Introduction

We have begun once again to appreciate the connection between physical well-being and mental well-being. That is why many people today adopt an ayurvedic lifestyle in an effort to regain the lost balance between the mind, body and soul. Ayurveda stresses that it is important you dedicate some time towards mental self-care. 

How does how Ayurveda help to keep you healthy?

Despite being an ancient life science with over 5000-years of history, ayurvedic teachings are actually easy to adapt to our modern lifestyles. This is because it is based on understanding ourselves and acting and eating to suit our individual makeup. Using natural remedies such as ayurvedic herbs and herbal formulations to reduce free radicals, together with physical movement in the form of exercise and yoga, along with mental stress management through meditation, Ayurveda provides simple yet effective methods to stay healthy.

According to Ayurveda, all living beings consist of five elements that condense into the three life forces of Vata, Pitta and Kapha. 

Ayurvedic ways to keep you healthy

Ayurveda teachings say that each of us have a unique constitution consisting of the three life forces. Usually one of the forces is more dominant than the others. Consulting an ayurvedic practitioner to find out about your dominant dosha, will help you take the necessary lifestyle changes to start your wellness journey.

Diet – Eating foods that are suitable to your constitution will help you maintain that all-important balance. Using spices and herbs have immense benefits which is why Ayurveda promotes the consumption of homemade food. Consuming fresh seasonal produce will ensure that you are eating nutritious meals and maintaining a healthy diet to ignite your digestive fire. 

Exercise and meditation – Ayurveda encourages exercise in whatever form, be it running, cardio or yoga works wonders on both the mind and body. It reduces anxiety, depression and negativity and promotes cognitive functions and improves self-esteem. It is also beneficial for the nervous system.

A few minutes of meditation is also encouraged to help alleviate mental fatigue and to strengthen brain function and health and improve memory.

Daily Routine – Ayurveda places importance on having a proper daily routine with times scheduled for rest and relaxation. It creates balance and harmony in our minds and bodies by regulating our biological clocks, promoting cohesiveness in our activities and ensuring we stick to a healthy lifestyle. 

Eliminating stress – A daily routine helps reduce stress by providing structure to your day. It also helps you set aside time for self-care such as scheduling massages, time for meditation or reading or even watching a comforting film. Any activity that helps you to de-stress and relax.

Lifestyle choices – Ayurveda advocates mindfulness, being present and aware of your choices. When you pay attention to the present it helps you make better lifestyle choices as you are not making decisions when stressed, tired or upset. This mindfulness will help you with letting go of bad habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and unhealthy eating.

Mental health – Mental fatigue is a problem that we sometimes neglect to recognise as we focus on other physical elements and stresses. According to Ayurveda our brain health and physical health are intertwined and need to be aligned for wellness.

Keeping surroundings clean – Other ayurvedic tips include removing external factors that cause clutter and stress. By keeping your space clean and filling it with things that genuinely bring you joy, you will enjoy a mental calmness each time you enter your space.