Vol 4, Issue 15, Jul 2015
Unique Concept of Ayurvedic Rasayan Made from two words 'rasa' and 'ayan', the term Rasayan describes any substance or activity...
Spiritual Rejuvenation In Ayurveda we see the body as a field that reflects our mind...
Right Time and Right Age is key to
Sexual Health Astrology & Disease Children's Disease
& Rasayan
Fundamental Principles of Consuming Rasayan
An Exclusive Interview with
Sanjeev Kapoor (World Famous Chef)
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Unique Concept of Ayurvedic Rasayan Made from two words 'rasa' and 'ayan', the term Rasayan describes any substance or activity...
Problems We Treat
13
Spiritual Rejuvenation In Ayurveda we see the body as a field that reflects our mind...
15
Spondylitis
Apply the principles of Ayurveda to cooking and your food will make you healthy and happy, says Sanjeev Kapoor in an exclusive interview...
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Sanjeev Kapoor Interview
Mira Road (Thane) Mob: 07718812992 Kandivali (East) Mob: 07718812993 Andheri (West) Mob: 07718812994 Nagpur Mob: 07718819091 Dhole Patil Road, Pune Mob: 07718819222 Chinchwad, Pune Mob: 07718825217 Chembur Mob: 08451880525
Leucoderma Disease – A Jiva Case Study Ayurved an alterative therapy or boon for many of diseases. Check with real life experience...
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The Necessity of Self-Discipline
23
Right Time and Right Age is key to Sexual Health
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Children's Disease & Rasayan
30
If there are black patches on the skin, there are solutions!
34
Food in Autoimmune Diseases
36
Shashtikshali Pottali Swed: Nawarakizhi
40
Beat the Summer Heat With Cool & Refreshing Falsa Sherbet
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Doctor Dadi
Principles 10 Fundamental of Consuming Rasayan
Bihar Patna Mob: 07781014411
Gujarat Surat Mob: 09879535350 Mani Nagar, Ahmedabad Mob: 07043138449 Ghatlodiya, Ahmedabad Mob: 07043020505
To book an appointment, contact us at clinics@jiva.com or visit www.jiva.com for more details
Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 3
Paramayu Vol.4, Issue 15, Jul 2015 Chairman: Dr Satya Narayana Dasa President: Rishi Pal Chauhan Educational Director: Steven Paul Rudolph
Edit Speak Dear Readers,
Production Editor: Prabir Roy
Peak summers are here and it's become almost impossible to step out of the house without feeling the complete wrath of the sun on us. There is a general feeling of lethargy, fatigue, and dullness all around and we experience a thirst that seems to be almost unquenchable.
Sub Editor: Dr. Sapna Bhargava, Meenakshi Singh, Pooja Ramanujan and Dr. Abhijit Mhalank
In the midst of this blistering heat, we're going to kickstart our July issue with a feature on Ayurvedic rasayans. A unique concept created by our ancestors, rasayans help you rejuvenate physically, mentally, and spiritually when life drains all energy out of you.
Creative Head: Jai Prakaash Dangre
To revitalize you even further, we've got a special recipe for you – faalse ka sherbet. These tiny, tangy-sweet berries are a staple in India during summers and the sherbet you make is not just delicious, but also really cooling. Once you try the recipe, you will never look at another cold drink throughout summers.
Editorial Board Editor-in-Chief: Dr. Partap Chauhan Editor: Neerja Chauhan Editor (Hindi): Chander Lata Chauhan
Designer: Deepak Sharma, Mohit Sharma Photographer: Madhur Sahu Online Team: Shriya Dhar & C.B.Shukla Subscriptions & Marketing: Madhusudan Singh Printed & Published by Rishi Pal Chauhan on behalf of Jiva Institute; printed at Bhati Print Impact, Shop No. 32-33, Hira Mandir Road, Opp. Sector-29, Bhoor Colony, Faridabad121002 (Haryana) India EDITORIAL, ADVERTISING AND OFFICE: JIVA MARG, SECTOR 21B, FARIDABAD-121001, HARYANA. PH: 0129-4294802 editor@jiva.com | www.jiva.com Copyright Jiva Institute. All rights reserved. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the contributing authors and do not necessarily represent the views of Jiva Institute. The printer, publisher or Editor in Chief of Paramayu or any employee of Jiva Institute shall not be held liable for any health-related problems, injury or loss caused due to use of the Ayurvedic herbs/remedies/ medicines mentioned in this magazine. It is strongly recommended that the user take proper consultation from a healthcare professional before using any of these Ayurvedic solutions. Any claims made in this regard will be subject to the Faridabad Judiciary.
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Speaking of food and recipes, what's the first name you think whenever you think of cooking? Sanjeev Kapoor, of course. The favorite of every Indian household, Sanjeev Kapoor shares his love for the Indian cuisine and his opinion on Ayurveda in a candid interview with Jiva. Make sure you read each word carefully to see what this master chef has to share with us. The goodness doesn't end here. Our July issue features articles on a wide range of topics. Read about our very own Steven Rudolph's observations on how you can change yourself. Discover the super herb Giloya, fight the problem of pigmentation with our beauty tips, stay abreast with the latest news and developments at Jiva. All this and more in this issue of Paramayu, so keep reading. And as usual, if you have any feedback, send them our way at editor@jiva.com. We'll be looking forward to them. Also, check out our website (www.jiva.com) to learn more about JIVA and the natural world of Ayurveda. Best Wishes,
Dr. Partap Chauhan
President’s Message President’s message H H ow often do we hear people say that they’re burned out by their needWe a trip to rejuvenate them? umandaily life routine is not a and bed they of roses. have to live through Over the weekend, young people gather at bars and phases of pain and agony in our lives. We may suffer restaurants and nightclubs, hoping that the revelry spread over two from pain in the physical, mental, emotional and days will recharge them for the week ahead.
spiritual level. Though it may sound radical, in my opinion, food But come Monday morning, they lookpain neither nor more plays an important role in creating andhappier conflict.
refreshed. Even if they do, the effects of that are short lived and half According to the Ayurveda, foodlook is not just those that goesagain into our way through week, they drained and exhausted
mouth, buttoeverything that goes in through our senses. According Ayurveda, rejuvenation is not a one-time activity. It’s a Therefore, we need to take into consideration see, way of life that needs repeated nurturing. To feelwhat trulywe refreshed, you hear,to feel andasmell as approach food. While ensures peace, have adopt holistic thatsattvic worksfood at four levels–physical, harmony, balance and and spiritual. success in life, the food that we consume mental, emotional, through all our senses our day-to-day becoming To rejuvenate oneself atin the physical level, life it’s is important that we do increasingly tamasic. two things–adhere to a strict daily routine and have a diet that includes onlyprefer sattvikfood food.that Wake up on time, on time, exercise onthey time, and We tastes good to sleep eat (even though when haveunhealthy); your meals prefer on time. Avoid oily, excessively sweet orin fattening food are looking at things that are good and stick appearance to a vegetarian diet. outward or tamasic in nature; and love listening to There’sor yetthings another compelling reason sattvik diet–it people that inflate our ego. to Allfollow thesearegular supplyhelps of rejuvenate you on a mental Our(nature) thoughtssuch driveas our life, guiding tamasic fodder give births level. to gunas greed, us towards either or destruction. The food eat can in selfish, envy and greatness hatred leading to imbalance and we negativity significantly impact what we think. A taamsik diet leads to an unquiet the society. mind and destructive thoughts. On the other hand, sattvik food calms
It greedand that we are now completely focused on numerical theismind generates peaceful and pure thoughts, and for this growth. Increasing the numbers of customers, increasing sales reason, should be a part of your daily diet. and increasing denoted by numbers is what we As Moving on, let’s profits—all look at the third factor–emotional rejuvenation. strive for at all times. In the meantime, we have shelved human beings, we’re capable of experiencing a wide range of emotions, traditions values depending and ethicson to internal the attic,and and we see factors. that in Where all which can change external aspects of our life. crowds and loud music can disturb us emotionally, the sight of the rising sun or the night is sky filled with canlives. exhilarate us. In order All this value erosion causing painstars in our It is denoted to be emotionally rejuvenated, we need to constantly monitor our by pain in the body, in our hearts and minds, and in our souls. emotions and do a lot of self-analysis. This prevents us from The remedy is of course is adopting sattvic diet, thoughts and entertaining negative emotions or getting swayed by them. actions in our lives. But for that we need a commitment—a Finally, we come to spiritual rejuvenation. Thisand canthe be achieved passion to bring positive change in our lives lives of by associating with good people and basking in their positive vibes and others. If you have the passion and want to share your vision of beautiful thoughts. Another thing that will help is reading Indian a better world, write to me at rishi@jiva.com scriptures, which are a treasure chest of untold knowledge. Studying
Wish you peace, health and happiness! these books and reflecting upon what is written in them can help you achieve spiritual enlightenment. Remember, rejuvenation is not something you should be doing occasionally. It’s an ongoing effort, a part of your day-to-day life. It is born of your habits, thoughts, and actions and it reflects in them. That’s the way it’s really meant to be.
“Rejuvenation “All this value is not something you erosion is should doing causingbepain occasionally. in our lives. It It's an ongoing is denoted by pain inathe effort, part of body,day-to-day in our your hearts, and in life. That's ourway souls.” the it's really meant to be.”
Jul 2015 2014 – Paramayu – 5
Deeper Ayurveda
Deeper Ayurveda
Unique Concept of
Ayurvedic Rasayan Dr. Abhijit Mhalank
Our cells and tissues constantly undergo wear and tear and become old with time. They need oiling, cleaning, and regular tune ups every few months, just like a car. While we are quite alert about the maintenance of our cars, we hardly ever display similar attentiveness towards our own body. 6 – Paramayu – Jul 2015
Rasayanas strengthen a person's resistance and play a vital role in preventing diseases. Systemic weaknesses caused by illnesses are also managed by administering a suitable Rasayan, which helps repair and rejuvenate damaged tissue and rebuild the weakened system.
What is Rasayan? The story of sage Chyavan's innovative preparation 'Chyavanprash' that held the key to his youth is famous all over the world; however, the concept of Rasayan remains largely unfamiliar to Indians. Made from two words 'rasa' and 'ayan', the term Rasayan describes any substance or activity that builds tissues and ojas and initiates the process of rejuvenation in the
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n India, the biggest event around JuneJuly is the arrival of the Southwest monsoon. Known as nature's ultimate phenomenon, the monsoon turns barren lands into lush green fields. Anything sown during these days flourishes and the whole world looks like it’s got a new lease on life. What would happen if we could replicate the same phenomenon inside human body? Our cells and tissues constantly undergo wear and tear and become old with time. They need oiling, cleaning, and regular tune ups every few months, just like a car. While we are quite alert about the maintenance of our cars, we hardly ever display similar attentiveness towards our own body. That’s why our ancestors came up with the extraordinary concept of Rasayan chikitsa.
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Jiva Sewa / body. That said, the benefits of Rasayan are not confined to the physical level alone; it extends to the mental and spiritual levels too. Some major advantages of undergoing Rasayan treatment are as follows:
It increases life span
Lends a more youthful appearance to people
Keeps body parts and sense organs in good condition
Improves complexion and skin lustre
Maintains strength of voice, even in old age
Boosts intelligence and memory function
Imparts tranquility of mind
rasayanas are meant for people who don't have any major diseases. Naimittik Rasayan – The word 'naimittik' comes from word 'nimitta', which means ‘occasion’ or ‘event’. Rasayan treatments administered after a specific event, like a fever attack, heart attack, or diarrhoeal attack, fall under this category. The aim of these rasayan treatments is to repair the damage caused by the disease and prevent its recurrence in the future. Ajasrik Rasayan –Rasayanas meant for daily use fall in this category. Such rasayanas nourish body tissues and are instrumental in maintaining general well-being. Drinking milk, consuming ghee, honey etc. is all considered to be a part of ajasrik rasayan.
In addition, Rasayanas strengthen a person's resistance and plays a vital role in preventing diseases. Systemic weaknesses caused by illnesses are also managed by administering a suitable Rasayan, which helps repair and rejuvenate damaged tissue and rebuild the weakened system.
How do Rasayanas work? Different Rasayanas act differently. While some rejuvenate all tissues and components, a few are designed to target specific parts of the body. For instance, there are Rasayanas that act on the rasa dhatu, the first of the seven dhatus that make up the body. Therefore, when you purify and strengthen the rasa dhatu, it helps strengthen the remaining six. Some Rasayanas open up blocked channels by digesting toxins so that the rasa dhatu can reach all other dhatus and nourish them. And then, some Rasayanas strengthen the fire that is responsible for converting raw materials into new, mature cells and tissues. This ensures production of new and good quality dhatus.
What types of Rasayanas are there? Rasayan treatments and the Rasayans used for this purpose have been categorized in various ways. But broadly speaking, there are two main classifications. Kamya Rasayan – The word 'kamya' comes from word 'kamana', which means ‘desire’. Rasayan treatments carried out to achieve a specific objective or desire are known as kamya rasayan. It has three subtypes -‘Prana Kamya’ for the promotion of longevity, ‘Medhya Kamya’ for the promotion of intellectual faculty, and ‘Shri Kamya’ for the promotion of bodily luster. These 8 – Paramayu – Jul 2015
Kutipraveshik Rasayan – This is the most innovative and extensive rasayan treatment in Ayurveda. 'Kuti' means a ‘hut’ while 'pravesh' means ‘to enter’. In this procedure, the person first undergoes panchkarma cleansing treatments and then enters the hut, where he stays for a few days. During this period, he is given nothing else but a useful rasayan to eat. This procedure initiates extensive rejuvenation, where the person feels like he’s been born again. Vatatapik Rasayan – The procedure mentioned above requires complete segregation from routine life and society. For those who cannot undergo such an extensive procedure, but would like to enjoy the benefits of a therapy, the vatatapik rasayan treatment is recommended. The person is asked to consume a suitable rasayan every day. During the course of the therapy, he is allowed to follow his normal routine but is advised to stay away from unhealthy food and any harmful or strenuous activities. Benefits of vatatapik rasayan may not be as extensive, but it can be undertaken by anyone who cannot go in for the kutipraveshik rasayan.
We are joyful when the monsoon rejuvenates the world around us. Why not initiate a similar phenomenon inside our bodies by using a suitable rasayan?
Jiva Organizes Free Health Camp to Further the Cause of Ayurveda
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yurveda has been a part of the Indian culture for hundreds of years. Back then, it was a way of life, not a science that treated illnesses. Healthy life wasn't something that could be dispensed through consultations and prescriptions. It had to be earned; it had to be cultivated in every aspect of your life. Unfortunately, such values and principles have been lost and forgotten in modern times. Ayurveda has become a topic that is looked at with great suspicion, not because there is any dearth of knowledge surrounding it, but because enough is not being done to educate people about this science. Now that Jiva Ayurveda has taken it upon themselves to reach out to the audience and spread awareness about this ancient science, all this is about to change. They aim to show people how Ayurveda is a viable option for most health issues that are prevalent today. To further this cause, they have started organizing free health camps in various cities across the countries, the most recent ones being in Badarpur, New Delhi, and Shastri Nagar, Jaipur. In both the camps, the emphasis was on facilitating one-on-one interaction with the patients absolutely free of cost. Doctors didn't just diagnose ailments; they also analyzed the body type of each patient, prescribing medicines based on each
individual's personal composition. In addition, all visitors were walked through the benefits of Ayurveda and encouraged to adopt a holistic approach towards health and fitness. Medicines prescribed by the doctors could be bought on the spot at discounted rates. Patients could also choose to have them home delivered by paying the cost in advance. Other Jiva products like herbal creams, toothpaste, shampoos, and oils were all available at discounted rates and visitors also received free samples of the almond soap and the neem soap. Needless to say, the camp was a huge success. Between both locations, more than 80 people received personal consultations. Visitors were significantly impressed by the simple principles of Ayurveda and how
In ancient times, Ayurveda was a way of life, but today, it's fighting a battle to be accepted as a legitimate form of science. easily they could be incorporated into day-to-day life. Rajat Pal, a patient in New Delhi, expressed himself with these words "I had no idea that Ayurveda was so relevant in today's time. I intend to follow the advice I got from the doctorand revisit the healthy lifestyle our forefathers had." Hoping this sentiment is echoed by every household in India. Meanwhile, Jiva will keep the torch shining bright for Ayurveda and tirelessly work towards restoring its old glory.
Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 9
Deeper Ayurveda
/ Cover Story
Fundamental Principles of Consuming Rasayan
The word ‘rasayan’ is formed from the words ‘rasa’ and ‘ayan’ and means ‘the pathway to acquire an essence or nutrition’. The methods of acquiring fine quality dhatus like rasa, rakta, etc are called rasayanas. The essence of the seven dhatus is called ojus in Ayurveda.
- Dr. Pratap Chauhan
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asayan treatment happens to be one of the eight basic branches of Ayurveda. Whatever destroys old age and diseases is called rasayan in Ayurveda. The word rasayan is formed from two words – ‘rasa’ and ‘ayan’. Its meaning is the pathways to acquire rasa. The essence of the seven dhatus is called ojus in Ayurveda. So whatever strengthens ojus is also considered a rasayan. Ojus is concerned with immunity. So rasayan is not just diseasecuring but also diseasepreventing.
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Advantages of Rasayan: Consumption of rasayan offers long life, strong intelligence and memory, good health and voice, kind-heartedness, lustrous skin, and glory. It also strengthens the body and sense organs and protects youthfulness. These days, a lot of commercial advertisements talk about many rasayanas but they all are meant for acquiring physical strength and youth. However, according to the above description from Charak
In modern times, a propaganda has been made that rasayanas are just for acquiring sexual and physical strength. Consuming rasayan only for such objectives would be an incomplete use of the concept. It would be better to understand Ayurveda's principles while consuming rasayanas. Then only will we be able to get the complete benefit of rasayan.
Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 11
Deeper Ayurveda
/ Cover Story
Spiritual Rejuvenation
Samhita, consumption of rasayan is not just for acquiring physical strength and youth. Its benefits extend to the mental, and spiritual levels too. Ayurvedic rasayanas make us healthy and give us the strength to achieve the four objectives of life, namely dharma, artha, kama, and moksha. But in modern times, a propaganda has been made that rasayanas are just for acquiring sexual and physical strength. Consuming rasayan only for these objectives would be an incomplete use of the concept.
Significance of Purification before Rasayan: Physical and mental purification is recommended before rasayan consumption. All channels should be purified on physical levels. Normally many types of toxins and impurities remain in our body. It is necessary to get rid of them before starting rasayan procedures so that they can nourish the dhatus and ojus. Panchkarmas are used for purifying dhatus. Exercises, fasting, and eating limited food also helps in purification. Gastric fire should also remain in balanced state so that the consumed rasayan is digested well. Apart from the body, the mind's purification is also necessary. To rid the mind of rajas and tamas influences, one must prefer sattvik food and activities. The person willing to consume rasayan should remain true and kind. He should control the sense organs and become free of lust, anger, greed, jealousy, and negative thinking. Ayurveda also emphasizes that a person consuming rasayan should not indulge in any type of addiction. This indicates that rasayan not only brings us physical strength and youth but also helps us achieve the high objectives of life. So purifying the body, mind, and senses is a must before having rasayanas.
Achaar Rasayan The achaar rasayan is a special type of rasayan that is described in Ayurveda. It stresses that mere consumption of medicinal herbs is not enough to get rid of diseases and remain youthful. Good behaviour, thoughts, and conduct also act as rasayan. Following non-
Jaya Devi
violence, speaking the truth, avoiding anger, keeping peace, helping others, and following the principles of religion and spirituality have a similar effect as consuming rasayan daily. In today's modern and scientific world, you may feel that we are saying things that are unscientific. But research from modern science and western countries in recent decades have vindicated these principles of Ayurveda.
Consuming rasayan not only liberates us of physical and mental diseases but also offers spiritual happiness, peace, and pleasure. This account from Ayurveda proves that consumption of rasayan (medicinal and achaar) is a must for all. One of the main goals of rasayan is staying young even in old age. Rasayan herbs, achaar rasayan, and self-analysis help us in understanding our soul. Through them we come to know the eternal, immortal, and unaging nature of the soul. This is also a rasayan. It clarifies that my soul is not diseased but my body and mind are diseased. This knowledge destroys sorrows and brings happiness and pleasure. This description clarifies that consuming a rasayan not only liberates us of physical and mental diseases, but also offers spiritual happiness, peace, and pleasure. This account from Ayurveda proves that consumption of Rasayan (medicinal and Achaar) is must for all. Only then would we really succeed in eliminating ageing and disease. So from this moment onward, sanctify your behaviour and thoughts and consume Rasayan to be happy and healthy.
Originally from Belgium, Jaya Devi (PhD Sanskrit) found her spiritual home in India. She is a disciple of Sri Satyanarayana Dasa Babaji, the founder-director of the Jiva Institute of Vaishnava Studies in India. For the past ten years, she has been working at the Jiva Institute where she manages the library and coordinates their seminars and cultural activities. Her aim is to help women in their quest for spirituality and, to facilitate this, she conducts workshops at the Jiva Institute and other countries worldwide.
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hy do most of us become captivated by the idea of rejuvenation? Countless creams and gadgets are floating around in the market, promising us wrinkle-free and blemish-free skin, shiny hair, and other charming assets for perfect beauty. Are we attracted to these promises because we are old? Or because we feel old? Is youthfulness really connected to our age? In Ayurveda we see the body as a field that reflects our mind. Agitated minds lead to nervous or unfriendly looks while a calm mind brings forth a relaxed and natural smile. The first source of our youthfulness is to be found in our mindset. But how do we maintain a state of equilibrium? The mind is always in a flux, so we need to connect it to a permanent source. This permanent source (which is our true self) is called the atman in Sanskrit. When we dive deep into our mind, we see it can attain this state of eternal happiness only when it is connected to an eternal source, when it finds its connection to God. This state is called svastha, or 'properly situated' and indicates that a person is situated in his own self. Even though this is a logical and clear explanation, the question remains - how do we
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Jul 2015 – Paramayu –13
true identity and purpose in life. During my workshops on 'Women, Love, and Spirituality' organized in Europe, I noticed how women regained their youthfulness during the five-day sessions, despite the fact that they went through deep emotional experiences. Was it the herbal teas served in the rustic setting of the retreat that made them feel younger? Or the inspiring knowledge from the Indian sastra (scriptures) that made them regain trust in their true femininity?
During my workshops on 'Women, Love, and Spirituality' organized in Europe, I noticed how the women regained their youthfulness during the five-day sessions. connect to this eternal source? How can we discover our true self? The two main goals of Ayurveda are to cure a person who is ill and to maintain the wellbeing of a healthy person. However, these ultimate aim of these two goals is spiritual. A person with a healthy body, mind, and senses can fully engage in a spiritual quest, which gives true happiness and fulfillment. And that is where we become timeless and eternally young. In this state, our body and mind can glow with the aura of eternity and our face can shine
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with an everlasting smile. Here even the elderly people look young as they live a happy and relaxed life. Imagine an old musician who is happy with his job, playing his favorite musical instrument throughout the days, weeks, and years. And then imagine a young person who is choked with responsibilities day-in, day-out, unable to enjoy what he is doing? When you look at them both, whom would you call young? Ayurveda offers many treatments for rejuvenating the body and mind, which are described as rasayana. Rasayana consists of special formulas of various herbs that make us more energetic, strengthen our immunity system, revitalize the body and mind, boost our intelligence, and fight a specific disease. The purpose of rasayana is not to make our body immortal; it is to help us become aware of our
‘Apply the principles of Ayurveda to cooking and your food will make you healthy and happy.’
Just like a good herbal decoction mixed with high quality honey can be rejuvenating for our body after going through an intensive detoxification program, authentic knowledge too is the best support to the mind. These days we are exposed to a lot of information from everywhere. This can be overwhelming. However, when rasayana is added to the intellectual work, it can save a person's mind from stress and anxiety, which are the main characteristics of old age. It helps remove mental ama (toxins) and live a long and peaceful life. We aspire for perfect beauty and reach for the latest creams and lotions. But in our eagerness we often forget how beauty treatments alone cannot have a lasting effect. Beauty is achieved and sustained when one has a balanced mind and a contented soul. According to Indian tradition, the three traits of beauty, purity, and divinity are foremost among the qualities of women and they originate from her internal disposition. This holistic view, where a person's internal spirit is the foundation of their beauty, reveals the secret to rejuvenation and an authentic smile.
An Exclusive Interview with world famous Chef
Sanjeev Kapoor Jul 2015 – Paramayu –15
Expert Speak /
Making a Difference
Q1. What is your opinion on Ayurveda? How is Ayurveda and cooking connected? SK: For me, Ayurveda is the science of life. It gives us the basis on which we can modify our lifestyle to ensure the perfect working of our body. Ayurveda lays equal emphasis on physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental health. It doesn’t believe in deprivation; only moderation.
Awareness Perseverance
They say you are what you eat. If you apply the principles of Ayurveda to cooking, your food will make you healthy and happy. This is because Ayurveda believes in using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Q2. In today’s busy lifestyle, our quality of food and cooking habits are declining. What do you have to say about this? SK: Today's busy life is blamed for a lot of ailments, but that's wrong. You can have a busy life that's healthy too. You have to make adjustments, but it's certainly worth it. When it comes to food, ensure that every meal is freshly cooked. Avoid re-heating and eating leftovers. Keep yourself and your children away from junk food. Educate them on the consequences of bad food habits and encourage them to live a healthy lifestyle from an early age. They will grow up to be responsible and health conscious adults. Q3. What is the ideal food that we should have for breakfast? SK: Fresh food. I cannot emphasise enough on the freshness of the food you should eat, especially first thing in the
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Goal morning. Piping hot breakfast is ideal. Idlis and dosas are my favourite breakfast items. Other items include chila, sprouts, upma, and poha. You can also have a homemade dip or green chutney with multigrain bread. Fresh fruits are a great way to start your day. Dry fruits should be had sparingly, not more than 7-8 in all. Also, don't forget to drink water early in the morning. It is the best way to get rid of toxins in the body. Q4. You have visited Jiva. What is your impression about the work Jiva doing in the field of Ayurveda? SK: I have visited the Jiva facility in Faridabad and met Dr.Partap Chauhan a couple of times. Each time we've had very interesting and enlightening discussions on food, lifestyle, and the Ayurvedic way of life. We've also discussed the importance of Ayurvedic treatment in today's
world of medicines and surgeries. I think that it makes sense for people to choose the Ayurvedic way of healing as long as it is provided by the right people. Q5. What advice would you give to all your fans about the way people cook in India? SK: Go as natural as possible. Avoid additives and preservatives in food. Choose seasonal produce and ensure that the fruits and vegetables you buy are free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals. Every meal should be cooked fresh. Avoid eating leftovers. Whether they know it or not, Indians still follow Ayurvedic principles of eating and cooking. However, they are attracted towards a convenient, hassle free way of life that pushes them towards ready-to-eat food, microwave dinners, and the likes. This, though inevitable, has to be kept to a minimum and used only in case of emergencies.
Method Willingness
5 Steps to Change Something
About Yourself Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 17
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t is said that the only thing constant is change. The world around us is forever in a state of flux, giving rise to new technologies, governments, policies, working conditions, bosses, family situations, and even our own bodies as they evolve with time. Change is a phenomenon that comes to us of its own accord. However, one special ability humans have over all other life forms is the power to effect change. That is, we have the capacity to envision something different in our world, and mould our lives through our own planning and effort. This could pertain to gaining a new skill, improving our work situation, becoming better at interacting with others and so on.
Why Change is So Hard Years back, Mahatma Gandhi gave great advice about how we can alter our realities. He urged us simply to "be the change you want to see". Straightforward and poignant, the suggestion seems self-evident. However, even armed with this mantra of morphing, one might not find this proposition as easy as it purports to be. We want things to improve, and we try our best to alter the situation, but in the end, we find ourselves not much further along than when we started. The reason change is so hard is that we become conditioned–our minds fall into patterns, giving rise to psychological limitations that act as obstacles to our evolution. But while these restraints might feel like chains binding our progress, they are not indomitable. Conquering them requires a more detailed
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Everybody desires change, but are you ready to follow the 5-step process to achieve it?
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bhishek was a 11-year old boy who had been suffering from leucoderma a condition characterized by the appearance of white patches on the body. When his parents spoke to Jiva doctor Shubhda for the first time, they mentioned that these patches had been appearing on his body on and off since he was 3 years old, although there was no itching associated with this ailment. Abhisheka also had a tendency to be obese.
strategy–an approach that takes into consideration 5 key elements that you need to monitor and act on.
First Consultation Our first line of action was to modify the patient's diet. Since Leucoderma is caused by the excess of pitta element in the body, Abhishek's parents were advised to reduce oily and spicy food in his diet and moderate his intake of salty snacks. He was also not allowed to have milk products like yogurt or cottage cheese.
The 5 Steps to Change Awareness: You need to be aware of what the actual problem is. You must also accept that it is a problem. Willingness: You need to be willing to make that change. Method: You need a strategy to make that change. Goal: You need to have a clear end state of what things will look like when the change has taken place Perseverance: You must be willing to stick it out for the long term until you achieve the goal.
The 5 Steps in Action Take losing weight as an example. If you are carrying around more excess baggage than is good for you, you need to be aware of the fact, and be ready to accept that it’s an issue. You could laugh at your bulging belly and ignore comments from family and friends, but everything begins once you accept you have a genuine problem. Next you need
to be willing to do something about your weight problem; without your consent, you will be the perfect obstacle in your own path. When you give yourself the green signal, you then need to adopt a method to start slimming down–either exercise, dieting, health treatments, and so on. By having a clear idea of how many kilos you’d like to drop, you give yourself a specific target to be achieved (it makes it much easier to hit the target when you have one!) And finally, and probably the most challenging, is perseverance: you need to stick with the plan until you achieve the goal. Over the years, I have seen many people aim to change something about themselves, and I have noticed that the ones who succeed pass all these tests. The ones who don't, inevitably fail at one or more of them. Change is good. I hope that the above 5 point process will make "being the change" a lot easier.
Leucoderma Disease A Jiva Case Study How did Ayurveda help a kid who was suffering from Leucoderma since he was 3 years old? Read this case study to find out.
In addition, Abhishek was asked to lay off citrus fruits like orange, lime, grapefruit, and lemon along with other sour, pungent, and acidic foods like vinegar, mustard, and pickles. He also had to avoid anything that was made from white flour (bread, cakes, pastries, or pizzas, etc.) and all kinds of fast food and fizzy drinks. Non- veg was also a complete no-no for him.
Second Consultation When Jiva received the second call, the parents reported some improvement in the condition of their child. At this point of time, Dr. Shubhda prescribed the following course of treatment:
Treatment Package:
Chop Chinyadi Churna – Helps in the healing of abscess
Gandhak Rasayan – A blood purifier that cleanses the body of toxins
Mahamajisthadi Churna – It helps pacify pitta and acts as a blood purifier
Jul 2015 – Paramayu –19
Spirituality /
The treatment combined rasayans, pitta pacifiers and blood purifiers. Improvement was visible from the first month onward.
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bhishek was a 11-year old boy who had been suffering from leucoderma - a condition characterized by the appearance of white patches on the body. When his parents spoke to Jiva doctor Shubhda for the first time, they mentioned that these patches had been appearing on his body on and off since he was 3 years old, although there was no itching associated with this ailment. Abhisheka also had a tendency to be obese.
Our first line of action was to modify the patient's diet. Since Leucoderma is caused by the excess of pitta element in the body, Abhishek's parents were advised to reduce oily and spicy food in his diet and moderate his intake of salty snacks. He was also not allowed to have milk products like yogurt or cottage cheese.
Subsequent Consultations
In addition, Abhishek was asked to lay off citrus fruits like orange, lime, grapefruit, and lemon along with other sour, pungent, and acidic foods like vinegar, mustard, and pickles. He also had to avoid anything that was made from white flour (bread, cakes, pastries, or pizzas, etc.) and all kinds of fast food and fizzy drinks. Non- veg was also a complete no-no for him.
When Jiva received the second call, the Final Consultation parents reported some improvement in the condition of their child. At this point of time, Dr. Shubhda prescribed the following course of treatment:
Chop Chinyadi Churna – Helps in the
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Case File Case ID: 22011301 Patient Profile: Abhishek, 11 years, Student, 48 kilos, 132 cm Disease: Leucoderma Chief Complaints: C/o White patches (Vitiligo) on the skin since the age of three. Pattern was generalised all over the body and they appeared and disappeared off and on.There was no itching associated with it. Other vitals were normal. Appetite was normal. Sugar fasting was 89. TFT were in normal range.
Deeper Ayurveda
The Necessity of Self-Discipline
Line of Treatment: Pitta shamak, Rakta shodhak, rasayana Duration of Treatment: 15 months. Proposed diet: Pitta is hot, sharp, acidic, intense, and oily. Patient was asked to avoid all foods that are sour, acidic, spicy, and salty such as chilies, fried, and greasy food, citrus fruits (lemon, grape fruits, lime, orange), chutneys, sauces, pickled food, mustard, and vinegar. He wasn’t allowed white bread, cakes, pastries, pizza etc, fast food, fizzy drinks, tea, coffee. No tomatoes. No non-veg food. No milk products like yogurt. Exercises: Walking, cycling, yoga asanas like Naukasana, Dhaurasana, and Bhujangasana were advised Results: After 13 months, the patient showed improvement, and the patches on the back had almost completely disappeared. Testimonial: “I am really happy to see these patches fading. Now my friends will not make fun of me anymore. I also feel less conscious and more confident. Thank you Dr. Shubhda for helping me. ” — Abhishek
sa
Da -Dr. Satya Narayana
Life without discipline is like a boat shaking on waves. Once you follow discipline, everything starts flowing in one direction - like a river towards its goal. In spirituality, Yoga brings this type of discipline. This article helps us understand how yama and niyam of Yoga help in spiritual development.
Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 21
he purpose of Yoga is to quell the mind of T all disturbing thoughts, and this is not possible without self-discipline. Thus, without selfdiscipline, success in yoga is impossible.
Yoga and Self-Discipline Yoga has often been wrongly construed as a collection of Asanas or postures, but it is really a system of self-discipline. Asanas and pranayamas (breathing exercises) constitute only a small part of the vastness of yoga. The various types of yoga systems, all of which originated in India thousands of years ago, include Karma Yoga (yoga through action), Raja or Ashtanga Yoga (yoga through physical and mental austerity), Jnana Yoga (yoga through knowledge), and Bhakti Yoga (yoga through devotion). Out of these, Raja or Ashtanga Yoga is the most commonly known. It has eight Angas (limbs) that are a progressive series of steps or disciplines to purify the body and mind, ultimately leading the person to enlightenment. The first two limbs, yama (restraints) and niyama (observances), are common to all disciplines of yoga. The other six limbs are asana (postures), pranayam (controlling breathing), pratyahara (control of senses), dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation), and samadhi (trance).
Yamas and Niyamas The yamas (restraints) are five moral injunctions, aimed at destroying lowly nature. They should all be practiced in word, thought, and deed. Ahimsa (non-violence) Satyam (truthfulness) Asteya (non-stealing) Brahmacharya (control of all senses) Aparigraha (non-covetousness)
The niyamas (observances) are five moral injunctions that complete the ethical precepts started with the yamas. Saucha (purity, meaning internal and external cleanliness) Santosha (contentment) Tapas (austerity) Swadhyaya (study about the self, that is, the soul, through spiritual texts) Ishwara Pranidhana (surrender to God's will)
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Right Time and Right Age is key to Yoga in a Conducive Environment Discipline is broadly divided into two types - internal and external. Internal discipline works at the individual level. It is the regimens that is followed by individuals and is not dependent on their dealings or situations in society. External discipline is at the social level. It does not allow individuals to be free to do whatever they like, but requires them to follow social norms, state laws, and work ethics. In former times, various types of yogis practiced their disciplines with the support of the social, political, and economic environments. The entire Indian society, including its educational system, was geared toward attaining the goals of yoga. According to the Bhagavad Gita, the perfection of one’s actions culminates in yoga – ‘yogah karmsu kaushalam’. Lord Krishna goes to the extent of saying that a person not engaged in Yoga is not intelligent (‘nasti buddhirayuktasya’). The speaker of Srimad Bhagavada Purana, one of the most popular scriptures of India, very explicitly declares that the purpose of human life is to inquire into the ultimate reality and not just to work full time for money. He also adds that money is not meant for squandering on sensual gratification. Rather, it should be used for self-realization. Today, millions of people have taken to the path of yoga and spirituality, but many of them find it difficult to remain firm on it and eventually deviate from the most important aspect of human development. If you are one of them, re-dedicate yourself to yogic principles and, applying selfdiscipline, you will be able to lead a physically fit, mentally equipoise, and spiritually blissful life.
Sexual Health T
he world we are living in is different in many ways from the ones our grandparents, or even our parents, were a part of. And nowhere is it more noticeable than the lifestyle our young lead. They are more confident of themselves, more expressive in their opinions, more aggressive in their demands, and definitely more outgoing in their sexual experiences. How does Ayurveda view the sexual liberties that young adults have granted themselves? Are there any repercussions to initiating physical intimacy so early on in life? Yes, there are. According to Ayurveda, the life of a man is divided into 4 stages, or ashramas – brahmachari (the student life), grihasta (household life), vanaprastha (retired life) and sanyasa (renounced life). The brahmachari stage, which lasts till you turn 25, is dedicated
to the pursuit of education and abstinence from physical pleasures.By breaking this rule and having sex in this phase of your life, you run the risk of affecting the body's shukradhaatu. This all-pervading dhatu is one of the seven that goes into making the body, the other six being raas, rakht, maas, medh, asthi, and majja. Present in an invisible form throughout the physical form, it assumes a visible shape when ejaculated as semen. Having sex when the body is not ready for it can cause the depletion of the shukra dhaatu, which, in turn,can impact the - the body's immune system. This sort of imbalance can give rise to several side effects, ranging from immune related problems to weak body tissues to early ageing to anemia. In extreme cases, it can also cause impotence, erectile dysfunction, or premature ejaculation like problems.
The damage doesn't end there. Depleted shukra dhatu can also affect your maansik oja,s, or mental equilibrium. Over a period of time, you'll find yourself obsessing over sexual thoughts and gravitating towards the habit of masturbation. This again can weaken the nerves and muscles of the penis and lead to erectile dysfunction and other sexual problems. Our wise ancestors have always stressed on the importance of doing the right thing at the right time. The same applies to sexual intimacy. It is a privilege reserved for the grihasta ashram when you get married and assume the role of a house holder.Shoulder this privilege responsibly. Refrain from taamsik practices like watching porn or dwelling on physical pleasures. Stay saatvik in your approach – both in your diet and in your mindset and you will have nothing to worry about.
Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 23
Deeper Ayurveda / Festive Season
Raksha Bandhan R aksha Bandhan is celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Sawan. It is an important festival for Hindus, and representative of our Hindu culture and tradition.
By tying a thread (known as rakhi) around their brothers’ wrists, sisters all over India express their love and affection. They also pray for their brother’s long life, happiness, and prosperity. On this occasion, brothers give their sisters a gift, and along with it, a solemn promise that they will help and protect their sisters throughout their life. The rakhi that sisters tie around their brother's wrist is not just a piece of thread. It is representative of the knot of attachment between siblings. On one hand, it consolidates their loving relationship and on the other, it promotes social integrity and friendship.
Children's Disease & Rasayan Dr. Abhijit Mhalank
There was a time when illnesses were associated only with old age and children falling ill was considered a rarity. But today children are plagued with illnesses more frequently than older people.
Traditional festivals like raksha bandhan promote unity within the family and strengthen relations between brothers and sisters. It is for these reasons that the Indian social fabric and culture are famous world over. To cherish the rich heritage of our Indian culture, auspicious festivals like raksha bandhan should be kept away from mere exhibitionism and celebrated with wholehearted conviction. Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 24
Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 25
Deeper Ayurveda / Kid’s Special
Ayurvedic rasayanas can save children from illnesses. They nourish them physically, mentally, and emotionally and strengthen the body's resistance.
There was time when illnesses were associated only with old age and children falling ill was considered a rarity. But today children are plagued with illnesses more frequently than older people. There are many reasons behind this. Instead of nutritious foods, children fed on bread, biscuits, noodles, and pizza have weak gastric fire. This generates ama in the body, which, in turn, gives rise to many diseases. Today, instead of playing football or kabaddi or other sports, children spend more time playing games on mobile phones and computers. Lack of exercise not only leads to weight gain but also weakens the body. Adulteration in food, ever increasing pollution, and mental stress caused by education further weaken a child’s resistance to illness. Sometimes parents themselves have medical conditions like asthma which gets passed on to their children, who often end up with weakened immunity.
Dry Fruits Like ghee, the other two rasayanas that nourish the brain tissue are almonds and walnuts. While the latter helps children in educational progress by strengthening intelligence and memory, almonds stabilize the mind along with the body. Fresh and dried dates that are particularly popular among children due to their sweet taste are rich sources of iron, calcium, potassium, and other minerals. They nourish the blood, bones, and other dhatus in the body. Vitamins present in dates also protect children from night blindness. So including them in your diet is extremely useful. Children also love white and black raisins because they are so sweet. These two dry fruits are rich in flavonoids, antioxidants, and vitamins C & E that help strengthen gums, teeth, and bones and protect children from constipation.
Significance of Rasayan in Ayurveda Ayurvedic rasayanas can be beneficial in saving children from illnesses. They nourish children physically, mentally, and emotionally and strengthen their resistance. According to Ayurveda, the body is made up of seven dhatus (or tissues). All body parts are made up of dhatus. Entities like intelligence and memory also function through dhatus. For proper functioning of these entities and all systems of the body and to keep human resistance strong, all dhatus should be healthy. This can be achieved wth rasayanas. Ayurveda had defined rasayan as a substance that nourishes dhatus.
Honey Honey is the best rasayan for children who frequently suffer from cough and cold. It is known to kill worms and protect children from all respiratory problems by destroying mucus formed in the respiratory system. Honey opens up all the channels of the body so that nutrients can reach every cell. Instead of jams or sauces, having honey is far more beneficial for children. It will keep respiratory disorders like asthma, bronchitis, and sinusitis far away from them.
Milk & Milk Products Fortunately, Indian food contains many such ingredients that are good rasayanas. Milk and milk products, like butter, are good examples of that. Resembling the first rasa dhatu in form and colour, milk not only nourishes that dhatu, but also strengthens all subsequent dhatus, especially the bones. The essence of milk, which is ghee, is supposed to be the best rasayan. It nourishes all dhatus and also strengthens intelligence, memory, and grasping power. It makes children strong physically and mentally. Perhaps that's why it has been called the daily rasayan. Nowadays, many children suffer from lack of concentration, difficulty in recalling during exams, disturbed sleep, and premature greying of hair. Milk and milk products prove beneficial in solving these problems. 26 – Paramayu – Jul 2015
Thandai Thandai made by mixing charmagaj seeds, almonds, and poppy seeds in milk also serves as a rasayan, strengthening children on both physical and mental levels. Pranayam that offers stability to children's mind is also a form of rasayan. In order to be emotionally well-developed and strong, children must receive sufficient support and 'sanskaras' from parents. Performing rituals and prayers at home builds good sanskaras and makes children emotionally stable. For this reason, these activities are also like rasayanas, since they nourish children physically, mentally, and emotionally and save them from diseases.
Ayur Life
I
f the day begins with nutritious food, one feels fresh, energetic, and healthy throughout. Food, along with nourishing the body, also keeps it healthy. That's why Ayurveda attaches great importance to food in treatment. After roasting raw grains like chickpeas, maize, and barley, what one gets is a coarse flour-like substance with the consistency of sand. This is called ‘Sattu’. Traditionally, sattu has been used in the country during the summer months because of their light, cooling, and nutritious properties. Since sattu generally contains wheat, chickpeas and barley in equal proportions, they serve as a good source of carbohydrates.
Types & Properties Barley Sattu – Sattu is prepared by roasting and grinding barley. It is dry, cooling, and slightly heavier than other sattus, with a sweet and pungent taste. It stimulates fire, resolves constipation, pacifies kapha and pitta, and boosts vata. It is not just easy to digest but also provides energy. It contains 11.5% proteins and 70% carbohydrates.
Nothing Like
Sattu In Hot Summer 28 – Paramayu – Jul 2015
After roasting raw grains like chickpeas, maize, and barley, what one gets is a coarse flour-like substance with the consistency of sand. This is called ‘Sattu’. Traditionally, sattu has been used in the country during the summer months because of their light, cooling, and nutritious properties.
Barley & Chickpea Sattu – Remove the skin off roasted chickpeas and grind them. Then barley sattu is mixed to the ground chickpea in one fourth proportion. This is how barley and chickpea sattu is formed. This sattu is dissolved in water and some ghee and sugar are added. Having this preparation in hot and rainy seasons compensates the loss of physical energy. Due to its cold potency, it has a cooling effect. Chickpea is light, dry, and cool and has a sweet and pungent taste. It pacifies kapha, pitta and rakta but aggravates vata. It has approximately 18% proteins and 61% carbohydrates. Chickpea sattu is good for people suffering from diabetes, obesity, and blood disorders. For those who complain of hyperacidity and peptic ulcers, it is recommended as diet. Wheat Sattu – Wheat sattu pacifies vata and pitta, but aggravates kapha. It is nutritious, healing, and stabilizing and builds tissue. Surprisingly, while whole wheat is unctuous, cold, and heavy to digest, the sattu made from it is light and easy to digest.
Barley, Chickpea & Wheat Sattu – Soak 1 kilo chickpea, ½ a kilo wheat, and 200gm barley in water for 10 hours and then dry in shade. This mixture should then be roasted and ground to make the sattu. Since this sattu contains all three grains, the body receives wholesome nutrition from them. Presence of barley and chickpea make it energizing and easy to digest.
Method of Consumption: Sattu is popularly consumed in the following ways: 1- Any type of sattu can be dissolved in water and drunk as a cooling, refreshing drink. Water from earthen pot is better. Jaggery, sugar, or salt may be added as per taste. 2- Preparing a thick paste is even tastier. Here, the quantity of water is less while that of sattu is more. Preparation method is the same as the one described above. 3- Tikki, puris, and parathas are also made from sattu. Adding cumin seeds, asafoetida, and thymol seeds to salted sattu also increases its digestive properties.
Precautions while eating: 1- Sattu should not be consumed after meals. 2- You should not eat a lot of sattu at one go 3- Sattu should never be eaten at night. 4- Water should not be used in excess quantity with sattu.
Significance in Ayurveda: Ayurveda regards food as one of the three pillars of life. It has given sattu the status of a complete food since it has substantial amounts of fibers, carbohydrates, proteins, starch, and minerals. It is because of these properties that sattu is useful in fighting diseases like diabetes and obesity. Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 29
Ayur Life
/ Beauty
All women desire to be beautiful; to have hair that flows down in waves and eyes that speak volumes. To flaunt lips that are full and shapely and cheeks rosy like the apple. But all this is of no use if one doesn’t have flawless and glowing skin. Find out the secrets of beautiful skin here.
It is also believed that irregular skin coloring can be caused by an excess of pitta in the body. Pitta is composed of water and fire and is further divided into 5 sub types, each of which is responsible for a specific area of the body and a specific set of functions. For instance, the pachaka pitta is located in the lower part of the stomach and is responsible for digestion. Similarly, the bhrajaka pitta is present in the skin and regulates its temperature, color, and complexion. Any imbalance in the bhrajaka pitta can lead to irregular coloring of the skin. There are various factors that can lead to an imbalance of vata and pitta dosha in the body. They can be classified under two categories – internal and external.
Internal Factors Causing Pigmentation 1- Hormone imbalance caused by pregnancy or menopause
2- Lack of Vitamin A, E and iron and calcium in the body
3- Excessive stress or tension External Factor Causing Pigmentation 1- Over exposure to harmful UV rays of the sun 2- Drugs prescribed for medical conditions like diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure
If There Are Black Patches On The Skin
There Are Solutions! I
rregular skin coloring, caused by an imbalance of vata in the body, can mar your beauty. Known as pigmentation, it can take two forms – hyper-pigmentation and hypo-pigmentation. The former is caused by an increase in the production of melanin in the body, leading to dark spots. Hypo-pigmentation, on the other hand, is marked by reduced production of melanin, leading to lighter spots on the body.
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Pigmentation is caused by an imbalance of vata in the body. Representative of air and space, vata is responsible for all movement within the body, including the flow of blood, elimination of waste, and even the thoughts that pass through the mind. Without vata, kapha and pitta cannot move, and for this reason, it is considered to be the most important of all three.
3- Intake of oral contraceptive pills 4- Use of cosmetics with harmful ingredients 5- Poor diet or wrong food habits Having understood what causes discoloration of the skin, let’s look at how we can treat this condition. Home Remedies for Skin Pigmentation: Detox your body regularly: Detoxification helps cleanse toxins in the body and stimulates the liver. Here’s a healthy Ayurvedic cleansing drink you can make at home. Blend together 1 cup of chopped coriander leaves, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 2 inch piece of fresh ginger, and ¼ tsp of turmeric powder. Have this drink early in the morning on empty stomach and do not eat anything for at least 2 hours after.
Use potatoes to lighten the skin: & Slice a small potato into half and sprinkle a few drops of water on its surface. Now, rub it on the affected area of the face. Alternatively, you could also grate the potato, squeeze out the juice, and apply it to the spots on the face. Leave for half an hour before rinsing with warm water. Do this every day and you will be able to see some difference within a month. Papaya to the rescue:&The health benefits of papaya are well documented. But what you probably didn’t know is that it’s also a great exfoliator for the skin. Apply papaya juice to the pigmented area and you will see the spots lightening within a month. In addition to these home remedies, you should inculcate standard beauty practices that will help you keep your skin glowing all year around. To begin with, keep yourself well-hydrated and include plenty of vegetables, fruits, and salads in your diet. Wash your face at least twice a day with a gentle cleanser and avoid sleeping with make up on. Whenever you leave the house, apply a good sunblock, and wear broad hats to minimize the effect of the sun on your skin. Finally, stay free of stress and worries and try and meditate for at least 15 minutes a day to calm your mind, body, and soul. With all this, there’s no stopping you from looking effortlessly beautiful and keeping skin problems at bay.
Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 31
Ayur Life
/ Astro strology believes that people carry a debt from their previous birth. They have to pay a price for the good and bad deeds performed by them. Sins committed in the past life torment the body and mind in the form of diseases and emotional distress and there is no escaping your karma. However, it’s possible to undertake protective measures, after deducing the periods of illnesses from the birth date of an individual,
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Astrology
& Disease Do planets, asterisms, and astrology have any effect on our health? According to Ayurveda, treatment works better if supported by astrology. This article presents views supporting this perspective.
Basically diseases can be divided into two categories - intrinsic and extrinsic. The planetary positions in the horoscope can give you an indication about intrinsic diseases. Ayurvedic principle states that harmony in vata, pitta and kapha is a must for health. If we maintain proper equilibrium in vata, pitta and kapha, all our body parts, the mind, and the brain work in their best capacity. This way, the body remains completely healthy. However, disturbing this balance gives rise to diseases. Medical astrology has accepted this principle. The twelve zodiacs from astrology are related to the earth, wind, fire, and water elements. The nine planets, too, are made up of five elements - earth, water, fire, wind, and ether. The combinations of these elements produce Ayurveda's executive biological principles of vata, pitta and kapha. Vata is made from wind and ether, pitta consists of fire and water, while kapha is composed of water and earth. Vata, pitta, and kapha exist in different proportions in every person's constitution. This
The twelve zodiacs from astrology are related to earth, wind, fire, and water elements. The nine planets, too, are made up of five elements - earth, water, fire, wind, and ether. 32 – Paramayu – Jul 2015
proportion makes every individual unique and different from others. Knowing the constitution of a person is a must to decide the direction of treatment and choose the right food regimen, lifestyle, and medicines. Ayurveda does this work by examining the patient and taking medical history into account. In astrology, it is possible to know a person's constitution from his horoscope. For that one must see which zodiac is in the ascendant position, in which zodiac the lord of the first house is situated, and which planets are influencing the ascendant and its lord.
Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 33
/ Diet
Food in Autoimmune Diseases
utoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, thyroiditis, and systemic lupus erythamatosus still remain unresolved challenges for science, which has otherwise solved many other mysteries with great ease. Ayurveda's guidance can prove valuable in providing a solution.
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Why do autoimmune diseases develop? Our immune system is made for destroying microbes, allergens, and toxins. It does this through the medium of immunoglobulins. But when the immune system starts targeting the body's own cells instead of attacking outside enemies, it gives rise to autoimmune diseases. Why this happens is something that scientists have not understood so far. Ayurveda has tried to understand immunity from its own perspective. Dosh, dhatwagni, ojus, and the strength of dhatus contribute in making up the body’s immunity system. But the functioning of these elements gets affected by improper lifestyle, incompatible food, mental stress, and heredity. The weakness of jatharagni and dhatwagni caused by improper diet leads to the production of toxins (ama) in body. These toxins circulate in various tissues and cause autoimmune diseases. So one must avoid factors like improper diet to stay protected from them.
What should one eat in these diseases? Digestive system and digestive fire should be kept in order if one wants to keep autoimmune diseases at bay. Balanced jatharagni and dhatwagni are able to digest all ingredients of food. This considerably reduces the possibility of developing autoimmune diseases. Spices like turmeric, coriander seeds, thymol seeds, cloves, dry ginger, cumin seeds, cardamom, etc. strengthen the digestive fire. Adding them to your food improves functioning of the digestive system. Cooking with adequate quantities of spices offers protection from autoimmune diseases.
What items should be avoided?
The secret of keeping fit even in old age is to begin when you’re young. Following a good lifestyle and food regimen in the first innings of life always has benefits in the second. 34 – Paramayu – Jul 2015
Substances burdening the digestive fire produce toxins in the body and enhance the possibility of autoimmune diseases. Food products like curd, paneer, lassi, buffalo milk, icecream, milk with cream, meat, fish, eggs, pizza, bread, and chocolates are too heavy to digest. Thus, they weaken the digestive fire. This too increases the
possibility of autoimmune diseases. Maida, tapioca, hydrogenated ghee, and sweets, too, are heavy to digest and, as such, front runners in producing toxins. One must keep away from them as well. Grains, pulses and their coverings often contains some such substances that our digestive fire finds difficult to digest. Consuming such food items frequently can give rise to autoimmunity. So pigeon peas, black gram, red kidney beans, bengal gram, garbanzo beans, soyabean, cow bean and pulses should be consumed carefully and care should be taken that they are digested properly. Eating cold items in cold seasons or hot items in hot seasons (incompatible to seasons) or consuming hot and cold items together (incompatible potencies) etc are called incompatible foods in Ayurveda. Avoiding such foods is always beneficial. The secret of keeping fit even in old age is to begin when you’re young. Following a good lifestyle and food regimen in the first innings of life always has benefits in the second. Staying vigilant about food helps in playing the long innings of life. After all, good life has its own significance and in old age you can think about it only with good health.
What is good to eat? Deficiency of antioxidants is often observed in patients with autoimmune diseases. So substances supplying antioxidants are recommended in such diseases. Most of the fresh vegetables and fruits are full of antioxidants. Eating them regularly is beneficial in such diseases. Vegetables like pumpkin, white goosefoot, carrot, apple gourd, torai, cauliflower, cabbage, pointed gourd, turnip, ladies finger, and beetroot and fruits like apple, pomegranate, papaya, lychee, apricots, and pear are should all form a part of your diet if you’re suffering from autoimmune diseases. Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 35
Ayur Life
Yoga / Ayur
/ Panchakarma
E
Shashtikshali Pottali Swed:
Navrakili Several diseases are treated with fomentation therapy in Ayurveda. Fomentation contributes a lot in nourishing dhatus and strengthening muscles. The present article offers insight into Shashtikshali Pottali Swed.
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yurveda describes many types of fomentations. They all are energizing and strengthen the body tissues. Shashtikshali Pottali Swed is one of them. It nourishes and rejuvenates the dhatus. It strengthens the muscles, joints, and bones and cures several diseases related to them.
Material The word 'shali' means 'rice' in Sanskrit. The variety of rice that grows in 60 days in the fields is called shashtikshali. Apart from this, balaroot, milk, and cloth pieces are used in this process. Medicated oil is also required for the initial massage. Rice is cooked with decoction of bala and milk and potalies made from it are used for massage. 36 – Paramayu – Jul 2015
How it works? “Shashtikshali, bala, and milk are all very nourishing. They pacify vata and pitta and promote the growth of dhatus. After coming in contact with the skin, the medicinal substances from these ingredients enter the body and nourish the seven dhatus. They improve the functioning of muscles and nerves. Vata aggravated in these tissues is pacified and a rejuvenation process is initiated. Oil used in this massage also has similar properties.
Procedure: The whole body is massaged with warm oil. A pot containing the bala decoction and milk is kept on fire. Once it becomes warm, four potalies are kept in it. After a while two potalies are taken out and used for massaging the body. When the potalies cool down, they are kept back in the boiling milk and the other two
are used for the massage. Thus, potalies are exchanged alternately and massage is continued for an hour. At the end, the paste applied on the patient's body is removed and warm oil is applied.
Benefits of Shashti kshali Pottali Swed: It cures vata diseases. It is effective in cases of
arthritis, paralysis, diseases of spinal cord, neural pains, and degenerative diseases.
verybody wishes to remain happy and make progress in life. They want their happiness and youth to last forever. But the fact that whatever is created will be destroyed cannot be denied. But things can be maintained well. This applies to the human body as well. Taking proper care can preserve youth for a longer period of time. Yoga happens to be one of the ways to do that. In the series of asanas, we will be describing the Padahastasan today.
Life
Procedure:
Precautions:
1. Stand upright joining both the feet. 2. Inhale slowly and raise both arms upwards near the ears. 3. Exhale slowly and bend forward through the lumbar region. 4. Try to touch the toes with your fingers. 5. Keep breathing normally. Stay in the position for 1 to 3 minutes as per capacity. 6. Come back in standing position while breathing in. 7. Bring your arms down while exhaling.
1. Breath in and out through the nose. 2. Don't worry if you can't touch the toes and don't try to do it forcefully. Consistent practice can yield success. 3. Once achieved try to touch the sides of the legs with arms and knees with head.
Specialities:
Patients of high BP, slip disc should avoid this asana.
Pregnant women and menstruating women should avoid it.
In earlier days don't be afraid if you feel any pain in the muscles.
Always do yoga in a pleasant and peaceful mood.
Benefits: 1. It makes the waist slim and spine flexible. 2. Helps in controlling diabetes 3. Useful in constipation, gases, indigestion 4. Increases blood circulation towards the face and makes it radiant 5. Reduced fat from abdomen 6. Increases height of children 7. Increases strength of muscles of thighs and calves.
Note: Take the doctor's advice and the guidance of an expert teacher before starting yoga practice.
It is also useful in joint
diseases, sciatica, and underweight patients. Process of aging is slowed
down and rejuvenation is promoted.
Precautions: Care should be taken that the patient does not feel cold during the massage. Warm oil should be applied on the body inter mittently and at the end of the massage.
Everyone takes treatment after falling ill, but doing yoga regularly keeps you far away from diseases. Sparing some time to get connected with yoga means you keep distance from diseases and receive a long, healthy life. Discover the benefits of Padahastasan in this article.
Padahastasan – Yogacharya Harish Mohan
Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 37
Ayur Life / The Super Herbs
[kl ds fofHkUu mi;ksx
Name Justifies the Action
Scientific Research
Guduchi is also known as ‘amrit bel’, or ‘the immortal vine’ in Ayurveda. This is because neither does it die nor does it let the person eating it fall ill.
Scientific research has brought to light many useful properties of guduchi. It is anti-diabetic, anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, hepato-protective, and immune-modulatory.
A person of any age can consume guduchi. It is an effective remedy against a variety of illnesses, ranging from simple diarrhea to complicated conditions like dengue and cancer. In India it is found everywhere up to a thousand meter height.
Scientists have found that guduchi benefits the immune system in many ways. Its usage as anti-stress tonic has been clinically standardized. In children it helps a lot even for increasing IQ. So guduchi does, in fact, deserve the name immortal vine.
Natural Habitat & Morphology
Guduchi The Live & Let Live Herb From Ayurveda
The guduchi vine is seen in all regions of India. It grows readily along the fences of farms, gardens of houses or trees standing on barren lands. Its leaves are green and heart shaped. It has small, red fruits that grow in bunches during the fertile seasons. Scientists have extracted various chemicals, such as burberium and glucoside geline from guduchi. Starch extracted from its stem pacifies all three doshas.
Health Benefits If you have fever, make a paste with 10-inch guduchi piece and 9–10 basil leaves. Boil them in water to make decoction and have it twice a day to bring down fever. Weak eyesight is a common problem in all ages. 10 ml guduchi juice should be taken with honey to improve eyesight.
Some facts about guduchi: Latin Name:
%
English Name
: Gulancha Tinospora
Sanskrit Name:
% % % %
Hindi Name:
Nature has been called ‘the mother’ in all cultures. This is because it has given mankind valuable gifts that are not only precious but also offer life, just like a mother does. Guduchi, also know as giloy, falls into this category. In this article we will discuss the benefits of this herb. 38 – Paramayu – Jul 2015
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lternative medicine is a term that has been coined quite recently; but it is actually a primary medical system. The treatment process and medicines in these systems generally rely heavily on ingredients that are easily available around us. Guduchi (or ‘giloy’ in Hindi) is one such herb that is used in Ayurveda.
Having guduchi with guggulu is beneficial in diseases like itching, eczema, and gout that are brought on by impure blood. Amruta guggulu is prepared from it. Guduchi decoction is effective in urinary diseases. Taking guduchi with castor oil reduces even chronic joint diseases.
Rasa (Taste) Veerya (Potency)
Tinospora cordifolia Guduchi Giloy Bitter, astringent Hot
Vipak (Post
% Gunas (Properties)% Effect on doshas %
digestion effect)
Sweet Heavy, unctuous Pacifies all three doshas
Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 39
Ayur Life / Recipe Come summers and the sight of a hawker walking with a basket on his head, shouting ‘kaale khatte faalse, thande meethe faalse’ (black, tangy faalse; cool, sweet faalse), is a familiar one. There might not be so many faalsa sellers these days, since this fruit has become something of a rarity, but faalsa remains the ideal summer treat, best enjoyed with a dash of black pepper and chaat masala.
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ative to India and other countries like Nepal, Pakistan, Cambodia, Thailand, and Bangladesh, faalsa isn’t just a delicious fruit, it’s also full of goodness. For centuries, it’s been used as a treatment for liver and gallbladder problems. It is cardioprotective and pacifies vata. Faalsa not only quenches thirst but also strengthen urinary system. It is a good source of calcium and phosphorous. It proves beneficial in conditions like indigestion and hyperacidity.
Ingredients: 250 gms falsa 1 litre water 1 tsp powdered cumin 1 tsp rock salt 125 gm jaggery powder
Doctor Granny
Method: 1. Start by soaking fresh faalsa in water. Let it soak for half an hour. 2. Dry the berries and sprinkle liberally with salt. Leave them to macerate. 3. Mash well with a spoon and strain the softened berries through a sieve. Make sure you separate the seeds from the pulp. 4. To this faalsa concentrate add powdered cumin (jeera), rock salt, and jaggery. If you want, you can switch jaggery with other sweeteners like sugar or honey. 5. Add a liter of water and mix well. Chill before serving. 6. Pour into glasses, add a few ice cubes, garnish with mint leaves, and serve.
Beat the Summer Heat With Cool & Refreshing
Falsa Sherbet – Komal Karamchandani
Urticaria Whoever has urticaria and is fed up of anti-allergics needs Ayurveda's magic.!!!
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n today's hectic life, we have made fast foods, cold drinks, cheese, and chocolates a part of our life. They aggravate pitta in the body and cause eruptions with itching and burning. This medical problem is known as urticaria. Consuming pitta aggravating items instead of light and easy-to-digest food is responsible for this condition. From the perspective of Ayurveda, cold winds can cause it too. The modern understanding, however, is that it’s urticaria which can occur anywhere. Causes & Spread of Disease: Due to contact with cold
air, kapha and vata get aggravated, combine with pitta and spread in skin and other internal dhatus like rakta and produce
40 – Paramayu – Jul 2015
– Dr. Shubhda Kaushik sheetapitta. Its eruptions are sometimes tiny and sometimes large like coins. In this disease, reddish
eruptions or blisters appear which tend to itch and burn. When scratched, they spread even more. Home Remedies Taking turmeric in milk
not only makes the skin beautiful but also purifies the blood. Gairika (red ochre iron)
and alum are applied on eruptions. Applying mint juice on
urticaria brings relief. We can also deal with the
disease through proper food and lifestyle. Applying 1/4 cup rose
water and 1/4 cup vinegar proves useful, if eruptions have pain as well as burning sensation Bathing with cold water
also helps in this state. Applying calamine lotion
also proves beneficial. Aloe vera is also applied on
burning lesions. Note: Before using these remedies, please take advice from an expert. Remember, home remedies cannot replace medicines. If your condition doesn't improve, seek help from an expert.
Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 41
Turmeric Cream
Jiva Henna Shampoo A unique blend of henna and other herbal extracts that cleanse the scalp. Henna gives a beautiful hue to the hair, providing a glossy look and a satiny feel. Lemon is cleansing in nature and removes dirt and excessive oils. Recommended for: Dull hair, Premature Greying, Excessive Oily scalp. It gently cleanse hair and invigorate the scalp for fresh growth and healthier shine.
The Jiva Turmeric Cream brings you the wonder qualities of pure, natural turmeric. The cream will keep your skin infection free and soft by helping to heal the minute wounds on it. It will bring back the natural glow to any dull skin as it cleanses the pores of accumulated impurities. You will feel the freshness throughout the day as we have handpicked the ingredients from natural sources. Recommended for: Acne prone skin, Pimples, Blemishes , Skin wounds & other common disorders of skin.
Jiva Neem Tablet
A Visit by Shri Digvijay Singh
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n 28 April, former Madhya Pradesh CM and Congress general secretary Shri Digvijay Singh visited Jiva Telemedicine Centre on Mathura road in Faridabad. Despite his stringent security cover; he took interest in every aspect of Jiva TMC. He walked through the TMC and enquired about its functioning. He also obtained information about the steps ranging from manufacturing of drugs to distribution. He also lauded the unique composition of TMC, got acquainted with the working style of TMC doctors and showed appreciation for the same. He was informed about, how TMC doctors diagnose and guide thousands of patients everyday on telephone. He was impressed to know about this unique setup. He even allowed photographs with the doctors and described his visit as successful.
Jiva at HT-PACE Annual Teachers' Meet
AyurCorp from Jiva
The Jiva Neem Tablet pacifies pitta and kapha doshas and is a powerful purifier of blood. The tablet improves your energy levels by improving circulation in the body channels. It is a sure cure to urinary disorders, blood and skin related disorders and against general debility. We have chosen quality ingredients from organic environs for you and sorted them to ensure unmatched efficiency. We employ processes that are primed to give you a balanced product without contamination or loss of potency. Recommended for: getting rid of Blood impurities, skin disorders and associated symptoms
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Jiva Shatavari Tab Shatavari is an all-round tonic and rejuvenating that can be given to a person with any type, constitution, males or females, youngsters, or elders. It tones, cleanses, nourishes, and strengthens the female reproductive organs and so is traditionally used for PMS, Amenorrhea, Dysmenorrhoea, menopause, and pelvic inflammatory disease like Endometriosis. It also supports deeper tissue and builds blood and so it helps to remove infertility, prepare the womb for conception, prevent miscarriage and acts as a postpartum tonic where it helps to increase lactation and normalize the uterus and the changing hormones. Recommended for: concerns related to Infertility, Menstrual Disorders, General Debility
Jiva Amla Juice Amla is a natural source of Vitamin C. An adequate amount of Vitamin C is crucial for the eyesight and hair. It keeps the vision clear and prevents hair fall. It is an effective heart and liver tonic, helps to detoxify and purify the body. It normalizes cholesterol, blood sugar level and helps to restore vigour & vitality naturally. Rinsing the mouth with Amla juice cleanses the mouth and provides relief from bad breath. Recommended for: Bad vision, Detoxification of Body, For concerns related to eye sight & hair, Low immunity and fatigue as well.
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t Hindustand Times - PACE (Partnerships for Action in Education) Annual Teachers' Meet on Tuesday, 17 March, 600 teachers received guidance from Dr. Partap Chauhan, founder of JIVA Ayurveda and American educator, author and Jiva Director Steven Rudolph. While Dr Chauhan stressed on physical constitution and its significance in lifestyle, Mr. Rudolph shed light of various dimensions of education. Dr Chauhan's speech revolved around concept of doshas, the basic body type and food & lifestyle that should be followed by each type. His speech raised the mood of the programme which concluded with Mr. Rudolph's 'rock 'n' roll version' of 'Saare Jahan Se Achcha'.
s a part of its AyurCorp initiative, Jiva conducted AyurCorp camps at three locations, the first of which was Punj Lloyd Engineering (PLE) in Gurgaon. Conducted over a period of two days, Jiva interacted with 300–400 employees. This was followed by a one day camp each at Sapient Consulting, Noida and Steria India, Noida, on the 21st and 23rd of April respectively. Jiva interacted with more than 900 employees at Sapient and over 3500 employees at Steria. The response at all three venues has been overwhelming. Based on the responses received for the "Know Your Body Type" questionnaire, the employees received guidance about their body type, the diet and lifestyle best suited to it and support that Jiva therapies & products can offer to them.
Jiva launches New Ayurveda Clinics: Jammu, Chinchwad (near Pune), Ahmedabad (Gahatlodiya), Malviya Nagar (New Delhi) and Agra
42 – Paramayu – Jul 2015
Jul 2015 – Paramayu – 43
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