Ayurveda is considered to be part of Veda just like Yoga and stands for pure knowledge. Yoga on the other hand, is more with body-mind coordination or union. But Ayurveda is about lifespan knowledge as well as a system involving natural heath care known to have withstood test of time being practiced for over 5,000 years now. It is also easy to use Ayurveda on a regular basis. Four major areas are present which help promote good health, namely: detox, daily routine, digestion and diet. Ayurveda recommended aspects do support balance of body and mind and also enlivens the inner intelligence of the body. Balance is stated to be key to better health and to enjoy longevity and to attain enlightenment, as per ancient Ayurvedic texts.
Diet
Its key elements are: suitable food to the body/mind type & prevalent season; including six tastes (bitter, pungent, astringent, salty, sour and sweet), to be present in one meal at least in a day and to consume organic, fresh cooked food.
Detox
Also termed as purification, is strongly recommended by Ayurveda to eliminate ama which has accumulated within the body system. Detox can be carried out in three possible ways: use simple but effective self-purificatory methods at home, to set up excellent daily routine to allow less accumulation of ama; to attend a well established Ayurvedic clinic to avail panchakarma considered to be a residential treatment for cleansing system from deep toxins. This is recommended to be availed once a year at least, ideally during spring time.
Digestion
Ayurvedic practitioners who visit the West have found that majority of the illnesses that strike here tend to arise due to over consumption, insufficient sleep or poor digestion. Good digestion is all about the food consumed being digested completely allowing it to nourish all the tissues in the body. On the other hand, incomplete digestion only causes ama production, a toxic substance. As the body experiences ama build-up, disease is likely to be contracted.
Daily Routine
It will be a wise lifestyle choice to lead a daily routine following Ayurvedic practices. It is more about trying to establish natural habits. Early to rise and early to bed, proper mealtimes, combined with exercises to be performed during appropriate time, asanas and meditation, regular elimination, no straining or stress, being always with positive people and uplifting others. One can enjoy longevity and balance with regular and routine Ayurvedic practices.
