Before today's modern medical practices and chemical treatments, there have been ancient practices of healing, such as using plants and herbs. In India, Ayurveda has been arounf for nearly 5,000 years. The term itself means "the science of life" in Sanskrit.
Ayurveda teaches the uniqueness of each person's health and growing in understanding of how to balance the body, mind, and consciousness. As a result, proper balance will result in good health while understanding how to deal with both internal and external circumstances.
The traditional way if healing is also closely related to yoga, which has become very popular in the areas of exercise, meditation, spirituality, and medical practices or treatment. Here are four modern applications of Ayurveda today:
Healthy Diet
One Ayurvedic principle is to eat in moderation. To have balanced energy and healthy bodily functions, also known as vata, three to four small meals are recommended.
Food guidelines also include eating larger portions of fruits and vegetables. Old texts have also indicated that we are not meant to eat until we are full but leave about one-third of the stomach empty.
Eating should also be done mindfully to prevent overeating. It is also best to eat foods that are local and in season for optimal nutrition.
Lower Cholesterol
High cholesterol levels have been associated with lifestyle factors such as eating habits, obesity, and genetics. With Ayurvedic treatment, a combination of yoga, exercise, balanced eating, herbal supplements, and behavioral modifications can lower cholesterol levels.
Garlic, turmeric, licorice, and other herbs like arjuna (tree bark) and myrrh are also used to treat high cholesterol. Today, they can come in the form of herbal supplements, powders, extracts, and juices. A better diet, exercise, and reducing stress levels with Ayurvedic practices help lower bad cholesterol while boosting other aspects of health.
Boost the Immune System
The current pandemic has pointed out the importance of protecting and strengthening the immune system. Several Ayurvedic herbs help boost the immune system.
Ashwagandha, the Withania somnifera root, is sometimes referred to as Indian ginseng. The root has natural steroids that fight inflammation.
It is an adaptogen, which helps the body deal with all forms of stress and anxiety in the mind, body, internal, and external. Ashwagandha also has antioxidants, flavonoids, and amino acids, which also boosts the immune system against inflammatory diseases.
READ MORE: Can Yoga and Meditation Help with Coronavirus Treatment?
Mental Wellness
Ayurveda practices include three main categories to help with mental health. The first is Satvavajaya, a combination of yoga, ethical living (Yama), self-discipline (Niyama), and healthy relationships. There is also breathing practices, or Pranayama, which help with meditation, concentration, mindfulness, and energy.
Second is Daivavyapashraya or faith. Faith includes believing that the body and mind can heal as well as a higher being. This faith is accompanied by mantras to clear inner energy from negative to positive.
The third is Yuktivyapashraya, or the balance of proper diet, exercise, and lifestyle. Supplementary herbs and spices can also help restore mental balance.
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