Tag: Ayurvedic Doctor

Ayurvedic Nutrition: Harnessing the Power of Food for Optimal Well-Being

by Michelle Berry, posted in Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Diet, Men's Health, Women's Health

For over 5,000 years, Ayurveda has been a trusted medical system in India and around the world, focused on achieving optimal health through a holistic approach to wellness. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of balance in all aspects of life, including our diet. “Food is medicine” is a central tenet of Ayurveda, and what we eat has a direct impact on our physical and emotional well-being. In this article, we will take a deep dive into Ayurvedic nutrition, including the six tastes, eating according to our dosha type, and incorporating fresh seasonal ingredients that balance our mind, body, and spirit.

The Six Tastes: Sweet, Sour, Salty, Pungent, Bitter, Astringent.

Ayurvedic nutrition is based on the six tastes, which represent the different qualities and energies that food can have. Each taste affects our body and mind in unique ways, and a balanced diet should include all six tastes in proper proportions.

  • Sweet: nourishing, grounding, and calming. Examples include fruits, honey, dairy, and grains.
  • Sour: energizing, warming, and stimulating. Examples are citrus fruits, fermented foods, and vinegar.
  • Salty: hydrating, grounding, and enhancing digestion. Examples include sea salt, seaweed, and mineral-rich vegetables.
  • Pungent: stimulating, heating, and improving circulation. Examples are ginger, garlic, onion, and peppercorns.
  • Bitter: detoxifying, cooling, and reducing inflammation. Examples include leafy greens, turmeric, and bitter melon.
  • Astringent: toning, drying, and reducing excess moisture and mucus. Examples include lentils, beans, and pomegranate.

By including all six tastes in every meal, we can satisfy our hunger, support digestion, and promote a balanced state of being.

Eating According to our Dosha Type:

According to Ayurveda, there are three primary dosha types: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, which are determined by individual body type, personality traits, and physical characteristics. Each dosha has specific dietary recommendations to support optimal health and wellness.

  • Vata: In Ayurveda, Vata governs movement and is responsible for nervous system function and circulation. Individuals who have a Vata dosha are advised to consume warm, grounding, and hydrating foods. These include warm soups, stews, and root vegetables such as sweet potatoes and beets.
  • Pitta: Pitta is associated with digestion and metabolism. Individuals with a Pitta dosha are advised to consume cooling, hydrating, and anti-inflammatory foods. Such foods include watermelon, cucumber, asparagus, and coconut water.
  • Kapha: Kapha is responsible for physical stability and moisture balance in the body. Individuals with a Kapha dosha should consume warm, dry, and light foods to promote digestion. These include ginger, turmeric, and light grains such as quinoa and farro.

Fresh Seasonal Ingredients:

In Ayurveda, selecting fresh seasonal ingredients is a critical aspect of optimal nutrition. Eating seasonal and local foods not only supports the body’s natural rhythms but also provides the most nutrient-dense options.

When shopping for groceries, look for fruits and vegetables that are in season, and incorporate them into your meals. For example, in the summertime, include berries, melons, and leafy greens in your diet. In the fall, incorporate root and grounding vegetables such as squash, beets, and sweet potatoes. In winter, choose hearty vegetables such as kale, cabbage, and broccoli, and in the spring, include light greens such as asparagus, arugula, and dandelion greens.

Supporting a Balanced Digestion:

In Ayurveda, optimal digestion is a crucial aspect of overall health, as it enables the body to absorb nutrients and eliminate waste appropriately. To support digestion, Ayurvedic practitioners recommend consuming warm, cooked, and easy-to-digest foods.

Avoid cold, raw, oily, and heavy foods, as these can overwhelm the digestive system. Instead, focus on nourishing foods such as lentils, grains, and soups, and incorporate digestive herbs and spices such as cumin, coriander, and fennel.

Ayurvedic nutrition promotes a balanced approach to eating, where food is viewed as medicine for the mind, body, and spirit. By incorporating all six tastes in our meals, eating according to our dosha type, selecting fresh seasonal ingredients, and supporting balanced digestion, we can achieve optimal health and well-being. So next time you sit down to eat, remember the Ayurvedic approach to nutrition, and savor every bite.

Make an appointment with me or sign up for one of my famous men’s or women’s health courses today!

Thank you,

Dr.Sugesh

Art of Balancing Doshas: Guide to Optimum Health

by Michelle Berry, posted in Ayurveda, Men's Health, Women's Health

Ayurveda is an ancient holistic health system that has been practiced for thousands of years. It recognizes that each person has a unique balance of three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These doshas govern our mental, physical and emotional health. When in balance, we feel and perform at our best. But when these doshas are out of balance, we may experience distressing symptoms. So, to achieve optimal health, we need to balance our dominant doshas. In this article, we’ll uncover how to identify your doshas and make the necessary adjustments to keep them in balance.

Step 1: Determine Your Dominant Dosha
Ayurvedic medicine considers three primary doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each of these doshas is related to different body functions and behaviors. To identify your dominant dosha, you can take a dosha test, visit an Ayurveda practitioner or observe your physical, mental, and emotional characteristics. Once you know which dosha dominates, you can adjust your diet, lifestyle, and behaviors to promote balance.

Step 2: Balance Vata Dosha
If you have a Vata dominant constitution, you tend to experience anxiety, nervousness, and insomnia. To balance Vata, start by establishing a daily routine, eat warm cooked meals, perform gentle exercises or yoga, and meditation. Also, avoid cold, dry, and raw foods, and indulge in calming activities such as warm baths and book reading.

Step 3: Balance Pitta Dosha
If you have a Pitta dominant constitution, you tend to feel agitated, irritable, and hot easily. To balance Pitta dosha, try to indulge in calming, cooling activities such as swimming or walking in nature. Consume cooling foods, like fresh fruits and vegetables, reduce the intake of hot, spicy, and fatty foods, set realistic expectations for yourself, and delegate tasks.

Step 4: Balance Kapha Dosha
If you have a Kapha dominant constitution, you tend to be sluggish, dull, and lethargic. To balance Kapha, you can indulge in stimulating, intense activities like running and weight lifting. Consume warm and spicy foods but avoid sweet and salty ones. Limit your sleep to 6-8 hours only, avoid daytime naps, perform regular cardio exercises, and spend time outside in nature.

Step 5: Practice Mindful Living
Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of mindful living. By practicing mindfulness, we can stay present, avoid rumination, and become aware of our doshic imbalances. Try to practice meditation, yoga, and nature walks to connect with your inner self and promote relaxation.

Balancing the doshas is the key to promoting optimal health. By determining your dosha, you can adjust your behaviors, diet, and lifestyle to create balance. Keep in mind that Ayurveda is a holistic system that emphasizes the integration of body, mind, and spirit. So, balance your doshas with love and compassion to reach your highest potential. Happy dosha balancing!

Ayurvedic Tools for Self Care

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

Self-care is an integral part of our daily routine, and it plays a vital role in maintaining our physical and emotional well-being. In Ayurveda, self-care is not only about taking care of oneself but also about living in harmony with nature and the environment. Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that has been practiced for over 5,000 years. It emphasizes the importance of self-care and offers many tools and techniques that we can use to take care of ourselves.

  1. Abhyanga:

Abhyanga is an Ayurvedic self-massage technique that involves massaging warm oil into the skin. Abhyanga helps to improve blood circulation, soothe the nervous system, and nourish the skin. To perform Abhyanga, warm some oil, and massage it into your skin, starting from your feet and working your way up towards the head. Leave the oil on for 15-20 minutes before taking a warm shower.

  1. Neti Pot:

The Neti Pot is an Ayurvedic tool used to cleanse the nasal passages. It helps to remove excess mucus and dirt from the nose and sinuses, which can cause allergies and other respiratory problems. To use the Neti Pot, mix some salt in warm water and fill the pot with it. Tilt your head to one side, and gently pour the water into one nostril. Let the water flow out of the other nostril. Repeat on the other side.

  1. Tongue Scraper:

The tongue scraper is an Ayurvedic tool that is used to remove bacteria, toxins, and residue from the tongue. It helps to improve digestion, prevent bad breath, and promote overall oral health. To use the tongue scraper, hold the ends of the scraper and gently scrape your tongue from back to front.

  1. Yoga:

Yoga is a form of physical exercise that is designed to improve strength, flexibility, and balance. In Ayurveda, yoga is not only about physical exercise but also about balancing the mind and body. Yoga can help to reduce stress, improve sleep, and increase overall well-being. Some of the yoga poses that you can incorporate into your routine include the Sun Salutation, Warrior Pose, and the Tree Pose.

  1. Meditation:

Meditation is an ancient practice that involves focusing the mind on a particular object, thought, or activity. In Ayurveda, meditation is used to calm the mind, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. To meditate, find a quiet and comfortable place, sit cross-legged with your eyes closed, and focus on your breath. Start with 5-10 minutes and gradually increase the time.

Ayurveda offers many tools and techniques that we can use to take care of ourselves. Abhyanga, Neti Pot, tongue scraper, yoga, and meditation are just a few of the Ayurvedic tools for self-care. These tools can help to improve our physical and emotional well-being and bring us closer to nature and the environment. By incorporating these tools into our daily routine, we can achieve balance, harmony, and optimal health. So, start practicing Ayurvedic self-care today and experience the benefits for yourself.

Make an appointment with me today!

Dr. Sugesh

How Ayurveda Can Help You Achieve Beautiful Skin

by Michelle Berry, posted in Ayurveda, Skin & Hair

In Ayurveda, achieving beautiful skin is not about applying skincare products on the outside, it’s about taking care of the inside of your body. Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that has been used for thousands of years to promote health and wellness. It combines holistic practices with a focus on balancing the body, mind, and spirit. In Ayurveda, the skin is seen as an external reflection of internal health. It’s believed that a healthy body will naturally lead to healthy and beautiful skin.

  1. A Healthy Digestion:

In Ayurveda, maintaining a healthy digestive system is key to achieving beautiful skin. When our digestive system is functioning properly, toxins and waste are eliminated, and nutrients are absorbed. This leads to healthy skin that looks radiant and glowing. To improve your digestion, you can practice mindful eating habits like chewing your food properly, eating at regular times, and avoiding overeating.

  1. Ayurvedic Herbs:

In Ayurveda, certain herbs and plants are known to be beneficial for the skin. Ayurvedic herbs like neem, turmeric, saffron, and holy basil have been used for centuries to promote healthy and beautiful skin. These herbs have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the damage caused by free radicals and inflammation. You can incorporate these herbs into your daily routine by adding them to your food or using skincare products that contain these ingredients.

  1. Mind-Body Balance:

According to Ayurveda, the state of our mental and emotional well-being is reflected in our skin. When we are stressed, our skin can become dull, dry, and prone to breakouts. To promote a healthy state of mind, Ayurveda recommends practices like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises. These practices can help reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and promote a sense of peace and well-being.

  1. Ayurvedic Lifestyle:

Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of living a balanced lifestyle that aligns with our natural rhythms. This includes getting enough sleep, eating nourishing foods, and engaging in physical activity that is appropriate for your body type. When we live in harmony with nature, our skin will reflect this balance by looking healthy and radiant.

  1. Oil Massage:

In Ayurveda, oil massage is known to be a highly effective way to nourish the skin. Regular body massage with herbal oils can improve circulation, hydrate the skin, and promote lymphatic drainage. This can lead to healthier, more radiant-looking skin. You can add oil massage to your daily routine by using oils like coconut, sesame, and almond.

Ayurveda is a holistic approach to health and wellness that can offer many benefits for the skin. By focusing on maintaining a healthy digestive system, incorporating Ayurvedic herbs, balancing the mind and body, living a healthy lifestyle, and practicing oil massage, you can naturally achieve beautiful skin. Remember, true beauty comes from within, and when you prioritize your health and wellbeing, your skin will naturally reflect this state of internal balance and harmony.

Schedule an appointment with me today!

Dr. Sugesh

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.

Rasayānas: Why Detoxing is Only Half the Work

by Michelle Berry, posted in Uncategorized

Detoxing has become quite popular in recent times, and for good reason. As we go through our daily lives, we accumulate toxins in our body, whether it’s through the food we eat, the air we breathe or the products we use. Detoxing helps to rid the body of these toxins, giving us renewed energy, clearer skin, and a better sense of wellbeing. However, detoxing alone is not enough to keep us healthy. We need something more, something that will help us rebuild and restore our body. This is where the ancient practice of Rasayānas comes in.

In Ayurveda, Rasayānas are a set of techniques that help us rebuild and restore our body. They work in harmony with detoxification, helping to replenish our bodies with vital nutrients, and promoting overall well-being.

Rasayānas come from the Sanskrit word rasā, which means essence or juice. These are combinations of herbs, spices, and other natural ingredients that help to rebuild our bodies at a cellular level. Rasayānas work by nourishing and toning specific organs or systems in the body, ensuring that they function in their optimal state. They are also known for their ability to rejuvenate the body, promoting longevity and vitality.

Rasayānas come in various forms, including powders, supplements, and tonics. These are taken in combination with a healthy diet and lifestyle to promote overall well-being. Some of the well-known Rasayānas include Chyawanprash, a tonic made from Amla or Indian Gooseberry, which is rich in Vitamin C and known for promoting immunity, and Ashwagandha, which is used to balance stress levels and promote mental clarity.

Rasayānas also include a set of practices and techniques such as Yoga, Pranayama, and Meditation. These practices work in harmony with the Rasayānas supplements, helping to promote overall well-being, reduce stress, and achieve inner balance.

One of the most important things to keep in mind when using Rasayānas is that they are not a magic pill. They work best when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle. A balanced diet that includes whole foods, fruits, and vegetables is key, as is regular exercise, and a good sleep routine. When these are combined with the practice of Rasayānas, the body is able to function in optimal health.

In conclusion, detoxing is an essential part of maintaining good health, but it is only half the work. We need something more to rebuild and restore our body, and that’s where the ancient practice of Rasayānas comes in. These are a set of techniques and supplements that work in harmony with detoxification, helping to replenish our bodies with vital nutrients and promoting overall well-being. When combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle, Rasayānas help to promote optimal health, reduce stress and achieve inner balance. Incorporate the practice of Rasayānas into your daily routine, and notice all the positive changes that come with it.

You may order Rasayanas at the Kottakal Link below. It supports my ability to keep writing posts about Ayurveda health and wellness.

Thank you,

Dr. Sugesh

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.