The natural goals of the spiritually-inspired sage-scientists of Vedic India were to grow from body to super-body, from everyday mind to a transcendental mind, and from recognizing their spirit essence to realizing God. This is why Ayurvedic medicine not only takes action to prevent disease, but also restore, refine, and flower the body and mind into optimal state. Central to mind-body-soul rejuvenation in Ayurveda is an invisible substance called Ojas. The ancient sages teach about ojas, writing that the word comes from the root word ubjate, meaning “to express oneself,”and it is often called “the physiological expression of consciousness.” What is Ojas? Ojas is an invisible substance, but its presence can be known from inner glow, cheerfulness, disease resistance, and vitality. Ojas is a product of the food you eat and is a subtle, yet essential feature of all human beings. It is the essence of healthy digestion. When you have good digestion, you have good ojas - provided you make healthy food choices. Your digestion is like an orchestra. Not one instrument can be out of tune, else the entire symphony is in discord. Ojas is the final precious fruit after the body has accomplished the hard labor of playing the music in perfect sequence with divine skill. There are many ways to build 0jas within the body, such as eating certain foods and herbs, practicing self-massage and meditation. Manufacturing ojas is not easy, but depleting ojas is, unfortunately, super easy. Ojas gets burned up by Mithya Ahar Vihar, which means wrongful food and lifestyle. Here are 5 major reasons for the loss of ojas, and how to remedy them! 1. Worrying Do you know that worrying for no reason burns your ojas big time? The senses go under major stress when you incessantly worry. Remedy: Let go, release to a High Power. Meditate. Adopt Karma Yoga and Bhakti Yoga as lifestyles. 2. Inconsistent Mealtimes If you have a habit of indulging in fast foods and untimely meals, you are losing ojas. Remedy: Plan your meals and eating times in advance. Stick to your plan. You’ll soon find yourself feeling more energetic and with a clearer mind. 3. Over-Doing Anything If you are overworking, staying up late at night to watch movies, browse the internet or even working out and exercising excessively, you may be losing ojas. Remedy: You are a precious being. Show your body how precious it is. Don't abuse it or push it beyond its capacities. Recognize who you are - a Divine Spirit, not a mere mind pushing a poor body at whim! Adopt Jnana Yoga to awaken your spiritual memories. 4. Ignoring Seasonal Shifts Going on diets or detoxing in the wrong seasons can destroy your critical reserves of ojas. Instead of feeling great you become fretful, anxious, shaky, and irritable. Remedy: Explore Ayurveda's timeless teachings on food, food rules, and cooking at a deep and connective level. 5. Negative Emotions Perhaps most important of all, negative emotions like anger and resentment fry up your ojas. Just one rage or jealousy attack can set you back, big-time! You can even have a heart attack when ojas plunges below normal! Remedy: Make your mind a priority. Cultivate a peaceful mind. As a teacher, I focus intently on the mind. Find a counselor, teacher, discipline, path that helps you master your mind. Don’t be fooled! While today’s representations of Ayurveda may imply it, there are no quick fixes to boosting ojas. If eating ghee, drinking golden milk, or popping herbs like Ashwagandha and Amalaki alone was enough to boost your ojas (immunity and vitality factor), India would be the healthiest country - but it is hardly that. What we must not forget is what the ancient Vedic sages were telling us, which is that our negative mental states, out-of-control lifestyles of over-work, over-exertion, over-activity, excessive exercise, and even excessive ambition are working against us. Along with the ghee, cow’s milk or Amalaki, we also need consistent and restful sleep. We need calm and rested senses. We need a lifestyle that is not excessive in any way - physically, emotionally, socially or spiritually - and we need a heart that feels pleased to be alive and free of fear. For my Alchemy through Ayurveda course, I have recorded over 120 hours of my teachings for all levels of knowledge-seekers. I dive deep into how to manage the mind, how to experience healthy emotions, and how to create balance in our modern lives with so many pressures. Mind management is the well-considered response to a life that inhibits Ojas, rather than merely popping herbs to up the ojas. Ojas endows us with immunity, vigor, vitality, charm, and intelligence. You are built for ojas, and you deserve immunity and vitality and inner peace, provided you are willing to lead your life with wisdom. I invite you to study with me! View payment plans for the course here and read what my students are saying here. Acharya Shunya is a globally-recognized spiritual teacher and Vedic lineage-holder who awakens health and consciousness through the Vedic sciences of Ayurveda, Vedanta and Yoga. She is the driving force behind an online wisdom school and worldwide spiritual community, and the author of best-selling book on the Vedic art of mind + body + soul well-being and health, Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom (Sounds True, 2017) and forthcoming second book with Sounds True to be released in 2020, Sovereign Self. Acharya Shunya is a keynote speaker at national and international conferences, and serves as an advisor to the Indian Government in matters pertaining to global integration and cultivation of Ayurveda and Yoga. Receive her free online teachings and browse her current eCourse offerings here or see more about her on Facebook and follow her on Instagram. Subscribe to her YouTube Channel where she holds live Global Satsangs once per month. Study Ayurveda with Acharya Shunya in her online course, Alchemy through Ayurveda.

There is a direct relationship between physical, mental, and spiritual health, as per Ayurveda, the science of health and healing from ancient India. Spirituality helps one understand the basic building blocks of human individuality and speaks to ultimate concerns of human existence. It helps us cope with the stress of life, personal strivings and issues of adaptive functioning. Spirituality supports the deepest healing and total transformation - which is possible when existential suffering (that all human beings experience at some time or another in life) is directly addressed with spiritual knowledge of the invincible Self. [1] Physical medicine has limitations in this capacity, and this is where the need to blend the hard science of disease management with pragmatic spirituality becomes apparent. The seers, who were the original authors of Ayurveda, gifted humanity a unique medicine that is simultaneously an artful way of living to protect and optimize health. Ayurveda is a science-based system of medicine to overcome chronic and acute physical disease, but also a spiritual path or philosophy to approach the transcendent or ultimate reality, by way of a purified mind. This purified mind reveals the truth of a subtle, spiritual core of the true Self (Atman), which is beyond the suffering of body and mind, always whole, healthy, incorporeal, ethereal, eternal, and which survives death. [2] In this last capacity, Ayurveda seems to be able to satisfy the individual need for a sense of meaning in life (Trivarga) [4] and the search for larger purpose in life (Moksha). [5] “Meaning” may also include moral or ethical values (Dharma and Sadvirtta) [5] that are universal, and emerge from Ayurveda’s view of the ultimate sacred reality (Brahman), which surpasses religion. What is remarkable is that Ayurveda is perhaps humanity's one and only system of health and recovery that corroborates the state of ideal or perfect health with a state of “transcendence,” or meta-experience of a transpersonal, unity consciousness. This outlook reflects Ayurveda’s spiritual Vedic roots and alignment with Vedic cultural ideals. The concept of “love” in Ayurveda goes beyond the felt transitory “emotion,” into an abiding belief system, comprising of compassion, altruism, forgiveness, patience, tolerance, support, empowerment, respect, responsibility, etc., which shape intent, and guide our actions, both towards our self, and all other beings (Sarva Bhuta Hita). [6] Thus, Ayurveda is a complete spiritual tradition (Adhyatmika Darshan). Ayurveda does not incorporate consciousness as part of its therapy as an adjunct. In contrast, in Ayurvedic medicine, life itself is described as a tripod of consciousness (Atman), body (Sharira), and mind (Sattva). [7] Ayurvedic medicine is, thus, the first medicine of mankind ever to systematically and comprehensively incorporate spirituality, or consciousness, as the most essential aspect of healing, without which life itself is not possible. No Forced Splitting Between Matter and Spirit Therefore, classical Ayurveda’s understanding is vastly different from other healing sciences, which regard the subject matter as either purely physical or purely mental. Most medical systems claim their hard-earned pragmatism by denying, or at least ignoring, the possibility of the existence of consciousness. The unique Ayurvedic approach positively empowers humans in their search for true health, by reminding us fragile humans of our inherent potential to self-heal by reclaiming connection with our spiritual Self, which is eternally whole, universally connected, and one with the ultimate reality. This spiritual Self is a source of plenary existence (Sat), plenary intelligence (Chit), and plenary bliss (Ananda). In other words, existence is consciousness and consciousness is bliss. [8] The Self is an enigmatic, mighty power to the unversed, but Ayurveda invites each one of us to recognize this substratum of uninterrupted, immortal consciousness, and become familiar with our true nature, our eternal Self, through spiritual understanding. Once we begin to entertain the possibility of a transcendental Self that animates and outlives our fragile phenomenal body-being, we begin to appreciate our life in all its colors, depth, and essence. We will finally become ready to receive the supreme gift of spiritual knowledge (Atma Jnanam), which the Vedic Rishis were intending for all human beings. [10] Ayurveda does not neglect one dimension at the cost of another. Ayurveda emphasizes that, for a healthy and fulfilled journey through life, all dimensions of ‘life’ are correlated, equally significant, and co-operational. No other system of healing, apart from Ayurveda, delivers so comprehensively physical, mental, social, moral, ethical ecological, environmental, and above all, spiritual health for the journeying soul. Spirituality versus Religion To continue to advocate a meaningful inclusion of spirituality in medicine, it is necessary to clarify a difference between the terms “spirituality” and “religion.” Spirituality is, indeed, a multifaceted and multidimensional intellectual, experiential, and behavioral human quest for meaning, purpose, and expression of truth in life (known as the pursuit of Moksha in Ayurveda). It is also the mindful embodiment of universally applicable and entirely humane ethical values and beliefs by which an individual act, lives, and makes decisions in life (included under the concept of Dharma in Ayurveda). The emotive aspects of spirituality involve feelings of optimism, hope, empathetic connection to all beings, compassion, care and love, a sense of inner centeredness, peacefulness, and finally, a continued reliance upon inner resources, in the form of an inner conviction of the presence of a cosmic power greater than oneself. This is subsumed under the concept of Sadvritta in Ayurveda. Spirituality expresses itself in the ability to grow, learn, deserve self-worth, and to give and receive spiritual love with ease. A spirituality-driven person, as a result, has a healthy relationship with their self, others, the society, the natural environment, and this entire universe at large. Religion, on the other hand, is a canonized set of beliefs about spirituality, headed by a group of individuals, and each religion attempts to help connect its followers to its unique “concept of spirituality” through its own body of practices, theories, rituals, and codes. Many find religion as a first door into the realm of spirituality, and others may find spirituality via other doors – not religion. Spirituality, unlike religion, is the greater, more developed notion, and it can and does exist despite religion, as evidenced by the sciences of Ayurveda, Yoga, and Vedanta. An experience of spirituality is entirely possible even for the atheist or agnostic, who may choose to connect to a higher truth via nature, the arts, music, philosophy, and even the pursuit of pure science, since spirituality is a universal mind state that is connected to a meta-reality. Precluding Spiritual Crisis As per Ayurveda, because we are really spirit with a body and mind, our spiritual nature is primary, and our psychological and biological nature is secondary and dependent upon our spiritual nature. Hence, to be spiritually cognizant is important for the health of the other two dimensions of existence (body and mind). This is why those who are spiritually-inspired and have a sense of connectedness with a universal truth experience hope, meaning, purpose, and inner strength to overcome to become. However, if there is a spiritual non-alignment for any reason (negative religious experiences in the past, life situations, such as terminal illness, or tremendous personal loss that makes one spiritually-estranged), then individuals can experience existential isolation, mindlessness, meaninglessness, utter dismay and hopelessness that go beyond what can be fixed by mental health practitioners. This is a spiritual crisis and it has a lasting negative impact on mental, as well as physical health. Ayurveda wants to proactively prevent spiritual crisis, by informing each human being of their spiritual Self, Atman, from the get-go. For a concept of health that goes beyond the limitations of body and mind, Ayurveda informs us that we are ultimately spirit, Atman, which is one and the same with the Universal Truth, or Brahman. Atman (personal self) and Brahman (universal self) are not divinely illustrious personalities or godheads, but actually facets of the same Ultimate Reality, which transcends name and form, is permanent, immutable, unchanging, uncaused, non-dual ground of this diverse creation. While both terms ultimately refer to the same truth, Atman refers to the reality of consciousness expressed in living beings, while Brahman refers to the same consciousness in its purely transcendental, infinite universal state. Evidently, the realization of the identity of the personal Self with transcendental consciousness is the highest goal of human life, as per Ayurveda. [9] Further, this is not hard or impossible, teaches Ayurveda (in tune with the Veda), because this consciousness, or spiritual Self, is “self-revealing,” and its presence can be immediately known and experienced through the agency of a quieted mind. This consciousness, Atman, is indeed self-luminous. It is to the credit of Ayurvedic medicine and its expansive sweep into the nature of existence that the multi-dimensional living being – you and me, can hope to heal not only in body and mind, but also reclaim, at any time, our spiritual nature. There is hope. We can hope to be “seen.” We can hope to be appreciated with all our complexity. Our experiences are all valid, each and every one of them; and, we are not merely dismembered organs, structures, and functions; we are whole. We are more than our parts. We are lofty spirits having a local experience on this planet called earth, in this process called life. We are in all and all is in us. Everything is essentially as it is meant to be. Everything is peaceful, if we choose peace. Everything is one, regardless of whether we see diversity. Our true Self sings this soothing song. Listen. Let us hear it together through Ayurveda - this is the invitation of the Rishis, no less. The Missed Opportunity by Modern Ayurveda Fraternity Despite such a rich spiritual background, worldwide and especially in in India, Ayurveda's country of origin, we witness more and more a preference toward a bio-pharmaceutical statistical model; and the word "holistic" is highly limited in its professional application. Focus upon psycho-spiritual dimensions of health is minimal, if not absent. This is an unfortunate situation, partly due to the Ayurveda fraternity’s preoccupation with modern physical sciences and attempts to launch Ayurveda on the same footing as mainstream medicine. While there are pros and cons to this approach, the bottom line is that spirituality is being marginalized amongst Indian practitioners of Ayurveda, as well in the Ayurveda education process. In contrast to the mainstream, I have always supported the emergence of a "whole person" model of Ayurveda, wherein the human subject's psycho-spiritual needs are compassionately addressed, while not neglecting the body at any time. The education I provide, my practice, and my public image is concomitant with Ayurveda’s spiritual and mental benefits, along with physical health improvement. This is why, my Ayurveda teachings have been generating a renaissance of sorts over the last 12 years by enabling a fresh paradigm to apply Ayurveda's multi-dimensional model to alleviate suffering. An increasing number of published studies are examining the connection between spirituality/religiosity, health, and quality of life. When spirituality is accepted as a living value that must be assiduously cultivated for true health and lasting well-being, it becomes the basis of a compassionate attitude toward all beings (including our self) and service toward those who are suffering. I want to caution my students and current and future Ayurveda practitioners (who are inspired by my tremendously successful “spiritually-aligned” model), against the quick commodification of Ayurvedic spirituality, as is unfortunately the trend in new-age culture. If we, as a community, do not define what the basic premise of Ayurvedic spirituality is from the source texts, and what its landmark principles and salient features are, a misappropriation of an ancient spiritual wellness tradition cannot be ruled out. In the current era, when the ancient wisdom that was once passed on carefully from teacher to select student, can now be bought and sold literally with the click of a button, its application, too, becomes driven by market trends. Practitioners of future can take wisdom forward today, to continue to bridge the great divide between the material and spiritual dimensions of health that has beset Ayurveda today. But first, they must make the effort to study Ayurveda in a deeper way - deeper than merely mastering dosha-balancing techniques, quick lists and tips. I hope my efforts in this direction, namely of enabling a spiritually-infused, whole-person education through classical Ayurveda, will broaden the understanding of the role of spirituality and dharma ethics in improving the health and well-being of individual patients, families, and healthcare providers. I invite you to explore my Alchemy through Ayurveda course, where I not only provide the theoretical background of spirituality in Ayurveda, but also highlight tools that support spirituality and evoke the student's own abilities and inner resources to manage stress, challenges, and existential question marks. Charaka Samhita, Sutra Sthanam, I, Shloka, 55-56 Charaka Samhita, Sharira Sthanam, I, Shloka 59 Ashtanga Hridayam, Sutra Sthanam, I, Shloka 2 Charaka Samhita, Sharira Sthanam, V, Shloka 16-19 5 Charaka Samhita, Sharira Sthanam, II, 46-47 Charaka Samhita, Sharira Sthanam, V, 22-24 Charaka Samhita, Sutra Sthanam, VIII, 29 Charaka Samhita, Sutra Sthanam, 1, 46-47 Charaka Samhita, Sharira Sthanam, I, 83, 155 Charaka Samhita, Sharira Sthanam, I, 155 Charaka Samhita, Sharira Sthanam, I, 143-146 Acharya Shunya is a globally-recognized spiritual teacher and Vedic lineage-holder who awakens health and consciousness through the Vedic sciences of Ayurveda, Vedanta and Yoga. She is the driving force behind an online wisdom school and worldwide spiritual community, and the author of best-selling book on the Vedic art of mind + body + soul well-being and health, Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom (Sounds True, 2017) and forthcoming second book with Sounds True to be released in 2020, Sovereign Self. Acharya Shunya is a keynote speaker at national and international conferences, and serves as an advisor to the Indian Government in matters pertaining to global integration and cultivation of Ayurveda and Yoga. Receive her free online teachings and browse her current eCourse offerings here or see more about her on Facebook and follow her on Instagram. Subscribe to her YouTube Channel where she holds live Global Satsangs once per month. Study Ayurveda with Acharya Shunya in her online course, Alchemy through Ayurveda.

Who can describe God to me? What words will this person use to describe the indescribable? And what god is this? Is it male or female? Is it white or black or brown? How can anyone outside of me describe the one that dwells in the cave of my heart as the very essence of my being? None of those labels apply to God in Advaita Vedanta. Only that pure consciousness, which can be the essence and master of all beings, all creatures, in fact all objects, inert or animate, remote or distant, that exist in the past or future, come under the purview of this god. It cannot be a being or a thing; it transcends both. This is the God of Advaita Vedanta, and what's more, the Self, which exists in teacher and student alike, is found be one with God. Further, the teacher instructs, if you contemplate on the common truth and its universal existence, the same God exists and expresses itself through the deepest Self in all beings – be it an ant or a human. The same God becomes the universe and also becomes the non-universe when material existence ends and spiritual existence begins. In reality then, the Self and God are not different - just two separate entities for the sake of explanation. "That which is without name and form, beyond merit and demerit, That which is beyond space, time and sense-objects, You are that God himself; Meditate on this within yourself." — Vivekachudamani, Verse 254, 8th Century AD Through spiritual study with me, you will not only discover who you really are, but also find that the quest for God does not go far from this Self. They are one. To a beginner student, especially one who is used to finding god in institutions made by man, this may sound like a farfetched concept. But countless beings, who are now renowned as sages or Self-realized ones, have found through the pure Self shining within, a connection with the God that dwells as all, in all. Acharya Shunya is a globally-recognized spiritual teacher and Vedic lineage-holder who awakens health and consciousness through the Vedic sciences of Ayurveda, Vedanta and Yoga. She is the driving force behind an online wisdom school and worldwide spiritual community, and the author of best-selling book on the Vedic art of mind + body + soul well-being and health, Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom (Sounds True, 2017) and forthcoming second book with Sounds True to be released in 2020, Sovereign Self. Acharya Shunya is a keynote speaker at national and international conferences, and serves as an advisor to the Indian Government in matters pertaining to global integration and cultivation of Ayurveda and Yoga. Receive her free online teachings and browse her current eCourse offerings here or see more about her on Facebook and follow her on Instagram. Subscribe to her YouTube Channel where she holds live Global Satsangs once per month. Study Ayurveda with Acharya Shunya in her online course, Alchemy through Ayurveda.

Saffron is the best anti-blemish and complexion-enhancing agent. Oats are highly absorptive and soften the skin. Red lentil has excellent skin-cleansing properties. It can be used on the face as well as all over the body. Milk provides a nourishing and moisturizing quality. All of these wonderful ingredients, when mixed and applied on the face, clean it, soften it, and add a beautiful glow! Ingredients ½ cup red lentil flour (masoor) ¼ cup ground oats ¼ teaspoon saffron strands 1 tablespoon cool milk, or enough to make a paste Method Mix all ingredients into a paste. Apply a thin layer on face and body. Wash off with cool water after ten minutes. Learn more in my book Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom or my newly digitized course, Alchemy through Ayurveda, where I dive deep into wisdom passed down to me from my 2000-year-old Vedic lineage. Watch the intro to the course for free today and get started on your journey to wellness! Acharya Shunya is a globally-recognized spiritual teacher and Vedic lineage-holder who awakens health and consciousness through the Vedic sciences of Ayurveda, Vedanta and Yoga. She is the driving force behind an online wisdom school and worldwide spiritual community, and the author of best-selling book on the Vedic art of mind + body + soul well-being and health, Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom (Sounds True, 2017) and forthcoming second book with Sounds True to be released in 2020, Sovereign Self. Acharya Shunya is a keynote speaker at national and international conferences, and serves as an advisor to the Indian Government in matters pertaining to global integration and cultivation of Ayurveda and Yoga. Receive her free online teachings and browse her current eCourse offerings here or see more about her on Facebook and follow her on Instagram. Subscribe to her YouTube Channel where she holds live Global Satsangs once per month. Study Ayurveda with Acharya Shunya in her online course, Alchemy through Ayurveda.

The sweet-smelling hair oils of which my mother soaked my sister and I's hair from scalp to tip, were like fragrant gardens in oil, anointing my very being. She would make the oils at home, using jasmine, henna, coconut, mustard, hibiscus and marigold infused with brahmi or methi. Today, when friends appreciate my hair, thick and lustrous even in my fifties, a part of me goes floating back in my memories of my mother’s determined eyes and plying hands as she kneaded our hair into oily plaits dripping with Ayurvedic hair oils. She hand-made our shampoos, and if split ends were found on her daughter's hair, she took it personally! I desired to do this myself as I started growing older. So one day, when I was seven years old,  I unscrewed a heavy glass bottle filled with homemade hair oil and, inadvertently, poured the entire bottle of oil on my head. The oil quickly flowed down my shoulders and dripped to the floor below. Mortified, I stood there dripping in sticky, thick oil. When my mother and father walked into the room, they burst out laughing, shaking their heads with pleasure and my mother even kissed my sticky forehead saying, "good try." I relaxed with relief and felt I had accomplished something really important and right. I am grateful today that my accident was not criticized, but my efforts were praised. Ayurveda calls oils sneha which means love. As this sneha permeated every cell and pore of my body, my mothers rhythmic hand strokes repeated the message of  love, love, and love, to my deepest being. Ayurveda filled my childhood. Today, in my Ayurveda classes, I teach my students Ayurvedic hair care in great detail, including which oils to use for which doshas, and which seasons to use them in. I also teach the best foods to eat to prevent premature hair loss. There are certain superfoods and recipes that, once digested, immediately become hair on your scalp. Yes, I know, a magic trick or two! All thanks to my family and my teacher, Baba, who lived and followed the Ayurvedic path and taught so many. My teachings are not highbrow. They are direct from my heart. The way I love, cherish and teach Ayurveda feels magical to me - thanks to the little girl inside me who is still standing with oil dripping down her head, feeling mighty proud of herself! To continue this conversation, join my Facebook group, Vedic Contemplations. Acharya Shunya is a globally-recognized spiritual teacher and Vedic lineage-holder who awakens health and consciousness through the Vedic sciences of Ayurveda, Vedanta and Yoga. She is the driving force behind an online wisdom school and worldwide spiritual community, and the author of best-selling book on the Vedic art of mind + body + soul well-being and health, Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom (Sounds True, 2017) and forthcoming second book with Sounds True to be released in 2020, Sovereign Self. Acharya Shunya is a keynote speaker at national and international conferences, and serves as an advisor to the Indian Government in matters pertaining to global integration and cultivation of Ayurveda and Yoga. Receive her free online teachings and browse her current eCourse offerings here or see more about her on Facebook and follow her on Instagram. Subscribe to her YouTube Channel where she holds live Global Satsangs once per month. Study Ayurveda with Acharya Shunya in her online course, Alchemy through Ayurveda.

The sun and moon are not just entities in the sky - they are free medicine given to you by Mother Earth. The sun and the moon connect you to the yin and the yang, the god and the goddess within you, the male and the female – this is Mother Earth’s free medicine for us all to benefit from! The rising sun, if viewed with your eyes, has an antidepressant effect on your mind. Wake with the rising sun, the way animals in nature do, and you will see many benefits. With the moon, you'll receive the same amazing, balancing benefits. The moon, known as soma in sanskrit, which is also another name for kapha dosha (made of the elements of water and earth). Another sanskrit word for moon is Chandra. Full moons have been known to have a big impact on thoughts, emotions, and the nervous system. The full moon is a special time to go inward, meditate, contemplate and give your overactive and overheated mind a break from constant thinking. Visarga kala is the time of year when the nights grow longer and days shorten. During autumn and early winter times, kapha and pitta dosha show predominance. During this time, it is the moon or soma that affects us beings living here on planet Earth. The cooling moon rays sweep across the hot and dry land rendering everything moist, dewy, cooled and softened. This is an ideal time to build up your strength for the year ahead with nourishing, sweet, unctuous foods. Our immunity is at its highest point this time of year. Ayurvedic Full Moon Rituals On full moon nights, you can make special recipes like Golden Moon Milk (see recipe below!), make moon water, gaze, chant and/or sing to express your gratitude to the moon. The full moon is the best time to make ghee, as it permeates the ghee with super-nourishing qualities. The waxing moon phase controls soma or the very essence of life itself, while ghee is considered to be the very essence of milk itself. By preparing ghee during the full moon, we imbue the ghee with the highest essence of life, making it a true "superfood." Golden Milk Recipe Drink 1/2 to 1 cup of warm golden milk 30 minutes before bedtime. Here's Chef Sanjai's recipe, which was featured in my bestselling book, Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom. 1 cup whole cow's milk or goat's milk (not reduced fat) 4 cups water 1/4 tsp ground turmeric 2-3 green cardamom pods, crushed 2-6 saffron threads 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon powder organic sugar to taste (1-3 teaspoons) Combine milk and water in a medium saucepan. Add all spices (but not sugar). Heat on high, stirring occasionally until mixture begins to boil. Quickly reduce heat to medium-low and stir occasionally, ensuring mixture does not boil over. Cook until the added water has evaporated (20-25 mins). Once liquid has been reduced down to ~ 1 cup, remove from heat and strain, discarding any pods or spices left at the bottom. Add the sugar if using. Drink hot or warm. Sip on your golden milk in a quiet, cozy space, then prepare for bed. Learn more delicious recipes from Chef Sanjai as part of my online Ayurveda course, Alchemy through Ayurveda. Acharya Shunya is a globally-recognized spiritual teacher and Vedic lineage-holder who awakens health and consciousness through the Vedic sciences of Vedanta, Ayurveda and Yoga. Her life partner, Chef Sanjai has resurrected forgotten yet seasonally pertinent, healing and delicious ancient recipes and developed original recipes too, inspired by ancient Ayurvedic texts from 1 BCE to 16 CE. Together, for the last 12 years, they have been the driving force behind their wisdom school Vedika Global's much awarded Ayurveda program, Alchemy through Ayurveda with its emphasis upon health through in depth knowledge of healing foods, spices and recipes. Follow Chef Sanjai on Facebook here! Check out Acharya Shunya's best-selling book on the Vedic art of mind + body + soul well-being and health, Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom (Sounds True, 2017), which highlights Chef Sanjai's top 30 recipes for everyday health, spring detox, overcoming indigestion, etc. They have also recorded a unique series of classes together available in the Ayurveda Ancestral Herbal Library. In these classes, they share rare, lineage-based Ayurvedic recipes for handcrafting health with the power of Ayurvedic superfoods, spices, herbs and garden flowers. They are now co-authoring an Ayurvedic Cookbook. Acharya Shunya's second book with Sounds True is to be released in 2020, titled, Sovereign Self, Claim Your Inner Joy and Freedom with the Empowering Wisdom of the Vedas, Upanishads, and Bhagavad Gita. She is a keynote speaker at national and international conferences and serves as an advisor to the Indian Government in matters pertaining to global integration and cultivation of Ayurveda and Yoga. Receive Acharya Shunya's free online teachings and browse her current eCourse offerings here or see more about her on Facebook and follow her on Instagram. Subscribe to her YouTube Channel where she holds live Global Satsangs once per month.

Almonds Improve memory power and increase sexual vigor. They also improve sperm count and motility. Shunya’s Tip: Soak 4 to 6 almonds overnight in room temperature water. The next day, peel the skin and chew well. Cashews Cashews are a great supplement for hair, skin, libido and bones. Shunya’s Tip: Drink 1 cup of cow’s milk boiled with the powder of 6 grounded cashews every night for improved libido. Pecans Pecans are great for heart health and help reduce the risk of heart disease. Shunya’s Tip: Soak pecans overnight in water. The next morning, boil the pecans in 1 cup of goat’s milk or cow’s milk with ¼ teaspoon of turmeric. Drink hot for breakfast or as a late afternoon vata-balancing snack. Walnuts Ayurveda considers walnuts brain food, so they were traditionally used to overcome stress. Walnuts also improve physical strength and boost immunity. Shunya’s Tip: Quick sauté walnuts in ghee and/or black raisins for additional benefits. Eat as a snack anytime during the winter. Macadamia Nuts The oils in this nut help reduce hair brittleness and prevent hair breakage by increasing elasticity. They also strengthen bones and ward off osteoporosis. Shunya’s Tip: Add macadamia oil to sesame oil and massage your scalp and bones during the winter. Don't forget to warm the oil first. Pine Nuts Pine nuts are similar to walnuts when it comes to brain food. They also give you energy and help nerve function. Shunya’s Tip: Pine nuts cooked in cow’s milk and consumed at night is especially helpful for erectile dysfunction. Pistachios Pistachios strengthen immunity, prevent inflammation and support the nervous system. They help you gain weight. Shunya's Tip: Eat pistachios during the winter to support weight and muscle gain when working out. Nuts are considered superfoods in Ayurveda. However, they must not be eaten year-round – save them for the winter. Always remember that you must eat everything in moderation, including nuts! Learn more in my online course, Alchemy through Ayurveda, where I dive deep into wisdom passed down to me from my 2000-year-old Vedic lineage. Watch the intro to the course for free today and get started on your journey to wellness: bit.ly/Alchemy-Intro. Acharya Shunya is a globally-recognized spiritual teacher and Vedic lineage-holder who awakens health and consciousness through the Vedic sciences of Ayurveda, Vedanta and Yoga. She is the driving force behind Vedika Global, an online not-for-profit wisdom school and worldwide spiritual community, and the author of best-selling book on the Vedic art of min​d​ + body + soul well-being and health, Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom (Sounds True, 2017) and forthcoming second book with Sounds True to be released in 2020, Sovereign Self. Acharya Shunya is a keynote speaker at national and international conferences, and serves as an advisor to the Indian Government in matters pertaining to global integration and cultivation of Ayurveda and Yoga. Receive her free online teachings and browse her current eCourse offerings here or see more about her on Facebook and follow her on Instagram. Subscribe to her YouTube Channel where she holds live Global Satsangs once per month. Study Ayurveda with Acharya Shunya in her online course, Alchemy through Ayurveda.

My earliest memories of Ayurveda are through my young nose... I remember the smell of herbs which were crushed and placed inside my cushioned bed to keep away bugs and invite sweet sleep - dried tulsi leaves mixed with fresh or dried bay leaves with a hint of crushed camphor. I remember my five-year-old body being massaged with an oil that smelled so heady that it made me giggle - sesame oil cooked with night jasmine. I remember my mother applying a paste on my measles scabs so that there was no pain and no scars whatsoever - red sandalwood and red lentil paste. My mother's hands were gentle when they massaged my soft child body with a mixture of gram flour (besan) softened in the cream of whole milk with added turmeric and saffron strands. The aroma of that mixture was enough to lull me into quiet contentment, as I would settle down and fold up my childish exuberance into a little ball of slumber and peace under the early morning rays and gentle administrations of motherly concern and love. Not a single part of my growing body was left un-loved or un-massaged by my mother, who cooked Ayurvedic oils to perfection. When I became a mother myself, I would apply warm, healing oils to my son's growing body and scalp. I even massaged my dogs when their joints acted up. They would yawn, stretch and lick me infinite "thank you's!" As an Ayurveda teacher for the last 20+ years, I have helped countless students reclaim their health through the potent practice of self-massage (abhyanga). Learn more about the Ayurvedic art of oiling the body in my online course, Alchemy through Ayurveda, where I teach extensively on the types of oils to use, as well as exactly when and how to use them. Acharya Shunya is a globally-recognized spiritual teacher and Vedic lineage-holder who awakens health and consciousness through the Vedic sciences of Ayurveda, Vedanta and Yoga. She is the driving force behind Vedika Global, an online not-for-profit wisdom school and worldwide spiritual community, and the author of best-selling book on the Vedic art of min​d​ + body + soul well-being and health, Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom (Sounds True, 2017) and forthcoming second book with Sounds True to be released in 2020, Sovereign Self. Acharya Shunya is a keynote speaker at national and international conferences, and serves as an advisor to the Indian Government in matters pertaining to global integration and cultivation of Ayurveda and Yoga. Receive her free online teachings and browse her current eCourse offerings here or see more about her on Facebook and follow her on Instagram. Subscribe to her YouTube Channel where she holds live Global Satsangs once per month. Study Ayurveda with Acharya Shunya in her online course, Alchemy through Ayurveda.

The word kebab is usually associated with meats. Make these easy-to-digest vegetarian kebabs, and you will not miss the meat! ^ scroll to see photos ^ Watch the video below where Chef Sanjai demonstrates how to mix up your kebab ingredients. Ingredients Green Peas – 1 cup Spinach – ½ cup Quinoa – ½ cup Plantain – 1 piece Buckwheat flour – 1 tbsp. (optional) Cilantro / Coriander leaves – ¼ cup Ginger-Garlic paste – ½ tsp. (optional) Cumin seeds – ¼ tsp. Garam Masala – ½ tsp. (optional) Salt Ghee – 5/6 tsp. Procedure Cut plantain in half, pressure cook or boil until soft; peel and mash. You will need about a ½ cup of mashed plantain. Cook quinoa separately. In another pan, heat 1 tsp. ghee and add cumin seeds, then add the peas, cover and cook 7-8 minutes. Add chopped spinach and cilantro / coriander leaves, cook another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Allow to cool to room temperature. In a blender or using a masher, coarsely grind /mash the peas and spinach. In a large bowl, add the peas and spinach mix (grounded), cooked quinoa, mashed plantain, buckwheat flour (if using – it binds and gives a crispy texture), ginger-garlic paste (if using), garam masala (if using), and salt. Mix them all very well – your hands will be the best tool! Lightly moisten your palm, take about a golf ball sized amount of the mix, roll it around and then gently press from the middle of your palm to give it a flat, round patty-like shape. Moisten your palm every time you take the mix for rolling. The moisture from your hands makes a very fine outer layer that binds the patty together and also gives it a crisp texture. Heat 1-2 tsp. of ghee in a flat pan, then cook the patties on medium heat, 4-5 minutes. Add a couple drops of ghee on the side up, turn over and cook for 4-5 minutes on the other side. Your kebabs are ready to be enjoyed with a chutney of your choice! Tip: For cooking fluffy, non-sticky quinoa – take 1 part quinoa and 2 parts water, bring it to a boil on high heat, do not cover. Then, reduce heat and simmer until all the water is absorbed, then turn off the heat, cover with a lid, and let it steam for 5-7 minutes. Fluff it with a fork. Ginger-Garlic Paste: Use equal quantities of both and mash/grind into a paste. OPTIONAL: Replace peas and spinach mix with 1 medium beet for Beet Kebabs! See photo below. Peel and grate the beet and blanch it in boiling water for half a minute. Strain the water and let it cool to room temperature. If in a rush, run it under cold water. Acharya Shunya is a globally-recognized spiritual teacher and Vedic lineage-holder who awakens health and consciousness through the Vedic sciences of Vedanta, Ayurveda and Yoga. Her life partner, Chef Sanjai has resurrected forgotten yet seasonally pertinent, healing and delicious ancient recipes and developed original recipes too, inspired by ancient Ayurvedic texts from 1 BCE to 16 CE. Together, for the last 12 years, they have been the driving force behind their wisdom school Vedika Global's much awarded Ayurveda program, Alchemy through Ayurveda with its emphasis upon health through in depth knowledge of healing foods, spices and recipes. Follow Chef Sanjai on Facebook here! Check out Acharya Shunya's best-selling book on the Vedic art of mind + body + soul well-being and health, Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom (Sounds True, 2017), which highlights Chef Sanjai's top 30 recipes for everyday health, spring detox, overcoming indigestion, etc. They have also recorded a unique series of classes together available in the Ayurveda Ancestral Herbal Library. In these classes, they share rare, lineage-based Ayurvedic recipes for handcrafting health with the power of Ayurvedic superfoods, spices, herbs and garden flowers. They are now co-authoring an Ayurvedic Cookbook. Acharya Shunya's second book with Sounds True is to be released in 2020, titled, Sovereign Self, Claim Your Inner Joy and Freedom with the Empowering Wisdom of the Vedas, Upanishads, and Bhagavad Gita. She is a keynote speaker at national and international conferences and serves as an advisor to the Indian Government in matters pertaining to global integration and cultivation of Ayurveda and Yoga. Receive Acharya Shunya's free online teachings and browse her current eCourse offerings here or see more about her on Facebook and follow her on Instagram. Subscribe to her YouTube Channel where she holds live Global Satsangs once per month.

Ayurveda, the 5000-year-old complete science of mind-body-soul health and healing from India, is one of the most ancient and well-documented systems of medicine, that is not only relevant in modern times, but gaining worldwide popularity by the day. Its deeply holistic approach, which maintains the health of the healthy and helps the disease reclaim health from within by cooperation with the laws of nature and spirit, remains original and unparalleled. Prevention of sorrow through disease and promotion of joy through health is the main intention of Ayurveda. Lord Dhanvantari is considered a divine propagator of Ayurveda as per ancient Ayurveda/Vedic mythology. Lord Dhanvantari represents ‘Immortal Consciousness’ which, when awakened within our hearts, helps us reclaim the sparkling health and well-being that is often waiting deep inside of us. With Dhanvantari’s blessings, the aged become young again, the diseased become healthy and the sorrowful become joyful! That is the promise of Ayurveda too! That is why, on the traditional festival of Dhanvantari Jayanti, which celebrates the emergence of God Dhanvantari from inside the depths of a deep ocean, holding a pot of nectar (that represents life-giving Ayurvedic wisdom), was chosen for celebration of Ayurveda Day by the Government of India, to pay tribute to this amazing, clearly ahead-of-its-time complete system of medicine. Ayurveda Day and its association with Lord Dhanvantari encourages practitioners and students of Ayurveda globally, and helps awaken society to greater awareness about the strength, power and potential of Ayurveda. Join me and my worldwide community of Ayurveda seekers, students and beneficiaries as we pay tribute to God’s own medicine, Ayurveda, on the auspicious occasion of Ayurveda Day, Year 2019. Acharya Shunya is a globally-recognized spiritual teacher and Vedic lineage-holder who awakens health and consciousness through the Vedic sciences of Ayurveda, Vedanta and Yoga. She is the driving force behind Vedika Global, an online not-for-profit wisdom school and worldwide spiritual community, and the author of best-selling book on the Vedic art of min​d​ + body + soul well-being and health, Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom (Sounds True, 2017) and forthcoming second book with Sounds True to be released in 2020, Sovereign Self. Acharya Shunya is a keynote speaker at national and international conferences, and serves as an advisor to the Indian Government in matters pertaining to global integration and cultivation of Ayurveda and Yoga. Receive her free online teachings and browse her current eCourse offerings here or see more about her on Facebook and follow her on Instagram. Subscribe to her YouTube Channel where she holds live Global Satsangs once per month. Study Ayurveda with Acharya Shunya in her online course, Alchemy through Ayurveda. #ayurvedaday #worldayurvedaday #internationalayurvedaday #celebrateayurveda #ayurveda #holisticmedicine #scienceoflife #celebratewithus

The science of Ayurveda declares that optimum digestion is our best ally in building our immunity. The ultimate, ultra-refined, finale of a healthy digestion is Ojas. Ojas is not a direct reflection of what we eat, but rather of that which we manage to digest and, unfortunately, also of that which we fail to digest. When food is digested well, with maximum efficiency and minimum toxic side-products then the quality of Ojas produced is also of a higher standard. If the food that we eat is laced with toxins, additives, colors, fillers, chemicals and pesticides and the food is overly processed and genetically altered, our Ojas is also affected. The Ayurvedic path of healing and reclaiming lost immunity begins with restoring normal digestion. This is accomplished by first establishing a digestion-friendly daily routine and eating protocol. 9 Ayurvedic Recommendations for Healthy Digestion - Discard one-size-fits-all diet recommendations and adapt customized diet solutions that complement your unique Ayurveda mind-body type which can be assessed by taking self-help quizzes in Ayurveda books or paying a visit to an Ayurvedic consultant. Incorporate six tastes into your meals – sweet, salty, sour, astringent, bitter and pungent that help keep the digestive process regulated. Of course, the proportion of intake of the different tastes depends on your unique body-mind type. Eat cooked foods especially if your digestive activity is lethargic and lifestyle sedentary. Cooked foods are easier to digest and transform into Ojas quicker than raw foods that are often more difficult for the body to break down. Meals should be eaten while still warm or even hot, as the heat in the food will ignite the digestive fire and indirectly promote digestion. Ayurveda recommends adding at least some fat to meals (such as ghee or clarified butter or natural oil). Fats promote secretion of digestive juices. Fats also invariably nourish all seven bodily tissues and increase the strength (Bala) and immunity (Ojas) of the body. Each meal should be consumed, only after the previous meal is completely digested. Give four to six hours between meals. Snacking confuses or over taxes the digestive process. Lunch should be the biggest meal of the day. Evening meals should preferably be taken before sunset or soon thereafter. Skipping meals, erratic meal times and taking meals late at night and immediately going to bed produces indigestion, gaseous distention, hyperacidity and disturbed sleep. Give 2-3 hours after the evening meal before going to bed. Typically, one-fourth of the stomach should be filled with solid food, one-fourth with semi-solids, one-fourth by water, and one-fourth should be kept completely empty for air so that digestion can take place appropriately. Food should be chewed slowly, each bite of food slowly and mindfully masticated. This slowing down will prevent overeating that occurs when we eat too fast. Ayurveda cautions against eating when we are emotionally unsettled and recommends approaching food with respectful attention and positive expectation. Herbs For Digestion Special herbs that first and foremost restore the digestive fire, and thereby, ensure their own digestion and transformation first within the body, are also recommended by Ayurveda. Some of the popular and time-tested digestion-restoring herbs are garlic, fresh ginger, Cyperus rotundus (Musta), Mesua ferrea (Nagkesaar), Zingiber officinale (Shunthi), Plumbago zeylanica (Chitrak), Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi), and Swertia chirata (Kiratikta). Ojas-Enhancing Beneficial Diet Cereals: Rice, Wheat, Barley, Pearl Millet, Red rice, Finger Millet or African Millet Pulses: Green gram (Mung dal), Bengal gram (Chana dal), Red lentil (Masoor dal) Red gram or Pigeon pea (Tuar dal) Meat: Deer, Goat, common Quail, Partridge, Pigeon, Carp family (Rohu), Chicken, White Swan Vegetables: Chinese melons or Bottle gourd (Dudhi), Horse Radish, Snake-gourd, China spinach, Eggplant, Lemons, Fresh ginger Fruit: Indian Gooseberry (Amalaki), Black grapes, Mango, Papaya, Pomegranate, Dates, Figs Dry Fruit: Almond, Walnut, Coconut Milk: Buffalo’s, Cow’s and Goat’s milk, Ghee or clarified butter from cow’s milk, Buttermilk Water: Pure fresh water Salt: Rock salt Oil: Sesame oil, Coconut oil Sweeteners: Honey, Sugarcane juice, Old Jaggery Spices: Ginger, Asafetida, Garlic, Coriander, Cardamom, Cumin seeds Learn more in my online course, Alchemy through Ayurveda, where I dive deep into wisdom passed down to me from my 2000-year-old Vedic lineage. Watch the intro to the course for free today and get started on your journey to wellness: bit.ly/Alchemy-Intro. Acharya Shunya is a globally-recognized spiritual teacher and Vedic lineage-holder who awakens health and consciousness through the Vedic sciences of Ayurveda, Vedanta and Yoga. She is the driving force behind Vedika Global, an online not-for-profit wisdom school and worldwide spiritual community, and the author of best-selling book on the Vedic art of min​d​ + body + soul well-being and health, Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom (Sounds True, 2017) and forthcoming second book with Sounds True to be released in 2020, Sovereign Self. Acharya Shunya is a keynote speaker at national and international conferences, and serves as an advisor to the Indian Government in matters pertaining to global integration and cultivation of Ayurveda and Yoga. Receive her free online teachings and browse her current eCourse offerings here or see more about her on Facebook and follow her on Instagram. Subscribe to her YouTube Channel where she holds live Global Satsangs once per month. Study Ayurveda with Acharya Shunya in her online course, Alchemy through Ayurveda. #Ayurveda #Digestion #ayurvedicspices #ojas

1. Pamper yourself with roses. Elevate the traditional Valentine’s Day gift by washing your face with homemade rose cleanser. Combine half a tablespoon of rose water and whole milk. Gently apply to your face, rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. 2. Spend time alone. It is important to spend uninterrupted quality time alone. Simply sit comfortably with eyes closed, and relax your body and mind for five minutes. You don’t need to engage in a lengthy, formal meditative practice in order to gain connection with the self. 3. Give yourself a massage. Abhyanga is a relaxing, healing and nourishing self-massage with oils. Apply about a cup of warm oil (preferably sesame during winter, coconut in summer) to the skin for about 10 minutes. Use gentle, but firm strokes. Close your eyes and feel the love. Take a warm shower afterwards for total bliss! 4. Make it fine dining every night. Turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary one with beautiful and eye-catching table settings and choice utensils. Even if eating alone, music in the background, a lit candle, and centerpiece of fresh flowers and fruits add pleasure and enjoyment to the heart and senses, which together play an important role in digestion, too. 5. Take a healing bath. Soak your muscles in a healing bath for at least 20 minutes, once a week. You can infuse your bath water with one to two full eight-ounce cups of botanicals such as fresh or dried flower petals, leaves, roots, or fruits. Ayurveda’s top recommendations include roses of any color, marigolds, jasmine flower, and amalaki, the Indian gooseberry. 6. Spice up your dreams. To wind down your evening, drink a calming cup of warm spiced milk. The best spices to add for sleep are turmeric, cardamom, and nutmeg. For adults, the dosage of spices per cup should be no more than 1/4 teaspoon per glass of milk, which is brought to a boil, along with the spices. This delicious recipe ushers in sweet dreams every time! While these Ayurveda self-care practices are simple, they go a long way towards supporting a vibrant you. Over time, you’ll discover that loving yourself does not need to be a rare luxury, like an expensive spa massage, but instead, a beautiful daily lifestyle dotted with self-loving rituals that lead you to richer, more meaningful and enjoyable relationships with your self and your significant others. *Originally posted by Yoga Journal You can learn and integrate more Ayurvedic practices into your daily life with the Alchemy Through Ayurveda program. Learn more at www.acharyashunya.com/wisdom-school. Acharya Shunya is a globally-recognized spiritual teacher and Vedic lineage-holder who awakens health and consciousness through the Vedic sciences of Ayurveda, Vedanta and Yoga. She is the driving force behind Vedika Global, an online not-for-profit wisdom school and worldwide spiritual community, and the author of best-selling book on the Vedic art of min​d​ + body + soul well-being and health, Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom (Sounds True, 2017) and forthcoming second book with Sounds True to be released in 2020, Sovereign Self. Acharya Shunya is a keynote speaker at national and international conferences, and serves as an advisor to the Indian Government in matters pertaining to global integration and cultivation of Ayurveda and Yoga. Receive her free online teachings and browse her current eCourse offerings here or see more about her on Facebook and follow her on Instagram. Subscribe to her YouTube Channel where she holds live Global Satsangs once per month. Study Ayurveda with Acharya Shunya in her online course, Alchemy through Ayurveda.