Ayurvedic treatment is composed of a variety of different practices. when these are used in concert they cleanse the body and purify the mind of the practitioner. the practices that will be discussed include Ayurvedic medicine, diet, lifestyle and exercise and massage therapy.
Ayurvedic medicines are derived from plants, ground minerals and animal products. the plant materials used include flowers, fruits, spices and flowers. the animal products that are used are animal fats, honey and beeswax. these plants are systematised according to three categories. That is their taste, their potency and their vipka or ripening effect. the formula for these different medicines is stringently laid out. Both the cultivation and harvest of the herbs used and how they are mixed is of equal importance.
Ayurvedic diet is also a key part of this healing tradition. Each of the foods has its own particular taste and corresponding essence as well as an associated element. it is important that each of the different tastes is taken in a moderate amount and that all of the six tastes are included in your diet. Preparation of the food is also highly important. If the herbs are not mixed in their right amount then the full nutritional value of the meal will not be gained. when strictly followed the diet can cure and heal a range of common ailments as well as more serious medical problems.
Lifestyle is another key part of Ayurvedic treatment. it is important that practitioners live in accordance with the seasons. Some of this is common sense. when the weather is cold eat warm food and wear warm clothes. when the weather is warm eat cool food and wear cool clothes. Ayurveda also teaches the importance of cleanliness and maintaining regular habits. it is also instructs it follower to mediates and give offerings to the Hindu gods. it also has a moral flavour to it as well. it teaches its followers to be kind and generous to others. it suggests that you should respect your elders and your teachers. it also says that natural behaviours should not be repressed. it really is about living in accordance with nature and your true nature.
Finally another important aspect of Ayurveda is exercise and massage therapy. Central amongst this is the practice of yoga. Yoga is vital for keeping the body supple and the muscles in good condition. it also helps concentration and makes the practitioner calmer and more centred. Massage is also another important part of this practice. This can be done either with hands or feet or by using heated linen pads. you may also employ different types of oils which either cool or warm the body. it also shares some similarities to acupuncture in that there are certain points of the body which if they are stimulated can have health boosting effect.
The practice of Ayurveda is a holistic one. it is not just about making single changes to certain aspects of your life, but instead about designing a lifestyle which has overall health benefits.
