Benefits of Ayurveda's Shirobhyanga

An Ayurveda head massage aims mainly at the shoulders, head, neck and face, which are the most vulnerable areas of tension and stress. A head massage traverses you in a complete state of peace, calm and tranquility while promoting aggravated levels of concentration and alertness. During the process of an Ayurveda head massage, herbal oils are applied or poured over the head and massaged in deeply. This process is known as the moordhataila which means oiling of the head.

What is Shirobhyanga?

Shirobhyanga involves massaging the head using herbal Ayurveda oils coupled with the application of gentle deep strokes and pressure on the different Marma points. This massage mainly focuses on the neck, head and shoulder. The herbal oils used for this purpose are created for balancing several Doshas. Along with that the massage also stimulates your hair follicles which help in strengthening of the roots and hair. It also improves the hair condition thus making them shiny and healthy.

Benefits of Shirobhyanga

• It has a calming effect on the body as well as the mind.

• The massage helps in improving the functioning of the nervous system as well as the five senses.

• The blood circulation to the head and the flow of cerebrospinal fluids are also improved.

• It helps in the diffusion of toxins from knotted and tensed muscles.

• Blood circulation to the congested muscles is improved.

• It helps to oxygenate the brain.

• It stimulates lymphatic drainage and improves the sleeping pattern.

• It is helpful against jaw aches, tinnitus, eye strain and sinusitis.

• It is also beneficial in treating other health related issues such as chronic fatigue, depression, Crohn’s disease, high blood pressure, insomnia, indigestion, etc.

• The massage also helps in strengthening the hair roots and thus prevents hair fall.

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Detoxifying the Body in Spring

The body and mind are intertwined and imbalance in any can cause health issues. So, what is the key to mind body balance? It is to understand the needs of your body, which includes eating, healing and above all cleansing (detoxifying). With the whole world engulfed by all kinds of pollution, there are toxic substances everywhere. There is toxicity in air, water and even food. Thus constant detoxification of the body is required and Ayurveda has many techniques to do so as opposed to modern allopathic medicine. Ayurveda retreat in Rishikesh is one of the ways of detoxifying the body.

Spring the change of temperature and humidity condition is just round the corner. The snow melts and the ground becomes softer ready for the new crop to grow. This is the season which requires cleansing of all the systems of the body. All through winter the normal diet is heavy with fat being a major part. With the oncoming spring this also needs to have a paradigm shift. The first thing to do is to eat the food harvested in this season which includes the seasonal fruits and vegetables. The toxins stored in the fat cells tend to be burned away with less fat intake. This is the season of losing weight, particularly fat weight.

Having the spring cleansing is the first thing to do in spring and then go for Panchkarma in Rishikesh for removing the left toxins. The spring cleansing process follows an easy three step process.

Cleansing the cleanser i.e. the liver which improves the digestion – Turmeric roots, ginger and dandelion roots are available in early spring.  Take these out and use in soups, tea and stews as additives and also to improve taste. These roots help to cleanse the intestinal lining and help to detoxify the liver with its natural ingredients. These roots also help by infusing healthy bacteria in the gut thus improving the digestion capability.

Eat spring greens to detoxify the digestive system – All kinds of green vegetables and yellow fruits are available with the onset of spring. These include sprouts, lettuce, spinach and chard. Including these greenies in your daily diet helps to remove toxins from the stomach as they are full of fiber which helps the detoxification process of the stomach.

Eat cherries and berries to cleanse the lymphatic system – Cherries and berries which are abundant in spring are natural cleansers of the lymphatic system. Lymphatic system is the system in the body that delivers energy to all parts and proper detox can help to improve the immune system as a whole.

After you have gone through the spring cleanse, go for different kind of Ayurvedic cleansing massages. For this first consult an Ayurvedic medical practitioner who will do a proper diagnosis. After diagnosis he/she will advise a particular form of massage or therapy which depends on your body’s Dosha configuration. They will also suggest certain authentic Ayurveda therapy centers which are economic and genuine. Once the detox is done fully, you will feel the difference! for more detail
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Panchkarma: The Five Procedures leading to Healthy Life

Panchkarma is one of the most popular words in Ayurveda today. But what exactly does this word mean? Panchkarma is a the detoxification process used in Ayurveda to remove toxins from the body and restore youth which has been affected due to toxins in the body. The special treatment is done with medicated oils and herbs and is done almost similar to what is mentioned in the Vedas. Charka Samhita gives a detailed account of the procedure of Panchkarma and acts as a guide for therapists. Many tourists visit Rishikesh just to go through with Panchkarma in Rishikesh, and the reason is of course the transformative detoxification.

Panchkarma  

Five natural methods to expel toxins out of the body constitute the Panchkarma. The methods used are natural methods of elimination of waste meanwhile balancing the three Doshas of Vata, Pitta and kapha.

• Vomiting to expel Toxins (Vamanam) – Oral medications with lots of liquids is given to induce vomiting. The induced vomiting eliminates kapha caused by excessive mucus. The process helps decongest the lungs and builds the immune system against common cough and cold. The Ayurvedic process is really beneficial for Kapha related ailments and also helps to remove skin diseases.

• Purgation to clean intestines (Virechna) – Bowel cleaning with help of laxatives with milk or warm water is known as Virechana in Ayurveda Panchkarma. It also removes toxins stuck in liver, gall bladder and cleans the whole gastrointestinal path. The medication works wonders in case of jaundice, hemorrhoids, and urinary disorders and particularly in digestive disorders.

• Concoction Enema cleansing (Kashya Vasti) –The cleansing of colon and the large intestine is essential for complete toxins removal from the body. During this element of Panchkarma concoction enema is used to discharge waste from the guhya marg (Anus). The procedure is extremely useful in Vata related diseases like constipation, kidney stones and joint pains.

• Oil enema for toxins removal (Sneha Vasti) – Administering oil enema is the way Ayurveda Panchkarma treats obesity, diabetes and anemia. The practice is also known as Anuvaasan and can cure reproductive disorders, arthritis and also paralysis. The specially formulated oils give comfort and remove Vata which is the main reason for all the ailments mentioned above.

• Inhalation of Medicated oil (Nasyam) – The fifth Karma of the Panchkarma is the Nasyam or nasal therapy. It involves of shoulders and neck and then inhalation of herbal oils through the nostrils. This is beneficial for sinusitis, chest congestion, migraine and constant cold and cough.

During Panchkarma the most essential factor is diet. After undergoing the process one should eat light meals and the prescribed food is Khichari (Mixed vegetables and pulses with rice cooked in much water). The diet should be gradually increased to the previous levels over a period of two to three months to get the benefits. for more information https://goo.gl/eLwpwZ

Herbs in Your Kitchen which are Healthy

Use of herbs in the kitchen is prevalent among almost all cultures. These herbs not only give taste to your food but also are great for health. In fact, kitchen is a treasure trove of healing medicines which we are not aware of. The herbs ward of seasonal ailments and also provide vital nutrients to the body. Here are some common herbs that are in the kitchen and can be used to treat ailments and are used daily in food and drinks.

Ajwain (Carom seeds) – Ajwain is present in all kitchens, and is particularly beneficial for pacifying Vata and Kapha. It however increases Pitta. The herb is a cleanser which can help improve digestion and appetite. It also helps the functioning of kidneys and the respiratory system. A mixture of Jaggery and Ajwain is used to treat asthma. 

Haldi (Turmeric) – This herb is used in powder form in most kitchens. It has excellent anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and analgesic properties. A paste made of turmeric can help heal wounds with cuts and bruises. Mixed with warm milk it can also help to treat cough and cold. The herb is also a liver tonic helping it to function at its maximum potential. It is also an essential ingredient of the popular Ayurvedic Kerala massage.

Adrak (Ginger) – The medicinal value of ginger is well known, particularly the anti-inflammatory property. It is a common remedy for chest congestion, indigestion and vomiting. A paste of ginger can be used to reduce headache by applying on the forehead. The most common use is boiling with tea which is a great way to increase the medicinal property of tea.

Tulsi Leaves (Basil) – Basil leaves are anti-viral, anti oxidants and antiseptic. These properties make it a wonder drug. Just chewing a few leaves can help you recover from chronic cough, and it gives instant relief top sore throat. Mixed with sandalwood powder, it can reduce pain in joints. With coconut oil it is a great way to treat cuts and wounds, because of its anti-microbial property.

Amla (Gooseberry) – Amla is listed in Ayurveda as the fruit which can cure almost all body ailments. It is the Akshay Phal (The Wonder fruit). It is loaded with Vitamin C which makes the immune system strong. The extracted juice intake can help protect the liver, and is great for internal cleansing of the body. A recent research even indicates that this herb has heart nourishing property. It is also beneficial for hair and regular wash mixed with shikakai can help reduce graying.

Mulethi (Licorice) –This is a herb which is a natural liver tonic. It is being used since long for treating liver diseases. It also is a wonder drug for bronchial ailments. Adding in tea can help fight the seasonal cough and cold conditions.

These common kitchen herbs can help keep some common ailments away. Their use in food means your body is being supplied with essential to fight off diseases. 

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Turmeric is an Elixir that Keeps you Healthy

The bright yellow powder that is an essential ingredient of Indian kitchen is much more than a spice. It not only gives color and taste to your food but also has amazing health benefits. It helps you to treat common problems like bruises and inflammation. But did you know about other ways this spice keeps you healthy? Well, let us have a look at these benefits to our health.

Acts as a preventive for Cancer

 While on an Ayurveda retreat in Rishikesh India, I learnt of this benefit of turmeric from an Ayurveda doctor. The main component of turmeric is a compound called curcumin. It helps to clean and detoxify the colon, and protects the cells from damage from free radicals. The compound also acts as a live tonic thus eliminating toxins from the body which are the main causes of cancer. A recent study found that the compound found in turmeric can prevent and halt cancer cell growth in people suffering from cancer of the neck and head region.

As it detoxifies the colon it helps in preventing build up of toxins in the colon and is very effective in blocking the onset of colon cancer. Even in people with cancer turmeric can help to slow down metastasis (spread of cancer to other parts of body). It also halts the formation of tumors helping the patient to recover better. What is needed is to imbibe the use of this wonder spice in your daily food.

Provides relief in Osteoarthritis

Turmeric has natural property of reducing inflammation of joints which is the main concern for patients of osteoarthritis. It is a natural anti-oxidant which helps to protect the membranes, helping to ease the pain. Regular use of the spice has been found effective for patients who do not find relief from allopath.

Helps in Indigestion and Digestive issues
Turmeric is really useful in case of indigestion and heartburn. It stimulates the production of bile which aids in proper digestion of food. It also helps in case of bloating and gas, and also bowel disease like colitis. more detail:- https://goo.gl/AFMsWu

Ways to Lose Weight after Holidays

Having an ideal body weight is vital for a healthy life. Ayurveda says that being under weight or over weight can cause many problems. One should understand the needs of the body is very essential especially how to eat in different seasons. In the holiday season it is quite easy to over eat and gain weight with all the parties and good food around. It is not easy to say “No” and that leads to the problem of gaining weight in a small period and this weight is really difficult to shrug off, isn’t it?

Luckily Ayurveda has remedies for it. Gaining weight leads to increase of the kapha Dosha in the body. This is the result of eating too much sweet, sour and salty food. The Vata Dosha also gets affected because it is aggravated due to winter season and is at its peak. So, two of the three Doshas need to be kept in check during the holiday season. The way to go is to go slow and eat simple food after the holidays. Reduction of stress and meditating are good ways to manage both Kapha and Vata Dosha. How to do it? Well, here are some tips which you can implement in daily life. Implementing these will help you have a healthier life.

Make a routine for meals – You have snacked enough during the holidays. Now is the time to stabilize the digestion by eating three meals a day on time. Avoid snacks with potato and oil content, even chocolate. If you feel hungry try fruits like pears, apples and figs.

Eat a nice sumptuous lunch but a small dinner – Lunch is the time to indulge in filling up the stomach. Dinner should be smaller and much closer to sunset than night. Allow the food two hours to settle down before going to bed. This will complete the first stage of digestion. The dinner should consist of light food and steamed food is the best. If you want to go for a rejuvenation package of Ayurveda, you should first get this routine right.

Get up early in the morning – Metabolism increases when you get up early in the morning. So, get your heart’s pumping with a sport, Yoga or a run/jog in the morning. This routine will help you feel lighter for the day and you will be surprised at how much weight you will lose doing this regularly. Always remember to drink lots of water during the play or workout, as this hydrates the body and the weight loss will be real.

Drink warm water during the day – Start with a glass full of warm water in the morning. It will help you get your bowels clear. Next carry a thermos flask with hot water with you to workplace. Mix the same with cold water and sip every hour. This will help you flush out the toxins and keep you hydrated and you will not have snack cravings. This is the first thing that is on the routine list if you go for Panchkarma in Rishikesh.

Have at least 6 hours of sleep – Go to bed early and rise up early. This allows for the non-REM sleep which is necessary for physical and mental relaxation. If you sleep less then you will have more of REM sleep and will wake up tired.

Just following these small things you can lose weight and be healthy, and this can be done in one month only. These routines becoming a permanent part of lifestyle would be great though.  Read More ..https://goo.gl/AFMsWu

Why Massage is Important in Ayurveda?

The word massage gives a message of oils, lotions, creams, massage parlors, relaxation and rejuvenation. But is it only that? Most of the people believe that massage is only for relaxing the body and gives freshness, but it is much more than that. In fact, Ayurvedic massages are extremely beneficial for the internal organs like liver, kidney and the heart.

The science of old Ayurveda has devised massage methods that are a complete rejuvenation package. The massage method is as old as the ancient science itself and is an integral part of it. It is a holistic way to cure the body and mind of many ailments, and the texts of Ayurveda mention its benefits for the whole body from head to toe. You can feel the direct effect on the skeletal, muscular and circulatory system. This in turn proves beneficial for respiratory, reproductive and digestive system. Now that covers whole body, doesn’t it?

The Ayurvedic massages like Panchkarma use oils specially formulated which permeate the skin and benefits reach deeper than skin. The oils, creams and ointments are herb extracts that deliver direct benefits to the body. However, while massaging correct technique has to be followed with the right use of hand and fingers. Thus a person doing the massage should be trained in Ayurvedic Marma Therapy course which gives knowledge of the vital points in the body. If the massager is not well trained the massage may have ill effects on the body rather than benefiting it.

Another myth is that you need medication only when you fall sick. That is not true with massage therapy in Ayurveda. Toxins deposit in various parts of our body and massage is a way to remove them as per Ayurvedic science. The effects are not instant and regular massage will give you long term benefits. By removing toxins, the root cause of disease are removed giving you a healthy and log life.

What can be observed on the outside are toned skin, less wrinkles, glowing youthful face and body and relaxed muscles. This will give you health and make you happy removing stress and toxins from your body. This is why Ayurveda puts so much emphasis on massage therapy. The only thing to take care is to get the massage done by a trained personnel, and you get the maximum benefits. for detail   https://goo.gl/AFMsWu