Tag: Self-Care

Prioritizing Ayurvedic Self Care Practices: A Guide to a Balanced Mind and Body

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

In the midst of our busy lives, we often neglect the importance of self-care. However, in Ayurveda, self-care practices are seen as essential for maintaining balance and promoting overall well-being. Through these practices, we can become more attuned to our bodies and minds. Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that has been practiced for thousands of years. This holistic approach to health emphasizes the importance of prevention and self-care.

  1. Abhyanga (self-massage): Abhyanga is a form of self-massage with warm, herbal oil that has been used in Ayurveda for centuries. This practice helps to improve circulation, strengthen and nourish the muscles, and promote relaxation. You can perform abhyanga before a shower or bath using organic sesame, coconut, or almond oil. Gently massage your body in circular motions, starting from your head and working your way down to your feet. Try to make this a regular practice, even if it’s just once a week, and notice the benefits it has on your body.
  2. Yoga: Yoga is a form of exercise that emphasizes flexibility, strength, and relaxation. In Ayurveda, it is seen as a holistic practice that strengthens the mind-body connection. Practicing yoga regularly can help reduce stress levels, improve digestion, and increase energy levels. You don’t need to be a yoga expert to start a practice. Begin with simple poses and gradually increase your practice. Try to find a style of yoga that resonates with you, and make it a part of your daily routine.
  3. Meditation: Meditation is a practice that involves training the mind to focus on the present moment. In Ayurveda, it is seen as a powerful tool for promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and improving mental clarity. Start by finding a quiet, comfortable place to sit and close your eyes. Focus your attention on your breath, and if your mind starts to wander, gently bring it back to your breath. Begin with just a few minutes a day, and gradually increase your practice.
  4. Nourishing Foods: In Ayurveda, food is seen as a powerful tool for healing the body and mind. Eating a balanced diet that includes fresh, whole foods can help promote good health and prevent disease. Ayurveda recognizes that food affects each person differently, so it is essential to pay attention to how your body reacts to different foods. Some general Ayurvedic principles for healthy eating include eating warm, cooked foods, avoiding processed foods, and eating according to your constitution.
  5. Sleep: Sleep is an essential component of good health and well-being. In Ayurveda, it is seen as a time for the body and mind to recharge and heal. Aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night and establish a consistent sleep pattern. Take steps to create a sleep-conducive environment, such as keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and electronics before bed, as these can disrupt sleep.

Ayurvedic self-care practices can offer many benefits for our physical and mental health. Through practices such as abhyanga, yoga, meditation, nourishing foods, and sleep, we can become more attuned to our bodies and minds. Remember that self-care is not selfish, but essential for living a balanced and healthy life. Take small steps each day to prioritize your self-care, and notice the positive changes it brings to your life.

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

Have a great day!

Dr. Sugesh

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

Rediscovering Ancient Roots: The Benefits of Abhyanga Massage

by Michelle Berry, posted in Abhyanga, Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Lifestyle, Uncategorized

In modern times, self-care is more important than ever before, and it’s no surprise that people are constantly seeking ways to relieve stress and improve overall health. One such effective solution is Abhyanga- an ancient Indian form of massage that has been practiced for more than 5,000 years. Abhyanga is commonly used in Ayurvedic therapy which is becoming increasingly popular around the world. Today, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of Abhyanga, and discover why it’s a therapy that everyone must try!


Abhyanga: An Overview
Abhyanga is a type of Ayurvedic massage that involves the use of warm oils and specialized techniques to promote circulation and detoxify the body. The oil used in the massage is usually chosen based on the individual’s body type and health needs. During the massage, the oil is applied to the body using long, gentle strokes and is absorbed by the skin. This ensures that the body is receiving essential nutrients and that toxins are being removed. Abhyanga is known to provide a wide range of benefits, including faster wound healing, a stronger immune system, and a more relaxed mind.

Why Everyone Needs An Abhyanga Massage
People who lead a high-stress lifestyle, those experiencing chronic pain, or individuals who suffer from sleeping disorders can greatly benefit from an Abhyanga session. Ayurvedic massage helps with blood circulation, which releases endorphins that promote relaxation, pain relief, and a better mood overall. Moreover, Abhyanga can help in the reduction of stress hormones like cortisol and norepinephrine, which damage your body in the long run. Abhyanga can improve your overall physical, mental health along with nourishing your skin too.

What to Expect During an Abhyanga Massage Session
Depending on your chosen location, the massage session, generally, lasts for 60-90 minutes. Before the massage starts, Dr. Sugesh, an ayurvedic specialist, will consult with you to determine the right oil to use, based on your body type and health condition. Dr. Sugesh will also advise you on the areas of your body that need more attention. During the massage, the therapist will use their hands to apply pressure to different parts of your body while simultaneously using long, gentle strokes. The session usually ends with a warm shower/bath to cleanse your body.

Cautions to Take
Individuals with wounds, skin rashes or infections must avoid having an Abhyanga massage. If you are pregnant or menstuating, Dr. Sugesh advises that you consult your gynaecologist before getting an Abhyanga massage. Dr. Sugesh will also ask you about any allergies so that he can choose the right oil for you. Moreover, if you have undergone any surgery, it’s advisable to wait for at least 6 months before getting an Abhyanga massage.


Abhyanga is an ancient therapy with incredible benefits that has stood the test of time. Scheduling a regular Abhyanga massage session with Dr. Sugesh and his staff will ensure that you receive all the benefits, like increased circulation, toxin removal, relaxation, pain relief, and an improved mental and physical health. So, what are you waiting for? Discover the ancient roots to a modern solution to self-care!