Ayurveda in translation from Sanskrit means "science of life" or "knowledge of life expectancy." Its main principle is the creation of healthy life habits based on a comprehensive approach to health - nutrition and exercise, as well as a state of mind. In recent years, a huge number of Ayurvedic centers and even hotels have opened. But how to follow the philosophy of this ancient science in the rhythm of a big city, BeautyHack special correspondent Yana Kovalenko asked someone who really knows this - Dr. Chandan, a senior Ayurveda specialist at the Indian SPA center Ananda in the Himalayas.
Dr. Chandan
yoga teacher, senior specialist in Ayurveda at the Indian SPA center Ananda in the Himalayas
“Body, mind, soul are three things that need to be addressed throughout life,” says Dr. Chandan. - If at least one of them is violated, it will lead to an imbalance of the body, its natural biorhythms will be disrupted. Let's say you exercise and eat right, but you don't pay attention to your thoughts. This is not the norm for a person, the system will fail. For example, you may be drawn to sweets, you want to eat more than you need."
In order to bring into shape not only the body, but also the mind and soul, according to Dr. Chandan, cleansing practices are necessary in the centers of Ayurveda. It is equally important to maintain balance in everyday life. It's not as difficult as it sounds.
Read below for Dr. Chandan's tips on how to live Ayurveda.
Combine several flavors in one meal
The better your food is, the stronger your immunity will be. It is important not to skip meals, there should be at least three of them a day. It is desirable that one breakfast, lunch or dinner contains several tastes at once - sweet, salty, sour, spicy, bitter, astringent. This will help you avoid overeating and feel good. You also need to eat fruits and vegetables regularly.
Arrange fasting days
Fasting days should be done once a week or at least once a month. But do not starve, but simply exclude food of animal origin from your diet. On this day, eat vegetable soups or vegetables and fruits separately. It is very beneficial for the digestive system.
Drink at least five glasses of water a day
It is important to maintain water balance in the body. To do this, you need to drink at least five glasses of water a day. In the cold season, it should be warm. You can also add ginger, turmeric or cinnamon to the water. This water will warm the body and increase metabolism. Turmeric, for example, is also known for its antiseptic properties.
Get enough sleep
Everyone knows about the benefits of sleep. It is very important to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep. And it is advisable to fall asleep before midnight - so your night rest will be of better quality.
Moisturize your skin with sesame oil
It is better to use natural products for skin care. In winter, for example, I recommend warm sesame oil. It is especially beneficial to apply it on the body in the morning before you shower. This will help the oil to be absorbed better.
Go in for sports
Regular physical activity helps increase blood flow and oxygen circulation in the body. It is useful to exercise two to three times a week for 45 minutes. Do not ignore stretching exercises, twisting exercises. Pay attention to your spine.
Meditate for at least five minutes a day
Meditation is very much needed. And not only for the mind and soul, but also for the physical body, our entire life. Let me give you an example of a situation: I am in a state of anger, but I do not realize it, I do not struggle with this quality. As a result, immediately or after a while, this affects not only my thoughts, but also my body (some diseases may arise), life (negative situations will appear). Only with regular meditation can you track your emotions, calm your mind and change life events for the better. I advise you to meditate once a day, at least once a week. Sometimes, five minutes may be enough. 5 Minute Meditation from Dr. Chandan:1 minute - sit in a relaxed position, close your eyes, slowly count to yourself from 10 to 0. 2 minutes - add a slow, conscious inhalation and exhalation. 3 minutes - start analyzing your emotions. Ask yourself: How am I feeling at the moment? Anger or annoyance? Sadness or tiredness? Become aware of your condition. 4 minutes - slowly count to yourself from 10 to 0. 5 minutes - be aware of calmness and relaxation. Get out of meditation. Then drink a glass of water.
