What is “Ama”? “Ama” is the Ayurvedic term for toxins and impurities that build up in the physiology, creating blockages to the flow of nutrients, circulation and biological signals. These impurities are most often attributed to poor digestion, but can also come from environmental pollutants and/or stressful experiences. Essentially, Ama is a form of un-metabolized…

During springtime, when Kapha is becoming lively in our environment, getting up early becomes more important than ever. During Vata season (late fall through early winter) we can get away with sleeping into the Kapha time of the day. Vata has been increasing in our mind/body system and a little Kapha influence can be grounding….

The most important contributions that you can make to creating good health are in your everyday choices. Every day we have a choice in our diet and our routine. These choices ultimately create our body, our mind, and our consciousness. The more we understand why these choices matter, the more likely we are to choose…

According to Ayurveda, walking is a healthy exercise for all body types. In recent years researchers have confirmed that the old-fashioned stroll produces amazing results. It can lower your “bad” cholesterol, increase cardiovascular fitness, and stop bone loss. For maximum benefits, gear your walking to your body’s individual needs. Ideally you should stay within your…

Chronic Fatigue syndrome is an illness that consists of a constellation of symptoms lasting for many months. These symptoms are fatigue, joint problems, muscle tissue pain, trouble focusing, and trouble concentrating. It is sometimes related to a preexisting viral illness caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. While there is no established, effective treatment in Western, allopathic…

Ayurveda can contribute helpful recommendations that have been used to address viruses and the common cold throughout the ages. Firstly, if you have the slightest symptom of the beginning of ANYTHING, stay home, get plenty of rest, eat only when you are really hungry, and sip hot water throughout the day….and watch your symptoms. Make…

Ayurveda can give helpful insights into dealing with the common problem of constipation. It relates constipation to an imbalance in Vata dosha and, more specifically, its sub-dosha, Apana Vata. Apana is downward moving and governs elimination and menses. An imbalance in Apana Vata can cause dryness and a sluggishness of bowel functioning. If you are…

As we grow older, it is common to find that we are not as limber as we once were. Hands, elbows, knees and backs can become sore and stiff. According to Ayurveda, this reflects the natural increase in Vata dosha in the later stage of life. As Vata increases, joints can become more dry and less…