Self Care, The Ayurveda Way

If somebody asks you the question: "Do you take care of yourself?". Most of us would answer, "yes." We would also think, "What kind of question is this? Of course, I care about myself." But, when asked, "How do you take care of yourself?". That's where the tricky part starts. 

What is self-care?

Any activity that is done deliberately to take care of our mental, emotional and physical health is self-care. However, in reality, it is something that we very often overlook. The key to good self-care is to improve mood and reduce anxiety. Self-care is living a balanced life.

Once you start sticking to your basics, you will find your rhythm and routine. Based on this information, you would be able to identify more particular forms of self-care that work for you. So, add specific activities to your calendar and announce your plans to others to increase your commitment, and look for opportunities to practice self-care.

What isn't self-care?

Self-care is not what we force ourselves to do; it is rather something that refuels us.

But why do we need self-care? What is its importance?

Self-care inspires you to maintain a healthy relationship with yourself to transmit good feelings to others. This is because you cannot give to others what you don't have yourself. When you pay enough attention to your well-being, you're reinvigorating yourself to be the best version of yourself for the people around you.

How to self-care, The Ayurveda Way?

Ayurveda is the oldest known healing system. It focuses on balancing the body's system through diet, herbs, self-care, and preventative care. Ayurveda also provides self-understanding, consciousness, and living in harmony with the laws of the universe.

In Ayurveda, the universe is composed of qualities from the five elements, i.e., earth, fire, water, air, and space. These elements are present in different amounts, making up our dosha (or body constitution). It usually is expressed through our mental, physical, and emotional features. So, Ayurveda self-care teaches practices that are ideal for your state of well-being.

Even though self-care is different for different people. There's a basic checklist followed in Ayurveda.

Let's elaborate on Ayurveda self-care remedies

Physical health is crucial

The core part of self-care is physical health. The body and mind have a unique connection, and when you are not feeling good about your body, it is challenging to be in high spirits. Research shows that regular exercise increases the serotonin level in our body, significantly improving mood and energy. If you exercise for self-care, choose an activity you love. 

Get good sleep

Sleep deprivation sometimes takes a toll on your health. Your body needs time to rest. Sleep scientists suggest that adults require a minimum of 6 to 8 hours of sleep every night. Daytime naps are also suitable for refreshing our body and improving concentration levels.

Eat healthy

Diet is a significant part of self-care. If you consistently indulge in unhealthy eating habits, it can affect your health drastically. Nutritious, healthy food is the best gift to us, and taking them is a crucial aspect of self-care. Make a habit out of consuming foods that build your body.

Prioritize the things that matter to you

This may be challenging to practice. It would help if you asked the tough questions to identify the most things that matter to you. Your approach to living will be based on these answers. Spend more time with people you care for and live your life the way you want to be remembered.

Change your mindset 

Very often, we focus on the negatives and not show appreciation for the things that are all around us. Cherish the good memories, show gratitude and appreciation for the small gifts in life. Take time to meditate more. A gratitude mindset can help you reach the highest level of self-care.

Say No

You need not say yes to every request to not hurt the feelings of another party. If you agree at the expense of your health, you are going against self-care principles. 

Here are some tips to follow the daily routine

• Wake up early in the morning.
• Say a prayer before leaving the bed, and thank God for a new day.
• Clean eye, face, and mouth.
• Drink a warm glass of water.
• Sit or squat to have a proper bowel movement.
• Scrape your tongue, clean your teeth, and gargle.
• Chew a handful of sesame seeds helps receding gums and strengthens teeth.
• Put 3 to 5 drops of warm oil into each nostril.
• Apply Lukewarm oil in ears.
• Rub oil over the head and body.
• Take a bath in warm water. It removes sweat, dirt, and brings energy to the body.
• Wear clean clothes. It brings beauty and virtue.
• Use natural scents, essential oils, or perfumes to bring freshness and joy.
• Regular exercise helps one relax and have a sound sleep and improves digestion and elimination. 
• After exercise, do some deep breathing exercises.
• Meditate morning and evening daily.

Self-Care is personal, and will always work if it motivates and inspires you. Look for the things that make you feel alive. Make dates with yourself and commit to working towards it. Don't back out on yourself. By being healthy about self-care, you will feel better equipped to help others. Live your best life.

Maharishi Ayurveda also believes in self-care. Do follow our blogs and get more understanding of the best practices. 

Don’t shy away from taking care of yourself.