At first introduction, Ayurveda can seem a little complicated and mysterious. Because it is thought to be the oldest healing science in the world, its ancient Sanskrit terms can be confusing. Luckily, while Ayurveda is indeed a complex, sophisticated system of medicine, it is also logical, down to earth and simple to understand. DOSHAS The…

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….

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…

Traditionally, mid-February is a time when Ayurveda recommends taking actions to avoid spring allergies, colds and flus. Here are some helpful tips for boosting immunity and staying healthy. According to Ayurveda our bodies are more susceptible to health problems when the seasons are changing. This is because our body functions differently in each season. For…

Barley is a wonderful grain to begin working into your diet during the late winter months. As we transition from the cold, dry Vata days of early winter to the cold, wet Kapha days of late winter and early spring, our attention should be on shifting our diet to Kapha-reducing foods. Favoring astringent, spicy and…

The change from Vata season to Kapha season is not as clear as the change from Kapha to Pitta, or Pitta to Vata. Both Vata and Kapha are characterized by cold. When the dry cold of fall and early winter transforms into a wetter cold, this heralds the switch of seasons. Often this change occurs…

The Power of Pepper and Turmeric Let’s explore the time-tested wisdom of Ayurveda and the remarkable health benefits of two powerful spices: black pepper and turmeric. These culinary treasures not only ignite the flavor of your dishes but also offer a myriad of benefits for your heart and brain wellness. And you can unlock the…

For those of us who live in northern climates, by the end of January and beginning of February the accumulation of Vata dosa in our physiology is at its peak. Months of cold, dry, windy weather result in an increase of those same qualities in our bodies: dryness, coolness, movement and quickness. When Vata becomes…

According to Ayurveda, good digestion is the key to good health. When one’s digestion has been compromised, a light diet is often recommended to help to get out digestive “fire” back to strength. Recently someone expressed concern about adopting this light diet. His concern was that he did not want to lose weight or increase…

One of the top recommendations that is given to guests at The Raj Ayurveda Health Spa is to add daily oil massage to their daily routine when they return home. The effects of daily Ayurveda oil massage (recommended before bathing in the morning) are multifold: Not only will a morning oil massage help pull toxins…