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What is a Panchang and how it can help us?

11/23/2021

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The Vedic calendar, written as panchang or panchanga, is a book that presents dates and times in a tabular format. It follows traditional Vedic timekeeping units and is commonly found in most Indian (Hindu) homes. It is a highly respected and widely used almanac in many Indian communities, in India and worldwide. 
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The word panchang indicates that this Vedic calendar is made up of five ‘limbs’ (ang) i.e., five parts. These five parts are Vara (day), Tithi (lunar day of the month), Nakshatra (lunar constellation), Yoga (celestial combinations that indicate auspicious and inauspicious times) and Karana (which is half of a tithi). Karana indicates the time it takes for the moon to traverse six degrees in its path around the earth. Two Karana-s make up one Tithi.
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So basically, Panchang are the five limbs of the Vedic almanac, which are calculated as per the movement of the moon thru the sky, i.e., thru the various lunar constellations (nakshatras) and the various resulting celestial combinations that are formed in the process. Panchang helps priests and astrologers choose the right time for important occasions like weddings and funerals. It also helps people by outlining auspicious periods for important vrats or upavas, i.e., for ritualistic fasting and prayer-sadhanas.

The Hindus as well as others who follow the Vedic tradition, use panchang to plan their daily, weekly, and longer-term activities. It can be a useful guide for all aspects of life, from personal relationships to career goals. Depending on the time of a certain day, they can determine the best time to take important decisions and conduct crucial actions.

In addition, Panchang provides valuable information to astrologers. A good Panchang is an indispensable tool for the Vedic Astrologer (Jyotishi) which they need to refer in order to determine their predictions of key occurrences and events.

Panchang is also useful to an individual to ascertain the best time for major undertakings. It can be used to decipher the auspicious times for specific activities such as pooja (ritual-prayer), register a new business, inaugurate an importance place such as home or office and so on.

In olden days, people would traditionally start the day by reading the panchang for that day in the morning… to determine specific times for their daily activities.

In our modern context, we can utilize the power of Panchang along with a scheduling application to strategize and plan our key endeavors in a way that can benefit us to the maximum extent.
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We all know the effect moon has on our body and our surroundings. Right from high tidal waves to higher blood pressure have been linked with the moon’s motion. So, by referring to the Vedic panchang, we can harness this power of daily lunar transit to time our activities in a strategic manner to increase our chance of accomplishment and success. ​

Read further:

  • How can we benefit from utilizing Muhurta (auspicious time) when doing important activities?
  • Understanding the concept of Tithi in The Vedic Calendar (Panchang)
  • What is Panchak Yoga and why is it inauspicious to start worldly activities during the Panchak kaal (period or phase)?
  • ​Utilize the "Power of Light" to achieve your goals & ambitions​
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Understanding the concept of Tithi in The Vedic Calendar (Panchang)

9/6/2021

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Tithi in Vedic Astrology is one of the most important concepts. Tithi is one of five elements in the Vedic (or Hindu) Panchang (Five Parts of the Vedic Calendar). The rest are Nakshatra, Yoga, Vara and Karana. Each Tithi lasts between 21.5 and 26 hours. Tithi also defines almost all Hindu festivals.

Tithi refers to the first phase/portion among the 16 phases of the lunar cycle. It indicates a lunar day. The complete waxing cycle (Shukla Paksha, or the brighter phase) has 15 tithis. It begins at Amavasya, the last day in the dark half of a lunar moon month and ends at Purnima the full Moon. The other 15 tithis, are part of the waning phase of the moon (Krishna Paksha, or the darker phase), that begins at Amavasya and ends at Purnima. These tithis for the two phases are called the same, though their actual meaning and importance varies very greatly on if they fall within the waxing or the waning phase of the moon.
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Vedic astrology says that a person's birth Tithi can have a significant impact on their personality and life. Astrology also uses tithis to identify auspicious and unlucky muhurtas (special times) for significant occasions.
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​Colloquially we find that Vedic Astrologers associate the waxing phase tithis with auspiciousness and material goodness, whereas they associate the waning phase tithis with ill-effects of a ‘malignant’ moon. Also, we find many references where these astrologers would define auspiciousness based on whether a person was born during the day or the night. BUT one needs to keep in mind, that Lord Krishna, who was the very divine incarnation on earth and was ‘sarva guna sampann’- i.e., he had all the desirable qualities and attributes, was born during the Krishna Paksha and that too at night!!

So, it is very important to consider the details mentioned within the classical texts with a bigger picture in mind. Are you simply looking to learn about the tithis and utilize them for mundane gains in life? ‘or’ are you looking to learn about the tithis and then utilize their knowledge to better your life in a conscious a-karm manner? The a-karm way, which was taught by Lord Krishna allows us to tarry thru the worst situations in life and in a way, defy what mundane astrology predicts for a person. The power of Divine Grace and Blessings is absolutely unsurpassed, and we always need to keep that in mind…
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Now coming back to tithis, a tithi is defined according to the Sun-Moon correlation. After the new moon (or the full moon as the case may be) the first Tithi falls 12 degrees from the Sun. The next 12-degree from the Sun is the second Tithi and so on. One needs to note that these tithis are not defined at sunrise. They can change at any hour of the day or night. 
​The Fifteen Tithi-s are called with specific names and there are many famous festivals associated with each tithi. Details are as follows:
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  1. Pratipada- This is also called as Padva and the most famous first tithi day is the Bali Pratipada which falls during the festive time of Diwali.
  2. Dooja- The most famous festival celebrated on the dooja tithi is the Bhai Dooj, which is also celebrated during the festive Diwali time and marks the special bond shared between a brother and sister.
  3. Tritiya- The most famous festival celebrated on a Tritiya is the Akshaya Tritiya.
  4. Chaturthi- The most famous festival celebrated on a Chaturthi is Ganesh Chaturthi.
  5. Panchami- The most famous festival celebrated on a Panchami tithi is Nag Panchami.
  6. Shashti- The most famous festivals celebrated on a Shashti tithi are the Skanda Shashti as well as the Surya Shashti.
  7. Saptami- The most famous festival celebrated on a Saptami tithi is the Ratha Saptami.
  8. Ashtami- The most famous festival celebrated on a Ashtami tithi is the Gokulashtami.
  9. Navami- Ram Navami is the most famous festival that is celebrated on a navami tithi. It comes towards the end (9th day) of the Chaitra Navaratri… i.e., the special nine nights festival for the worship and celebration of Ma Durga at the start of Spring.
  10. Dashami- Vijaya Dashami, which comes at the end of the Sharada Navaratri… i.e., the special festive time of nine nights for the worship and celebration of Ma Durga in the autumn months.
  11. Ekadashi- The most famous festival celebrated on a Ekadashi tithi is the Devashayani Ekadashi which is also called as the Ashada Ekadashi as it falls in the Vedic month of Ashada.
  12. Dwadashi- The most famous festival that is celebrated on a Dwadashi tithi is the Govatsa Dwadashi, which is dedicated to the worship of cows and calves.
  13. Triyodashi- The most famous festival celebrated on a Triyodashi tithi is the Dhana Triyodashi, which is also celebrated during the festive days of Diwali.
  14. Chaturdashi- Kali Chaudas and Anant Chaturdashi are the most famous festivals celebrated on a Chaturdashi tithi. Kali Chaudas is celebrated during the start of Diwali, right after Dhana Triyodashi and Anant Chaturdashi is celebrated at the end of the ten days special celebration of Lord Ganesh, which starts with Ganesh Chaturthi and ends with Anant Chaturdashi.
  15. Purnima (or Amavasya)- There are many special festivals celebrated during the Purnima and Amavasya tithi of which, Guru Purnima and Hanuman Jayanti are the most famous festivals celebrated on a Purnima tithi and Laxmi Puja and Shani Jayanti are the most famous festivals celebrated on the Amavasya tithi.

Read further:

  • Is the Wisdom of Grahas- astrology or science?
  • How can we benefit from utilizing Muhurta (auspicious time) when doing important activities?
  • ​​Karma Yoga- The Yoga of Non-action​
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Use of Aroma Therapy in Ayurveda

7/25/2021

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Aromatherapy was used in ancient Vedic science of healing called "Ayurveda" or literally the "Science of Life". The typical mode of its usage was using incense and other methods of inhalation or fumigation. 
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The powerful fragrant scent of incense is supposed to purify the mind, body and spirit. During religious rituals and other ceremonies, the scent rising upwards is supposed to take our prayers, requests, and gratitude towards heaven.

We find a very important and surprisingly similar correlation to lighting incense and religious ceremonies all across the world across various religions and faiths.
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Aromas for the various Ayurvedic Body Type

Some typical aromas for Vata types are-
Warming and pleasant aromas are best for Vata types. Care should be taken that the fragrances are not over-stimulating, since that would have an adverse effect on the already nervous Vata mental state.

Fragrances such as Sandalwood, Lotus, Cinnamon, Camphor and Basil are best for Vata types.

Some typical aromas for Pitta are-
Cooling and pleasant aromas are best for Pitta types.

Fragrances such as Sandalwood, Rose, Lemongrass, Lotus, Lavender, Lily, Gardenia and Iris are best for Pitta types.

Some typical aromas for Kapha are-
Spicy and Resinous aromas are best for the Kapha types.

Fragrances such as Clove, Sage, Cedar, Frankincense and Myrrh are best for Kapha types.

The mixed Ayurvedic body types could use aromas from either of the dosha types category, depending on which dosha is more predominant at a given time or for whose imbalance therapeutic healing is sought.
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Determining your Ayurvedic Body Type- part 2

7/12/2021

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​Doshas are helpful in defining the physical attributes of an individual, but the psychological behavior and mind set of individuals is explained by gunas only.

Sattva guna defines the purity of thoughts. On physical level its expression is in the form of calm and composed behavior and a tranquil mind set. Due to its purity sattva is always referred to as guna. It is never spoiled and hence never called as a dosha.

On the other hand, rajas and tamas are called as ‘maanas’ doshas. They are considered to be the triggering factors that cause mental illness, hence have been termed as doshas.
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Physiology is interlinked with psychology. The deviation in one will affect the other.  In simple terms, Ayurveda deeply evaluates and addresses all mind and body relations and coordination.

The diseased body affects the mind which is a cause of feeling irritated and fatigued when one suffers from an ailment. Vice versa occurs when a person is not mentally fit, he tends to feel fatigued and may complain of other symptoms which are related to thought process only.

This is the main tool in ayurveda while making a diagnosis. Exploring the cause is done on the basis of doshas but elaboration of the extent of the disease is made possible by defining gunas only. Rajas guna dominant individual shows aggression in behaviour and is leads an active life. On the other hand a tamas guna individual is generally depressed and has a negative feeling about everything around.

During treatment both of these aspects are considered and applied. Physical well being is affected by mind-set and vice versa. Holistic health which is a combination of healthy mind and body can only be attained when doshas and gunas are in sync with each other and in harmony with the external environment. 
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Determining your Ayurvedic Body Type- part 1

7/4/2021

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There are numerous factors which decide the prakriti of an individual. Prakriti is the expression of dominant doshas. But it is not the sole factor responsible for carving the whole personality of an individual.

Gunas are equivalent contributors. Though, they are subtle in expression and are generally exhibited by their properties or qualities.
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Doshas explain the physical attributes and vulnerability to various probable diseases of an individual. A regime to avoid these diseases and lead a healthy and contented life is also mentioned in the ayurvedic texts. But this is the half aspect of a wider view.
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  • Aakash/ ether is dominant in sattva guna.
  • Vaayu/ air is dominant in rajas guna.
  • Agni/ fire is dominant in sattva and rajas gunas.
  • Jal/ water is dominant in sattva and tamas gunas.
  • Prithvi/ earth is dominant in tamas guna.
This clearly depicts the interaction and dependence of doshas and gunas.
​The other aspect, the mind which governs all the physiological and psychological processes is comprehensively explained by gunas only. There are certain attributes of doshas that tend to define the probable mind set of the individual but gunas provide a detailed illustration of the same.

Doshas are made up of panchmahabhootas, the five basic elements of the nature: aakash (ether), vaayu (air), agni (fire), jal (water) and prithvi (earth). These panchmahabhootas further comprises of three gunas: sattva, rajas and tamas.
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Dincharya- Daily Health Routine as per Ayurveda (The ancient Science of Health & Wellbeing)

7/2/2021

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​According to Ayurveda, the ancient science of Life & Healing from India, each day we should start our morning by the following a daily routine steps, called as Dincharya. These help to maintain high energy levels throughout the day and a genuine sense of health and wellbeing. 

Daily Early Morning Routine:

  • Wake up early in the morning, preferably between 4.30 am (for Kapha) to 6.00 am (for Vata). 
  • Say a short prayer or take a moment to be conscious of your true essence before stepping out of the bed. Giving thanks for a wonderful night’s sleep and requesting guidance for the day is also a good way to start the day. 
  • Brush your teeth, rinse your mouth very well and wash your face. Scrape your tongue. Splash some cool water on your eyes. Doing this is not only refreshing, but much of digestive toxins get settled in the mouth overnight (called Ama) and washing your mouth first thing is a great way to rid one’s body of these toxins and prevent any accumulation! 
  • Drink atleast one glass of warm to room temperature water. Drinking from a copper glass where you have kept water overnight in it is the best way. But fresh spring water also works well. This helps with smooth bowel movements and gets elimination system to a good start. It gets the body ready to expel toxins and undigested materials from previous day. 
  • Swish some sesame oil in your mouth and gargle with it. It is a great way to lubricate your mouth and also help strengthen gums, teeth and arrest/heal any mouth sores or ulcers. 
  • Next chew on a handful of sesame seeds. This helps strengthen teeth and gums. Alternatively, one can chew on 3-5 dried dates and an inch of dried coconut meat. Chewing in the morning stimulates the liver and stomach and improves digestive fire. After chewing, brush your teeth again without using any toothpaste or powder. 
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Other Daily Routine (Dincharya) Steps:

Add 3 to 5 drops of sesame oil in your ear. This is believed to help with maintaining good hearing and ear health. Similarly, adding 3 to 5 drops of sesame oil in each nostril is believed to help with cleansing and lubricating the nasal cavity and help with cleaning out sinuses. This is also believed to improve voice, vision, and mental clarity. 
Since our nose is the door to the brain, so nose drops nourish our overall prana and help with improved brain working (intelligence). 
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Next massage your head and body with some good massage oil or plain sesame oil. This helps to lubricate the skin, bones and joint. Doing this before going to bed ensures sound sleep.

In addition to these daily, dincharya routine steps also conduct atleast one session of Pranayama and daily Meditation to ensure high every level throughout the day.

Note: as always, make sure that you conduct these and any other health regimen changes with due  consideration for your specific  situation AND with proper consultation with a medical doctor.
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Concept of Gunas in Ayurveda

6/24/2021

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Guna is a Sanskrit word which has different meanings. In Ayurveda, guna refers to strands of a cord. Three gunas mean the three strands of a cord. This name has been attributed since the three gunas of sattva, rajas and tamas; are intertwined with one another in a form to give rise to a strong cord- our physical existence, our body.

In the present context it can be translated that these gunas are different entities, but their existence is in such a harmony that it collectively gives an expression to prakriti. Guna is a tendency to perform action and not an action in itself. It is the underlying expression behind the actions of an individual.

Gunas are three in number and described by ‘samkhya darshan’. These are sattva, rajas and tamas...
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Sattva guna: - sattva guna is buoyant, lightened and depicts contentment. It fastens any action and therefore is also termed as accelerator in nature. It aids in realization of knowledge and physical senses. Mind, wisdom, enlightenment are its attributes only. Buoyancy is its main characteristic. It leads to a feeling of free flowing and raises one above the worldly chores. As a result, all forms of contentment, happiness, fulfilment, and pleasure are abundant in sattva guna. It is mainly expressed by white color.

Rajas guna: - rajas guna symbolizes the motion. It is the main factor behind creation of any and all actions. Sattva and tamas guna are themselves unable to execute their functions without the help of rajas guna. All kinds of actions in nature are considered to be due to rajas guna only. That is why; it is also called as the initiator in nature. Rajas guna is responsible behind all the feelings of suffering, misery and all other kinds of physical and mental tension. Rajas guna is expressed in red colour.

Tamas guna: - tamas guna symbolizes the obstruction and is heavy in nature. It drags everything down wards only, which can be termed as gravity. This characteristic is an absolute opposite to the buoyant trait of sattva guna. It obstructs the light and can also be defined as inertia. Due to this factor it tends to stop everything in motion, from the very tiny cell to gross cosmic creation. It envelops wisdom and thence hinders knowledge. It leads to darkness and is represented by black color.
The relevance of these three gunas is comprehensible and applicable in medical science. As, these gunas are present in individuals and are expressed in the dominant form only. A sattva guna individual will have a calm, tranquil and meditative mindset. Rajas guna individual will be active but very much encored in worldly pleasures and may show aggression in behavior. Tamas guna dominant individual may exhibit traits like lethargy, depression, and a basic inactivity in behavior.

These three guna are characteristically different from each other but they work in unison. They are the basics of human existence as well as the whole universe and lifecycle in a larger perspective.

To simplify, Sattva guna is accelerator, rajas guna is the initiator, and tamas guna is the obstructer or destructor. All of the three functions are important and necessary to strike a balance in nature.
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Three Doshas in Ayurveda- part 2 of 2

6/22/2021

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The main properties or qualities of three doshas are enumerated below:
​Vata as defined by the name circulates in the whole body. It is also defined as the initiating power of all the functions of the body. It is the main transporter in the body. Vata is most crucial of all the three doshas and treating it is considered as half of the complete regime.  

Other two doshas- pitta and kapha are dependent on vata only for their movement. Vata controls all the organ systems of the body and help in smooth functioning. Ingestion of food, speech, respiration, digestion, and expulsion of waste material in the form of feces is facilitated by Vata only. Nervous system is also governed by vata dosha.
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Pitta is a fire element and thence is responsible for digestive functions and various other functions which dissipate heat like comprising complexion of the body, etc. Pitta can be defined as controlling the functions those results in exothermic reactions, viz. Digestion, pigmentation, regulation of body temperature, formation of erythroblasts, maintaining vision etc. 

Kapha comprises predominantly of water and earth elements. It helps in smooth execution of various functions in the body, viz. Production of digestive juices, lubricating various joints and membranes in the body in the form of synovial fluid and cerebrospinal fluid etc.

Doshas are the principle metabolic forces, and they control the physiological processes and psychological behavior of an individual.  
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Three Doshas in Ayurveda- part 1 of 2

6/14/2021

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​Doshas are the basic constituents of a human body. They are three in number and are classified as: Vata (air), pitta (bile) and kapha (phlegm).

Doshas have a capability of affecting other constituents of the body which are termed as ‘dhatu’ and ‘mala’. Due to this capability and property of affecting/ spoiling healthy tissues the term ‘dosha’ is assigned to them.
According to Ayurveda, the whole mortal creation is standing on the foundation of five basic elements which are called as ‘pancha-mahabhootas’.  
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​These five elements are: ether, air, fire, water, and earth. Doshas are no exception and are made up of a combination of these pancha-mahabhootas only. Vata is combination of ether and air, pitta is comprised by fire and kapha is a constitution of earth and water. Though, all the five elements are present in differing proportions, but the dominant ones are characteristically expressed.

A balance between these three constituents of body results in health whereas any deviation from the normalcy leads to development of disease. In balanced form, doshas carry out the normal functioning of the various metabolic processes in body like normal nervous system functioning, carrying out digestion and lubricating various parts and joints to facilitate free and easy movement of the limbs.

​These three doshas are invisible with naked eyes. But they can be defined as the principles of the metabolism which are responsible for carrying out the basic functions of body.
 
Doshas define the prakriti of an individual right from the time of conception. Prakriti is the individual’s constitution of body. It is different and distinguished for every individual. Prakriti also helps to explain the vulnerability of an individual to various diseases and explains the reason behind several so-called idiopathic factors in modern science.

An individual can enjoy a disease free and healthy life by knowing his doshaj prakriti. By inculcating defined measures and precautions one can lead a healthy life and can keep the diseases at a bay.
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Basics of Ayurveda- part 2 of 2

6/13/2021

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Ayurveda is categorised into eight different speciality domains: kaya chikitsa (medicine), shalya chikitsa (surgery), shalakya chikitsa (eye and ENT), kaumar bhritya (paediatrics and gynaecology), agad tantra (toxicology), graha chikitsa (psychiatric ailments), rasayan (fortification) and baajikaran (rejuvenation).

​This is an example of the detail orientation and the level of specialization reached in those ancient times. 
Not only this, Sushruta, the father of surgery, who has compiled the shalya tantra made the most valuable contribution of plastic surgery in form of rhinoplasty, labioplasty and suturing deformed ear pinna. Minute and detailed explanations of the layers of skin and several other aspects were also explained by Sushruta. 
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​The concepts and contexts of ayurveda are as relevant today, as they were in yester years. By following an ayurvedic regime an individual can attain and maintain health.

Ayurveda is not just a complementary and alternative system of medicine, but it is a way of life. It is the oldest science of medicine which has a lineage as old as 5000 years. It was passed to the generations through vocal communication only, which eventually lead to gradual loss of valuable information and distortion in the original contents.

But facing all adversaries, it has managed not only to survive through the rages of time but also maintained its accuracy and efficacy in providing healthy lives to individuals.
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Basics of Ayurveda- part 1 of 2

6/8/2021

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Ayurveda is an ancient medical science which has originated from Indian subcontinent. The term ayurveda comprises of ‘ayus’ which means life and ‘veda’ which means science. Collectively it is comprehended as ‘science of life’. 

It is evident from the main description that ayurveda is far more vast than to limit it into the boundaries of medical science. The main principle of ayurveda is attaining and preserving the healthy status and curing the ailment of an individual.  Ayurveda is a health-centric science which considers maintaining health as important as treatment of the ailment. 
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Health is a balanced combination of physique, mind and spirit. Healthy physique is attained through eating proper diet (aahar) and leading an active life in sync with the external environment (vihaar).   The description is carried ahead by citing various regimes to be inculcated in diurnal and seasonal variations.
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​Healthy mind is keeping one’s thought process stress free and lively. This can be attained through various breathing techniques which have been defined in context of asanas. These two- the healthy body and mind are then merged into supreme legacy- the spirit. The final step is facilitated by meditation. 
 
Disease is a result of faulty equilibrium in metabolic processes of the body. Whenever, there is an imbalance between the three basic components of the body- the vata (air/ ether), pitta (bile) and kapha (the phlegm); disease will occur. 

Treatment in ayurveda is based on individual’s body type and traits. Medicine is prescribed primarily focusing on patient and his body type. This explains the concept of prakriti. It defines the main traits of an individual and his vulnerability to various ailments.

The main aim is to eradicate or cure the cause of the disease which supersedes the symptomatic relief. This requires patience and an active participation from the diseased individual. The treatment followed is classified as: shodhan (purification), shaman (eradication of the cause), rasayan (fortifying process) and satavajaya (harmony of mind).   
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What is an Ayurvedic Incense and which aromas to use for various Ayurvedic dosha types?

4/24/2021

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Ayurvedic incense are made from various herbs, wooden parts of certain aromatic trees and certain special resins. More than 100 such aromatic substances may be used to make one type of incense.
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Though principal incense usage in Ayurveda is for therapeutic reasons, they are also used daily for religious and other personal rituals for their effect on mind and mental states. The aromas were long known for bringing about a sense of relaxation, well-being and piousness- which further aid in meditation and de-stressing/relaxation practices.
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Some typical aromas for Vata types are-
Warming and pleasant aromas are best for Vata types. Care should be taken that the fragrances are not over-stimulating, since that would have an adverse effect on the already nervous Vata mental state. Fragrances such as Sandalwood, Lotus, Cinnamon, Camphor and Basil are best for Vata types.

Some typical aromas for Pitta are-
Cooling and pleasant aromas are best for Pitta types. Fragrances such as Sandalwood, Rose, Lemongrass, Lotus, Lavender, Lily, Gardenia and Iris are best for Pitta types.

Some typical aromas for Kapha are-
Spicy and Resinous aromas are best for the Kapha types. Fragrances such as Clove, Sage, Cedar, Frankincense and Myrrh are best for Kapha types.
 
The mixed types could use aromas from either of the dosha types category, depending on which dosha is more predominant at a given time or for whose imbalance therapeutic healing is sought.

You may also want to check out:

  • One of the easiest ways to clear 'blocked energies' (Comfortable Living & Life Management series)
  • The importance of smudging in Shaman Wisdom- healing within the Shaman tradition​
  • A simple and powerful Zen Buddhist prayer
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Understanding the difference between Viveka shakti and a Doubting mind! (Think on this... Thought Byte series)

3/22/2021

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Intellect has always been highly regarded and rightly so! We would not be able to do even the most mundane of tasks without knowing what we need to do (‘vs’ what we should not). 
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The Power of Discrimination (a bad translation word choice in English) better called vivek shakti in Sanskrit is absolutely important. BUT being analytical and discriminatory about evaluating ideas should not be confused with harboring a “doubting mind”!
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​After all ‘Doubting Oneself’ and ‘Doubting Another’ with the names of Shumbh and Nishumbh are two of the demons that are slayed during the Nine Night festival of Mother Shakti (Navratri). This by itself show how detrimental doubt can be and how it can play the role of a ‘demon’ in our life. 

Does that mean we believe and accept all that we hear and read? Not at all! We ofcourse need to question what we are told- but that should not simply be endless doubting. But a proper questioning, research and evaluation of findings. What we need to do is enhance our sense of perception, so we are able to gauge the truth (when we come across it) and develop our intellect, so we are able to discern the appropriate from the inappropriate without the need for incessant doubts!

Observe your thoughts to see if you question with the analytical approach of the intellect or simply question and ‘doubt’ new concepts, ideas and so on…
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Truly understanding our connection with the cosmos... (Think on this... Thought Byte series)

3/18/2021

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In today's day and age, we see many who portray as if they are pious and wish/do good for others and society at large. But, in reality, they are only looking out for themselves! Are you being influenced by such a person? Are you such a person?
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We may feel that life is about being successful, achieving accolades and ultimately all this will make us "happy"- but the reality is that, we did not come here with anything and we will not be able to take anything along with us after our death.

BUT, what will allow us freedom from this repeated cycle of birth and death will be to seek out the truth- of our existence! The truth of Supreme Existence, of Brahman.

So, can you create some time in your busy schedule each day to devote to your own ”true" well-being? A well-being that will not only have real meaning but will also impact your life, now and thereafter.

Can you set some time aside to pray, meditate, contemplate, read scriptures and anything that will allow you to glimpse within- where the truth exists within each one of us. After all, "what is above, so is below" is not just a famous phrase. It indicates the presence of the divine, of the supreme truth within each one of us.
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What is a bija mantra?

3/16/2021

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​Mantras are syllables that create vibrations internally in the person who chants.  They are not just usual sound as created while uttering any other word, but capable of transforming one’s mind to evolve spiritually. 

The result of mantra japa can be compared with that of a stone thrown into a pond that create waves, but goes into the deep.  Mantras has the power to experience the depth of the mind, by creating waves at the surface level.  

The practice of mantra japa results in expressing one’s own impressions of the mind as it starts diving into the depths. Every mantra has “bija” mantra or bijaksharas.  They are otherwise called as the seed included in each mantra. 
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In Hindu tradition, there are mantras associated with each deity, but the ultimate goal of chanting mantra is to increase awareness, concentration and to go into the deep planes in the mind. “Aum” is the widely known mantra and that itself is a “bija” mantra. 

Most of the mantras starts with “AUM”.  There are some occasions where “Aum” is chanted three times before the starting of slokas, comprised of mantras. Some of the bija mantras are: Aum, Ham, Yam, Ram, Vam, Lam.  Bija mantra can otherwise be called as mystic sound generated through the chanting of mantra. 

In spiritual practice, mantra japa helps to gain awareness and increase concentration. It helps a lot to concentrate on one’s “ishta devata”, the favorite deity, thus helping to meditate by sitting in a fixed posture.  Mantras are part of tantric tradition that deals with the awakening of the consciousness lying within every human being. It is also known as the awakening of kundalini power by awakening the chakras.  Bijaksharas are formulated in such a way to awaken these chakras so that the individual consciousness is expanded to become universal consciousness. 

Mantras are said to have revealed in the consciousness of sages before ages. And among these, Bija mantra is the first syllable in each mantra.  Each bija mantra has association with its mantra. For example, Lord Shiva’s bija mantra is “hraum”, “dum” is Durga’s mantra and “kreem”, of Kali. It is believed that the subtle forms of these mantras exist in this cosmos. Bija mantras are beyond the intellectual understanding and usual grammatical rules in any language. 

Repeated, concentrated mantra japa takes the practitioner to various planes of consciousness by experiencing the inner silence.  In tantric tradition, chakras in the human body has immense important in awakening the consciousness. Vibration of mantras touch these chakras by making changes in the mind of the practitioner. 
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    Vedic Culture, which   is the culture of the original Himalayan Masters,    is one of the most advanced ancient civilizations.  It is a tradition which has given mankind several treasures such Yoga, Meditation, Conscious-Living and Vedic Sciences such as Ayurveda, Vedic Physics & Vedic Mathematics.

    It was always a scientific culture that understood the very mechanics and workings of this Universe. Their deities, their gods and goddesses were all a way of expressing and explaining these energies and their inter-working. Modern Quantum Mechanics is just starting to understand string theory, dark matter etc. which have all been fundamental to the Vedic understanding. Because of this, they developed ways and methods which allowed one to best tap into life-energy itself.

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