Gray hair and wrinkles can be a testimony of wisdom. But in a stressful world we often get caught up in equating our worth with productivity that could weigh on us post-retirement. Everyone, at every stage of life is a gift to the world. That said, aging does bring preventable and costly health challenges that we need to face squarely, from heart diseases, type 2 diabetes, obesity, arthritis, dry skin, falling hair, cognitive decline, stroke and cancer. There is also the possibility of depletion, loneliness and ageism. So, how can we look after ourselves better to ensure we are physically and mentally stronger as we age? Ayurveda is a holistic mind-body science which supports people through a comprehensive approach to live a healthier life right into their sunset years. It emphasizes that aging ( Jara ) is a natural process just like the seasons. It does acknowledge natural degenerative changes but recommends prevention, building resilience and an anti-aging regimen through its br
Ayurvedic Power
Have you heard of chemophobia? How about pharmacophobia?
These are actual, diagnosed fears: One being the fear of chemicals and the other being the fear of medication.
While these phobias may be extreme and irrational, there is definitely a true desire amongst many of us to avoid needing prescribed medication or using products with harsh chemicals that could have damaging affects on our wellness.
As the desire to treat or prevent illness in the most natural way possible increases, the use of the millennia old practice of Ayurveda is becoming more prevalent in the Western Hemisphere.
Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to medicine while seeking to correct imbalances through adjustments in diet, exercise, and sleep.
Discovering imbalances is done by determining which dosha is most prevalent in an individual person.
A dosha is basically a label given to the type of energy that is most present in the body and mind.
There are three types of doshas: Kapha, Pitta, and Vata.
While knowing your dosha can be very helpful in identifying what Ayurvedic treatments will work best for you, there are plenty of remedies you should keep on hand to support a more balanced sense of wellness, regardless of your Dosha.
If the word Ayurveda makes you roll your eyes, or instantly assume that you’ll be encouraged to head to a far off voodoo market to buy incense and ear cones, I’ve got a surprise for you.
Many products that are essential staples in any Ayurvedic kitchen can be found at your local supermarket.
In fact, you may already keep most of them on hand.
Even better still, these products all multi-task, providing you with countless benefits for only pennies per use.
Below is a list of my top 5 Ayurvedic remedies that offer multiple benefits (each). They’re all inexpensive and easy to find.
Coconut Oil
Ranked at the top of the list for it’s versatility, this oil is the superhero of all oils.
It can be taken internally, used topically and benefits every system in our bodies.
Specifically, it can be used to reduce inflammation (especially for Pittas).
It has been shown to remedy skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, acne, and dandruff.
There have been many studies linking it to brain health, improving cognitive function while protecting brain tissue, and lubricating the skull.
It can aid in weight loss by stimulating digestion (especially for Vatas).
It can also be used to clean and whiten teeth while protecting the gums.
Apple Cider Vinegar
This is another staple that can be used internally, or externally as well as around the house as a safe and effective cleaning solution.
Taken internally, it can assist with the flow of bile, allowing our bodies to more efficiently metabolize fat (a common concern with Kaphas).
Applied to the skin with a cotton ball, it can be used as a toner.
It can also help relieve the symptoms of a sunburn or be used on the scalp and hair to remove residue and buildup.
Activated Charcoal
Activated Charcoal is beneficial to Vatas for it’s ability to reduce gas and bloating.
It’s a detoxifier and can also help eliminate odor in the digestive system.
It’s also known for its teeth brightening and whitening benefits.
This can be a gentle alternative to dangerous bleaching agents.
It can be taken orally or used as a topical facemask to reduce free radical damage and deep cleaning the skin.
With the nickname “black magic”, it certainly has a lot to live up to.
Lavendar Oil
Many of the benefits of lavender oil can be received with an effort as simple as inhaling its scent.
Primarily regarded for its calming affect, lavender has other uses that are less known.
Use lavender oil topically on dry, chapped, or burnt skin.
You can apply it directly in some cases, but I prefer using a carrier oil (like our #1 staple, coconut oil).
Mix a few drops into the coconut oil, then apply it to the affected area.
Even cold sores and skin rashes can be soothed with this oil.
It also works well as a bug repellent when applied to exposed skin.
Adding a few drops to water and drinking, it can be an effective way to treat indigestion, stomach pain, gas, and nausea.
Consider using it as a sheet spray, surface cleaner, and in a vaporizer to receive steady and consistent benefits of this oil.
Lemons
Having lemon juice first thing in the morning can help wake up the organs, primarily stimulating the liver for the day.
It also neutralizes stomach acid and kills bacteria in the mouth, improving breath and quenching thirst.
It has an alkaline affect on the blood, increasing immune system response.
The scent of lemon is energizing.
Zesting a lemon, inhaling lemon essential oil or spritzing lemon water on upholstery or other surfaces, can provide you with increased energy and alertness.
Lemon is also an effective cleaning agent.
Use lemon in place of harsh chemical to reduce negative respiratory affects as well as skin irritation that can be caused from exposure to bleach and more abrasive chemicals.
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