My Daily Dosha

Ayurveda Research: A Growing Body of Evidence Establishes Its Scientific Merit

Sylvia — Sat, 18 May 2024 23:29:23 GMT

Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine, has long been revered for its holistic approach to health and well-being. Rooted in thousands of years of tradition, Ayurveda is not merely a system of remedies but a comprehensive lifestyle philosophy that seeks to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit. While skeptics have sometimes questioned its scientific validity, the landscape is changing rapidly, with an increasing number of research papers and universities embracing Ayurveda as a science-based medicine. To date, there are thousands of peer-reviewed research papers on Ayurveda available in various databases and academic journals.

The resurgence of interest in Ayurveda is evidenced by the growing body of research dedicated to understanding its principles and efficacy. In recent years, there has been a notable surge in the number of research papers published on Ayurveda, spanning a diverse range of topics including herbal formulations, lifestyle interventions, and holistic approaches to disease management. These studies, conducted by esteemed institutions and researchers worldwide, are shedding new light on the mechanisms underlying Ayurvedic practices and their therapeutic potential.

Universities across the globe are also recognizing the value of Ayurveda education and research. From India, where Ayurveda has been an integral part of the healthcare system for centuries, to leading academic institutions in the West, there is a growing emphasis on integrating Ayurvedic principles into medical curricula and establishing dedicated research centers. These initiatives aim to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, bridging the gap between traditional wisdom and modern science.

One of the key strengths of Ayurveda lies in its personalized approach to healthcare. Rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all model, Ayurvedic practitioners assess each individual's unique constitution, known as "prakriti," and tailor treatments accordingly. This personalized approach aligns closely with the principles of precision medicine, emphasizing the importance of understanding the intricacies of each patient's biology and lifestyle factors.

Moreover, Ayurveda places a strong emphasis on preventive healthcare and holistic well-being. By addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying imbalances that contribute to disease, Ayurvedic interventions aim to restore harmony and promote long-term health. This preventive focus is increasingly recognized as a cornerstone of modern healthcare, with an emphasis on lifestyle modifications, stress management, and dietary interventions to prevent chronic diseases.

Critics of Ayurveda have often raised concerns about the lack of rigorous scientific evidence to support its efficacy. The growing body of evidence, with thousands of peer-reviewed research papers on Ayurveda available in various databases and academic journal underscores its recognition and validity as a science-based medicine. By embracing interdisciplinary collaboration, fostering research initiatives, and integrating Ayurvedic principles into mainstream healthcare, we can unlock the full potential of this ancient system of medicine in promoting health and well-being for all.

In conclusion, Ayurveda is not just a relic of the past but a vibrant and evolving science with relevance in today's world. As research continues to uncover the mechanisms underlying Ayurvedic practices and their therapeutic effects, it is becoming increasingly clear that Ayurveda has much to offer in the quest for optimal health and wellness. By bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, Ayurveda can emerge as a cornerstone of integrative medicine, offering holistic solutions to the complex health challenges of our time.

Health Benefits of Mango Leaf

Sylvia — Sat, 11 May 2024 23:05:57 GMT

Mango leaves, often overlooked, are a treasure trove of health benefits that have been appreciated for centuries in traditional medicine. The lush, green leaves of the mango tree (Mangifera indica) offer a range of therapeutic properties, making them a valuable addition to herbal remedies and natural therapies.

One of the key health benefits of mango leaves is their ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Research has shown that compounds found in mango leaves can help lower blood glucose levels, making them potentially beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.

Mango leaves are also prized for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They contain bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation, combat oxidative stress, and protect against chronic diseases.

Moreover, mango leaves are known for their antimicrobial effects. They possess natural compounds that can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi, supporting overall immune health and helping to ward off infections.

In addition to these health benefits, mango leaves have been used traditionally to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and respiratory issues. They are also valued for their role in promoting overall digestive health and supporting healthy skin.

To incorporate mango leaves into your wellness routine, you can brew them into a tea or use them as a supplement. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using mango leaves for medicinal purposes, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

In conclusion, mango leaves are not only a beautiful and abundant part of nature but also a natural source of health-promoting compounds. By exploring the therapeutic potential of mango leaves, we can harness their benefits for enhanced well-being and vitality.

Understanding the Ayurvedic Perspective: Why Fruit and Dairy Shouldn't Mix

Sylvia — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 02:03:17 GMT

In the realm of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, dietary guidelines are meticulously detailed, emphasizing the importance of food combinations for optimal digestion and overall well-being. One such recommendation is to avoid consuming fruit and dairy together. But why exactly is this practice advised?

According to the Charaka Samhita, one of the foundational texts of Ayurveda, fruit and dairy possess contrasting qualities and undergo different digestive processes within the body. Mixing these two food groups can lead to what Ayurveda terms as "Viruddha Ahara" or incompatible food combinations, which disrupt the digestive fire (agni) and may cause various health issues.

Let's delve into the reasons behind this ancient wisdom:

Differing Digestive Time: Fruits are typically digested quickly, especially those with high water content like melons and citrus fruits. On the other hand, dairy products, such as milk and yogurt, require more time to digest due to their heavier and denser nature. Consuming them together can result in conflicting digestive processes, leading to fermentation, gas, and bloating.
Contrasting Properties: Ayurveda categorizes foods based on their inherent qualities or "gunas." Fruits are considered cooling, light, and often have a cleansing effect on the body. In contrast, dairy products are heavy, nourishing, and possess heating properties. Combining these contrasting qualities can create an imbalance in the body's doshas, particularly aggravating Kapha and disrupting the digestive system's harmony.
Agni Disturbance: Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of maintaining robust digestive fire (agni) for efficient digestion and metabolism. Consuming incompatible food combinations like fruit and dairy can weaken agni, leading to incomplete digestion, the formation of toxins (ama), and eventually, various health ailments.
Formation of Toxins: When fruit and dairy are consumed together, the mixture may undergo improper fermentation in the digestive tract, leading to the formation of toxins. These toxins can impair nutrient absorption, compromise immune function, and contribute to the development of diseases over time.

Moreover, Ayurveda provides specific guidelines for combining milk with fruits:

Milk should be combined only with purely sweet and ripe fruits, such as ripe mangoes, avocados, and dry fruits like raisins, dates, and figs.
Avoid mixing berries (including strawberries) with milk, as this combination may lead to milk curdling after digestion.
Bananas should not be combined with milk, as their post-digestive effect may turn sour when ingested together.

While Ayurveda advises against combining fruit and dairy, it doesn't mean you need to eliminate them from your diet entirely. Instead, it suggests consuming them separately and mindfully, allowing each food group to be digested optimally without causing digestive disturbances.

In conclusion, honoring the principles of Ayurveda regarding food combining, such as avoiding the simultaneous consumption of fruit and dairy, can promote better digestion, support overall health, and help maintain balance within the body. By understanding and applying these ancient dietary guidelines, we can harness the wisdom of Ayurveda to cultivate optimal well-being in our modern lives.

Virus Prevention and Ayurveda

Sylvia — Thu, 12 Mar 2020 14:10:43 GMT

Coronavirus

Just the word is enough to instill panic and fear in many of us, unfortunately this panic or fear can make it much harder to make decisions to take care of ourselves and our loved ones when we most need it.

2020 has brought us an unprecedented experience of a virus that according to media, is spreading rapidly throughout the world. In a time like this, it's extremely important to have a strong immune system.

In Ayurvedic medicine, Spring is the time when our immune systems are the most challenged, it is the time that Kapha dosha, that has built up over the winter (yes even in warm climates), needs to melt. If it doesn't have the opportunity to do so Ama (toxins), build up and reduce the ability of the body to fight off disease and viruses.

What can we do to reduce Ama (toxins) and boost our immune system at the same time?

Free and Fairly Easy to Do

Eat light, well spiced, cooked food
Stay away from heavy foods such as, dairy, cheese, breads and pasta or cold foods that are harder to digest.
Eat 3 meals a day - this is not the right time for fasting
Many people like to do Spring cleanses at this time of year fasting on cold juices or not eating at all, both of these activities will diminish the body's ability to fight off a virus. Try to eat 3 healthy meals per day without overeating, which can tax the body.
Research article - Feeding a virus
Make sure to get a good nights sleep
You will get the best quality sleep if you go to bed between 9 and 10pm, if you stay up later the mind becomes very active and it becomes harder to go into a deep state of sleep. Make sure to not sleep more than 8 hours if you are healthy and an adult - and definitely no napping. Both of these will increase Kapha dosha in the body and make it more susceptible to the flu virus.
Get plenty of fresh air, sunlight and easy exercise
It's important to keep active, walking, hiking, biking, anything that gets your body moving and fresh air will be beneficial. Make sure you don't overdo at this time, excessive exercise is stressful for the body, so take it easy and make it fun.
Stay postive and enjoy fun activities
It can be hard to stay positive when it seems the news is always bad, but staying positive and light hearted is a very important factor in keeping your immune system healthy. Look for opportunities to enjoy your time, have fun and laugh. A good example of this is Italians under quarantine are using this time to connect to their neighbors with music and song, creating community in isolation.
Research Paper - Emotions and Immunity
Take hot showers or baths
If your Vata is not too out of balance take hotter showers or baths, to allow the body to sweat and cleanse. If Vata is out of balance, apply sesame oil to the body before bathing in hot water.
Make sure you don't get chilled
Stay out of the wind and cold, keep your head, ears and neck covered. Any kind of stress on the body weakens the immune system. This is not the time to be extreme in anything.

Ayurveda Maui does have some excellent herbal formulas for keeping the body healthy and strong, I've listed some here, as well as other herbs that can be found at your local health food store or online.

Items to Buy

Since, Ayurveda Maui is not a retail business, these items can be ordered by contacting us directly

Drink Agni tea formula before food
This formula is designed to reduce Ama in the body by creating a digestive fire that will turn the food you eat into nutrients the body can use. When the digestive fire is low, our food is undigested and creates Ama. When the body has too much Ama it has a much harder time fighting off disease/virus.
Take Rasayani formula 1-3 times per day
This formula, which includes Ashwaganda and Shatavari, helps to enhance the *Dhatu (body tissue) and boosts the immune system.
Research Paper - Ashwaganda
Take Astragalus and Licorice daily
Both of these herbal medicines have shown in multiple studies, the ability to help the body fight off viruses. "At an appropriate concentration (231.25μg/mL) APS can drastically reduce the proliferation of H9N2 virus."
Research Paper - Astragalus
Research Paper - Licorice
Take Neem bark daily
The Neem extracts absorb viruses, preventing them from spreading to unaffected cells. Neem has also been shown to be effective against herpes virus and the viral DNA polymers of the hepatitis B virus. Laboratory experiments have shown that Neem has antibacterial characteristics as well.
Research Paper
Take Triphala daily
You can either take Triphala in a capsule or take Triphala powder in warm water before bed. Research has found this formula to be potentially effective for several clinical uses such as, reduction of hyperacidity, anti-inflammation, immunomodulating, antibacterial, antimutagenic and adaptogenic. In Ayurvedic medicine Triphala is used to reduce Ama (toxins) in the elimination system.
Research Paper
Oil your nose daily
In the morning use Nasya oil in your nose. If you are going to be around people wipe the inside of your nose, around your eyes and lips with coconut oil (a small amount is fine). Apply coconut oil to your hands as well to create a protective coating or wear gloves.
Research Paper - Nasya oil
Research Paper - Coconut oil
If you develop a cough, use the formula Svasari Using Svasari helps clear congestion and imbalances in the lungs.

There are many different ways to boost the immune system, these are just a few that I have used for myself, my family and my clients, with excellent and consistent results.
As in all times of stress and confusion, the best things we can do are to take care of ourselves and our loved ones. As we focus on the things we can do to boost our immune systems, we make it harder for these types of diseases to exist.

* Dhatu - The saptadhatus (sapta = seven, dhatus = tissues) and their function are categorized as:

Rasa - Plasma - Nourishment
Rakta - Blood - Circulation
Mamsa - Muscle - Movement
Medha - Fat - Lubrication
Asthi - Bone - Support
Majja - Bone marrow - Generation of blood cells
Shukra - Sexual hormones - Reproduction

The tridoshas - Vata, Pitta and Kahpa - all regulate the dhatu. The seven dhatu draw energy from each other. Each dhatu influences the health of the others. The health of the body and mind is directly linked to the health conditions associated with these seven dhatu.

Ayurveda and the Seasons

Sylvia — Sun, 16 Sep 2018 22:22:00 GMT

Ayurvedic Medicine understands that seasonal changes have an effect on the elements in our surroundings, which in turn will have an effect on our doshic balance. For example, in the heat of the summer, Pitta will naturally increase in most of us and can create Pitta related disturbances in our body as well as in our emotions causing us to experience more frustration and anger. If we understand these changes and learn to balance our beings through the seasonal changes, by the next season any imbalances will diminish.

Let's take a look at the different seasons and how they can effect us:

Vata Season Vata seasons are Spring and Fall, when either we are changing (vata) from one season to another, in spring from the coldness of winter to the heat of summer and in the fall from the heat of summer to the coldness of winter again. During Vata times of the year we often can feel a number of Vata imbalances:

Ungrounded
Spacey
Forgetful and/or anxious
Skin and/or eyes become dry
We feel the cold more
Sometimes if the Vata is very high, we can either decide we need to travel (vata) or make a change in our relationships, living situations or jobs
We feel aches and pains in the body more

All these behaviors are symptoms of Vata imbalances and can be mitigated in simple ways:

Drink more spicy teas such as; ginger, chai, cinnamon, cloves, etc.
Drink warm liquids - not too hot or too cold
Apply warm sesame oil to dry skin, follow with a shower or bath
Eat more root vegetables and squashes, such as pumpkin, carrots, potatos, turnips, etc.
Keep warm as the weather changes, avoid cold wind on the neck and head areas. Keep feet warm with warm socks and slippers, especially indoors.
Do a grounding yoga practice, with Pranayama and meditation.
Take your Daily Dosha quizzes daily to see the progression of Vata and learn more ways of balancing this Dosha that can move out of balance so quickly.

To be continued.....

Kick Off this New Year with 5 Healthy New Habits

Sylvia — Wed, 27 Dec 2017 23:09:04 GMT

5 ways to start the New Year on a healthy note

Take Triphala every night for the next 2 weeks

Triphala is an Ayurvedic formula excellent for detoxing and rejuvenating the body at the same time. It also encourages balanced, full elimination, by pulling stagnated Ama or toxic residue from the digestive tract and increasing the colon’s absorption functions. Triphala can be taken in capsule or powder form.
Make sure you have a regular sleep cycle set
If you're going to bed past 10pm do your best to start getting ready for bed earlier. If you don't feel sleepy by 10pm, set your alarm and wake up at 4:30am one morning, that night plan to be in bed by 9:30pm make sure to not nap during the day or consume caffeine in the afternoon. Drink some warm milk with nutmeg and poppyseed after dinner. Stay off electronics, keep TV off in the evening and keep the lights low after 9pm. Do your best to reset your sleep cycle, even if you start by just going to bed 10 minutes earlier each night.
Drink a healthy detox tea daily for 1-2 weeks
Boil two quarts of water in the morning then add:

¼ tspn. cumin

½ tspn. coriander

½ tspn. fennel

Steep for 5-10 minutes, strain if you wish and drink the tea warm throughout the day. (at least 5-6 cups)

This tea will help gently detox the body and help with weightloss if weightloss is needed.
Start doing something that makes you sweat 3x / week
You can do this by joining a gym and doing cardio, walking fast uphill, swimming, biking, etc. And if there isn't time for any physical activity, then fill a bath with hot water, before getting in the bath, apply sesame oil to your body, massage lightly from head to toe, once oil is applied, soak in the hot bath. Drink warm water or the detox tea before, during and after.
Try a mono-diet for 3 days
This gives your digestive system a chance to relax.You can choose to eat kitcheri (breakfast lunch and dinner) which is considered the best food in Ayurvedic medicine for cleansing and nourishing at the same time. Or you can choose a single healthy food and have that same food breakfast lunch and dinner for 3 days. If you're depleted, weak or sick, do not do this type of diet.

And an added bonus

If you're not using a tongue cleaner every morning, get one and start cleaning your tongue in the morning before having anything to eat or drink. During sleep toxins appear on the surface of the tongue, if not cleaned off they reabsorb into the body. It's easy to do, just scrape the tongue from back to front gently a few times. This can be done more than once a day but is especially beneficial in the morning.

Wishing everyone a Healthy and Happy 2018!

Sylvia Whelchel,

Dr. of Ayurvedic Medicine

Introducing: My Daily Dosha

Sylvia — Sun, 10 Dec 2017 22:05:45 GMT

Sharing our dream with you~~

Life can be complex, and most of us have many roles to play and responsibilities to carry. Keeping yourself going, not to mention creating a life you love, can take incredible effort and require delicate balance. Those of us here at MyDailyDosha hold a clear mission in our hearts: To help the practice of Ayurveda come alive for you, so that Nature Herself becomes your greatest ally and strongest support in your journey toward a healthy and happy life.

We want to see you thrive- in your work, your play, your love, and your family- and hope to see you upheld as you create the life you want to live.

We trust that the healing power of Ayurveda can enliven your body and world because we have experienced this ourselves. In fact, we have committed to passionately practicing Ayurveda like our health and sanity depend upon it- because we have found that they do. Because we are on this broad path ourselves, we can hold your hand with deep understanding through transitional moments and challenge that may arise, with our gaze firmly fixed in the direction you want to go. We know this work, though simple, can be far from easy, especially in moments where lifelong habits are being dismantled and transformed into ways of living that will bring greater personal sustainability.

MyDailyDosha offers you accountability: a chance to take inventory each day with Ayurvedic quizzes to determine how your Dosha are moving in response to your actions and activities, all those things that make up your life, from how you eat to how you sleep. Every day offers a new opportunity to put the principles of Ayurveda to practice- to stabilize, to soothe, to energize your entire being physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Each day gives possibilities to bring healing toward whatever ails and become more fully alive. Ultimately you are the only one who can bring balance to your life and decide to take action to align with what is healthy for you, but we are here to offer friendly support, structure, and guidance.

We share educational content to continually re-inspire your personal practice and increase the potential of your food, your movement, and your daily rituals to help you align with your health goals and move your life in the direction you want to go. We can help you amp up your Ayurvedic cooking skills, teach you how to work with healing plants and spices, and bring elemental balancing techniques to your daily yoga or fitness practice. We strive to teach you how to truly nourish yourself on a daily basis, rather than “spoon-feed” you some solution that keeps you dependent upon outside care and intermittent therapeutic treatments.

Life is complicated, and we know much can be required of you. We want to help simplify what can sustain you through all your joys and challenges, so you can show up fully and rise to meet all that you love and all that you serve.

Sincerely,

Sascha Nicole,

Ayurvedic Practitioner

Is your Healthy Diet Making you Sick?

Sylvia — Sat, 16 Sep 2017 19:32:14 GMT

Most of us think that eating healthy food is one of the most important ways to stay healthy. And while healthy and nutritious food is very important, there are other factors that can have a big impact on our health.

So, is your healthy diet making you sick?

For many of us it is!

If you eat healthy food, but don't digest it properly due to poor digestive fire (Agni) or improper food combining, then you have created toxins (Ama) in your body and the food that started out healthy actually becomes a toxin in your body. This concept in Ayurveda helps to explain why people often say "but I've eaten healthy food my whole life, I don't understand why I'm sick now??!!"

Here are a couple of examples of foods commonly considered to be "healthy":

"Salad is Healthy, of Course!"

Not always, if you eat salad on it's own and your doshic makeup is currently Vata excessive, the salad becomes a toxin for your body rather than a health food.

"Fruit and Yogurt is Super Good for You!"

This time definitely not healthy, yogurt and fruit do not combine well in the digestive system for anyone, so when eaten together the post-digestive effect will create Ama (toxins) in your body.

There are many more examples of foods that we consider to be "health foods", whose post- digestive effect can be toxic for many of us, if not all of us.

So, how do you know if you are creating Ama with the foods you eat?

Do you experience bloating or gas after eating?
Is your elimination too frequent or are you often constipated?
Do you have a coating of mucus on your tongue in the morning?
Does your stomach feel cold after eating or too hot?
Do you have heartburn or acid reflux?
Are you often cold?
Are you overweight?
Do people often comment that you are too skinny?
Do you have low energy or feel tired after eating?

All these are indicators, even if you are eating healthy food, that either the temperature of the food, poor food combining or simply insufficient digestive fire is affecting your ability to digest properly and create healthy tissue (dhatu) in the body.

Find out more about your Doshic makeup and Ayurveda here:

www.mydailydosha.com

or schedule an online consultation to create healthier eating habits:

info@ayurvedamaui.com

What is Panchakarma?

Sylvia — Sat, 13 May 2017 23:16:44 GMT

Many people ask me "What is Panchakarma?"

There are many misconceptions about Panchakarma and the word tends to be overused as a catchall for any type of Ayurvedic treatment. Following is a standard definition for clarification of what Panchakarma really is.

Panchakarma literally means Five (pancha) Actions (karma) and refers to five sets of Ayurvedic treatment procedures given to a patient depending on what dosha is out of balance. They are NOT given all at once and are NOT 'standard' procedure for all patients. Prior to Panchakarma, Purvakarma must be administered to prepare the patient for the Panchakarma.

The Panchakarma (or Five Action) treatments are:

Vamana – Emesis treatment. This refers to removing the toxins by means of vomiting. Vamana treatment is given after preparing the patient for vamana procedures. Vamana treatment is usually given for Kapha imbalances. Vamana treatment may take from 3 – 7 days.
Virechana – Purgative treatment. This refers to removing toxins by means of purgation. Virechana treatment is given after preparing the patient for virechana procedures. Virechana treatment is usually given for Pitta imbalances. Virechana treatment may take from 3 – 7 days.
Basti – Rectal enema. An Ayurvedic enema is quite different from the regular enema given to relieve constipation. Basti treatment is utilized in a wide range of diseases, predominantly of Vata imbalance. There are two types of Basti – Basti with oil and Basti with a mixture of herbal decoction, honey, salt etc.

(Principles behind Basti treatment: There are a few sets of herbal active principles that do not undergo digestion when given through the oral route, either these herbal active components are destroyed due to acid in the stomach or due to metabolism of these components by the liver (hepatic first pass effect). Ayurvedic Physicians of ancient times found the rectal route to administer the herbs, by which the herbal active components are directly made available for absorption at the level of intestines.)

Nasya treatment - formula applied in the nose. Instillation of powders or Ayurvedic liquids through nose is called Nasya treatment. It is usually prescribed for diseases of the ear, nose, throat, headaches, etc. and helps to balance all three doshas and is very beneficial for balancing Kapha dosha.
Raktamoksha - Blood letting. Extracting a small amount of blood from a vein relieves the tension created by the pittagenic toxins in the blood. Bloodletting also stimulates the spleen to produce antitoxic substances which help to stimulate the immune system. Toxins are neutralized enabling radical cures in many blood born disorders.

Understanding Panchakarma can help you work with an Ayurvedic Doctor or Practitioner to balance your Doshas at a deeper level.

Benefits of Rice Water per Ayurveda

Sylvia — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 01:42:19 GMT

Here are some fantastic ways to use rice water for internal and external health:

For Smooth Skin

Rice is rich in B vitamins called ‘inositol’ that help in promoting cell growth, slowing down the aging process and stimulating blood flow. Apply to your face daily with a cotton ball

To Diminish Age Spots

Rice water also has antioxidant, moisturizing and UV rays absorbing properties. Rice water has the ability to bind to naturally occurring copper in the skin; therefore it prevents the production of melanin (hyperpigmentation) and age spots

Excellent to Heal Acne

Apply on acne with a cotton ball and it will help to quickly heal the inflammation

Helps with Eczema

The starch present in rice water helps in dealing with eczema by soothing the inflammation present. Take cool rice water and apply on the affected area daily for 1 week

Perfect for Sunburn and Rashes

Because of the soothing anti- inflammatory properties, rice water will really help with sunburn and rashes. Soak a clean cloth in cool rice water and apply to affected areas

For Healthy Hair

Rice water has inositol, a carbohydrate, which not only repairs damaged hair but protects it from further damage. Apply rice water to hair and leave in for 20 minutes then rinse.

Benefits of Drinking Rice Water

Provides energy

Regulates body temperature

Prevents and cures constipation

Helps regulate the menstrual cycle

Helps cure diarrhea

Can help with acid reflux and heartburn

How to make Rice Water:

Use only organic rice

Rinse rice with water to remove any dirt or impurities, then place 1/2 cup of uncooked rice in a bowl. Leave for an hour or two. Stir from time to time. Strain rice water into a clean bowl. You can store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Gently Cleansing and Nourishing Breakfast

Sylvia — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 06:29:00 GMT

My clients' often ask me what I eat and I hesitate to answer because as we know with Ayurveda different foods are good for different people at different times of life, day and season. But after over 6 weeks of travel I decided I needed a gently cleansing and nourishing breakfast and since this could be used by most people I will share :) Simple to make and there are no measurements since it's up to you to decide what you need more of or less of..

Start with Ghee in a pan on medium heat
Add small pieces of fresh ginger
(more if your hands and feet are cold less if you are feeling hot)
Slice an apple into pan (small pieces)
Add the rest of the ingredients in photo.

I've also added peaches and cashews sometimes. Best to use the fruit that is ripe and ready to eat where you are living.

Stir the mixture until the apples soften - it's up to you if you prefer well cooked or not (note: if your digestion is weak cook the apples more until very soft)

Pour into a bowl and eat as is - you should need no sweetener since the ingredients are already sweet.

Ayurveda texts say fruit is like "gold' if eaten for breakfast. Try this breakfast for at least a week and you'll notice your digestive and elimination system coming back into balance. Any questions feel free to contact me for an in person or online consultation. Happy gentle cleansing! <3

10 Reasons to include Ghee in your diet!

Sylvia — Sat, 19 Mar 2016 13:22:00 GMT

Ghee is healthy to cook with – its smoke point is (250°C 482°F), so it will not break down into unhealthy free radicals like many other oils. It is also an excellent replacement for butter in most recipes.
It’s good for your complexion as it purifies the skin and imparts a healthy glow to the skin. Premature wrinkles can be caused by a Vata and Pitta imbalance, ghee helps to balance both Vata and Pitta Dosha in the body.
Fine for those who are lactose intolerant. Ghee is made from butter, but the milk solids and impurities have been removed.
Nutritious! Ghee is rich in the oil soluble vitamins A and E as well as K2 and CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) – an antioxidant with anti-viral properties, but only if the ghee comes from grass fed cows.
Can help you lose weight - energy from the medium chain fatty acids can be used to burn other fats in the system and help with weight loss.
It is anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer. Researchers are using oral butyrate supplements and butyrate enemas to treat inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis, not surprisingly Ayurvedic physicians have been using ghee enemas for centuries to decrease inflammation in the colon.
Ghee is good for your heart! “A study on a rural population in India revealed a significantly lower prevalence of coronary heart disease in men who consumed higher amounts of ghee.”
Ghee can help keep your cholesterol levels healthy. “Animal studies have demonstrated many beneficial effects of ghee, including dose-dependent decreases in serum total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (LDL), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), and triglycerides; decreased liver total cholesterol, triglycerides, and cholesterol esters; and a lower level of nonenzymatic-induced lipid peroxidation in liver homogenate. Similar results were seen with heated (oxidized) ghee which contains cholesterol oxidation products. A preliminary clinical study showed that high doses of medicated ghee decreased serum cholesterol, triglycerides, phospholipids, and cholesterol esters in psoriasis patient.” and “Lab studies have shown ghee to reduce cholesterol both in the serum and intestine. It does it by triggering an increased secretion of biliary lipids.” (source)
Ghee is beneficial for the eyes, many eye diseases stem from an excess of Pitta (heat) in the eyes, eating ghee daily helps to balance the Pitta Dosha keeping the eyes cooler and healthier. It also helps control eye pressure and is beneficial for glaucoma patients.
Ghee is rich in antioxidants and acts as an aid in the absorption of vitamins and minerals from other foods, serving to strengthen the immune system, so adding ghee to the food you eat will help you get more nutrients from your food!

Which is the best Ghee to use? The best Ghee I have found is Pure Indian Foods – grass-fed Ghee available on Amazon or direct from the company.

What makes this Ghee the best?

Grassfed & USDA Certified 100% Organic - Made in USA.
Made from non-homogenized cow's milk from springtime thru the fall.
Handcrafted by The Agarwal Family that has been in the ghee business for 5-generations, since 1889. This Ghee is made in the traditional Ayurvedic way and I recommend it highly!

How do I keep from getting sick?

Sylvia — Mon, 15 Feb 2016 01:47:45 GMT

With Ayurveda there are many ways of boosting the immune system. One way is to keep your Doshas balanced. When the Doshas are balanced the immune system is strong and it becomes difficult for any sickness or disease to take hold.

But what can you do while you are on your path to balanced Doshas?

Here are some simple ways you can fight off a cold or flu before it catches you!

Gargle
When you feel the slightest itchy or burning feeling in your throat start immediately gargling with hot water and salt 5-6 times a day – especially after eating and before bed. The combination of hot water and salt can stop the production of bacteria in the throat where many colds start.
No Sugar
Stay away from any sugar – fruit sugars included – sugar feeds bacteria.
Neti Pot
In the morning use a Neti Pot to clean your nose and sinuses. Neti Pots use warm water and salt to cleanse and get rid of bacteria and mucus in the nasal passages.
Nasyum
Use a Nasya Oil in your nose daily, best to do in the morning. Keeping the nasal passages lubricated will help prevent bacteria from taking hold.
Drink Hot Water
Throughout the day drink hot water – you can add apple cider vinegar, lemon juice and/or herbs such as; Oregano, Rosemary, Sage, Ginger, Tumeric, Pine (which is also high in vitamin C)

Why hot water?
- It’s easier for the body to absorb than tepid or cold water
- Flushes out immunity-compromising ama (toxins) from your system
- Hydrates your mucus membranes, loosening mucus
- Pacifies Kapha dosha with its heating property
Eat Light Foods
Eat plenty of warm soups and broths. Keeping the food light and easy to digest will allow your body to focus more on fighting the bacteria than the digestive process.
Take Astragalus Astragalus is an herbal formula or supplement that has shown to boost the immune system. A pilot study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research found that astragalus extract activates immune cells within 24 hours.
Early to Bed
Going to bed early and keeping stress to a minimum will help your immune system be at it’s strongest.
Avoid Extremes
Do not do any excessive exercise or sports, stay out of extreme cold or heat, stay out of the wind and keep your body comfortably warm.

If you take the time at the first signs of a cold or flu to help your body with these preventative measures, you can greatly reduce the chances of getting a cold or flu. These steps can also help your immune system to become stronger each time.

Why are you Treating Your Body so Badly?

Sylvia — Sat, 05 Dec 2015 04:32:49 GMT

This question is hard to answer especially when applied to those of us who think we are being ‘healthy’ and taking care of our bodies. Most people reading this will think “Oh, not me, I eat healthy, exercise and treat my body well!”

Hmmm… let’s just take a look at some of the unconscious ways we are not respecting or treating our bodies well:

Have you ever pushed yourself to stay up late at night and finish a project – even though you are exhausted?
Do you ever eat more than your body needs and then feel the effects later?
Do you ever skip meals and realize you are actually very hungry when you do eat?
Have you ever believed the adage “no pain, no gain” ?
Do you push yourself when exercising to do just one more?
Do you compare yourself to others and then push yourself to keep up? Whether it is in your work environment, yoga class, sport, etc?
Do you ‘forget’ to drink water and then realize you are really thirsty much later?
When eating something you think you ‘shouldn’t’ do you berate yourself for it?

This list could go on and on and shows us just some of the many common ways we are engaging in an unhealthy relationship with our bodies.

What then would we consider a healthy relationship, one in which we treat our bodies kindly and with respect?

Communicating with your Body

The key here is actually communicating with the body either by listening to the body when it lets us know it has had enough or asking the body what it needs. Like any habit the more you do this the easier it becomes. When your body feels as if you are honoring and respecting it you will find a new sense of empowerment, you will increase energy and health in your life as you become a partner/teammate with your body instead of an adversary.

Some simple ways you can begin this process are:

When eating – eat until you have your first burp and then stop. The burp is your bodies way of telling you it’s full. If you tend to eat light, make sure you are eating until you get the first burp. Even if you think you don’t burp – take a week to really pay attention to this when eating and you will notice the burp, since it is a natural bodily function that we all have. Remember that the burp does have to make sense – if you burp after the first bite it obviously is not an indicator that you are full. The right amount of food for each meal should be able to fit in both palms of your hands put together. Some days you might need more food some days less, but if you listen for your first burp you won’t need to wonder when those days are.
When you are exhausted or sleepy honor your body and go to bed – this seems so simple, but many times we will ignore the body and push on.
Eat regular meals – the old fashioned way of eating breakfast, lunch and dinner at the same time each day is actually following basic Ayurvedic principles for good health and can make a huge difference if your Vata is out of balance.
If you are hungry at normal mealtimes – eat. Skipping meals is very hard on your body creating stress and depletion.
If you ate a good sized meal and experienced a burp, but still feel hungry check in with your body and see if it is really hunger or emotional stress or boredom causing the perceived hunger. If this is the case try drinking some water, doing some breathing or taking a short walk.
When you exercise, honor your body – stop when it hurts or you feel tired – pushing past your limits will only diminish your strength over time.

Check in with your body throughout the day as you would check in with a child or pet and see if you are hungry, thirsty or tired. If life seems way too busy and hectic for you to be able to do this then ask yourself why you are choosing to live life this way – most often we are just patterning ourselves unconsciously after what we saw our parents do. Realize that you can make changes that will take care of your body.

Take care of your Body and it will take care of you

And the final question: Why should I listen and treat my body with so much respect and care?

This is the key to living a long healthy and happy life. Too often I see clients’ who have abused their bodies for years who wonder then why they get sick or injured or are tired all the time. Imagine your body as a beautiful vessel. The more you care for this vessel in loving and kind ways, the more it will respond in kind and operate smoothly and efficiently for you.