5 Tips for Ayurveda On-the-Go
If you're having trouble finding the time or resources to incorporate Ayurveda in your daily life, here are a few easy ingredients and practices you can include in your busy lifestyle.
Sesame Oil
Abhyanga, or Ayurvedic self-massage, is usually done using sesame oil over the entire body. Take 5 minutes and give yourself a simple hand massage on-the-go. Apply a dime-sized amount of sesame oil (or coconut - depends on your dosha) into your palm and warm it up, then work all areas of your hands and wrists using circular strokes. Self-care made easy!
Lemon
Adding lemon to your water is one of the simplest ways to practice Ayurveda and improve digestion. Lemon is a natural diuretic, source of vitamin C and energy-booster.
Throw a lemon in your bag before leaving the house, and squeeze a wedge into your water (ideally warm) on-the-go. Voila! An extra boost of Vitamin C and a digestive cleanse.
TIP: Spring allergies got you down? Consume honey to strengthen your tolerance for pollen.
Tongue Scraper
The tongue is an essential aspect of Ayurveda, and can indicate the level of toxins in your body.
Use a tongue scraper to gently remove toxins and bacteria that accumulate on the tongue. This practice improves your breath, oral health and sense of taste. Carrying a tongue scraper on-the-go is a great way to freshen your breath before meeting friends.
Coconut Oil (Oil Pulling)
Oil pulling is an old Ayurvedic ritual with many health benefits. This practice detoxifies the body by removing toxins from the mouth while whitening your teeth and freshening your breath.
Use coconut oil or sesame oil (you already have this!) and swish it around in your mouth like mouthwash for 10 to 20 minutes. Again, the tongue is a central part of Ayurvedic health, and cleaning the tongue is said to benefit organs in the entire body.
Tumeric
To give your daily meals an extra punch of Ayurvedic healing, simply add Tumeric. This herb is powerful: It helps boost immunity, benefits the digestive system, purifies the blood, improves complexion and helps with itching, swelling and wounds.
Add a pinch to your smoothie, sprinkle on an avocado, or on top of a salad!
Be mindful and make sure to purchase organic high quality ground turmeric or fresh turmeric root from your local health food store.
BONUS:
To balance your Pitta dosha, start with your eyes. Cleanse your eyes with cool water throughout the day, and try covering them with aloe-vera juice using cotton pads. A few drops of rosewater will also help with redness.
Sources:
alorecovery.com
blog.sivanaspirit.com