Ayurveda is one of the most ancient systems of medicine used for healing and treating illness. However Ayurveda has many facets other than purely medicinal. The more you explore, the deeper you go, the more enlightening is the knowledge that shows you different ways, all of which lead you toward a blissful life.

Ayurveda defines “body” in the form of three “Doshas”. The human body is made up of three Doshas – Vata, Pitta and Kapha. It is important to keep these Doshas balanced within the body to live a healthy and peaceful life. Vata is derived from Air and hence regulates bodily functions such as respiration, blood circulation, mental activity and physical movements. People with imbalanced Vata may suffer from physical and mental illness. Balancing Vata is a difficult task but it’s not impossible. Performing specific Yoga Asanas and Meditation with a combination of a balanced diet would yield magical results. Pranayam helps regulate the respiratory activities and cleans the respiratory pipe, increasing the oxygen level in the blood. Also it helps stimulate the nervous system. Sun Salutation & Meditation can be accompanied with Pranayam to stimulate the physical and mental activities. It is important to follow a balanced diet while practicing Yoga. People with predominant Vata should include foods that provide instant energy and warmth to the body. Ginger, cardamon, cinnamon, almonds, pumpkin, lemon, carrots, asparagus, bananas, mangoes all help warm the body and enhance circulation. Drinking warm water and herbal teas helps decrease the chances of dehydration and prevents hunger pangs.

Pitta derived from Fire and Water is the major source of energy for the human body. A Pitta imbalance is commonly found in Humans during the Summer Season when the solar power drives the Pitta. Excessive heat generation in the body, peptic ulcers, hot flashes, acid reflux, and inflammation are all physical problems one may suffer from Pitta imbalance. At the same time, one can suffer from mental problems such as aggressive behavior, anger, impatience, anxiety, and frustration. To balance Pitta, one should practice a daily routine with clearly defined hours of sleeping, eating, working and other regular activities. Gentle Yoga Asnas with a blend of Pranayam and Meditation will keep the body calm and cool. Diet should include watery fruits like watermelon, cucumber, and coconut. Avoid oily and spicy food in summer season and drink plenty of water. Water helps to keep the fiery Pitta calm and cool by hydrating the body. Wear light colors and cotton clothes to help control perspiration in the scorching heat of summer.

Kapha is made up of Water and Earth and is present in liquid form in the body. All the fluids and cellular activities are driven by Kapha. Kapha regulates the immune system in the body. It lubricates the joints and skin and is responsible for cellular growth. Kapha imbalance leads to problems like excessive body weight, lethargy, emotional weakness and depression, fatigue, and poor immunity. To balance Kapha, rigorous exercise is recommended with Meditation and Yoga to activate sweat glands and stay motivated. To improve body fluid circulation, drink herbal tea containing ginger, cinnamon, and clove essence, which help eliminate excessive mucous from the system. Avoid cold, sticky food like ice cream and cheese. Instead, opt for warm and stimulating foods.

Once you balance all the three Doshas, you will find yourself more confident, independent and you will get a different perspective to live your life. A life you yourself will fall in love with!