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11.10.2017

Introduction to Ayurveda



Ayurveda has its roots in India, dating back to about five thousand years. Essentially, it is a science that encompasses the health benefits of herbs, meditation, yoga, and massage. Ayurveda is based on the principle that every being on this earth, be it animate or inanimate, is the outcome of five basic elements, or Pancha Mahabhootas - Water, Air, Fire or Energy, Earth, and Sky. Ayurveda embodies the methods that help to achieve a balance between the body, mind and soul, which is absolutely crucial to stay in unison with nature.
According to Ayurveda, 'We are what we eat'! This ancient branch of science believes most of the common ailments are a result of poor nutrition.
Ayurvedic nutrition is concerned importantly with the dietary requirements of individuals. Any anomaly in the body is thought to emanate in the digestive system, and therefore it become crucial not to cast aside even minor digestive complaints, as it could be indicative of a disease.

Ayurveda does not distinguish between food and medicine, the underlying belief that the absence of nutritive food or diet causes disease in the body. This can only be remedied with appropriate food, which becomes the medicine to heal the body of its ailment. All the same, Ayurveda holds sacrosanct, that each one of us are distinct, and our health is determined by our attitude and response to the conscious and unconscious inputs in life that one is subjected to.

Ayurvedic diet is cantered on treating life's experiences as 'food' (for the body and the mind), which is assimilated into the body and contributes to its nourishment. This transformation of 'food' into nutrition is termed as 'Agni' or fire, which forms the edifice upon which the Ayurvedic system is built.

Spices and herbs form an integral part of Ayurvedic     healing, mainly because of its power to be easily absorbed    in the body. On the one hand, this enhances the digestive capacity of     the body and on the other, cleanses it of its toxins, ensuring      the cells in the body are empowered with the nutrition available   in the diet. Ayurveda recommends  that spices      be     consumed  only after they are cooked.
An Ayurvedic diet is rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and fibrous food, which contribute to keeping the body energetic, glowing and in good health. An Ayurvedic diet is miserly with salt to prevent potential fluid retention and also discourages the intake of coffee, sodas, and alcohol.