The food we consume and the lifestyle we follow are not exactly conducive to healthy living. In fact, they are wholly responsible for the immense lethargy, sluggishness, and mental fog we experience. How? Because these directly contribute to the toxins that accumulate in our bodies over time, which then cause all sorts of adverse effects on our moods, energies, cognitive abilities, neurological functions, circulation, digestion, and even skin. And while we can change our diets and adopt a healthier lifestyle, what about the build-up of toxins already present? It then becomes obvious that the only way to be truly rejuvenated and restored is by eliminating these waste substances. And an Ayurvedic detox provides the most effective solution. What is Ayurveda? Ayurveda is one of the oldest systems of healing that encompasses a holistic approach in treating illnesses of both the mind and body. With a focus on understanding and treating the root cause of an illness, instead of simply addressing the symptoms of the disease, Ayurveda has also gained widespread popularity for promoting overall wellbeing and emphasising the need for customised treatment plans based on an individual’s specific doshas and energies. And with a unique combination of therapies, remedies, and lifestyle changes, Ayurveda offers preventive and curative measures in order to realise the goal of optimal health for the mind, body, and spirit. The effect of toxins in the human body It is clear that the build-up of waste materials and toxins in our bodies have a significant and detrimental impact on our wellbeing. In Ayurveda, these toxic products or ama are believed to be a result of improperly digested food, environmental factors such as pollution, medications, poor metabolism, and basically unhealthy lifestyles. The accumulation of ama in your body can reveal itself through symptoms such as: Therefore, the elimination of these toxins from the body is a crucial factor in attaining balance, as well as mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing. The Ayurvedic Detox The Ayurvedic detoxification process is essentially a customised program that aims at eliminating ama from all parts of the body in order to ensure a balance of the doshas. It encompasses purges, enemas, and bloodletting; alongside a dietary regimen, herbal supplements, massages, and meditation. In this way, the traditional Ayurvedic detox eliminates the accumulated ama from the mind and body, while promoting overall health and balance. Ayurvedic detoxes may be thought of in two main stages: Purvakarma and Panchakarma. Purvakarma Purvakarma is essentially an external purification that complements the internal cleansing of Panchakarma; and is actually the first step of the detoxification process (also thought of as the ‘pre-cleanse’). In this, the body is prepped for elimination by the loosening of toxins. Purvakarma incorporates herbal oils, massages, saunas, and thermal procedures. These basically formulate the snehana, svedana, sarvang, shirodhara, and karnapurana therapies. Together, they loosen and move the areas with accumulated toxins. Panchakarma A 3 to 4 week long treatment, Panchakarma is an intense program that involves 5 main steps. These include: Cumulatively, these treatments result in the cleansing and detoxification of the digestive tract, and nasal and respiratory passages. Things to consider: When learning about the incredible benefits of Ayurvedic detoxes, it is easy to want to leap into the process. This is highly imprudent. The Ayurvedic detox is a carefully curated medical process which involves multiple organs and systems. As such, it must be carried out only after a detailed consultation with an experienced and licensed Ayurvedic practitioner, and under their expert guidance. Also, even after consultation, it may be tempting to fast-forward the therapies, or cut out some of the steps involved. Don’t do it! Each step forms a vital part of the cleansing process. So, following the guidelines and instructions given is the only way to ensure a successful detox. Conclusion Though still perceived by many as an unconventional treatment, there is no denying the incredible effects of an Ayurvedic detox. Not only does it remove toxic substances from the body, it also restores balance within the mind and body, tones and rejuvenates, and improves the flow of energy. In this way, Ayurvedic detoxes promote, restore, and maintain health and balance in every aspect of your being. Not bad for one of the oldest forms of treatment in the world. Looking to rejuvenate your mind and body, while ridding yourself of constant exhaustion? An Ayurvedic detox may be the perfect treatment for you! Visit The Ayurvedic Clinic to seek the expert advice from our panel of consultants to get the ideal plan for you.

New year, new me! A resolution that resonates around the globe, but one that usually proves impossible to keep. Can I let you in on a secret? It really need not be. Ayurveda has long ago come up with a bag of seemingly routine, but magical, tips that will enable you to get the dream start to the new year, all the way to December! Read on below to find out exactly this new year can bring about a healthier you. What is Ayurveda? Known as an ancient system of medicine and healing, Ayurveda is actually so much more than that. It is, in fact, a philosophy or way of life that takes its cues from nature to create a lifestyle that is both curative as well as preventative. Ayurvedic practices are specific to each individual, and their specific dosha; so that a true balance and harmony of the body and mind are achieved. 7 Ayurvedic Practices to Kick Off the New Year Though many may claim to be night owls, in order to optimise your health and productivity, a daily morning routine is a given. And it all begins with an early start. Ayurvedic principles dictate that waking up with the sun is the most natural way to start your day. This practice gives you a head start that helps you set up the rest of the day. It also allows you extra hours for a good breakfast, or a quick workout. Even the reduced rush in your morning commute and the extra hours of sunshine make a big difference in how your day progresses. An ideal Ayurvedic morning routine could even begin with a glass of warm lemon and honey water to boost your digestion and metabolism. Simply put, an early start to your day can boost productivity, focus, energy levels, and even the quality of sleep. In this case, the early bird really does get the worm. The goal may be to hustle, but not at the cost of your health. Ayurveda understands the changes in energy levels and productivity, with the different seasons and even times of the day. A balance of work and rest has to be maintained to realise your infinite potential. That is why, getting to bed at 9 or 10 each night is recommended to give your body and mind the time to recover and rejuvenate. What is an Ayurvedic diet you may ask. It is basically a customised meal plan that nourishes your Agni (digestive fire). Your Ayurvedic diet takes into consideration your dominant doshas, metabolism, and body type. The diet encourages the consumption of nutrient-rich, whole foods; while minimising the consumption of processed foods. In addition to the ingredients used, the cooking techniques utilised, and the herbs and spices added, are also important considerations. An often-overlooked aspect of our modern lives is our inherent need for water. Hydration, or lack thereof, affects every system in our body along with our energy levels, cognitive skills, and even our moods. From our skin and bones, to our heart and kidneys, each part of the body is better for it. So, drinking sufficient water each day must be made a priority, not an option. The numerous benefits of exercise and physical activity do not need to be listed out. Exercise has an enormous impact on our physical and mental health. And making it a part of your daily routine is guaranteed to make a tremendous positive change in your life. With many new year fitness resolutions given up after the initial months (or even weeks), it is important to find one that works for you. The trick is to start small, so that you do not get overwhelmed after the very first day; but be consistent. Low intensity workouts like swimming, walking, or yoga are ideal for any and all ages and fitness levels. Just as, if not more, important as physical health, is your mental wellbeing. And managing your stress levels is a core aspect of your mental health. Stress and anxiety tend to have a debilitating effect on your physical health, moods, focus, and even immunity. Therefore, finding ways to manage your stress levels is the perfect antidote to deal with the pressures of the fast-paced world. Meditation and pranayama (breathing techniques) have been used for thousands of years to calm the mind, and restore balance within oneself. It is convenient to run to the drugstore for minor illnesses, and aches and pains. But a key aspect of Ayurveda is healing naturally. Ayurvedic medicine focuses on a holistic approach that looks beyond the symptoms and treats the root cause of the ailment. It combines herbal remedies, therapies, and practices to heal both the mind and body. So, for the new year, take a different path and choose natural remedies that not only heal you, but also rejuvenate and restore. Each herb, spice, and therapy recommended by Ayurvedic practitioners is chock-full of goodness. If you have a cold, try a warm ginger tea. Back pain? Treat yourself to an abhyanga or Ayurvedic massage. Choosing to listen to your body and healing it through these therapies allows you to not just cure your illness, but become better at preventing them altogether. Conclusion It is not easy, but it is doable. In fact, following these simple Ayurvedic practices ensures that you have everything you need to be a healthier, happier, and revitalised version of you. Not just for this year. But every year hereafter. Hoping to get the best out of this year? Visit The Ayurvedic Clinic today to create a customised plan that will help make this year the start of a wonderful journey into healthy bliss.