There is an interesting term in Ayurveda; rasayana. a rasayana is something that makes everyone stronger, regardless of one’s individual mind/body type. Although we usually hear the word in reference to herbs and herbal formulas (such as Maharishi Amrit Kalash) it can also refer to behaviors. In fact, there is an entire subcategory, Achar Rasayana, or behavioral rasayanas, which specifies actions and thought patterns that can rejuvenate the body, influence happiness, increase lifespan, and culture bliss and higher states of consciousness.
Thereby behavioral rasayanas work because any thought in the mind, or any action we perform, has its effect on the body. Many scientific studies on the mind-body connection have shown that every time we have a thought or feeling, some chemical is produced in the body.
These neurochemicals are extremely powerful. For example, one type of neurochemical linked to happiness, called endorphins, are natural pain killers produced by the brain and are at least 50 times more powerful than morphine. It turns out that our own brain is the most powerful pharmaceutical factory in the world.
Therefore, we need to know how to use the brain properly, how to produce “good” chemicals rather than “bad” ones. Negative emotions—such as anger, jealousy, frustration, fear, and grief—cause harmful neurochemicals to be produced: chemicals that can actually break down the body’s functioning. Positive thoughts and actions, on the other hand, can be powerful tools for strengthening our physiologies and improving our health. (A list of behavioral rasayanas is at the bottom of this blog)
What are Ojas?
Thousands of years ago, Ayurveda identified one biochemical in particular, referred to as ojas. Ojas is said to be the finest aspect of material creation, the junction point between consciousness and matter. It is as much consciousness as it is physical. Ojas nourishes the body‑—the more ojas, the better your health, immunity, balance, purity and happiness.
Furthermore, the ultimate purpose of the Ayurveda treatment programs offered at The Raj Ayurveda Health Center is to support physiological functioning in such a way that ojas is constantly generated and maintained. An Ayurvedic expert in the technique of Ayurveda Pulse Assessment can identify your level of ojas and give individualized recommendations on how to increase ojas in your body.
The Charaka Samhita, one of the principal texts of Ayurveda, describes ojas as a fluid substance located in the heart. From the heart, ojas circulates throughout the entire body and maintains immunity, strength of muscles, stamina, and a healthy glow to the skin.
Ayurveda considers the heart as the seat of feelings. Thus behavioral rasayanas nourish our emotions, thus nourishing the heart and helping to increase the production of ojas.
In addition here is a list of traditional Behavioral Rasayanas that are said to create a harmonizing effect in the physiology and increase the production of ojas.
To summarize, the idea is to keep them lively in the mind, but not to strain to remember or follow them.
Behavioral Rasayanas for Overall Happiness
Transcend on a regular basis – be regular in meditation
Speak truthfully but sweetly.
Speak well of others: never spread gossip.
Be free of anger.
Abstain from alcohol and immoderate behavior.
Be nonviolent and calm.
Be charitable to others: help people in need, especially those with no livelihood or those in grief.
Help even those who might have mistreated you.
Do good and be silent. Accept good and sing the giver’s praise.
Keep yourself, your clothing, and your environment neat, clean, and well groomed.
Be respectful of teachers and elders.
Be loving and compassionate.
Do not disclose enmities. Never disclose insults inflicted upon you.
Keep a regular routine.
Culture a simple state of awareness and simple, guileless behavior.
Keep the company of the wise.
Maintain a positive outlook.
Be self-controlled and follow the precepts of your religious beliefs.
Devote yourself to the knowledge and development of high states of consciousness.
Enjoy the good qualities of others.
Welcome visitors with an open heart.
Don’t lose balance through wealth.
Greet another first. Extend yourself in acknowledging others.
Maintain untainted belief in friends
Phone or Skype consultations are available with our Ayurvedic Wellness Expert. To schedule a consultation, call, 800-864-8714.