Ayurvedic wisdom for global wellness

We know this is a difficult time around the globe. When things feel out of our control the best thing is to control what we can – our attitude and self-care. COVID-19 necessitates extra love and care for ourselves, each other, and our planet.

For years, I’ve been teaching others the significance of investing in your health through proper nutrition, lifestyle, plant medicine, and mindfulness practices. We’ve seen hundreds of clients restore their health through their dedication to integrating Ayurveda and yoga.

Ayurveda and Yoga are sister sciences and from this holistic perspective here are a few of my recommendations to support your well-being.

Stay calm, minimize panic, stress and mental disturbances

Herbal support

Pure plant medicine is a true blessing and can be helpful during times of prevention and illness. Here are my go-to’s right now: nutmeg: it’s a nervine sedative and can reduce anxiety, keep you calm, and support restful sleep. I recommend adding 1/2 – 1 tsp to a saucepan of 1/2 – 1 cup of milk or nut milk; whisk well over medium heat until you have slight steam. Turn off heat and enjoy before bedtime. Other spices can be added as you whisk such as ginger, turmeric, and cardamom, and will be just as supportive.

Golden milk

Gold Milk is a nourishing, evening herbal tonic that will support calming the mind and body. You can make your own or stop by our apothecary for Restore Simply’s Breathe Golden Milk – it’s divine! Don’t want to get out – buy it online!

Adaptogen herbs

Shatavari, ashwagandha, astragalus, holy basil or tulsi, licorice, Gotu kola, Brahmi are also useful as they help you adapt to stress. I’ve been taking our adaptogen tincture several times a day and I can tell a difference! You can make an herbal tea by infusing any of these into just-boiled water or adding them to a juice or non-dairy smoothie.

Yoga

One of the most important practices you can incorporate during this time is yoga. Yoga is more than a pose, a cute outfit, or being flexible. It is a time to tune into your body sensations and allows you to give all the other stuff (worries) in your life a break. I know many studios are taking precautions to keep a safe place and I recommend continuing your public or personal home practice. Perhaps this is a good time to schedule a private yoga session in your home!

Meditation

We all know the mental benefits of meditation. this is the perfect time to create or be more consistent with your practice. If this is something you struggle with, email me and I’ll send you my yoga Nidra | iRest recording. Using the calm app could also be helpful and don’t forget that we have a weekly offering at SimpleVeda from 12 – 12:30 on Thursdays.

Unplug

It’s important to stay educated and to be informed, however, I suggest limiting your intake of social media, t.v. and news radio. Not a lot changes from one hour to the next. I personally was feeling an elevation of panic and realized that I was on overkill with trying to stay informed. I decided to avoid media for 24 hours along with other practices mentioned here, and I have felt more at peace. Decide HOW and WHEN you’ll stay updated and stick to that routine to help limit the unnecessary exposure.

Support your immunity, build ojas, and keep your agni, gut healthy

Vitamin D

Deficiency in vitamin D is associated with increased susceptibility to infection. 1000 – 5000 IUs daily is beneficial.

Elderberry

High in vitamin C and a supportive antiviral. Read more about the benefits, how much to take, and how to make your own syrup here. You can also buy elderberry syrup at your local health food store or on amazon.

Chyavanprash

For thousands of years, this herbal jam has been used daily to support the proper function of the immune and respiratory systems. Stop by our apothecary for a jar or online here.

Antivirals and antimicrobials

Since ancient times, these herbs have been used to fight viruses. I suggest incorporating these into your diet now as a means of prevention. You can easily incorporate these into your cooking or by making herbal tea. Most of these have a unique and positive effect on bronchial and respiratory health. Garlic. Basil.  Cinnamon. Turmeric.  Oregano.  Fennel.  Lemon Balm.  Peppermint.  Rosemary.  Echinacea.  Licorice.  Ginger.  Dandelion.  Elderberry

Daily Tonic

Ginger, lemon, and honey combined together make a great daily tonic. This duo makes for a great gentle detox, builds immunity, supports healthy digestion, relieves congestion and inflammation. I recommend sipping on this daily prior to or during your meals.

Nasya
Nasya is available in the Apothecary
Nasya

The nose is the doorway to the mind, brain, and consciousness. Nasya oil is a nourishing medicated oil that provides a barrier between you and pathogens. I highly recommend using this daily. It alleviates dryness, stress, and tension. It supports memory, reduces anxiety, and supports restful sleep. It increases prana or vital life force and gives clarity and perception. This is traditionally practiced after the neti pot but can be used daily with or without. Simply apply a drop to each nostril and massage gently. We have plenty on our shelves so just come on by!

Essential oils

An immediate adjustment to your mood through the use of essential oils can mean you spend the next hour in worry and anxiety or spend the day calm, at ease, with awareness of what’s most important at this moment. My favorite Young Living oils right now: lavender, frankincense, cedarwood, thieves (hello immunity), abundance blend, peace, and calming and sacred mountain. Need some oils? Just send me a message. xo

Eat well + Exercise + Sleep

no brainer! eat at home; all the fresh vegetables and fruits your heart desires. Snack on nuts and dates and get out and walk in nature, do a home exercise video with my bestie, or schedule a private in-home yoga session. Turn off the t.v. and begin to rest when the sun goes down- your liver will thank you and you’ll feel less stressed when you wake!

My sincere hope is that these ancient practices support and aid in prevention as we continue to learn what the coming weeks hold for our community. Drink pure water, eat nourishing foods, breathe, take a walk in nature, unplug, take care of yourself and your neighbors.

With love + service,

Christina

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