simple ayurvedic practices to add to your daily routine.
If you’ve ever been curious as to what Ayurveda is, let’s break it down- simply. Ayurveda derives from Ancient India, the Vedas and ancient texts. It is the sister science to yoga and literally translates to the, “Science of life.” It encompasses all aspects of one’s well-being and examines the body’s energetic, physical and spiritual response to different stimuli. This occurs through everything we do and certain lifestyle choices we make, including but not limited to, breath work, nutrition, physicality, meditation, etc.
Ayurvedic principals strive to balance the body’s doshas. What are doshas, you ask? Doshas are the three energies, (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) that the human body and mind are comprised of. They govern all the physical and mental processes. Doshsas derive from the five elements (fire, water, air, ether, earth) and their related properties. Typically, one has a prominent dosha which creates a person’s “blueprint.” This in turn is a starting point in which to find equilibrium amongst all the doshas.
While a complete Ayurvedic lifestyle may not be right for everyone, there are basic, approachable things a person can add to their daily routine which can help promote a better sense of dosha balance and well-being. Some of them may feel more attainable for you than others and that’s OK. Start where you are and see what calls out to you. Choose the ones you feel you’ll stick with first. You may find that some of them you even already do! My advice, start slowly, add one or two at a time and find consistency with each day. Once these routines become habit, you may be inspired to add more to your daily routine and further your Ayurveda journey. Check them out below.
1. Wake up 3-6 am
2. Elimination
3. Meditation/Yoga/Pranayama
4. Oil pulling
5. Tongue Scraping
6. Brush Teeth
7. Oil massage of ears, head, feet and navel
8. Drink warm water with lemon
9. Splash water on face and eyes
10. Clean nasal passages with warm water
11. Bathe
12. Healthy Breakfast
For further information, assessment and guidance on your personal Dosha, please contact Jess for a private Ayurveda consultation.
**Information resourced from Yoga & Ayurveda Center & Online Yoga School.