For millennia, Ayurveda, the ancient Indian wisdom of life, has offered a path to holistic well-being. It's a philosophy that believes that we are connected by body, mind, and spirit. Ayurvedic massage, or Abhyanga, is a therapeutic massage technique rooted in Ayurveda. It is the loving practice of self-massage with warm, herbal oils. Abhyanga is a ritual of self-care that nourishes you from the inside out. Ayurvedic herbal massage oils are crafted with a unique blend of herbs chosen for their specific properties. These aren't just random botanicals; they're carefully selected to address your needs and balance your unique mind-body constitution, known in Ayurveda as your dosha. With regular Abhyanga, you might sleep more soundly, feel lighter on your feet, and experience a newfound sense of calm. It's a practice that can awaken a radiant vitality within you, leaving you feeling good and truly whole.
According to Ayurveda, we're all unique blends of three primary energies called doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These doshas aren't strictly physical; they govern our physical and mental processes, shaping our personalities, energy levels, and cravings.
1. Vata, the airy dosha, embodies movement and creativity. When balanced, it expresses enthusiasm and agility. However, an imbalanced Vata can manifest as anxiety, restlessness, and scatteredness. Abhyanga with grounding oils like sesame infused with Ashwagandha can soothe Vata's quick energy, promoting calmness and focus.
2. Pitta, the fiery dosha, is all about metabolism and transformation. It fuels our drive and digestion. Balanced Pitta gives us sharp intellect and leadership qualities. However, an aggravated Pitta can lead to irritability, short tempers, and skin issues. Cooling and calming oils like coconut infused with Gotu Kola can help pacify Pitta's fire, promoting peace and inner harmony.
3. Kapha, the earthy and watery dosha, is the foundation of our structure and stability. It governs our immune system and provides a sense of groundedness. A balanced Kapha expresses calmness and resilience. However, excess Kapha can manifest as lethargy, sluggishness, and weight gain. Stimulating oils like grapeseed infused with Ginger can help awaken Kapha's sluggish energy, promoting a sense of lightness and vitality.
Abhyanga becomes a powerful tool for maintaining balance when practiced with dosha-specific oils. By understanding your unique doshic constitution, you can choose the right herbal blend to nurture your body and mind, bringing you closer to your state of optimal well-being.
Ayurvedic massage oils are potent elixirs brimming with the life force of carefully chosen herbs. These herbal infusions are a testament to the ingenuity of Ayurvedic practitioners, who have perfected the art of extracting the essence of plants and uniting them with carrier oils for maximum benefit. The process often involves a gentle simmering technique where the chosen herbs are slowly infused into the carrier oil base. This allows the therapeutic properties of the herbs to gently transfer into the oil, creating a potent and fragrant massage blend. The carrier oils themselves play a crucial role.In Ayurveda, these aren't simply neutral bases; they possess their unique healing properties, some of which are:
Abhyanga, the loving practice of self-massage with Ayurvedic herbal oils, offers a treasure trove of benefits that extend far beyond a simple moment of relaxation. It's a holistic practice that nourishes you from the inside out, promoting well-being on multiple levels.
1. Improved Circulation: Warm oil massages stimulate blood flow, delivering essential nutrients to the tissues and promoting removing waste products. This can result in improved muscle tone, reduced stiffness, and a radiant, healthy glow.
2. Pain Relief: Abhyanga can ease muscle tension and aches, relieving headaches, backaches, and joint pain. The gentle pressure applied during the massage helps loosen tight muscles and promotes healing.
3. Detoxification: Ayurvedic herbs infused in the oils can help stimulate the lymphatic system, encouraging the elimination of toxins that can contribute to fatigue and dullness.
4. Stress Reduction: The rhythmic strokes of Abhyanga, combined with the calming aromas of the herbs, act as a natural stress reliever. It promotes the release of feel-good hormones like serotonin, leaving you feeling centered and relaxed.
5. Improved Sleep: According to a study, insomnia affects every age group, including children and the elderly. Approximately 40% of adults report at least 1 symptom of insomnia 3 times per week. Regular Abhyanga practice can lead to deeper, more restful sleep. The calming effect on the nervous system helps quiet the mind and prepare you for a night of restorative sleep.
6. Enhanced Mood: Abhyanga can promote a sense of well-being and inner peace. The self-care ritual combined with the therapeutic properties of the herbs can uplift your mood and leave you feeling more positive and energized.
7. Nourishes the Skin: The herbal oils used in Ayurvedic massage moisturize, nourish, and rejuvenate the skin, promoting a healthy complexion, reducing dryness, and supporting skin health.
Ayurvedic massage oils play a crucial role in promoting health and wellness. Each oil has unique properties and benefits tailored to different needs. Some popular Ayurvedic massage oils, including their targeted benefits, are as follows:
1. Himalaya Stress Relief Massage Oil: Specifically designed to alleviate stress and promote relaxation. Himalaya stress relief massage oil combines the soothing properties of Winter Cherry, Indian Tinospora, and Indian Madder to calm the mind, relieve tension, and improve sleep quality.
To know more about it, read: Therapeutic Benefits of Himalaya Stress Relief Massage Oil
2. Sesame Oil: Sesame oil is warming and grounding. It nourishes and calms dry skin, improves circulation, and supports deep tissue nourishment and detoxification.
3. Coconut Oil: Cooling and soothing, coconut oil helps reduce inflammation, moisturize the skin, and provide a soothing effect on irritated or sensitive skin.
4. Sunflower Oil: Light and easily absorbed, sunflower oil is great for Kapha types. It is beneficial in stimulating circulation, reducing water retention, and supporting detoxification.
5. Bhringraj Oil: Known for its rejuvenating properties, Bhringraj oil is excellent for hair and scalp health. It promotes hair growth, reduces dandruff, and prevents premature greying.
6. Neem Oil: With its powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, neem oil effectively treats skin conditions, promotes wound healing, and detoxifies the skin.
7. Ashwagandha Oil: Renowned for its adaptogenic and rejuvenating properties. Ashwagandha oil helps balance Vata and Pitta doshas, reduces stress and anxiety, and promotes overall vitality. It also helps calm the nervous system, improve sleep quality, enhance energy levels, and support adrenal health.
Also Read: How Ayurvedic Oils Can Transform Your Well-being
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Gather your supplies: You'll need a clean towel, a container of warm Ayurvedic massage oil (dosha-specific or one targeting your needs), and a comfortable space to relax undisturbed.
2. Warm the oil: Gently warm your chosen oil. The oil should be comfortably warm, not hot.
3. Set the mood: Light some candles, put on calming music, or create an ambiance that allows you to unwind fully.
1. Begin with your feet: Pour a small amount of warm oil into your palm and gently massage the soles of your feet, working your way up the ankles and calves using circular motions.
2. Move upwards: Continue massaging with long strokes towards your heart on your legs, thighs, and buttocks.
3. Focus on your back: Use long strokes with your palms on your back, applying gentle pressure. You can use a long-handled massage tool if reaching your back is difficult.
4. Nurture your arms: Massage your arms with long strokes towards the shoulders, focusing on the palms and wrists.
5. Gentle touch for your chest and abdomen: Use light, circular strokes on your chest and abdomen in a clockwise direction. Avoid applying pressure directly on your stomach.
6. Neck and shoulders: Gently massage your neck and shoulders using circular motions, being mindful not to apply too much pressure.
7. Head massage for relaxation: Pour a small amount of oil onto your scalp and gently massage using your fingertips in circular motions.
1. Rest and rejuvenate: After the massage, allow the oil to stay on your skin for 15-20 minutes. This allows the herbs to penetrate the skin.
2. Warm shower or bath: Take a warm shower or bath using a gentle cleanser to remove the oil.
Start with a 10-15 minute self-massage routine and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable.
Listen to your body. Use gentle pressure for relaxation and slightly firmer pressure for muscle tension relief.
Aim for daily Abhyanga practice to have optimal benefits. However, even a few times a week can make a noticeable difference.
Abhyanga is a practice of self-care and self-love. Don't get caught up in achieving perfection. Instead, focus on creating a routine that feels good for you and allows you to connect with your body on a deeper level. With regular practice, Abhyanga can become a transformative ritual that awakens your inner glow. As you embark on this path, consider consulting with experts who can guide you with tailored advice and deep insights. One such expert is Dr Ruchi Tyagi, a renowned Ayurveda physician who encompasses traditional practices and modern needs. For those looking to delve deeper into Ayurveda and source high-quality Ayurvedic products, HealthyBazar stands out as a trusted platform. Offering a curated selection of authentic Ayurvedic herbs, oils, and wellness products. Begin your adventure today and embrace the healing power of Ayurveda in your life.
Dr. Shivani Nautiyal is a renowned Ayurvedic physician, Panchakarma therapies specialist, and detox expert who has made significant contributions to the field of natural holistic healing and wellness. With her profound knowledge, expertise, and compassionate approach, she has transformed the lives of countless individuals seeking holistic health solutions. She is a Panchakarma expert, which are ancient detoxification and rejuvenation techniques. She believes in the power of Ayurveda to restore balance and harmony to the body, mind, and spirit.
Kidney stones are one of the most common lifestyle diseases people are suffering from these days. However, the good news is that, with the help of some home and herbal remedies, you can treat it naturally!.
In the western world, the annual incidence of Kidney Stone is about 0.5%, where a lifetime risk of developing it is about 10-15%, and it increases by 20-25% in the Middle East. In the Indian population, about 12% are expected to have urinary stones and out of which, 50% may end up with a loss of kidney functions.
Kidney stone is made of hard minerals and salt deposits that form inside the kidneys. They are also known as Urolithiasis or Nephrolithiasis. It has been a global problem affecting human beings since ancient times. It is a condition in which the crystals of uroliths/stones are present in the urinary tract and form uneven calculi.
Kidney stone is also known as calculi. These calculi can differ in size and shape, found anywhere in the urinary tract from the kidney to the bladder. Kidney stone is a significant problem in India and other developing countries. Kidney stones have generally affected 10-12% of the industrialized population.
The Patient does not identify whether he is suffering from kidney stones. After leaving the stone through the kidney, it passes to the bladder with the help of ureters. At the same time, some of the stones remain in the ureters. Further, they block the urine flow out of the kidneys and make it swell; this condition is called Hydronephrosis.
Some of the common symptoms of kidney stones are as follows:
The common causes of kidney stones include:
A slight reduction in urinary oxalate is associated with a significant decrease in the formation of calcium oxalate stones. Hence, one should avoid oxalate-rich foods like Cucumber, Green Peppers, Beetroot, Spinach, Soya Bean, Chocolate, Popcorn, and Sweet Potato. Mainly kidney stones affect the parts of the body like the kidney ureters and urethra.
More critical, kidney stone is a recurrent disorder with lifetime recurrence risk reported as high as 50%. Therefore, there is a higher chance of developing heart diseases due to kidney stones. In addition, kidney stones reduce the formation of minerals and essential elements for bone formation.
In Ayurveda, we can compare this disease with "Ashmari." Ashmari (calculi) comprises two words, i.e., 'Ashma' (stone) and 'Ari' (enemy). Ashman (calculi), called Moothrashmari (Urolithiasis), is a disease of Moothravahasrotas (urinary tract) and involves the formation of a stone. Kidney stone resulting in severe pain as given by an enemy.
Charaka, Sushrut, and Vagbhata describe it in Ashmari Vyadhi. In Asanshodhil (regular not doing Panchkarma) and Adhikari (Unwholesome Diet), person aggravated Kapha dosha mix up with Mutra (urine), enter in Basti (Kidney, Ureter, Bladder), obstruct the urinary tract, and create Ashmari. Sushrut has mentioned that those who do not undergo Panchkarma Treatment regularly, take an unhealthy diet, and follow a faulty lifestyle, are prone to recurrent kidney stones.
Ashmari is one of the diseases under Asthamahagad, i.e., challenging to cure. Ashmari is Vyadhi of Mutravaha Strotas. As Basti comes under Trimarma (three-fold of life).
There are 4 types of Ashmari described in Ayurveda:
1) Vataj Ashmari (Calcium Oxalate Stone): Vataj Ashmari is blackish, hard, irregular, rough structure, and like Kadamb flower, full of a spike. The symptoms of this kind of Ashmari are intense pain in the abdomen and anal region. In addition, they cause burning in the penis, making it difficult to excrete Vata, Mutra, and stool.
2) Pittaj Ashmari (Uric Acid Stone): Pittaj Ashmari looks like Bhallatak. Its symptoms are burning micturition and yellow urine.
3) Kaphaj Ashmari (Oxalate/ Phosphate stone): It is slimy, big, and looks Light green or white in colour. The symptoms are pain in the Urinary bladder and thighs. Acharya Sushruta, the world-first surgeon, described various types of treatment in Ashmari like Ghrut (Ghee/ Clarified butter), Kashaya (Decoction), and Kshara Bhedan (Scratching).
4) Shukra Ashmari (Spermolith) – This stone develops in the seminal vesicle due to the suppression of semen. If semen flow (Shukra Vega) is suppressed, it takes transit movement (Vimargagamana) and lodges in between penis (Medhra) and testis (Vrushana).
Ayurvedic treatment of renal stones has various therapies, including plant-based medicine, diet, and lifestyle changes.
Here are the Ayurvedic home remedies and diet recommendations to treat Kidney stones naturally:
Some Home Remedies for Kidney Stones
Include any fluid such as water, coffee, and lemonade in your diet except for grapefruit juice and soda. They are known to have a beneficial effect. This will help produce less concentrated urine and ensure at least 2.5L/day a good urine volume.
It would be best if you eliminated spinach, berries, chocolate, wheat bran, nuts, beets, and tea from your diet.
Three servings of dairy per day will help lower the risk of calcium stone formation.
Take calcium supplements regularly but only after consulting with your physician and registered kidney dietitian.
High protein intake will cause the kidneys to excrete more calcium which may cause more stones to form in the kidney. So, one should eat a moderate amount of protein.
High sodium intake increases calcium in the urine, increasing the chances of developing stones. Therefore, it would help if one had a low salt diet, and it is also important to control blood pressure.
It is recommended to take 60mg/day of vitamin C because the excess amounts of Vitamin C helps produce more oxalate in the body.
Along with the diet and lifestyle changes, you should also consider some Ayurvedic medicines. These medicines will not only help you to treat kidney stones but also help to avoid recurrence.
The following are some medicines you may consider to treat kidney stones:
The active ingredients include Hajrul Yahud Bhasma (silicate of lime), Yavakshar, Shwet Parppati, and Pashanbhed Churna. Anupan of this Kwath is Kulthi Kadha which has Kaphahar and Bhedan properties.
Dosage– 2 tsp. twice a day with water.
The active ingredients included are Nagarmotha (Root), Sounth (Rhizome), Kali Marich (Seed), Pippali (Fruit), Haritaki (Fruit), Bibhitaki (Fruit), Amla (Fruit), Shudh Guggul, Gokharu (Panchang). In addition, Gokshuradi Guggulu acts as an Antispasmodic and an Antibiotic. It has a Diuretic (Mutral) property.
Dosage – 2 tablets twice a day with water.
Its active ingredients include Varun, Pashanbheda, Sunthi, and Gokshura. Varunadi Kwath is Diuretic in action. In addition, it has a penetration (Bhedan) activity. So, it helps to disintegrate the stone.
Dosage – 2 tsp thrice a day with a half cup of water.
Dos and Don'ts
Also Read: Constipation: Causes, Triggers, and Treatment with Ayurveda
According to Ayurveda, lifestyle modification through diet, internal medicines, and Basti therapy is highly effective in managing renal stones. In addition, proper counseling and guidance should be provided to kidney stone patients, including Pathya – Apathya (dietary management) correlation with Ashmari management. Furthermore, home Remedies for Kidney Stones can help prevent further complications and recurrence of the disease. Find lifestyle tips and Ayurvedic products at HealthyBazar. All the products on-site are genuine, and one can also consult with the best Ayurvedic and Unani doctors.
Dr. Shivani Nautiyal is a renowned Ayurvedic physician, Panchakarma therapies specialist, and detox expert who has made significant contributions to the field of natural holistic healing and wellness. With her profound knowledge, expertise, and compassionate approach, she has transformed the lives of countless individuals seeking holistic health solutions. She is a Panchakarma expert, which are ancient detoxification and rejuvenation techniques. She believes in the power of Ayurveda to restore balance and harmony to the body, mind, and spirit.
Every person who fulfills his or her potential can cope with the everyday stresses of life, work productively, and contribute to his or her community. Mental health is the foundation for an individual’s effective communication, learning, emotions, thinking, and self-esteem. It is integral to all aspects of human life, whether in interpersonal relationships, emotional well-being, or effective contribution to society. There are various Ayurvedic tips for improving physical and mental health that help to keep the mind and body healthy.
The word mental illness is often used as an umbrella term for all diagnostic mental disorders involving significant behavior changes. These changes include thought processes, emotions, behavior, and functional problems.
A study was conducted by the Neuropsychiatry branch of medicine dealing with mental disorders on April 6, 2020, on people who were in lockdown. The study estimated that 40.5% of the participants had either anxiety or depression. About three-fourths (74.1%) of the participants reported a moderate stress level, and 71.7% reported poor well-being.
Mental well-being is defined in Ayurveda as ‘Swasthya’ that includes physical and spiritual well-being. Life, according to Ayurveda, is a conglomeration of the four interdependent components. These components are the body (Shareera), the sensory & motor faculties (Indriya), the mind (Satva), and the soul (Atma). A healthy life needs excellent complementary support for all these factors. Thus, the concept of health encompasses physical, mental, sensory, and spiritual domains.
It also indicates that a person with Swastha Mana (healthy mental state), Prasanna Aatmendriya (delighted soul with the proper functioning of sense organs), Sama Agni (proper metabolism), Sama Dhatu (proportionate body organs and tissues), and Sama Kriya (good physiology) is perfectly healthy.
Manas is derived from the root ‘man,’ adding the suffix ‘Asuna’ having the meaning, ‘to perceive,’ ‘to lead to knowledge,’ and ‘to analyze by special knowledge’. There are various synonyms of Mana such as Chitta, Chetas, Hrit, Hridd, Manas, and Satva.
“Chittam chetah hrdayam svantam hrnmanasam manah iti”. (Amarakosha 1/4/3)
The meaning of the above shloka is, “Mana is the entity through which knowledge is obtained, which is closely related with Atma. Through Atma, one can perceive. Mana is the superior analyzing faculty, the seat of soul or Atma, and controls the whole body. It accommodates the special senses and is the seat of knowledge.
Ayurveda proves that the existence of the mind is the existence of knowledge (Lakshanam Manaso Jnana). Ayurvedic tips for mental health helps to maintain the brain’s health and improve its functionality.
While explaining the concept of Swasthya, Ayurveda has also included the following attributes of mental health:
It is known even from earlier times that body and mind influence each other. Psychological suffering is often expressed through somatic problems. In individuals with difficulty recognizing and expressing emotions, physical manifestations are often seen. These manifestations include loss of sleep, decreased/increased appetite, loss of libido, vague aches, pains in the body, etc.
Some physical diseases such as eczema, psoriasis, autoimmune diseases, blood pressure, etc., are thought to worsen by mental factors such as anxiety and stress.
The current mental state of a person can influence how bad a physical disease is at a particular time. Hypochondriasis, Conversion disorder, Somatization disorder, etc., are believed to be rooted in mental problems. Certain chronic conditions and life-threatening conditions, such as Cancers, Renal Diseases, etc., also affect the mind retrospectively.
The mind can also exert a positive or negative impact on the effect of a treatment on the body. The positive effect of a placebo on treatment is due to the impact on the mind. The innate positivity also guides the positive response of a patient to therapy.
The concept of Satvavajaya Chikitsa in Ayurveda is centered on the mind by promoting positive vibes to the individual. Ayurveda believes in the individual as a whole, encompassing body and mind together, and treatment is also aimed for both.
Ayurveda believes that it is essential for an individual to have a healthy mind and body for overall well-being. So, people suffering from a disease can counter that disease with the power of reason and willingness.
Here are some of the Ayurvedic tips that you can follow to keep your mind healthy:
According to Ayurveda, good health foundations include a nutritious diet, adequate sleep, and a balanced lifestyle. In Ayurveda, the management of digestive and metabolic fire is the starting point to achieve dosha balance for mental and physical health.
Align with natural rhythms; spring could be an anxious time with Vata Dosha imbalance and winter with Kapha Dosha imbalance.
Here are some tips on balancing these Doshas:
Medhya Rasayana or brain tonics inherently boost immunity. Some other herbs also are beneficial for brain health to improve memory, concentration, and other brain functions.
These herbs include:
Try Abhyanga (self-massage), Nasya (oil or herb application in the nostrils), Shirodhara (pouring of warm medicated oil on the forehead), and a full Panchakarma (a comprehensive, individualized therapeutic cleanse). These therapies will help to remove mental and physical fatigue. They also cure various psychological and physical diseases like stress, anxiety, joint pain, headache, insomnia, etc.
Ayurvedic scholars attribute the decline in our collective physical and psychological immunity to losing our connection with nature and the ability to withstand stress. Ayurveda also encourages healing relationships with nature and commitment to sustainability.
According to Ayurveda, undigested food is the root cause of toxins spread across the body. These toxins are making the body unhealthy and sick. It may cause infections, illnesses and finally weakens the immune system. Hence, detoxification is essential, and you can do it by regularly consuming lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, and juices.
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Ayurveda has many benefits. There is nothing better than going the Ayurveda way of eating healthy and taking care of physical and emotional health. Being the oldest medicinal system globally, Ayurveda helps build internal power and strength. Holistic healing helps to increase immunity for the body to combat many diseases and infections. There are many causes of mental and physical health loss, including genetic factors, poor mental health, pollution, poor diet, lifestyle, and metabolic issues. You can overcome all these problems with the help of the above self-care tips for mental and physical health that are easy to follow.
Dr. Shivani Nautiyal is a renowned Ayurvedic physician, Panchakarma therapies specialist, and detox expert who has made significant contributions to the field of natural holistic healing and wellness. With her profound knowledge, expertise, and compassionate approach, she has transformed the lives of countless individuals seeking holistic health solutions. She is a Panchakarma expert, which are ancient detoxification and rejuvenation techniques. She believes in the power of Ayurveda to restore balance and harmony to the body, mind, and spirit.