Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that teaches us how to align our body, mind and spirit with nature. When it comes to taking care of your body, this ancient science offers some simple, gentle rituals that are quite effective. Here are five ayurvedic rituals you should try if you want to reconnect with your body and balance your doshas.
1. Abhyanga
Abhyanga is a relaxing body-care ritual that involves massaging your body with warm oil. In Ayurveda, this ritual is considered to be a daily self-care routine that helps detoxify the body, promotes blood circulation and balances the doshas in your body.
For abhyanga, you need to choose a warm herbal oil based on the dosha you want to balance, like sesame for vata, coconut for pitta and mustard for kapha. Slowly but firmly massage your body from head to toe, in circular motions. Doing this nourishes your skin and also helps calm the nervous system.
2. Ubtan
Why use harsh chemical soaps and scrubs when you can use ubtan? Made from natural ingredients such as gram flour, turmeric, sandalwood and rose water, this natural body cleanser gently exfoliates the skin, removes dead skin cells and gives a beautiful glow to your skin.
Mix ubtan with water, rose water, or milk to create a paste. Apply this evenly all over your body and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Wash it off with lukewarm water by moving your hand in a circular motion and experience softer, healthier skin.
3. Dry Brushing
Garshana or dry brushing helps with lymphatic drainage, skin exfoliation and improves blood circulation. For this, you need to use a natural bristle brush and gently brush your skin in upward strokes towards the heart. This helps in waking the body, energizes you and removes dead skin cells. This practice is especially beneficial when done during the change of seasons or when you feel low on energy.
4. Herbal Bath Soaks
In Ayurveda, it is believed that bathing does not just help maintain personal hygiene but also rejuvenates you mentally and physically. To elevate your bathing experience, you can add neem leaves, tulsi and rose petals to your bathwater. These herbs can help calm the mind, purify your skin and balance the doshas. For an even more relaxing experience, you can add a few drops of rose, lavender, or eucalyptus essential oil. By soaking in this herbal bath for just 15-20 minutes, you will notice your skin has become softer and your mind more relaxed.
5. Nasya
Nasya is a body care ritual that involves applying a few drops of herbal oil into the nostrils. This helps lubricate the nasal passages, makes breathing smoother and clears mental fog. As the nasal passage is considered to be directly connected to the brain and consciousness, by caring for it with nasya, you can improve your respiratory health, ensure mental clarity and maintain your overall health.
Keep your body healthy and your mind relaxed by making these rituals a part of your everyday routine. Learn more about Ayurvedic practices by reading more of our blogs.
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