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Tired of your 5-step health routine? You’re not alone. In 2024, we are witnessing a shift as people return to more traditional ways of approaching health. And many people are now turning to ancient practices like Ayurveda that encourage a return to basic habits. Ayurveda is one of the world’s oldest medical systems, originating in India 5,000 years ago. It is based on the belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between mind, body, spirit and environment.
PS UK speaks to Dr Murthy, an integrative Ayurvedic physician and global scientific advisor to Kama Ayurveda, and Sharin Balasurya, wellness expert and founder of Ayurvedic brand Spa Ceylon, to bring Ayurveda to wellness, self-care and more. , I learned how to seriously incorporate it into my healthy habits.
Why is Ayurvedic health important?
“This is important because it provides a holistic approach to health that considers the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit,” says Balasuriya. Unlike conventional medicine, which often focuses only on treating symptoms, Ayurveda aims to address the root causes of imbalances to promote long-term health.
“It helps individuals cultivate balance in their lives and improve their physical, mental, and emotional health. Ayurvedic health emphasizes the importance of preventive care through healthy habits and daily self-care rituals. ”Ayurvedic principles promote a movement towards outer and inner balance,” he explains.
What does Ayurvedic medicine include?
Dr. Murthy explains that Ayurvedic medicine offers a complete package of healing methods, from natural herbs to dietary advice, mindful living, yoga, and detox routines. “At the heart of Ayurveda, we believe that true health is about finding balance in body, mind, and spirit. It is like a personal roadmap to health, customized to your individual needs. As the ancient Ayurvedic texts say, “In Ayurveda, health is everything” – maintaining harmony in body, mind and spirit.
What is Ayurvedic diet?
Central to Ayurvedic healing is the concept of ‘akhara’, or food as medicine. Dr. Murthy explains that the Ayurvedic diet emphasizes seasonal, whole foods that are “fresh, organic, and locally sourced whenever possible.” He told PS UK: “The optimal diet for each person balances the six tastes (sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter and astringent) to promote internal harmony. The focus is determined by a person’s unique dosha. Turmeric, ginger, and cumin not only enhance flavor, but also aid in digestion and support overall health.
What are the three doshas of Ayurveda?
Based on centuries of Ayurvedic practice, practitioners can find a person’s dosha based on a combination of physical, emotional, mental, and behavioral characteristics. The three doshas are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. According to Healthline, each person has a unique ratio of doshas, but one of them stands out more than the others. Thus, one person may be primarily Vata, while another may be primarily Pitta. If you want to know your ratios, an Ayurvedic practitioner will be able to tell you.
Kapha: For good health, Kapha-dominant individuals are advised to focus on maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and establishing regular sleep habits.
Pitta: If you are Pitta dominant, you should focus on work-life balance and avoid extreme heat (such as hot weather and spicy foods).
Vata: Vata-dominant people try to keep warm by creating a regular daily routine, managing stress through meditation and other calming activities, avoiding cold weather, and consuming warm foods and drinks. Should.
What health concerns does Ayurveda help with?
Dr. Murthy reveals that Ayurveda can help with a wide range of health concerns. “By addressing the root causes of imbalance, Ayurvedic therapy can gently alleviate a wide range of health concerns, from digestive issues and stress-related illnesses to chronic conditions such as arthritis and insomnia. “through effective detoxification, nourishing herbal remedies, and lifestyle,” he advises. Through modifications, Ayurveda enables individuals to develop vibrant health and vitality at every stage of life. ”
How does using Ayurvedic formulas improve your skin?
Balasuriya explains that unlike traditional beauty products that are loaded with synthetic chemicals, Ayurvedic beauty emphasizes natural ingredients derived from plants and herbs.
He told PS UK: “The focus on natural ingredients coincides with growing consumer demand for transparency and sustainability in beauty products. What consumers put on their skin As we become more conscious about our health, Ayurvedic beauty offers a reliable alternative rooted in centuries-old wisdom and backed by modern scientific research. ”
Ayurvedic beauty rituals offer a luxurious yet deeply nourishing approach to skin care that goes beyond surface-level concerns. By harnessing the power of powerful plants and traditional techniques, Ayurvedic formulas work in harmony with your body’s natural rhythms to promote glowing skin from the inside out. Mr Balasuriya told PS UK: “Ingredients such as saffron, neem, rose and sandalwood are prized for their purifying and rejuvenating properties, while practices such as abhyanga (self-massage) and udvartana (herbal exfoliation) promote blood circulation and tone the skin. Detoxifies and gives a bright glow.”
Does Ayurveda have any health side effects?
According to Dr. Murthy, Ayurveda is generally safe and has no harmful side effects when practiced under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner. “However, it is essential for Ayurvedic therapy to be approached with individual differences in mind and respect.As with any form of medicine, diet and lifestyle changes are important, especially if there are underlying conditions or conditions. “It’s wise to consult your health care provider before making any major changes,” he advises.
Aaliyah Harry (she/her) is deputy editor at PS UK. She writes extensively on all things lifestyle, culture, and beauty. Aaliyah also has a deep passion for telling stories and giving voice to the voiceless. So far, she has contributed to Refinery29, Grazia UK, and The Voice News.
