-being. It nurtures your mental, emotional, and spiritual health, helping you lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Conclusion

Morning meditation is a simple yet powerful practice that offers a multitude of benefits for mental clarity and focus. By dedicating a few minutes each morning to meditate, you can reduce stress, enhance concentration, boost self-awareness, and set a positive tone for your day. The cumulative effects of this practice can lead to improved overall well-being and a more balanced, centered approach to life’s challenges. So, why not start tomorrow with a few moments of mindfulness and experience the transformative effects of morning meditation for yourself?

Emptiness is Bliss: Why Keeping Your Stomach Empty Matters for a Healthy Lifestyle

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In a world where we’re often bombarded with messages about what to eat and when to eat, the idea of keeping your stomach empty may sound counterintuitive. However, there are compelling reasons why maintaining an empty stomach at certain times can be essential for a healthy lifestyle. In this blog, we’ll explore the concept of intermittent fasting, its benefits, and how it contributes to a healthier you.

The Basics of Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting (IF) is an eating pattern that cycles between periods of eating and fasting. While fasting, you abstain from food for a set duration, allowing your body to fully digest and metabolize the food from your last meal. There are several popular methods of intermittent fasting, including the 16/8 method (16 hours of fasting, 8 hours of eating), the 5:2 method (eating normally for five days and significantly reducing calorie intake for two non-consecutive days), and the 24-hour fast.

Here’s why keeping your stomach empty through intermittent fasting can be crucial for a healthy lifestyle:

  1. Promotes Weight Management

One of the most well-known benefits of intermittent fasting is its ability to aid in weight management. When you limit your eating window, you naturally consume fewer calories. Additionally, fasting periods give your body a chance to tap into stored fat for energy, aiding in fat loss. Several studies have shown that intermittent fasting can be an effective strategy for weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight.

  1. Improves Insulin Sensitivity

Intermittent fasting can enhance insulin sensitivity, which is vital for preventing and managing type 2 diabetes. By reducing the frequency of meals and snacks, you lower your insulin levels, making your body more responsive to this hormone. Improved insulin sensitivity helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of insulin resistance.

  1. Enhances Cellular Repair

During fasting periods, your body initiates a process called autophagy, where it removes damaged cells and proteins. This cellular “clean-up” process is essential for maintaining overall health and can help prevent various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

  1. Supports Heart Health

Intermittent fasting can have a positive impact on heart health by improving blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and reducing inflammation. These benefits can significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases and promote overall cardiovascular well-being.

  1. Boosts Brain Function

Fasting has been linked to improved brain health and cognitive function. It may enhance the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes the growth and protection of brain cells. Some studies suggest that intermittent fasting may even reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

  1. Simplifies Eating Habits

Intermittent fasting simplifies your eating schedule, making it easier to manage your diet. By restricting your eating window, you may be less likely to engage in mindless snacking and make healthier food choices when you do eat.

  1. Encourages Mindful Eating

When you have a designated eating window, you become more mindful of your meals. You savor your food, pay attention to hunger cues, and appreciate the sensory experience of eating. This mindful approach to eating can lead to better digestion and improved satisfaction with your meals.

Conclusion

Intermittent fasting isn’t about starving yourself; it’s a deliberate approach to meal timing that offers numerous health benefits. By allowing your stomach to remain empty during specific periods, you’re giving your body the opportunity to heal, regenerate, and maintain overall well-being. Incorporating intermittent fasting into your lifestyle can be a powerful tool for achieving and maintaining good health while simplifying your relationship with food. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any fasting regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

8 Homemade Ayurvedic Face Packs For Glowing And Healthy Skin

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It is time to ditch those beauty therapies, creams and lotions that have been dominating your skincare regimen. If you truly wish to take care of your skin in the long run, switch to the traditional and thousands-of-year-old way of life. We are talking about Ayurveda, also known as ‘science of life’, which goes beyond the chemicalised beauty treatments.

In short, nothing can beat the magic of an Ayurvedic skincare routine that has its life rooted in ancient Vedic culture of India. It involves the use of natural herbs, flowers, fruits and vegetables, which are safe, gentle and effective on your skin. Let us have a look at few of the natural face packs that you can make at home for that natural makeover.

#1. Flowers

Homemade Ayurvedic Face Packs

Flowers are a unique way to get that glowing skin. Blooms like roses, hibiscus, jasmine and marigold contain Vitamins A, D and E, which help iron out lines and wrinkles. Also, the anti-bacterial properties in flowers make your skin firm and youthful.

Method: Put 3 to 4 roses or marigolds. Take out the petals and grind them with milk and honey to form a paste. Apply it on your face and neck area and let it stay for 20 minutes. Then wash off with lukewarm water. You will find your skin looking fresh and rejuvenated.

#2. Aloe vera

Homemade Ayurvedic Face Packs

There must be a reason why aloe vera was said to be Cleopatra’s beauty secret and is being considered as the future of medicine. It is fast becoming the rage in Ayurveda, and is the most commonly used plant to tackle cosmetic issues. From removing tan, to treating pimples and hydrating your skin; the wonder herb is doing it all.

Method: Pluck a fresh aloe vera stem from the plant. Peel it off carefully and form a paste adding lemon, honey and water (if required). Apply it on your face for around 20 minutes. In summers you can use ice post the removal. Follow this at least twice a week for that youthful and radiant skin.

#3. Sandalwood

Homemade Ayurvedic Face Packs

Woody sandalwood is another of nature’s bounty that makes for an effective skin lightener and works wonders on your skin. This Ayurvedic ingredient has anti-ageing properties and fights skin infections to remove spots and blemishes. In fact, the medicinal properties of sandalwood make it the best home remedy for all skin problems.

Method: Mix one spoon of sandalwood powder with a spoon of powdered almond. Add a spoon or two of milk to form a paste and apply it on your face and neck as a pack. This home remedy works like magic to give you soft, fair and glowing skin.

#4. Oil face pack

Homemade Ayurvedic Face Packs

Using oil in your beauty regimen is the most traditional Ayurvedic technique to detoxify your skin. Oils are commonly used to de-stress and ward off those skin ailments. Besides, oils are chemical-free, which means they are delicate and safe on your skin. You can use jasmine, rose, sesame or lavender oil for beauty purposes because of their anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties.

Method: Take one tablespoon olive, almond or flower oil as per your need. Mix it with one egg yolk and honey to form a paste. Apply it on your face for around 15 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water. Frequent application of this pack will remove the accumulated dirt and pollution from your face leaving you with fair and blemish-free skin.

#5. Honey and lemon

Homemade Ayurvedic Face Packs

Usage of honey and lemon in healthcare goes back to ages. Ayurveda considers these as one of the best gifts humankind can have. Moreover, they contain Vitamin C, which acts as a boon to tackle problems related to the skin. They are antiseptic and anti-microbial, which fades the scars left by acne, pimples and wrinkles on your face. Daily consumption of honey and lemon with water also makes a huge difference.

Method: Mix lemon and honey with a few drops of almond oil. Apply the mixture as a face pack. Let it remain for maximum 20 minutes and then wash off with normal water. Regular application will lighten your skin tone and reduce the appearance of scars on your face.

#6. Turmeric and besan

Homemade Ayurvedic Face Packs

The herbal properties of the queen of spices, turmeric and gram flour, is age-old and together they form the most common beauty recipe. Besan and haldi have many nutritional supplements in abundance, and can just rock your beauty world like no other product ever can. They beautify your skin with their antiseptic and medicinal properties.

Method: Take two spoons of gram flour and a pinch or two of turmeric powder in a bowl. You can add milk or cream or even white butter to form a smooth paste. Apply the pack on your face and neck area, and keep it on for 15 minutes before washing off. The process helps remove dead cells and leaves you with nourished and clear skin.

#7. Neem, tulsi and turmeric

Homemade Ayurvedic Face Packs

Tulsi and neem are replete with medicinal properties. Both the herbs hold a special significance when it comes to skin benefits and healing properties. The application helps delay skin-ageing and lightens the blemishes on the skin.

Method: Take a few leaves of neem and tulsi and add fresh turmeric. Grind or crush the ingredients to form a paste. Apply it all over your face. The herbal pack will have a calming effect on your skin and instantly relieve and heal your skin problems.

#8. Tomatoes and multani mitti

Homemade Ayurvedic Face Packs

Tomatoes not only add flavour to your food, but also to your beauty regimen. Known as natural sunscreen, tomatoes are one of the best Ayurvedic health food of Indian origin. High concentrations of anti-oxidants in tomatoes prevent cellular damage caused due to free radicals. Hence, it helps slow down the ageing process, making your skin look younger and fresh.

Method: Take two tomatoes and form a puree. Mix it with fuller’s earth (multani mitti). Apply the paste to your face and neck and leave it for 20 minutes. Wash off with cold water. The application of this Ayurvedic face pack will leave your skin hydrated, rejuvenated and glowing.

So girls, if you are looking for some traditional and natural ways to make your skin glow, then look no further than these Ayurvedic techniques. They are not only inexpensive but also natural, safe and versatile, making your skin beautiful and healthy at the same time.

How To Get Glowing Skin With Ayurveda?

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Who doesn’t desire to have healthy skin that glows naturally without any make-up? Unfortunately, unhealthy lifestyle routines, pollution, stress might not allow your skin to breathe freely and sport that natural glow.

But, worry not! The goodness of Ayurveda can help you achieve a radiant skin. With simple herbal treatments, nutritious diet, and healthy lifestyle practices, you can restore your skin’s lost glow.

Scroll down to know the different Ayurvedic solutions that can help your skin look healthy and glowing.

Why Is Healthy Skin Important?

“Your skin can speak a lot about your internal health,” says Dr. Zeel Gandhi, Chief Ayurvedic Doctor at Vedix. Your skin is a lot more than just a sense organ. It is the largest organ of your body that prevents dehydration by holding your body fluids, regulates your body temperature, and acts as the first line of defense against microbial invasions.

A healthy skin indicates a stronger immune system while dry, cracked, and unhealthy skin may not be able to guard your body efficiently against microbial infections. Thus, you need to follow a regular skincare regimen to keep your skin at its best health.

The ancient science of Ayurveda has proven herbal formulations and therapies that address the root cause of your skin issues and bestow benefits that last longer.

Your skin absorbs sun rays to make vitamin D which is essential for the health of your bones and other body parts [1].

Why Does Your Face Lack Glow?

Ayurveda says that every person is the constitution of three vital forces: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas. A person is in a healthy state when these tridoshas are in equilibrium. As per Ayurvedic science, a glowless and dull face is the indication of vitiated doshas in your body, which can be affected by the below causative factors.

  • Build-up of dead skin cells
  • Dehydration
  • Sun damage [2]
  • Free radical damage caused by pollution
  • Stress
  • Unhealthy diet and lifestyle

“Unlike other superficial treatments, Ayurvedic herbs help you rejuvenate your skin from inside and balances your doshas as well,” says Dr. Zeel.

How To Get Glowing Skin With Ayurveda?

1. Understanding Your Ayurvedic Skin Type

Your Ayurvedic skin type is defined by the dominance of doshas in your body.

  • A Vata dominant person is more likely to have dry skin which is prone to uneven tone, wrinkles, flakiness, and fine lines.
  • A Pitta dominant person is less tolerant to heat. Such skin type is more prone to tanning, sunburns, sun spots, acne, etc.
  • A Kapha dominating person has enlarged skin pores and tends to have oily and dull skin with cystic acne.

In Ayurveda, every skin type is treated with different herbs that pacify specific dosha that is in aggravated levels in your body. Understand your Ayurvedic skin type by answering this simple quiz and find out the herbal regimen that best suits your skin type.

2. Regular Skin Care Regimen

Your daily skincare routine should have a few essential steps for you to follow. Make sure to practice them regularly. Also, use products that have dosha-specific herbal ingredients suitable for your Ayurvedic skin type.

A. Cleansing

Regular cleansing is essential for your skin to eliminate the dead skin cells, sweat, oil, diet, and product build-up. Wash your face at least twice a day with lukewarm water to unclog your skin pores.

B. Exfoliation

Exfoliation opens up your skin pores and makes a way for the moisturizers to penetrate deeper into your skin tissues. Ayurveda recommends using ‘ubtans’ (pastes made of flours and herbs) to exfoliate your skin regularly. Ubtans provide deep and gentle exfoliation to your skin, increase blood circulation, and unclog your skin pores without stripping off the natural oils.

A paste made of 2 spoons of oat flour and 1 spoon of water is a simple ubtan that you can use on alternate days to exfoliate your face gently.

C. Nourishment

Just like any other organ in your body, your skin too needs essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to function well. Lack of nourishment can result in loss of elasticity and skin strength, increased bruising and slow healing of scrapes or cuts. You need to apply nourishing face packs and give gentle oil massages regularly to achieve healthy and glowing skin.

D. Moisturization

Using a moisturizer regularly is important for any skin type as it can prevent your skin from developing extreme oiliness or dryness. The right moisturizer [3] for your skin type keeps your skin’s pH in balance and aids in concealing the blemishes naturally.

E. Toning

Using face toners helps to seal the moisture in your skin by closing the pores. This shields your skin from environmental pollutants and keeps your skin hydrated for a longer time. You can use rosewater as a natural toner and spray it on your face a few times a day.

Vedix Tip: Ensure you remove the makeup and clean your skin gently before you sleep. Your skin renews itself when you sleep and it needs to breathe. Leaving your skin with cosmetics during nights can cause extensive damage to your skin over time.

3. Ayurvedic Herbs For Glowing Skin

As a first step, Ayurveda focuses on purifying your blood as it has a direct link with your skin radiance. For this Rakta shodhak herbs (blood cleansers) and Rakta Prasadaka herbs (blood soothers) such as nimba(neem), haridra(turmeric), daruharidra(tree turmeric), manjistha(Indian madder), bakuchi(psoralea corylifolia), etc. are used.

In the second stage, Ayurveda recommends the usage of ‘Kanti Vardhaka’ herbs (glow enhancing herbs) to increase your natural skin glow. Some of them include:

  • Haldi(turmeric)- Balances all three doshas
  • Daru haridra(tree turmeric)- Balances Kapha and Pitta doshas
  • Kumkuma(saffron)- Balances all three doshas
  • Chandana(sandalwood)- Balances Kapha and Pitta doshas
  • Sariva(Indian sarsaparilla)- Balances all three doshas
  • Raktachandana(red sandalwood)- Balances Kapha and Pitta doshas
  • Ela(cardamom)- Balances Vata and Kapha doshas
  • Kumari(aloe vera)- Balances all three doshas
  • Yashtimadhu(Licorice)- Balances Vata and Pitta doshas
  • Lodhra(symplocos racemosa)- Balances Kapha and Pitta doshas
  • Manjista(rubia cardifolia)- Balances Kapha and Pitta doshas

4. Ayurvedic Medicines

For glowing skin complexion, your Ayurvedic doctor may prescribe the following rasayana herbal dosages orally based on your dosha levels.

  • Drakshasava
  • Nalikerasavam
  • Saraswatarishta
  • Praval bhasma
  • Gandhaka rasayana
  • Shankha bhasma
  • Mukta bhasma
  • Haridrakhand rasayana

Important Note:

Never administrate Ayurvedic rasayana herbs without your doctor’s consultation.

5. Essential Oils

Adding a few drops of any of the following essential oils in your moisturizer can promote glowing skin with a healthy texture. Make sure to use one that suits your skin type.

A. Geranium Oil

It is best for Vata skin type and works great in eliminating dead skin cells. This can leave your face clean and tight besides giving you a clear complexion.

B. Rosehip Oil

It works well for the Vata skin type. Rosehip oil is rich in vitamin C and fatty acids which helps in keeping your skin well-nourished and hydrated. Containing active retinoids, rosehip oil helps in brightening your skin complexion and fighting acne in no time.

C. Grapefruit Oil

This is best for Kapha skin type. Besides promoting a glowing skin complexion, grapefruit oil can help in reducing severe acne on your face.

D. Lavender Oil

It can be used on any skin type. You can attain a youthful glow on your skin with lavender oil. It also helps in controlling the blemishes, sunburns, and skin irritations effectively.

E. Ylang-Ylang Oil

It is best for Pitta skin type. Ylang-ylang oil heals any breakouts on your skin and controls blemishes with its natural anti-inflammatory properties. It also enhances your skin’s radiance by boosting skin cell regeneration and promoting a tight skin texture.

F. Sweet Orange Oil

Sweet orange oil benefits Vata and Kapha skin type. It gives a vitamin C boost to your skin and soothes your skin with its effective anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

6. Ayurvedic Herbal Therapies For Glowing Skin

A. Herbal Lepam /Body Wrap

In this treatment, a herbal paste usually made of turmeric, licorice, and grain powders is applied to your body. This formulation acts as a natural purifying agent for your skin and imparts radiating skin complexion. It is best for people who have dull and dry skin with uneven skin tone.

B. Abhyanga

This is the best ancient treatment to nourish your skin while balancing elevated doshas. It involves massaging your body using palms with warm oils before you take a shower. You can use eladi oil, kumkumadi oil, or nalpamaradi oil for abhyanga for healthy and glowing skin.

“Abhyanga helps in detoxification of your body and imparts a calmative feeling. It helps in moving the lymph fluids and enhances lubrication in your joints. It also controls your stress levels and insomnia, besides healing a wide variety of skin ailments,” says Dr. Zeel.

C. Potli Or Kizzi Massage

It is a herbal compress massage therapy that involves massaging specific areas of your body with warm Potli bags containing dried herbs such as ashwagandha, neem powder, etc. based on the elevated doshas. You need to take a shower with warm water after Potli massage therapy.

Potli massages help to reduce inflammation in your skin and help in tightening your muscles. Also, it helps to detox your skin, reduces stress, and increases the glow on your face.

girl having massage with herbal balls

D. Swedana Or Herbal Steam Bath

Swedana [4] is a panchakarma therapy that involves sitting inside a box filled with herb-infused steam. It can be performed for 10-30 minutes and should be done after Abhyanga. Relieving toxins and excess doshas from your body in the form of sweating is the principle of ‘Swedana therapy’. This not only helps your skin but also boosts your general health and well being.

7. Home Remedies For Glowing Skin

A. Add a spoon of coconut oil to a spoon of sandalwood powder and make a paste. Apply it to your face and leave it until it dries up. Later, rinse it off using cold water. This is good for Pitta skin type.

B. Mix a few drops of water in half a spoon of cow ghee. Apply it on your face and massage it gently for 10-15 minutes in circular motions. Leave it overnight and wash it with a mild cleanser the next morning. This is good for the Vata skin type.

C. Grind a handful of tulsi leaves and add sufficient amounts of raw milk into it to make a fine paste. Apply it to your face and wash it off with cold water after half an hour. It is good for Kapha skin type.

D. Soak a spoon of saffron in milk overnight. Add a spoon of aloe vera gel to it the next morning and apply it to your face. Rinse it off with cold water after half an hour. It is good for any Ayurvedic skin type.

8. Right Diet Rich In Antioxidants

Dr. Zeel says that your diet can make or break your skin. Your food can significantly affect your bodily doshas and the right food with mindful eating is essential to keep them in balance. Tomatoes, green leafy vegetables, broccoli, capsicum, oranges, mangoes, kiwi, guava, papaya, etc. with high amounts of antioxidants are some of the best options to achieve glowing skin.

You can determine the best diet for your glowing skin based on your Ayurvedic Prakriti and elevated doshas. For example, include coconut oil, dairy, nuts, whole grains, ghee, yogurt along with a lot of seasonal fruits and vegetables in your diet, especially if you have Vata dominant Prakriti.

Avoid fried, refined, processed foods, excessive sugar, salt, and red meat consumption as they can cause imbalance in your doshas and result in a variety of skin problems.

9. Regular Hydration

You need to drink enough water in a day to keep your skin healthy and glowing. Besides drinking 2-3 liters of water throughout the day, you can include vegetables such as lettuce, cucumber, carrot, radish, asparagus, etc. in your diet regularly. They have a high water content.

These vegetables, which are often revered as ‘purifiers’ can be taken as salads or eaten in a cooked form. You can also have herbal tea made of ginger, lemon, or chamomile once in a day. It helps in healthy digestion which is essential for glowing skin.

10. Adequate Sleep For Glowing Skin

Adequate sleep [5] on a regular basis helps your body stimulate a growth hormone, which is essential for the production of collagen and elastin protein in your skin. This keeps your skin tight and radiant. Also, a proper sleep cycle accelerates the production of the epidermis and reduces the build-up of free radicals.

11. Exercise For Glowing Skin

Dr. Zeel recommends a physical workout 4-5 times a week until you sweat under your arms and along your spine. Sweating eliminates your body’s toxins and boosts blood circulation in your skin. This helps in increased nourishment to your skin, which results in healthy and glowing skin from within.

12. Yoga For Glowing Skin

“By bringing balance to the elevated doshas in your body, Yoga helps to enhance the blood circulation in your skin and boost your overall immunity,” says Dr. Zeel.

Practicing ‘Hatha Yoga’ daily helps you connect with your breath on subtle levels, which can directly impact your skin health. Also, meditation and pranayama aid in stress relief by calming your mind.

“Your respiration levels play a significant role in maintaining the glow and vitality of your skin. Stress and shallow breathing patterns result in depleted prana (life force), which in turn makes your skin look pale, dull, and lifeless,” says Dr. Zeel.

woman doing yoga

13. Limited Sun Exposure

Though a bit of sun exposure is essential for your body, overexposure of it can cause sunburn, hyperpigmentation, tanning, and wrinkles. Hence, it is better to limit your sun exposure to morning time rays. Also, never forget to use a sunscreen lotion when you go out. Else, you can at least use a hat, an umbrella, or a scarf to shield your face from the sun.

Important Note:

Please consult your doctor before using any medicine, herb, or treatment mentioned in the article on your skin.

The Last Word

Today, we see the world is getting back to its roots and millennials are increasingly reaching out to Ayurveda to experience its tremendous benefits for their skin, hair, and overall health. Nature has everything that your skin needs and all you have to do is to pick what is best for your unique skin type.

At Vedix, we help you understand your Ayurvedic skin type with a simple dosha questionnaire, based on which we customize a natural herbal skincare regimen that addresses all your unique skin concerns.

Know Your Dosha Now

8 Amazing Ayurveda Tips For Eating Healthy At Night

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Ayurveda suggests that the end of the day is dominated by kapha, so the food we eat at night should balance kapha rather than increase it.

While a wholesome breakfast is essential for a healthy lifestyle and often called the ‘king of all meals,’ other meals throughout the day are equally important. Skipping dinner to avoid gaining weight could actually disrupt the system and lead to weight gain. When we eat is just as important as what we eat. Health and Ayurveda experts have long emphasized the importance of not only having a light dinner but also a healthier one.

According to Ayurveda, there are certain foods to avoid at night as they create an imbalance in the kapha dosha. These include foods high in glycemic index and packed with simple carbs like oily foods, packaged frozen foods, and ice cream. If you still choose to eat them, moderation is key. Consuming such foods at night can lead to weight gain and a slower metabolism.


According to Ayurveda, the last part of the day is dominated by kapha, therefore, whatever we eat must be able to balance kapha and not increase it. Here are 8 Ayurvedic tips for eating healthy at night:

  1. Opt for healthy and low-carb foods for your evening meal, as they are easier to digest. Consuming heavy meals at night can disturb your sleep and leave you feeling light-headed the following day.
  2. Switch out curd for buttermilk at night. According to Ayurveda, curd increases the kapha dosha in the body, leading to excess mucus production in the nasal passages. Buttermilk is a better alternative as it is lighter and less likely to disrupt the natural balance of kapha in the body.
  3. Practice moderation when it comes to nighttime eating. Keep your dinner light, and avoid overeating as it can expand the stomach and create toxins in the digestive tract. Additionally, leave a gap of 2-3 hours between dinner and sleeping time.
  4. Incorporate protein-rich foods into your evening meal, such as pulses, lentils, green leafy vegetables, and curry leaves. Consuming more protein and fewer carbs at night can help support your digestive system.
  5. Limit your salt intake after 7 PM, as consuming too much salt at night can increase water retention in the body and put your heart and blood vessels at risk.
  6. Use more spices in your evening meals, such as cinnamon, fennel, fenugreek, and cardamom. Spices not only add flavor but also provide many health benefits, including increasing warmth in the body and curbing appetite.
  7. Avoid sugar in your dinner and consider using honey as a substitute. Honey not only enhances the taste of your food but can also promote weight loss and help reduce mucus.
  8. Focus on your food while eating, avoiding distractions such as television or excessive conversation. Eating with awareness can become a form of meditation and help prevent overeating.

Science behind Navratri

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Navratri is celebrated across India and other parts of the world. Literal meaning of Navratri is nine nights. These nine days are solely dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine Avatars – the Navadurga. Each day is associated to an incarnation of the goddess. The divine mother or cosmic energy is worshiped. Navratri is celebrated with extreme zeal, devotion and enthusiasm by the devotees.

Let us know why we should utilize this time effectively to purify our body and mind. Let’s uncover the scientific reasons behind Navratri. The uniqueness of Hindu festivals is that they are all related to some or the other significant astronomical events or change. Navratri is not an exception.

Navratri falls in the month of October- November, which also is the transition phase from one ritu(autumn) to another(winter); an important junction of climate change.Due to the seasonal change, our immunity debiliates. There’s also evidence that exposure to cold temperatures suppresses the immune system.Seasons also affect our immune cells, and the composition of our blood and fat, according to a study.

During these nine days people do intermittent fasting (upvas), consume saatvik food. Saatvik foods are thought to be pure and balanced, offering feelings of calmness. They also give rest to digestive system and helps in detoxification. Yes, you heard it right. The scientific reason behind fasting during Navratri is to detoxify your body. By eating light for a week or maybe once in a week, one is supposed to give digestive system a little rest. Nutritionist Claire told “fasting allows the gut to cleanse and strengthens its lining”.

Change of seasons in a year is directly connected to both the Equinoxes and the Solstices. Literal meaning of Equinox is equal night. This quarter northern hemisphere of the planet becomes gentle because it receives least amount of sunlight from now on(oct-nov). After oct-nov ,days get shorter and nights longer. Navratri is the period when our biological cycles (sleep-wake cycle) go through changes and reconcile.

So let’s acknowlegde the changes and it is also the period to connect the individual consciousness with the divine.

The Three Pillars of Ayurveda

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Before you can accomplish anything of value, you need to start with a firm foundation. For example, if you want to reach a particular life goal, you have to begin by knowing what that goal is, and then you have to decide what appropriate steps/actions to take to achieve it.

Those two elements– the knowing and the doing – are the foundation for reaching your goal. Without that foundation, you’ll almost certainly be unsuccessful.

It’s the same with your health and wellbeing.

According to Ayurveda, we can only enjoy optimal health when the ‘Three Pillars of Life’ are in proper balance. These three pillars are the foundation of Ayurveda, and the Charaka Samhita – the most revered of all classical Ayurvedic texts – compares them to the pillars inside a house. If a house is going to stand upright, it needs pillars to keep it stable. Our body has pillars too, and the Charaka Samhita tells us that “one who manages these three pillars properly is guaranteed a full life span that will not be cut short by disease.”

What are the three pillars?

In Sanskrit (the ancient language in which the classic Ayurvedic texts are written), the word for pillar is ‘Sthambha’. The three Sthambhas are the three doshas we’ve mentioned many times before in previous blogs – Vata (air/ether), Pitta (fire and water), and Kapha (water and earth).But beneath these Shthambha, keeping them stable and strong, are three supporting pillars called ‘Upasthambhas’.

The three Upasthambhas are proper food (Aahara), proper sleep (Nidraa), and proper management of energy (Bhramacharya). When they’re working in balance together, our digestion, immune system, and life force will be in perfect condition, and we’ll feel healthy, happy, and content. When they’re out of balance, our digestive system feels uncomfortable, we’ll be more vulnerable to sickness and disease, and we’ll probably feel stressed and disconnected from the people around us. If this continues, the doshas they’re supporting will start to become unbalanced as well. Just like a house built on quicksand, it won’t take long before the cracks begin to show and everything collapses.

The pillar of food (Aahara)

When we eat a good, wholesome diet, our body absorbs all the nutrients and vital life force energy (Prana) from the food. As a result, we’re able to digest the food properly and eliminate the toxins before they can cause us harm. But eating the right types of food is only part of what this pillar is about. Proper digestion also depends on how mindfully we eat the food. We should never rush our mealtimes, and we should try to eat our food in the right combination at the right time every day. We should also choose food that suits our constitution because that will keep our three doshas in balance and harmony. When our digestion is wrong, it opens the doorway to sickness. When our digestion is right, we feel lighter, happier, and more peaceful in both mind and body.

The pillar of sleep (Nidraa)

The body uses sleep to heal and repair and replenish energy.When awake, we’re under a constant bombardment of stress and strain. Our physical body has to cope with chemicals and pollutants, and our mind has to cope with pressure and anxiety. Without sleep, we’d soon start to physically and mentally break down. Before long, we could become very sick indeed.

But just getting sleep is not enough. There has to be a proper balance. Not enough sleep will upset our vata dosha and leave us susceptible to injury. Too much sleep will disturb our kapha dosha and make us feel sluggish and lethargic. Not aligning our sleeping patterns with the cycles of day and night can create big problems too, which is one of the main reasons why people who do shift work can often find it difficult to function, especially if the shift work is staggered and their body is never allowed to find a proper routine.

The pillar of energy management (Bhramacharya)

Translated literally from the Sanskrit, Bhramacharya means ‘celibacy’. It was a commitment the ancient yogis made to give up the pleasures of the body and devote all their energies to following the spiritual path (in the same way that nuns and monks take a vow of chastity). But, in a more practical and modern sense, Bhramacharya isn’t just about abstaining from sex or properly managing your sexual energy, it’s about mastering all of your energies so that you have total control over your thoughts and behaviours.

Just like diet and sleep, we often overlook or take for granted the importance of our sexual wellbeing. Many of us think of sex as being an additional or subsidiary part of life, but it is as vital to our physical and mental health as proper food and proper rest. But if we overindulge in food, we become overweight and unhealthy. If we overindulge in sleep, we become tired and slow. If we overindulge in sex, it depletes us of the essential energy we need to keep our mind, body, and immune system healthy, and it can also damage our connection with the other person.

That’s why finding ways to conserve our energy – all our vital energy, not just the energy we expend during sexual activity – is extremely important. It’s keeping our battery charged.

Over the next few blogs, I’ll be looking at each of these pillars in detail and telling you the best Ayurvedic ways to keep them in balance. Until then, why not think about how strong these pillars are in you rlife, and how you could take steps to improve them?

Until next time, to your enduring health and happiness in Ayurveda.

How to Fast the Ayurvedic Way

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There is so much contradictory information available about fasting that it can be difficult to decide which, if any, method to try. What may be good for one person can actually be detrimental to another. Fortunately, because Ayurveda recognizes the uniqueness of each individual, there are tools we can use to help us choose what will be most beneficial for us at any given time. One useful tool is discovering your current state of health. Take the free Ayurvedic Profile™ quiz to learn yours. 

Ayurveda has a long tradition of utilizing fasting as a vital practice for maintaining and regaining health. In our society, fasting is often viewed as a type of denial or deprivation, but you can instead choose to see fasting as a gift to yourself: a much needed rest from the constant barrage of foods and experiences you take into your body. Welcome to the Ayurvedic approach to fasting.

What Is Ayurvedic Fasting

When we choose to fast Ayurvedically, we are practicing pratyahara. Pratyahara is derived from two Sanskrit words: “prati,” which translates as against, and “ahara,” which means anything taken into the body. In practicing pratyahara, we deliberately choose what to take into our body-mind-spirit, whether it is food, breath, or sensory input. Pratyahara is twofold; as we choose to avoid that which is harmful, we open up to what is beneficial and contributes to our health and happiness.

Ayurvedic fasting does not necessarily mean going completely without food. It does not mean depriving ourselves and suffering through hunger pangs. An Ayurvedic fast is very much about foods and liquids, but it involves eating a cleaner, lighter diet appropriate for our constitution or current state of health.

“The control of the palate is a valuable aid for the control of the mind.”— Mahatma Gandhi

Fasting vs. Cleansing

Fasting and cleansing can be one in the same in Ayurveda, depending on the length and type of fast. Typically a fast is for a short period of time and a cleanse lasts longer. Generally during a longer cleanse, you will eat a mono-diet of kitchari. You can read more about this in An Introduction to Ayurvedic Cleansing.

Why Fasting Is Important

Many of us are overfed and undernourished. The majority of food in the United States lacks prana, or intelligence. We are consuming more processed foods, pesticides, fungicides, artificial fertilizers, preservatives, and chemical additives than ever before. Eating an abundance of low quality foods can lead to dis-ease in the body and frequent health imbalances.

Additionally, when we overeat and choose poor quality foods, digestion suffers. Ayurveda says, you are not only what you eat, you are what you digest. When your digestive fire, or agni, is low, instead of cleanly digesting your foods, you begin to create and accumulate toxins or ama. Ama literally means “undigested food matter.” If you are new to the concepts of agni and ama, you can read more about these important concepts in The Importance of Healthy Digestion and Ama: The Antithesis of Agni.

Ayurveda believes that ama is the root cause of all disease. Ama is a result of poor digestion of whatever we take into the body, which is why we need strong agni. When you first begin to accumulate ama, you may experience many things including cravings, mood swings, fatigue, fogginess, anxiety, bad breath, coating on the tongue, body odor, and sluggishness. If you continue to indulge in poor dietary habits and create more ama, this toxic undigested foodstuff eventually migrates into the bloodstream and circulates throughout the body. This sticky, heavy ama then settles into our “weak” spots, or khavaigunyas, eventually manifesting in more serious conditions. It is important to halt and eliminate ama before it causes deeper problems.

Fasting helps the body, mind, and spirit

Benefits of Fasting

  • The digestive organs are the largest organs in the body, require a tremendous amount of energy, and need rest.
  • Resting the digestive tract by fasting frees up energy to be used for healing.
  • Freed up energy is used to improve agni, burn away toxins, and support a strong immune system.1
  • Learning how to fast is an important part of understanding how to take care of our bodies and minds.
  • We can incorporate fasting into our routine, just as we might turn to meditation to rest and soothe our minds.
  • The body knows how to heal itself, and will do so if we provide it with the nourishment it needs.
  • With fasting, the body feels lighter and regains its natural glow.
  • As energy increases and the mind becomes clearer and more focused, it becomes easier to make the right choices to continue to thrive.
  • As our bodies clear out unwanted toxins, we can connect with our consciousness more easily—this is why many spiritual traditions use fasting to increase spiritual growth and openness.

“Fasting is the first principle of medicine; fast and see the strength of the spirit reveal itself.”— Rumi

How to Do an Ayurvedic Fast

A simple first step to fasting is to begin to eliminate foods such as sugars, refined carbohydrates, gluten, commercial dairy products, unhealthy fats such as margarine, commercial meats, non-organic foods, genetically modified foods, processed foods, leftover foods, frozen foods, fast foods, caffeine, and alcohol. All of these substances tend to create ama and heaviness. If you can cut out one of these food categories for one full day, and then string that together into a few days, that’s a fast!

Before beginning any type of fast, it is important to consider your constitution, current health challenges, digestion, presence of toxins, and vitality.2 If you do not know your constitution, or prakriti, or your current state of health, or vikriti, the Ayurvedic Profile™ quiz will get you started. If you are new to fasting or are experiencing a chronic illness, it is best to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner or your healthcare provider before undertaking a cleanse or beginning a fast.

Choosing the Best Time

If you wake up in the morning feeling tired and dull and have a coating on your tongue, this is a good time to do a fast appropriate to your constitution. This may mean a water fast, or just eating simply until the coating clears. Whenever you notice any type of indigestion such as gas, burping, bloating, or burning, this is your body sending you signals that something is off. So give your digestive system a rest, allowing it to clear up any ama right at the start. It is also beneficial to fast when you are feeling fatigue or heaviness. In addition, you might choose to fast for spiritual reasons, or to fast on a regular basis to maintain good health.3

“The best of all medicines is resting and fasting.”— Benjamin Franklin

Consider the Doshas

Ayurveda generally recommends short, regular fasting. This could mean once a week, once a month, or during the junction of seasons. Extended fasting is usually not recommended as it can weaken your digestion, create a disconnect between your mind and body, and can actually create problems that might take months to recover from.4 Following a mono-fast of simple, easily digestible foods such as fruits and vegetables, juices, or a simple and light stew called kitchari, allows the digestive system to rest and detoxify while providing simple nourishment and energy.

A fruit or juice fast is only recommended for those who are healthy, and it is generally better for someone with a kapha constitution. A kitchari mono-fast is beneficial for everyone.5 Either a fruit, juice, or kitchari mono-diet can be tailored to each constitutional and health condition by an Ayurvedic practitioner. Absolute fasting (taking just water or even no water or food) is not recommended for most individuals. To learn how to make kitchari, you can watch this video on How to Make Kitchari. Banyan’s Kitchari Kit has all the ingredients you need and makes the process easy.

Fasting for Vata

Because fasting increases the qualities of light, dry, and cold, fasting can provoke vata. If you have a vata constitution or have a vata imbalance, you should never do a water fast, nor should you fast for more than two days. You can consider fasting during the change of the seasons or at most once a month. If you are in good health and have good vitality, you can mono-fast with sweet orange, mango, or grape juice, which are all vata pacifying.6 If a health condition exists, it is generally better to do a mono-fast of kitchari, being careful not to deplete yourself. Vatas can drink warming teas made with ginger, a pinch of salt, and a squeeze of lime, or ginger and fennel tea.7 A 12–24 hour fast is a good place to start.

Fasting for Pitta

If you are more pitta dominant and healthy, you can consider a juice fast of bitter and astringent vegetable juices made with leafy greens, or diluted grape, prune, or pomegranate juice. A pitta should not fast on water alone, and should fast for no more than three days at a time because pittas often have strong digestion. It is beneficial for pitta to do a longer three day fast at the change of the seasons, and consider a one day a week fast during the rest of the year as well. If you have a pitta imbalance or get irritable while fasting, it is better to fast on kitchari and drink fennel tea throughout the day.8

Fasting for Kapha

If you are kapha dominant and in good health, you may fast more regularly, up to three days a couple times a year on liquids such as hot water, lemon and honey, apple, or cranberry juice.9 Kaphas can add a bit of trikatu powder to increase their agni during the fast.10 In addition, it is often good for kaphas to fast one day a week throughout the year.

kitchari

General Tips for Success

  • Choose the length of your fast conservatively. You should not feel weak, depleted, irritated, or painfully hungry. If you experience any of these, you should introduce more solid foods immediately.
  • Everyone should still eat their largest “meal” at lunch time when digestion is strongest, with a smaller meal for breakfast, and smaller still meal at dinner.
  • Remember to eat only when you are hungry.
  • A tea made of cumin, coriander, and fennel seeds (affectionately known as CCF Tea) is beneficial for everyone as it supports the digestive fire while gently removing toxins.
  • Triphala is another herbal combination that is beneficial for most people during a fast as it is a gentle detoxifier and supports the digestive system while promoting healthy elimination.
  • If you do choose to fast one day a week, it is better to choose the same day every week. If you are attuned to astrology, you can choose a day of the week to support your chart, or simply fast on the day of the week you were born.
  • During a fast you may feel a little tired, light-headed, or have a headache as toxins are released and your body is purified. These are all good signs and will pass in a short time. If these symptoms persist, discontinue your fast. You should start to feel better and lighter as your body welcomes rejuvenation, increased energy, and clarity.
  • Meditation and journaling are useful practices that are nourishing to your process during the fast. Remember to reduce your activity and allow for rest.

How to End a Fast

Once you finish your fast, it is important not to jump back into a regular diet. After completing an all-day juice fast for instance, you might have fruit or a small amount of hot cereal for breakfast the next day, followed by a simple, easy to digest lunch. It is important to take the same amount of time to prepare, fast, and come off the fast. So if you are preparing to do a two day pomegranate juice fast, you would benefit from eating a lighter, cleaner diet for two days before you start, and take two days afterwards to slowly build your way back to your solid food diet. Otherwise, you may stress your digestive fire causing more harm than good. After the fast, it is not unusual to find that you have fewer cravings and are naturally drawn to foods that are good for you.

When Not to Fast

As fasting is lightening, it can be slightly depleting for those who are young, very elderly, pregnant, breastfeeding, menstruating, are underweight or undernourished, or have a chronic illness. Be sure to consult with a physician if you have a medical condition or are on medications, and work with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner who can guide you.

As you prepare to add fasting to your healing routine, remember that Ayurveda is a very individualized system and it is important to honor and respect your own unique strengths and challenges. In time, you will gradually intuit when you need to fast and rest your system. In the meantime, I hope this supports you on your path to wholeness.

Brahma Muhurta: What, When is Brahma Muhurta time & Benefits

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What is Brahma Muhurta?

Every day at 4:30 am my grandfather is busy waking up his favorite gods in the altar with his sacred murmurs. When he is done, he meditates and then goes for a long walk. “Aah, what a beautiful morning,” he exclaims every day after he returns home.

Brahma Muhurta literally means, The Creator’s Time! The Creator or Brahma is the ultimate knowledge and Muhurta means time period. Brahma Muhurta is the time period, perfect to perceive the ultimate knowledge.

1 Muhurta = 48 minutes. Brahma Muhurta starts exactly 2 Muhurta before sunrise. Hence, it begins 1 hr and 36 mins before sunrise and ends 48 mins before it. As we know that the time of sunrise differs with seasons and geographical locations, Brahma Muhurta also varies accordingly.

My grandfather has always had an intimate affair with early mornings, specifically the period of Brahmamuhurta, the one-and-a-half hours before sunrise. So much so that you’d find him following his early morning routine despite the winter chill. He believes his ritual has kept him in the pink of his health. (Despite being in his 80s, he walks and sits with an erect posture and has no diseases whatsoever.)

Looks like medical experts of yore agree with him. “Brahmi Muhurtam uttishthet swastho rakshartham ayusha: tatra sarvartha shantyartham smareccha madhusudanam”–  Ashtanga Hridaya, a treatise on Ayurveda, says that waking up during Brahma Muhurta increases one’s lifespan and helps avoid diseases.

Brahma Muhurta: Me-Time re-defined

The benefits of a disease-free body and an increased lifespan are appealing. However, my grandpa’s love for early mornings stems from something much deeper. In his own words, it is his ‘me’ time. He explained it to me. He said that from morning to night, we are giving in to the demands of the world. The day is spent in fulfilling professional, social, and family responsibilities. A little time is left for oneself in the night. But in that period, you are left with no energy. The only time when you are fresh, aware, and can easily tune within is Brahma Muhurta timing, making it a special time for yourself.

Research benefits of waking up during Brahma Muhurta

According to the International Journal of Yoga and Allied Sciences, during the pre-dawn period, there is the availability of nascent oxygen in the atmosphere. This nascent oxygen easily mixes with hemoglobin forming oxyhemoglobin, which has the following benefits:

  • Boosts immunity
  • Increases energy level
  • Helps maintain the balance of blood pH
  • Relieves pain, soreness, and cramps
  • Enhances the absorption of minerals and vitamins

5 things to do during Brahma Muhurta

Our ancestors figured that certain activities done in Brahma Muhurta can help one to tune within. These activities help make this time with yourself special and fruitful, both on personal and worldly fronts. Ancient texts like Dharmashastras, the Hindu treatise on Dharma, and Ashtanga Hridaya recommend the following:

When you wake up in the morning, remember great people who have had a great consciousness. That will help you start your day with positivity. Your mind reverberates differently.

1. Meditate

Meditation is the best way to meet yourself. And, what better time to meditate when the rest of the world is asleep? It is at this time when your awareness level is at its best. One of the best Brahma Muhurta meditations is Sahaj Samadhi meditation.

2. Read or hear knowledge

According to Ashtanga Hridaya, Brahma Muhurta is the most suitable time to perceive spiritual knowledge and wisdom. Explore ancient scriptures or go through simple tenets of wisdom. According to Dharmashastra, studying scriptures during Brahma Muhurta also helps ease mental problems.

3. Plan Your Day

The awareness level and freshness that Brahma Muhurta bestows on you make it the perfect time to plan your day ahead.

4. Introspect

Recall your actions on the previous day. Recollect how many times you gave into negative emotions like jealousy, anger, and greed. Don’t let any of these memories drown you in guilt. Just become aware of those moments. Doing this every day will eventually reduce your tendency to give in to these negative emotional patterns.

5. Remember your parents, Guru, and God

We often do not get the time to remember the most important people in our lives. Rishi Shaunak suggests remembering and mentally bowing down to your parents, Guru, and the energy that you believe runs this creation, call it God or universal energy, during this period.

 Things not to do in Brahma Muhurta

Dharmashastra also recommends a few don’ts:

  1. Do not eat: Eating during Brahma Muhurta causes illnesses.

   2. Do not do a stressful activity: Do not do anything which requires too much mental work. Doing that reduces one’s lifespan.

Should everyone wake up in Brahma Muhurta?

  • According to Ashtanga Hridaya, only a healthy person should wake up in Brahma Muhurta. The text advises some people against waking up in Brahmamuhurta including:
  • Pregnant women
  • Children
  • Aged people who have not been waking up in this period from the very beginning
  • People suffering from any physical and mental illness
  • People whose previous meal has not been digested (No bowel movement indicates an undigested meal)

If you don’t fall in the above sets of people, it is a good idea to wake up during Brahma Muhurta. You will feel great and your productivity is bound to improve 5x.