Pearls of Ayurvedic Wisdom

By Rippan Sandhu

According to Ayurveda, three types of energy called Doshas circulate in our bodies. When these Doshas are in balance, we experience good health and harmony. You can find out what your dominant Dosha energy is here...

For many, a sense of heaviness prevails at this time of year due to the presence of the winter-dominant Kapha Dosha energy. So how do you combat this dreary feeling and boost your energy levels? By nourishing your mind, body and soul with some simple lifestyle, dietary and self-nurturing tips – like eating wholesome, nourishing food, and wrapping up warm to enjoy an invigorating walk in the fresh winter air. Health is your true wealth

1. During the winter months, your Kapha energy wants to hibernate and remain snuggled up indoors. But your Vata element, responsible for body movement, can become frustrated with this inactivity and can quickly get out of balance. So, to counter those long, sluggish winter days, it’s a great idea to get your woolies on and venture out there into the great outdoors. A brisk wintry walk every day will help to rebalance any Kapha-Vata energy imbalances that may be manifesting as anxiousness, congestion, cramps, digestive disorders and poor circulation.

2. Even though your whole body is telling you to go into hibernation, avoid the urge to nap during the day. This will only slow down your metabolism and reduce the digestive fire necessary for optimum digestion to refuel your body’s energy levels.2. Even though your whole body is telling you to go into hibernation, avoid the urge to nap during the day. This will only slow down your metabolism and reduce the digestive fire necessary for optimum digestion to refuel your body’s energy levels.

3. A few minutes of breathing through your right nostril every day will promote circulation and metabolic processes. Right nostril breathing, or Pingala Nadi, increases Pranic energy – the physical energy to revitalize the body and lift your spirits. It increases the efficiency of the digestive system and boosts the nervous system., especially the sympathetic nervous system. It lifts the body’s temperature which helps eliminate mucus. Right nostril breathing is an effective technique to reduce anxiety, depression and stress. You can easily do this sitting at your desk, or any position where the spine is erect and the body is relaxed. Simply place the index finger of your left hand on the outside of your left nostril. Inhale deeply for approximately 54 seconds and exhale for around 56 seconds. This can be practiced for about 5 minutes per day. Or try Nadi- shodhan.

4. Did you know, the ancient healing tradition of Ayurveda believes that our health and wellbeing is underpinned by the ability to digest everything we take in from the environment? This includes all the experiences, emotions and impressions we get through our senses and, of course, our food and drink.

Here are my top 5 tips for optimum food digestion

1. Sit down when eating and focus on your food.
2. Sip warm water throughout the day.
3. Eat your meals at the same time every day.
4. Stop eating before you are full.
5. Allow 3-5 hours between every meal.

Creating a balance between mind and body awareness can bring health and wellbeing to your life.
Remember to honor each season and embrace its cycles. And don’t forget, spring is just around the corner.

Feel Good. Age Well. Live Better.
Until next time, Rippan and the team at Spa Ayurda