Ayurvedic forms of medicine originated in India thousands of years ago and typically include integrative practices meant to treat the whole body. The National Center on Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports that Ayurvedic medicine incorporates a variety of modalities that ranges from massage and herbal treatments to special diets and meditation. You should consult with your medical doctor before using any Ayurvedic treatments to make sure they don't interfere with ongoing medical treatment.
Stay Regular
Ayurvedic philosophies rely heavily on regular waste elimination. Practitioners believe that a strong constitution is one of the keys to daily health. Constipation or other digestive blockages can lead to disease and keep the body out of balance. Eating practices are encouraged to eliminate undigested foods that interfere with optimum health, called ama. Utilize an enema, massage or special diet to aid in regular elimination, an integral part of Ayurvedic health practices.
Reduce Stress
Daily practices to reduce stress are another integral part of Ayurvedic treatment. Once you find the best solution for your own relaxation, you should incorporate it into your daily practices. Harmony and calmness can be attained through daily meditation or yoga exercises, walking or praying. Get a massage if you are feeling stressed and cannot work your way out the tension. Give yourself a daily massage with soothing oils every morning for 15 minutes. Consider aromatherapy or other herbal applications to induce relaxation.
Drink Water
According to Maharishi Ayurveda, drinking hot water can help to bring about the balance that practitioners strive for. Use bottled mineral water or non-chlorinated tap water to boil the treatment. Boil the water and pour it into a thermos for sipping throughout the day. Take a sip of the warm water every 30 minutes. To increase the effectiveness of the drinking practice, add a pinch of ginger to the water.
Sleep
Try to fall asleep before 10 p.m. to get the best rest. According to Ayurvedic philosophy, each time of day is designated with a distinct quality; between six and 10 p.m., the predominant alignment is in place for optimum sleeping conditions. Get into a deep sleep quickly by relaxing before bedtime with a massage or by listening to soothing music. Eat a light meal for dinner and take a warm bath to help you fall asleep.
Eating
Not all Ayurvedic tips require specialized diets or formulas. Maharishi Ayurveda recommends only eating when you are truly hungry and stopping when you are full. Wait until one meal is fully digested, about three to six hours, before eating again. Focus on your eating and eat in quiet without distractions. Sit quietly for five to 10 minutes after you're finished eating and make lunch the main meal of the day.
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