During the busy holiday season, it is hard to find time to just relax let alone start changing the way we live. That is exactly why I love Ayurveda so much and know that it could help you too during this very busy time of year. A lot of people think that Ayurveda could be considered a religion, and some people devotedly follow its principles. But to me, Ayurveda is more of a concept that has no harm in being applied to life. How can you go wrong with a belief that encourages good health habits of sleep, decreasing stress, and improving all aspects of your life?
If you’ve taken a look at Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs lately, you’ll note that Maslow believes every person needs five things: physiological needs, safety needs, social needs, esteem, and self-actualization. Likewise, there are five common aspects of health: social, mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual.
These needs tie together to create every aspect of our lives. But also like our lives, each is different.
Ayurveda has the same philosophy; I like this idea from an article by Vaidya Rajesh Shrotriya: “Ayurveda is based on the belief that nothing is right for everyone and everything is right for someone. This belief comes from an understanding that each of us is unique….If we are all different, why would we even consider the idea that there must be one program of nutrition that is best for everyone?”
I am not a devout follower of Ayurveda yet, but no doubt its philosophies can be implemented into our lives with no serious harm. Here are some ideas about how to implement Ayurveda this holiday season without really knowing it:
1. Take a walk with a friend or coworker. This is a great idea, mainly for a change of scenery during the workday. Some of us may need to get some holiday shopping done, why not just do some window shopping and take your walk in the mall? Second, physical activity exercises your lungs, distributes oxygen more effectively, and helps calm your body. Sounds like a good enough reason to me.
2. Have a fresh lunch. We know processed foods aren’t as good for us to digest. Do many of us stop to think about what we’re really putting into our bodies? Do we use the fact that it’s the holiday season to make excuses to eat too many sweets or overindulge on rich foods? Look at what you’re eating and decide if it is something you really want to consume. Lots of oils? Fats? Eww.
3. Drink water. Water helps clean out your system and keeps your body functioning. You’ve heard it your entire life—we need to drink water, forget the eggnog. Seriously.
4. Take a break. Enjoy nature. Breathe. Decrease stress. We are always on the go—find a minute to rest. Clear your mind. Enjoy the crackling of the fireplace.
See? Four simple ways to make your life better with concepts you already know. Who doesn’t want a balanced body? Take care of yourself and extend your life! Make this holiday season a healthy and happy one by learning more about Ayurveda at www.buildyourz.com/chicagohealers. Download our “Introduction to Ayurveda” – a completely free 26 page report under “Improve Your Health” section.