Category: Ayurveda

Ayurvedic Treatment for Skin Disorders: Understanding the Root Causes and Effective Remedies

by Michelle Berry, posted in Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Lifestyle, Men's Health, Skin & Hair, Stress Management, Women's Health

Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that has been practiced in India for thousands of years. It is based on the concept of holistic healing, which involves treating the root cause of a disease rather than just its symptoms. Ayurveda offers a wealth of knowledge and remedies for skin disorders, which are increasingly common in modern times due to various factors such as pollution, stress, and poor lifestyle habits.

Ayurveda considers skin disorders to be caused by an imbalance of doshas, or the three energies in the body: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha is responsible for different functions in the body and when they are not in balance, they can lead to various skin conditions. For example, a Vata imbalance may cause dry and rough skin while a Pitta imbalance can cause acne and rashes. An excess of Kapha can lead to oily skin and conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

To treat skin disorders, Ayurveda focuses on balancing the doshas through a combination of diet, lifestyle changes, herbal remedies, and detoxification. A key aspect of Ayurvedic treatment for skin disorders is identifying the root cause, which can vary from person to person. For example, stress and anxiety can aggravate Pitta dosha, leading to skin conditions like acne, while a diet high in sugar and processed foods can worsen Kapha dosha, leading to oily skin and acne.

Some effective Ayurvedic remedies for skin disorders include drinking herbal teas made with neem, turmeric, and aloe vera, which have anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. Triphala, a blend of three fruits, is also used to cleanse and heal the skin. Applying a paste made from sandalwood, turmeric, and rose water can soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation. Regularly practicing yoga and meditation can also help balance the doshas and reduce stress, which is often a contributing factor to skin disorders.

Ayurveda also emphasizes good skincare habits, such as using natural products that are suitable for your dosha. For example, individuals with a Pitta dosha should use cooling and soothing ingredients like aloe vera and coconut oil, while those with a Kapha dosha should opt for light, oil-free formulas. In addition, regular exfoliation, facial steaming, and face masks made from natural ingredients like honey, oats, and yogurt can help maintain healthy, glowing skin.

Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to treating skin disorders that addresses the root cause and aims to restore balance to the body. By understanding your dosha and making lifestyle changes accordingly, you can prevent or effectively treat skin conditions using Ayurvedic remedies. However, it is important to note that Ayurvedic treatments should be tailored to your individual needs and should be taken with the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner. With Ayurvedic treatment, you can enjoy healthy, radiant skin that reflects your inner wellbeing.

Make an appointment with me today!

Dr. Sugesh

Ayurveda: A Natural Solution for Thyroid Disorder

by Michelle Berry, posted in Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Diet, Ayurvedic Lifestyle, Herbal Medicines, Stress Management, Women's Health

Ayurveda, one of the oldest medicinal practices in the world, has been used for centuries to heal a range of illnesses, including thyroid disorders. These days, more and more people are turning to Ayurveda as a natural solution for thyroid disorders due to its holistic approach in treating the root cause of the illness.

What is Thyroid Disorder and How Does Ayurveda View It?

Thyroid disorder is a medical condition that occurs when the thyroid gland, located in the neck, overproduces or underproduces hormones. This can lead to hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid. Symptoms of thyroid disorder can include fatigue, weight gain or loss, hair loss, changes in appetite, and many more.

Ayurveda regards thyroid disorder as a disturbance in one of the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The thyroid gland is associated with the Kapha dosha in Ayurveda, and when it’s imbalanced, it can lead to an array of symptoms. The Ayurvedic approach to thyroid disorder considers the doshas and seeks to balance them to bring the body back to optimal health.

Ayurvedic Practices for Managing Thyroid Disorders

  1. Diet: Ayurvedic diets are tailored to the individual and can help manage thyroid disorders by balancing the doshas. Ayurveda recommends incorporating specific foods into the diet, such as seaweeds, coconut oil, ghee, and ashwagandha.
  2. Herbal Remedies: Ayurvedic practitioners use herbs such as ashwagandha, guggulu, and brahmi to help manage thyroid disorders. These herbs can help balance the thyroid hormone levels, reduce inflammation, and provide a host of other benefits to the body.
  3. Yoga and Meditation: Ayurveda also recommends practicing yoga and meditation to help manage thyroid disorders. Yoga poses such as the shoulder stand and the fish pose can help stimulate the thyroid gland, while meditation can help reduce stress and manage anxiety, which can exacerbate thyroid disorders.
  4. Lifestyle Changes: Ayurveda stresses the importance of lifestyle changes to help manage thyroid disorders. These lifestyle changes include getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and avoiding exposure to toxins in the environment.

Ayurveda presents a natural and holistic approach to managing thyroid disorders. By addressing the root cause of the problem, Ayurveda can help restore balance to the body, leading to long-term healing and improved overall health. Incorporating Ayurvedic practices into your daily routine, along with proper medical care, may help manage thyroid disorders effectively. It’s important to consult with a licensed Ayurvedic practitioner to develop a tailored treatment plan that works for your unique needs.

Make an appointment with me today!

Dr. Sugesh

Ayurveda, an ancient healing practice, offers a holistic approach to thyroid disorders by addressing the root cause. It views the disorder as a disturbance in the Kapha dosha and recommends tailored diets, herbal remedies, yoga, meditation, and lifestyle changes. Integrating Ayurvedic practices with medical care can effectively manage thyroid disorders for long-term healing.

Understanding the Elements of the Mind in Ayurveda

by Michelle Berry, posted in Ayurveda, History, Yoga

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes the balance of mind, body, and spirit. One of the key principles of Ayurveda is the concept of Prakriti, or the individual constitution. Prakriti is believed to be determined by three doshas, or life energies, which are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. However, Prakriti also arises from the three elements of the mind: Buddhi, Manas, and Ahamkara. Furthermore, Samkhya philosophy, which underpins Ayurveda, describes an additional 20 elements that contribute to the human experience.

The first element of the mind in Ayurveda is Buddhi, also known as the higher mind. Buddhi is considered to be the seat of intuition, self-awareness, and higher consciousness. It is responsible for helping us connect to our innermost selves and the world around us. In Ayurvedic philosophy, Buddhi is associated with the Air element, which represents lightness and movement. Building a strong connection to Buddhi is believed to lead to greater clarity, wisdom, and spiritual insight.

The second component of the mind is Manas, or the lower mind. This is the part of the mind that is responsible for rational thinking, perception, and association. Manas helps us process information from the world around us, identify patterns and connections, and make sense of our experiences. In Ayurveda, Manas is linked to the Water element, which represents fluidity and adaptability. To cultivate a healthy Manas, it is essential to engage in mental exercises such as meditation, mindfulness, and positive affirmations.

The third element of the mind, Ahamkara, is translated as the ego or identity. It is the part of the mind that helps us distinguish ourselves from others and identify with our own unique experiences and attributes. Ahamkara is considered to be related to the Fire element, which symbolizes transformation and passion. While Ahamkara can be healthy in moderation, allowing us to have a strong sense of self and purpose, excessive attachment to the ego can lead to imbalance and suffering.

Samkhya philosophy also includes 20 additional elements that contribute to the human experience. The Jnanendriyas, or sensory organs, include hearing, touch, vision, taste, and smell, while the Karmendriyas, or organs of action, include speech, hands, feet, reproductive organs, and excretory organs. The Tanmatras, or subtle senses, are associated with sound, touch, form, taste, and smell. Finally, the Mahabhutas, or five elements that make up the material world, are Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space. Understanding the interplay of these elements can help us better understand our experiences and how to achieve balance in all aspects of our being.

The elements of the mind play a critical role in Ayurvedic philosophy. Buddhi, Manas, and Ahamkara each serve unique purposes, allowing us to connect to our inner selves, process information from the outer world, and form identities. Understanding these elements can help us cultivate greater self-awareness, spiritual insight, and mental wellbeing. Additionally, the 20 elements described in Samkhya philosophy provide a more comprehensive understanding of the human experience and the interplay of different factors that contribute to our sense of self and our connection to the world around us. By working to balance these elements, we can unlock greater levels of health, happiness, and fulfillment in our lives.

Deepening our awareness through Ayurveda is life changing.

I am available for online appointments.

May God Bless You,

Dr. Sugesh

Going Beyond the Surface: Understanding the Law of Attraction with Ayurveda

by Michelle Berry, posted in Ayurvedic Lifestyle, Law of Attraction, Pranayama

The Law of Attraction has become a buzzword in contemporary spiritual circles, often misinterpreted and simplified by the new-age culture. It is essential to acknowledge that the authentic and transformative teachings of this realm lie in Ayurveda, a wisdom that provides a profound understanding of mind, body, and spirit’s intricate balance.

  1. Defining the Law of Attraction: The Law of Attraction is a concept that suggests that our thoughts and emotions determine the reality we experience. In other words, what we focus on is what we attract into our lives. However, this concept often oversimplifies the idea and neglects the complexity of its application. Ayurveda offers a more comprehensive understanding of the Law of Attraction, emphasizing the importance of balance and alignment within the body, mind, and spirit. It is not just a matter of thinking positive thoughts, but it’s a holistic approach to life that includes physical and mental practices to aid in removing blockages.
  2. Inner Work and Manifestation: The idea of manifestation is often confused with new age concepts of instant gratification. Many people believe that it’s enough to visualize their desires and wait for them to come true. However, Ayurveda teaches that manifestation goes beyond visualization and positive thinking. Manifestation is a result of the personal transformation that happens as we align ourselves with the universe’s natural laws. Ayurveda prioritizes inner work as the foundation of manifestation, emphasizing the importance of daily practices that help us develop awareness, self-inquiry, and inner growth.
  3. Mind-Body Connection: Ayurveda’s teachings are rooted in the understanding of the mind-body connection. The Vedic texts believed that the mind and body are interconnected, and one affects the other. This concept implies that physical well-being is not only the absence of illness but a state of balance and harmony between the mind, body, and soul. Therefore, Ayurveda incorporates practices such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness into its teachings, acknowledging their tremendous impact on mental and physical health.
  4. Authentic Transformation: The goal of Ayurveda is to achieve authentic transformation, which provides long-lasting results and changes the way we experience life. Unlike new age practices that might offer short-term changes or instant gratification, Ayurveda is a lifetime commitment to self-growth, health, and happiness. Ayurveda teaches that we must dive deep into our inner selves, identifying our true nature, and making conscious decisions that align with our goals and values.
  5. Applying Ayurveda’s teachings to Law of Attraction: Ayurveda can help us understand and apply the Law of Attraction authentically. Instead of relying on quick fixes or superficial affirmations, we can develop a deep understanding of ourselves and the universe, align our thoughts, emotions, and actions with our intentions, and welcome abundance and prosperity with a grateful heart.

The Law of Attraction is a concept that has been widely popularized in new-age circles, often misunderstood and oversimplified. Ayurveda offers a profound and holistic understanding of this concept, incorporating practices that lead to genuine transformation and authentic manifestation. By prioritizing inner work, mindfulness, and balance, we can apply the Law of Attraction in a way that respects the complexities of life, and brings lasting happiness, health, and success.

Blessings,

Dr. Sugesh

Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya: Bridging Ancient Wisdom

by Michelle Berry, posted in Ayurveda

Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, is a well-respected and time-tested approach to healthcare. At its core, Ayurveda emphasizes a holistic approach to wellness, treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms of an illness. One of the most important texts in Ayurveda is the Bṛhat Trayī, which includes Caraka Saṃhitā, Suśruta Saṃhitā, and Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya.

Synthesis of Knowledge: Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya was written by Vāgbhaṭa, a renowned Ayurvedic physician. It’s believed that Vāgbhaṭa wrote this text in the 7th century A.D. and that it synthesizes the principles of Caraka and Suśruta, creating a harmonious narrative that enriches our understanding of Ayurveda. Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya is essentially a compilation of the most important concepts found in these earlier texts, giving it a unique and comprehensive perspective on Ayurveda.

Unique Contributions: Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya introduces unique perspectives, offering fresh insights into key concepts and providing a nuanced understanding of Ayurvedic principles. For example, Vāgbhaṭa emphasized the importance of purifying the body and mind to achieve optimal health. He also introduced new concepts, such as the six stages of disease and the three types of imbalance or dysfunction. These innovative ideas give Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya a distinct voice in the world of Ayurveda.

Comparative Analysis: When we compare Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya to Caraka and Suśruta, we can see shared principles that create a holistic foundation for Ayurvedic practice. Tridoṣa and Saptadhātu, for example, are two concepts that are found throughout Bṛhat Trayī. Understanding these shared principles is crucial to developing a well-rounded and comprehensive understanding of Ayurveda.

Diverse Approaches: Recognizing the unique contributions of each text in Bṛhat Trayī allows practitioners to appreciate the diverse approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and overall healthcare. There’s no one “right” way to practice Ayurveda, and each text offers a unique perspective and approach to achieving optimal health. By embracing this diversity, practitioners can develop a more individualized approach to treatment that’s tailored to each patient’s specific needs.

Practical Applications: Bṛhat Trayī’s wisdom transcends time, finding practical applications in modern healthcare. Integrating these timeless principles into contemporary practices allows for a holistic and personalized approach to well-being. For example, the individualized approach emphasized in Bṛhat Trayī aligns with the growing trend of personalized medicine, reflecting a profound understanding of the uniqueness of each individual’s constitution.

Our journey into the Bṛhat Trayī unveils a treasure trove of Ayurvedic wisdom that’s just as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago. Whether you’re a practitioner of Ayurveda or simply interested in learning more about this ancient system of medicine, exploring Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya offers a rich and rewarding experience. By synthesizing the principles of Caraka and Suśruta and introducing unique perspectives and concepts, Vāgbhaṭa’s text acts as a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern healthcare.

The Bṛhat Trayī: Exploring the Three Primary Texts of Ayurvedic Knowledge

by Michelle Berry, posted in Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Lifestyle, Books

Ayurveda is an ancient healing tradition that has been passed down through generations, and at its core lies the Bṛhat Trayī – the three primary texts that form the foundation of this timeless wisdom. The Caraka Saṃhitā, Suśruta Saṃhitā, and Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya, collectively known as the Bṛhat Trayī, offer insights and guidance into the holistic understanding of health and wellness according to Ayurvedic principles.

Caraka Saṃhitā: Nurturing the Sūtras of Health
The Caraka Saṃhitā is one of the oldest and most revered texts of Ayurveda. It lays the foundation for Ayurvedic principles with the profound concept of Tridoṣa – the three fundamental energies that govern our physiology and psychology. According to this doctrine, Vāta, Pitta, and Kapha are the key regulators of our body’s functions. Understanding the balance and imbalance of these doshas is central to maintaining optimal health.

Delving deeper, Caraka introduces the Saptadhātu doctrine, which highlights the interconnectedness of seven tissues representing successive stages of nutrient transformation. The understanding of the Saptadhātu concept serves as a guide to comprehending the holistic nature of our bodily systems. The significance of this doctrine is in recognizing that our overall health is dependent on each of these tissues’ health and function.

Caraka’s wisdom extends to the Trimala concept, which emphasizes the importance of three waste products – Mala, Mutra, and Śeṣa – in the detoxification process. This process is a cornerstone of preventive medicine. Caraka mentions that accumulating toxins lead to disease. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a proper regular detoxification of the body.

Suśruta Saṃhitā: The Art of Healing and Surgery
The Suśruta Saṃhitā is considered the foundational text for Ayurvedic surgery and medicine. It provides a comprehensive overview of anatomy, embryology, and surgical techniques. It also showcases the advanced surgical skills possessed by Ayurvedic scholars.

The Suśruta Saṃhitā covers diverse areas such as fractures, dislocations, ophthalmology, and obstetrics. It offers practical insights into the various surgical procedures, such as rhinoplasty, cataract, and Cesarean section.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Suśruta Saṃhitā is its innovative approach to surgery. The text describes techniques for reconstructing noses, ears, and repairing clefts. The surgical techniques mentioned in the text are remarkable, considering the period’s medical knowledge and tools.

Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya: The Heart of Ayurvedic Medicine
Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya focuses on the practical application of Ayurvedic principles. It is a compendium of knowledge from the Caraka and Suśruta Saṃhitā. The text is divided into eight sections, each covering a different aspect of Ayurvedic medicine.

The text includes comprehensive prescriptions for various diseases, disorders, and preventative measures. It also provides information on diet and lifestyle. The Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya describes various herbal formulations for various ailments such as digestive, respiratory, and neurological disorders.

The text emphasizes the importance of balancing the doshas to maintain health. It stresses the need to understand the individual’s constitution and adapt the treatments according to their specific requirements.
The Bṛhat Trayī – the three primary texts of Ayurvedic knowledge – offer a comprehensive understanding of health and wellness based on Ayurvedic principles. They are the foundational texts that inspire practitioners worldwide in their journey towards optimal health. The Caraka Saṃhitā provides an in-depth understanding of the doshas, the Saptadhātu concept, and the Trimala concept. The Suśruta Saṃhitā showcases the advanced surgical skills of Ayurvedic scholars, while the Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya focuses on the practical application of Ayurvedic principles. Together, these texts form the core of Ayurvedic knowledge, and their continued study and practice impact modern medicine in remarkable ways.

Understanding the Samkhya Philosophy in Yoga and Ayurveda

by Michelle Berry, posted in Ayurveda, Yoga

Yoga and Ayurveda are ancient practices that have been in use for centuries, and their popularity has only continued to grow over the years. These two practices are intertwined with the Samkhya philosophy, which serves as the foundation of both practices. The Samkhya philosophy provides a systematic understanding of the body, mind, and spirit.

The Samkhya philosophy breaks down the human being into 25 elements, or evolutes, which are developed progressively out of one another. A yogi’s understanding of these evolutes and their order is equivalent to a musician learning musical scales. Samkhya imbues all techniques of yoga, including asana, pranayama, and meditation, with meaning and direction. Our instrument is the body-mind that consciousness learns to play.

Two of the 25 elements are the source from which the entire universe evolves, namely purusha and prakriti. Purusha refers to consciousness, the eternal reality, while prakriti refers to pure creative power.

Within prakriti are the three fundamental forces called the maha-gunas: tamas, inertia, and decay; rajas, momentum, and desire; and sattva, balance, luminosity, and knowledge. These three fundamental forces govern the entire universe, including the human being. According to the Samkhya philosophy, when there is an imbalance in any of the three forces, it leads to disharmony and disease.

Yoga and Ayurveda are based on the Samkhya philosophy, and they follow a gradual and systematic progression. Yoga begins at the gross or physical level, moves on to the subtler levels of mind and spirit, and returns to the gross with a higher consciousness level. Similarly, Ayurveda begins with the gross body and then moves on to the subtler aspects of the mind, emotions, and spirit.

Yoga and Ayurveda teach us to live in harmony with ourselves and nature. They help us maintain balance among the three fundamental forces and experience health and well-being at all levels. Yoga and Ayurveda practices like asana, pranayama, meditation, and herbal remedies promote physical, emotional, and spiritual health.

Samkhya philosophy forms the foundation of both Yoga and Ayurveda. It provides a systematic understanding of the body, mind, and spirit and helps us live in harmony with ourselves and nature. By understanding the 25 elements and the three fundamental forces, we can experience health and well-being at all levels. Integrating Yoga and Ayurveda practices into our daily lives can help us maintain balance and harmony and experience an overall sense of calm and tranquility.

I am available for online appointments.

Take Care,

Dr. Sugesh

Ayurveda’s Approach to Combatting Stress, Anxiety, Loneliness, Depression, and Fear

by Michelle Berry, posted in Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Lifestyle, Meditation, Pranayama, Stress Management, Yoga

We all experience stress at some point in our lives, and for some people, it can become excessive or chronic, leading to anxiety, loneliness, depression, and fear. In Ayurveda, we believe that our health and well-being are interconnected and that we must treat the root of the problem to restore balance.

When we experience stress, our body enters a fight-or-flight response, leading to decreased digestion and metabolism, and weakened immunity. Ayurveda believes that our digestive system, also known as Agni, is essential to our overall health and well-being. It’s our ability to digest our food, thoughts, and emotions that determine how we experience the world around us. When our Agni is strong, our body can absorb nutrients efficiently, eliminate toxins, and produce a vital essence called Ojas.

Ojas is the essence of vitality, immunity, and longevity in Ayurveda, and it’s what helps us combat stress, anxiety, loneliness, depression, and fear. When our Ojas is strong, we feel content, calm, and resilient, even in the face of adversity. In contrast, when our Ojas is depleted, we become more prone to physical and mental health issues.

Ayurveda looks beyond food and into our psyche to understand how our internal world affects our health and well-being. Ayurveda believes that our sense of sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch impact the quality of our overall life experience. What we see, hear, taste, and smell around us influences our emotions, thoughts, and even our physiology. Ayurveda encourages us to engage with our five senses in ways that uplift and nourish our soul.

To help combat stress, anxiety, loneliness, depression, and fear, Ayurveda recommends incorporating practices such as daily meditation, pranayama (breathing exercises), yoga, and self-care routines that bring us joy and relaxation. These practices can help soothe our nervous system and encourage the production of Ojas, strengthening our ability to cope with life’s challenges.

Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to combatting stress, anxiety, loneliness, depression, and fear. By addressing the root cause of these mental and emotional health issues, we can become more resilient and better equipped to handle life’s challenges. By prioritizing our self-care routines, engaging with our five senses consciously, and incorporating Ayurvedic practices into our daily routine, we can learn to nourish our soul and cultivate vital essence, helping us live a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Please call me to schedule and appointment.

Namaste,

Dr. Sugesh

Look Beyond New Age Practices: Embracing Ayurveda for Lasting Wellbeing and Spiritual Fulfillment

by Michelle Berry, posted in Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Lifestyle, Law of Attraction

As we welcome a new year, we often find ourselves reflecting on our lives and envisioning our hopes and dreams for the future. It is no surprise that the terms “manifestation,” “inner work,” and “The Law of Attraction” have become popular buzzwords in recent years. However, as we embark on our spiritual paths, it is crucial to understand the true meaning and implications of these concepts. The ancient Indian practice of Ayurveda offers a profound and holistic understanding of manifestation and inner work, helping us experience lasting wellbeing and spiritual fulfillment. Let’s explore the beauty and wisdom of Ayurveda and how it can guide our spiritual journeys.

Ayurveda is an ancient holistic system that guides us to live in harmony with nature and optimize our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. According to Ayurveda, true manifestation involves aligning our thoughts, emotions, and actions with our dharma or life purpose. It is not merely about visualizing our dreams but taking consistent and aligned steps towards them. Ayurveda teaches us to understand our unique constitution or dosha, which influences our physical and mental traits, strengths, and weaknesses. By knowing our dosha, we can choose the right foods, lifestyle practices, and therapies that support our optimal health and growth.

Ayurveda also emphasizes the importance of inner work, or self-study, as the foundation of our spiritual growth. Unlike new age practices that focus on positive thinking, Ayurveda acknowledges the complexity and richness of our human experience. It encourages us to embrace our shadow aspects, or the parts of ourselves that we tend to deny or suppress. By acknowledging and integrating our shadow aspects, we can cultivate deeper self-awareness, self-compassion, and authenticity. Ayurveda offers numerous techniques for inner work, such as daily rituals, pranayama, meditation, therapy, and spiritual retreats.

Furthermore, Ayurveda recognizes that true wellbeing and spiritual fulfillment arise from living in harmony with the universe. It reminds us that we are not separate from nature but an integral part of it. Therefore, Ayurveda encourages us to cultivate a compassionate and mindful relationship with our environment, including our food, homes, and natural surroundings. We can honor the seasons, cycles, and rhythms of nature and adjust our lifestyle practices accordingly. Ayurveda also recognizes the interconnection and interdependence of all beings and calls us to practice ahimsa, or non-violence towards all sentient beings.

As we seek to deepen our spiritual paths and enhance our wellbeing, let us look beyond the surface-level allure of new age practices and embrace the authentic wisdom of Ayurveda. Ayurveda offers us a comprehensive and compassionate guide for understanding ourselves, transforming our lives, and connecting with the divine. By living in harmony with nature, cultivating inner work, and aligning our actions with our purpose, we can experience true fulfillment and joy. Let us commit to this path with reverence, curiosity, and dedication, knowing that it holds the keys to lasting wellbeing and spiritual enlightenment. With love and blessings. Dr. Sugesh

Ayurveda: Natural Way to Manage PMDD Symptoms

by Michelle Berry, posted in Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Lifestyle, Herbal Medicines, Women's Health

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a common but debilitating condition that affects women during their menstrual cycle. As an Ayurvedic doctor, I have seen firsthand how Ayurveda can help women manage their PMDD symptoms naturally. Ayurveda is a holistic approach that focuses on balancing the body, mind, and spirit. In this blog post, I will explain how Ayurveda can help women with PMDD and provide natural remedies to manage their symptoms.

  1. Understanding PMDD: PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that affects up to 8% of women. The symptoms of PMDD are similar to PMS but are more severe and can interfere with daily activities. Women with PMDD may experience mood swings, depression, anxiety, irritability, bloating, fatigue, and muscle pain. Ayurveda considers PMDD a result of an imbalance in the body’s doshas, specifically Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
  2. Ayurvedic Lifestyle Changes: Ayurveda recommends lifestyle changes that can help balance the doshas and alleviate PMDD symptoms. Women with PMDD should avoid processed foods, caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco. A nutritious diet that includes fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help balance the doshas and reduce inflammation. Regular exercise, yoga, and meditation can also help balance the doshas and reduce stress.
  3. Ayurvedic Herbs: Ayurvedic herbs can help manage PMDD symptoms naturally. Some of the herbs that are commonly used to manage PMDD include Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Brahmi. These herbs have anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory, and mood-boosting properties. Ayurvedic practitioners recommend consulting a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before using any herbs to manage PMDD.
  4. Ayurvedic Treatments: Ayurvedic practitioners use various techniques to balance the doshas and improve overall health. Ayurvedic treatments such as Abhyanga, Shirodhara, and Ayurvedic massage can help reduce stress, improve blood flow, and balance the doshas. These treatments are customized to each individual’s needs and health conditions.
  5. Mind-Body Connection: Ayurveda emphasizes the mind-body connection and how our thoughts and emotions affect our physical health. Women with PMDD can benefit from practicing mindfulness and learning to manage their thoughts and emotions. Ayurvedic practices such as Pranayama, yoga, meditation, and Ayurvedic counseling can help women learn how to manage their PMDD symptoms and improve their overall health and well-being.

Ayurveda offers a natural and holistic way to manage PMDD symptoms. By making lifestyle changes, using Ayurvedic herbs, undergoing Ayurvedic treatments, and practicing mindfulness, women can balance their doshas and improve their overall health and well-being. Ayurveda is a safe and effective option for women who want to avoid side effects often associated with conventional treatments for PMDD. I highly recommend that women suffering from PMDD explore Ayurvedic treatments and consult with me, a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner to find the best approach for your individual needs. Contact me today!