News — dosha

As the largest organ in the body, the functions of the skin reach well beyond serving as a sac for the contents of our physiology. Nutrients reach the skin by diffusing through fluid from the blood vessels embedded in the deeper layers of the skin. In Ayurveda, there are seven layers of the skin and each layer is associated with one of the seven tissues of the body. The structure of the integumentary system receives very little praise, but its layered architecture is quite a marvel. It works to protect against infection and extreme temperatures, maintain a balance of bodily...

In the ancient healing science of Ayurveda, the five elements are discussed like philosophical concepts. The elements are the basic principles of the Universe . . . and they represent the primary components of all living things. Imagine a breeze flowing through the trees, the softness of the earth beneath your feet, the vastness of the sky, the feel of water on your skin . . . the warmth of fire. When we look to the beauty of nature, we find that five elements provide a foundation for what we know to exist. Ayurveda recognizes the elements, Space, Air, Fire,...

In the Western world, we don’t usually dwell on the distinctions between our reactions to stress . . . we tend to focus on the stressful situations we find ourselves in, such as looming work deadlines or a missed train. And the general stress coping solutions are applicable to most everyone . . . such as a hot bath or long walk. But in the 5,000 year old science of Ayurveda, stress reduction hinges on a complex understanding of each person. Take this scenario for example: It’s Monday morning. John, Jane, and Jack walk into their respective workplaces. They each have an...

The gut-brain connection is at the core of our overall well-being . . . when there's stress at one end, there will be stress at the opposite end as well. Your gut is totally in cahoots with your brain. There truly is a gut-brain connection. Have you ever noticed how when you're feeling angry or anxious, it can throw your body into complete chaos with a digestive disaster such as  acid reflux or diarrhea? Or on the other side of the spectrum . . . an agitated emotional state stops you in its tracks, leaving you constipated, sluggish, and feeling...

Most of us have probably experienced constipation at least once in our lives.   The discomfort, heaviness, and brain fog . . . along with the bloating and gas that often accompany constipation are surefire recipes for a less than optimal day. As if one day isn't bad enough, if you have chronic constipation (and I can certainly empathize) then you really need to start incorporating the tips below, pronto! While we may think constipation is a common ailment not to be taken too seriously, Ayurveda actually places much emphasis on having full, regular unobstructed bowel movements at least once...