Once early adulthood is passed we pass seamlessly as it seems, into our 30s and onwards as the process of wear and tear we call aging occurs. The ancient physicians of Ayurveda identified how this process of aging impacts us sequentially. As we traverse the decades there are key functionality that become challenged. This of itself is useful as it highlights the functionality to focus on strengthening during each decade.
Early autumn is a transitional stage, as we move from the height of summer’s ‘ heat’ in the UK to cooler weather. In Ayurveda, the change from summer to fall is known as Ritu Sandhi, the gap between seasons. This gap can present a delicate time for digestion, because the weather fluctuates—along with the doshas and digestive capacity.
Modern research is exploring ‘how’ aging happens with some fascinating research coming out about the ability of DNA to repair itself. Some question if the DNA have the ability to repair itself ad infinitum then why with age is the process of DNA repair less effective? Ayurveda explains that we age because we see others aging. The ancient Ayurvedic texts describe aging as a natural process whose effects can be reduced through the taking of rasayana - special formulas like the powerful Maharishi Amrit Kalash, along with a good daily routine. It surprised me to learn that Ayurveda also suggests a healthy life expectancy for this age to be 120 years!
Dr Nancy Lonsdorf discusses a more natural approach to easing the transition of menopause. With helpful insights from her book the Ageless Woman.
In this article, we’ll focus on the subdoshas of Pitta. “Pitta dosha itself is all about transformation, heat, and energy,” explains Dinesh Gyawali, PhD, a classically trained Ayurvedic Vaidya (Ayurvedic expert) and Assistant Professor at Maharishi University of Management. “Pitta represents all forms of metabolic activities that generate energy. It’s primarily composed of agni (fire) and jala (water) elements. Pitta represents that ever-changing and evolutionary quality of our physiology which may seem static at times but is going through transformation each and every second.”
Women’s bodies are complex - and powerful. From monthly menstrual cycles through pregnancy, early motherhood, and menopause, the female body is constantly changing and adapting to all that life brings. Whether you’re married and raising a family, retired and flying solo, or anything in between, Ayurveda offers a wealth of practical knowledge to help you stay balanced at every age and stage of life.
With more heat waves predicted over the next weeks, it may be helpful to consider how to optimise your food choices to help cool and soothe your mind and body. In addition, let’s consider the Ayurvedic approach to nutrition.
It's the most wonderful time of the year, a magical time of travel, special events, barbecues and holiday gifts. So why do so many people feel stressed when the holidays roll around? The mental pressure of spending too much money, making too many decisions, and having too much to do causes Prana Vata to go out of balance. Prana Vata is the subdosha of Vata that is concerned with mental functioning. Aggravated Prana Vata can cause excessive worry, anxiety and insomnia — thus making it difficult to remain calm and make healthy decisions. It becomes a snowball effect, with the person becoming more and more stressed and enjoying the holidays less and less.
