TAKING CARE OF YOUR BODY
TAKING CARE OF YOUR BODY
Cleanliness is a key part of an Ayurveda, and there are many practices that are recommended as part of a healthy Ayurvedic lifestyle. Having a clean body will make you feel better and also be beneficial to your health.
A morning routine
Ideally, you should perform each of these practices every day, but practices that are new to you are best built into your routine gradually.
“Health is wealth. Tune yourself with nature. Observe the laws of hygiene. Enjoy immortal bliss.” SWAMI SIVANANDA
- BRUSH YOUR TEETH
Use a toothbrush to thoroughly clean your teeth. You may want to use an Ayurvedic toothpaste that contains herbs with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, such as neem or cloves.
- CLEAN YOUR TONGUE
Scrape away the coating on your tongue that accumulates nightly. Use a silver, copper, or steel tongue cleaner (not plastic). Start at the back and gently move to the front, repeating three to four times.
- CLEAR YOUR BOWELS
It is best to have a daily bowel movement first thing in the morning. Timely and regular elimination of the waste products gives lightness to the body and prevents disease caused by ama.
- REFRESH YOUR EYES
Refresh and clean your eyes by dabbing your eyes and washing your face with cold water. This will remove any mucus or dirt that has built up in your eyes during the night while you were asleep.
- CLEAR YOUR NASAL PASSAGE
Use a neti pot to clear excess mucus from your nose and sinuses. Mix 1⁄2 teaspoon salt with 1 cup warm water, and pour it into one nostril using the pot. When done, blow out the remaining water from each nostril.
- PERFORM NASYA
Apply plain sesame oil to your nostrils by dabbing a drop of oil onto your finger and massaging the inside of each nostril. This practice (called “nasya”) keeps the nasal passage clear and alleviates headaches.
- PERFORM OIL PULLING
Place 1–2 teaspoons of plain sesame oil or warm water in your mouth, gently move the liquid back and forth for up to 5 minutes, then spit it out. This practice strengthens your gums and reduces bacteria in your mouth.
- INHALE AROMAS
Light some incense (organic incense is best). Gently inhale the smoke to pacify kapha and ease morning heaviness. Scents that are recommended include sandalwood, rose, frankincense, and champa.
- PERFORM AN OIL MASSAGE
Oil massages are recommended for everyone. The simplest oil to use is sesame oil (good for vata and kapha). Those with pitta can use cooling coconut oil. For more about how to choose oils.
- SHOWER OR TAKE A BATH
Ayurveda places great importance on cleanliness. Washing the body should be part of everyone’s morning routine. In order to protect your hair and eyes, avoid using very hot water on your head.
“Have a glass of hot water early in the morning—it will help ignite agni, lubricate the body, and support bowel movements.”
