January 26, 2022

DRY BRUSHING

January 26, 2022/ Antonio Aragona

It’s that time of year when dry brushing can be beneficial for many people, being “Kapha season.” Dry brushing is called Garshana in Ayurveda, and it consists of literally brushing the skin with some tool such as raw wool glove (for Kapha predominant individuals), raw silk glove (more for Vata/Pitta predominant individuals). When these gloves aren’t able to be obtained a washcloth (more for Vata/Pitta), or loofah (more for Kapha) can have a similar effect. Dry brushing is similar to the Ayurvedic treatment called Udvartana but the difference here is that Udvartana uses specific dry powders and that oils are not usually applied after the powder. The concept and process of how this treatment is conducted are similar otherwise.

The purpose of this treatment is to increase circulation, promote skin regeneration, promote sebum (the oil that secretes through the glands subdermal) regulation, increase movement overall through lymphatic stimulation and regulation. It also improves skin tone, can reduce cellulite, supports muscle tone, and is an overall cleansing feeling for the body.

Typically, this type of treatment focuses on the strokes being in the direction against the hair follicles. Additionally, within Ayurvedic protocol of this type of treatment, a light coat of dosa-specific oil is applied. Once this has been done, a shower/bath is essential. This treatment is best done on the morning before 10 am, mainly done after waking up and before bathing. If you tend to be someone that bathes at night, you can try this but make sure it doesn’t cause any sleep disruptions as this can stimulate blood flow and energy. What should also be considered in doing this self-care practice is the state of your diet. A proper diet, along with proper exercise practices, and lifestyle practices will support this type of treatment more efficiently and effectively. If the diet is not proper, this treatment will not have the desired effect(s.)

How to:

1) Choose the appropriate garshana tool for your body type.

2) Standing outside of the shower/bath, begin by rubbing from the toes upward, ending at the head. Note that it is important to perform circular movements around the joints and long circular strokes on the long muscles. Covering the whole body and moving in the direction of the heart.

3) Once the glove, etc. has covered the body, you can enter into the shower or bath and let the warm/hot water hit you.

4) Quickly use an appropriate constitutional (dosa) oil to coat the body lightly.

5) Next, taking either a smear of a soap bar on a washcloth, or a pump of shower liquid soap on a washcloth, cover the whole body in one passing from head to toe with the washcloth. The cloth should not be overly soapy, minimally at best.

6) Rinse off.

7) Pat dry the skin with a towel. You should feel a light coating of oil still on the skin but don’t be alarmed because it will be absorbed enough by the time you put your clothes on, and it is ok to feel it slightly as a natural moisturizer.

Then you’re done.

In cases of Kapha predominant issues, you can do this a couple of times a week. In Pitta/Vata predominant issues that are especially dealing with the skin and/or lymphatic issues, you can do this once a week to every two weeks.

This treatment is focused mostly this time of year, but possibly as needed throughout the year based on your individual suggestions as per Ayurvedic clinician.

Notes: If you are having poor digestion as in sluggish, congested, or slow, what we call Manda Agni in Ayurveda, then this treatment is contraindicated. If you have any skin rashes, then this treatment is contraindicated. If you are pregnant, then certain considerations are needed and you must meet with an Ayurvedic clinician for further clarification and modification. If you have a heart condition, then this may not be the practice for you. If you are above the age of 70, then certain considerations are needed and you must meet with an Ayurvedic clinician for further clarification and modification. This treatment is mainly for individuals between the ages of 12 and 70. If you’ve had any recent biopsies, or have certain immune-compromised issues, then certain considerations are needed and you must meet with an Ayurvedic clinician for further clarification and modification. If you are dealing with any issues such as hyperacidity, gastritis, IBS, then certain considerations are needed and you must meet with an Ayurvedic clinician for further clarification and modification.

Resources:

A YouTube video to help HERE

Where to buy Wool gloves HERE

Where to buy Silk gloves HERE

GENERAL BRIEF INFORMATION on AYURVEDA and COVID-19

January 10, 2022/ Antonio Aragona

I have been inspired to write this brief article after many discussions with colleagues, and with several of my patients that have been infected during the holiday season. My intention is to clarify a few points around COVID-19, and how Ayurvedic treatment can be effective in the management of this condition. COVID-19 is being investigated and understood globally by countless scientists from every system of medicine, as this is a global effort for the scientists this is also a global effort for each of us to comprehend and adapt to as well.

It is important to note that Ayurvedic Medicine is a system of medicine designed to support health, well-being, sickness prevention, health maintenance, and illness reduction or possible resolution. During these times as COVID-19 cases have risen, during and post-holidays, it appears that there is some misunderstanding around all of it.

1) To some individuals, COVID-19 is perceived as a simple or potential magnification of a cold or flu. This is incorrect.

2) To some individuals, COVID-19 doesn’t seem to be a big deal as there are some individuals who became infected and were vaccinated, and now that they seem better after a couple of days that everything is fine and can just move forward. This is incorrect.

3) To some individuals, COVID-19 doesn’t have long-term health consequences. This is incorrect.

4) Can Ayurveda help? Absolutely!

COVID-19 affects the body in ways that a cold/flu does not. Here is a chart that demonstrates all three in comparison.

Image 1

Image 2

It is understood in Ayurveda, that anything that affects the body regarding any disease process will have and leave an imprint on the body. In Ayurveda, for example, a cold (untreated) can last up to 10 days, then individuals think they can go on their way but in the consideration and under the care of an Ayurvedic condition it is understood that some important protocols must be put into place in order to support the rebuilding of health in the individual post any disease manifestation. Ayurveda shares that a person that is afflicted by disease, or some form of internal/external condition, is known to have and whether overcoming it or not, what is termed in Ayurveda, a Kha Vaigunya (compromise/”defective space” or “defective system”), as a result of this type of trauma to the body. Having this knowledge provides a framework for what can be put in place with the potential recovery process through extensive protocols. Additionally, kha vaigunya is something that is generally understood in Ayurvedic sciences to occur as a result of genetic inheritance as predispositions. Epigenetics are exploring such pathways in understanding the role of genes and health.

With the correct and appropriate protocol in place an individual can regain health and recover the tissue damage as much as possible and in most cases. These protocols are specifically individualized in order to meet the patient where they are at as per Ayurvedic assessment. Therefore, a cold is never just a cold to an Ayurvedic clinician. Ayurvedic professionals seek to understand the root cause, the resolution of, and the rebuilding thereof. It is a complete process from beginning to end. The kha vaigunya must be addressed in order to further prevent the return of a similar condition or something else.

In the case of COVID-19, it is not any different. Just because a vaccinated individual had no symptoms, mild symptoms, or quickly recovers from the symptoms, it doesn’t mean there isn’t much work to be done. In fact, the reality that some of these individuals were not hospitalized or deceased is the first step in the right direction and that the work does not stop there. Such circumstances should not be taken for granted. The possibility of getting COVID or anything later down the road is not an ideal scenario with or without the vaccine. Having COVID once, predetermines that the individual may have other complications related or non-related simply because this virus is affecting the body in many ways that are known and yet to be discovered.

Ayurveda is a proactive system designed to help maintain health and prevent disease by being able to predict patterns, which are correlated with Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. In the case of COVID-19, Ayurveda has the capacity to help in maintaining health and assisting those individuals (vaccinated or not) in returning back to a healthier state as much as possible. This is the power and practice of Ayurveda. Ayurveda is a universal scientifically proven and established system that is part of this global effort.

What are you doing for your self-care around all this? How are you contributing to the well-being of your community? To the global effort? If you or someone you know would like support around any of this please seek a qualified expert in this field of clinical Ayurveda or any scientific system that is designed for such practices.

RESOURCES:

KHA VAIGUNYA 1

KHA VAIGUNYA 2

INFLAMMATION IN COVID

IMPAIRMENT OF CYTOKINES AND LIVER FROM COVID-19

LONG-TERM NEUROPSYCHIATRIC SYMPTOMS POST COVID-19 INFECTION

CYTOKINE SIGNATURES POST COVID-19 RECOVERY AND LONG-TERM

AYURVEDA AND IMMUNOMODULATORS AND COVID-19

IMAGE 1

IMAGE 2

CURRENT UPDATE ON COVID FROM CDC:

HERE and HERE 2

DISCLAIMER: This information is meant for educational purposes only. Any changes in lifestyle should be reviewed with a qualified practitioner and primary care physician if you are currently under their care for specific conditions.

December 17, 2021

ENTERING THE STILL POINT : SOMETHING TO PONDER

December 17, 2021/ Antonio Aragona

The still point is where “it” is at. The still point is what “it” is all about! It is the point where stillness resides. It involves a lack of doing and includes a sense of…simply…being.

Being can be considered by some as a passive doing but is anything actually being done when you’re not actively doing anything except being?

Often is the case that the river’s current of life rushes past and through us with an enormous ferocity of pre-occupation. In the modern world, this can appear as simple, not so simple, being busy, being distracted, being caught up, and being overwhelmed. This sense of being isn’t the same “being” as the being that occurs in the still point where a passive observation and presence of passive awareness. So often is the case that many of us have moments of dread and fear when that may arise in this stillness, in this silence, in this peaceful existence. There are many individuals that find discomfort with this stillness, with this silence. To some of them, it can seem that the silence is screaming in their ears and that they can become highly stressed. They would rather constant distractions so that this still place isn’t faced or embraced. For some, this still point creates great inner conflict because of a feeling of disappearing, not existing, not having any value, not feeling any purpose, not being acknowledged, and in some ways not seeming alive. They can feel overrun and therefore seeking out distractions and “busy-ness” is more comforting. Yet, at the core of our human existence, is the seed in which consciousness dwells with an omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent expression. This can be scary sometimes and to some.

Meditation is a tool, consisting of countless expressions, variations, and techniques that involves going/coming inward in a way that connects us to this place where the still point resides. Within the breath, according to yogic science, contains four points: the inhale, the point of junction between the inhale and exhale, the exhale, and the point between the exhale and inhale. When we simply “meditate” on these four points we can have profound internal experiences. This slowing down really allows you to connect more to the essence of who you are at the core, rather than caught up in the identity of who you think you are. The point between the inhale and the exhale, vice versa, are pauses in time. Time is considered, to some degree, as a way to qualify the human experience and connect us to this spiraling action as we ride this planet’s rotations and revolutions through the cosmos. It is understood in yoga, that the inhale represents the future to some extent and the exhale is the past. The points between the breath are simply in the present moment that we call now where the vacillation of the mind’s pendulum halts momentarily. Nothing is happening…except for simply being. It’s as though nothing happens until some organic trigger, called Ksoba in Ayurveda, creates a ripple. It can be as subtle as a baby’s breath, or even an ant’s breath.

When doing yoga, there is a “doing” to get into and out of the pose but the transitions from one to the other is a suspension in time in space as is the place between the breath’s movement. Then, we arrive within the pose, the place we just hover within, not really thinking of the next pose and not thinking about the pose we just came from, essentially.

As we make our way to bed at night, we tend to have the thoughts that remain at the end of the day, of the day(s) that just passed. We have thoughts of what tomorrow and the next day will bring. However, from the moment we close our eyes and fall into sleep land and the moment we open our eyes to perceive the day that has risen we are suspended in time and space somehow. Sure, the body generally continues and we know this because we woke up to it but the body is sustaining itself with consciousness still in it until the last breath. You see, the exhale is the past, and when we have the final exhale we let go of the past which ultimately results in letting go of the body because it is also subject to the elements, space, and time. The body is resting during our sleep time while suspended between yesterday and tomorrow. It is in a type of pause.

Even with the observation of the thoughts themselves, we can notice how regardless of how many thoughts are flooding our mind that there is still a space that exists, whether delayed or quickly filled. There is a space between one thought to the next. It is possible through meditation that the space can widen over time and that we can learn how to spend less time succumbing to the inundation of thoughts.

These thoughts that I share with you all come in a timely fashion as we have arrived at the darkest time of the year which is the winter solstice and as we enter into the depths of later winter when nature is hibernating. Nature is suspended in time and space during this season; but nature is still alive, just another expression of it. What is no longer serving it dies and what does serve it will return with the blossoms of spring as new hope is infused into the atmosphere. As we transition through the winter solstice we can observe the increasing daylight, with each day; but things are still slow to a basic pause. Taking this opportunity to reflect upon such things and how we are a part of nature can shift the winter blues. This alignment with the season, and all seasons, can support our moving forward and closer to what we are within. What better way to get intimate with the love of your life than to slow down and be with yourself and connect with the being-ness that exists in the still point?

I share these reflections and recent thoughts I’ve had with many of my patients recently, with a hope to take a moment and sit with the potential discomfort of not doing, not being busy, not being distracted so that you can acknowledge the inner invitation of the being that lives at the center of being-ness. Your nervous system will thank you, your immune system will thank you, your digestion will thank you, your health will thank you, and your mind will appreciate it on some level. Taking the time to answer the inner calling of the still point is crucial for our “well-being.” There’s no getting away from it. We can deviate from it by being so busy but we can’t outrun ourselves forever. We can’t hide from our Selves forever. We can attempt to do so but time will show us especially in the end as we transition from this life to wherever we go or don’t go. The exhale is the final connection to this body and its history. The inhale is not guaranteed. The yogi’s new to incorporate as part of the yogic sciences the fundamental and advanced understanding of the crucial importance of the breath and that through these teachings we learn that we are born with a “certain number of breaths” and that is it! Should we speed up this number by breathing quickly and fast as per a stress response? Do we cause the breath to become stagnant, which then affects everything and then inevitably halts our aliveness?

It is my hope to share these thoughts as a means of provoking inspiration in you and to possibly have you entertain the possibility of this shifting perspective that can lighten your worries, your anxiety, your lethargy, your mental/emotional, and/or physical malaise. As we transition through this time of year, and each day, day by day, breath by breath, and thought by thought I invite you to use this as an opportunity to bring in the next chapter being the new year with more of your Self which can occur by slowing down to the still point and remembering what has been there waiting for you all along. It may not be easy but it is worth the effort. This effort is the letting go and surrendering when you can, and when you allow, to create space for what is already here underneath the turbulence and ripples on the surface of the infinite ocean of our being.

November 18, 2021

GET YOUR SWEET ON!

November 18, 2021/ Antonio Aragona

As we progress into Early Winter (Hemanta), there is an understanding in Ayurveda that Agni (particularly Jatharagni, the digestive fire) continues to increases in strength. It is important to manage and regulate Agni to maintain health within each season as one season influences the next. In fact, what we do today affects our tomorrow and what we experience in the current season is partly an outcome of the previous season. It is all connected!

This is the time of year, especially here in the Northeast when the climate progresses with coldness colder and becomes drier, and sometimes more moist due to snow, based on your location. A sense of lightness exists in general due to the cold combined with dryness, but a sense of heaviness can occur on cold and moist (snowy/rainy) days. In general, the management of cold dryness is remedied by warm moisture, and the resolution to cold moisture is warming dryness.

According to Ayurveda, Agni/Jatharagni (state of metabolic digestive functioning and health) performs according to physics involving centripetal and centrifugal forces. Centripetal forces are directed from the periphery to the center, which is what occurs when we transition from summer to winter. Whereas, centrifugal forces operate from a center point outwardly. In the case of digestion and the progression into summer months, as heat in the external atmosphere increases as summer months occur, the body’s innate intelligence and physiological functionality adapts where the heat surrounding the digestive system redirects towards the extremities (centrifugal), causing the heat to dissipate in such a way and the main digestive organs lose their potency. Imagine it like this: in the summertime, you turn off the heat in the home and open the windows and doors to disperse the heat contained within the home and let the cool air in. However, in the winter, you close all the windows and doors to contain the heat as the heater gets turned on again.

According to Ayurveda, there are six tastes (Shad Rasa.) Click HERE for an article discussing the six tastes in detail. Madhura is the taste favored in general this time of year. Read more about Madhura HERE. Ayurveda uses the six tastes throughout the year as it takes a whole year to achieve health according to the seasons (rtu), and not trying to get all six tastes in one meal. Attempting to create any one meal with all six tastes is incorrect cooking and can contribute to health ailments. Following the seasons, incorporating your prakriti (baseline constitution) and vikriti (deviated state from baseline constitution where conditions occur) and understanding your state of digestion (jatharagni) are important considerations when aligning with any protocol that will support your level of health and homeostasis.

In general, there is a rule of thumb in Ayurveda that states Vata is pacified/maintained by sweet, salty, and sour tastes; Pitta is pacified/maintained by sweet, bitter, and astringent tastes; and Kapha is pacified/maintained by bitter, pungent, and astringent tastes. Excluding the other tastes within the context of each dosha isn’t what this is implying but that the predominance of the associated pacifying tastes help maintain better homeostasis.

Therefore, in the case of this article and this time of year Vata and Pitta are kept in better homeostasis, with Kapha the closer to late winter we progress, and as Kapha time of year approaches, the less present the sweet taste should be. The qualities of madhura consists of earth and water which can ground and lubricate individuals accordingly.

Based on the state of Agni, dietary and lifestyle considerations must be adjusted in order to maintain or regain health and well-being. The state of agni is an important factor in Ayurvedic assessment that determines the course and line of treatment meant to rectify health issues correlated with Vata dosha (prakriti and vikriti.) Broadly, it is known in Ayurveda that Vata predominant individually possess a natural state of vitiated agni (Vishama) due to the elements of air and space inherently present by design; Pitta predominant individuals have great agni but can tend towards increased/aggravated agni known as Tikshna (sharp) due to the inherent predominance of heat/fire ; and Kapha predominant individuals, possessing a predominance of water and earth elements, their agni tends to be Manda being sluggish.

If a Vata predominant individual is experiencing low Agni or compromised Agni, warming tastes/spices should be integrated into their diet. Using pungent spices can actually cause Vata to become more vitiated and Agni to be harmed even further due to the extreme qualities of pungent. Warming foods and spices such as cumin, cinnamon, black pepper, fresh ginger, mustard, basil, thyme, and rosemary would be better than cayenne, chili, red pepper flakes, or dry ginger. For the Pitta predominant individual with low Agni or compromised Agni, warm spices similar to that used by the Vata individuals can be used along with cardamom, fennel, coriander, black pepper (small dosage), fresh ginger (small dosage), turmeric, and even basil would be much better than the pungent spices. If Vata and Pitta predominant individuals have a generally healthy state of Agni, pungent can be minimally used or avoided, because of pungent containing the elements air and fire which would exacerbate Vata and Pitta accordingly, in order not to cause their Agni to vitiate, along with other aspects of their mind and physiology.

Temperature and qualities of the atmosphere (both being climate and based on geography) are also key components to be determined as protocols are implemented. Generally, for those individuals that are Vata predominant, whether with Vata prakrti (constitution) and/or vikrti (vitiation from or of constitutional design), they would struggle more so this time of year with the cold as this is a quality that increases Vata. The quality of cold can also affect Kapha since cold is a quality of Kapha and when Kapha is predominant individuals are unable to thermoregulate properly and feel colder and heavier. The dryness, otherwise, is supportive. Kapha predominant individuals may struggle with ongoing upper respiratory ailments such as asthma (Kapha type), colds, allergies, a runny nose in excess with mainly whitish mucus, overall heaviness, and increased lethargy. Vata predominant individuals may actually feel increased dryness unless the warm moisture is present. Vata predominant individuals tend to do a little worse in cold and dry climates. Whereas, Pitta predominant individuals generally do better in cooler climates, with dry and/or moist qualities.

It is important to remember that too much of a good thing can have the opposite effect and therefore, it is important to know your own physiology and psychology before jumping completely or extremely into any dietary consideration. Start slow because slow and steady wins the race. Foods cooked with the right spices to align with your constitution are an important component to understanding proper cooking and the pharmacological actions of foods. Additionally, Ayurveda considers any food anything that is “lickable, chewable, drinkable, and edible.” Ca Su. 28/1 Ayurveda doesn’t support a “quick fix” mentality and in this case, it is essential to understand that anyone particular substance (Dravya) may have a predominance of a certain taste but that doesn’t exclude other tastes that are inherently present in a substance. That being said, just because something may be known to be mainly bitter it may also have other tastes that can affect the overall design of a diet or plate. This is why it is important to know what the substance is, to its fullest capacity as shown within the science of Ayurveda, and its appropriate application.

Use your body as your guide and notice the Karya Karana (cause and effect) relationship with what you put into your body and what you’re getting out of it.

Below is a basic list of sweet items, foods that contain low sodium, that you can include as part of your diet.

Rice
Wheat
Milk
Butter
Pumpkin
Dates
Raisins
Butternut Squash
Sweet potatoes
Ghee
Eggs
Beef
Buffalo
Pork
Beets
Figs
Garbanzo beans
Ketchup
Avocado
Sugar
Maple Syrup
Cardamom
Vanilla
Cashews
Almonds

References:

DIGESTIVE STRENGTH AND AGNI

6 TASTES

CAUSE AND EFFECT

RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN DOSHAS AND SEASONS

October 26, 2021

SELF-CARE, THE LITTLE THING'S, AND IMMUNITY: FOOD FOR THOUGHT

October 26, 2021/ Antonio Aragona

As one part of the world enters into longer days, another part of the globe enters into longer nights. It is important to take note of how your health evolves through the different seasons and to have an awareness of what times of year you feel better, physically and mentally/emotionally, and at which times of years you experience more disturbances. As we progress here in the Northern hemisphere into longer nights and towards the darkest day of the year we generally have an increased level of appetite. This is a good sign, for the most part, and as long as other symptoms do not arise simultaneously.

Imagine this: the main central channel and system of the digestive tract is like the main street of a city. The neighboring organs are connected as are the neighboring streets and neighborhoods local to the city. If the main street of a city is flooded, congested, major traffic, obstructed in any way eventually the side streets become backed up. Similarly, if the digestive system is compromised in any way it is a matter of time until other organs feel the weight of this. Eventually, this can lead to other systems as well. In Ayurveda, we understand that all the systems of the body are contingent upon the quality and health of the digestive system and functionality. It is through the digestive system that all the other systems feed off of. We have the Respiratory System, Cardiovascular System, Lymphatic System, Reproductive System, Neurological System, Hemopoietic System, and Immune System. When COVID first became very prominent, many individuals were immediately jumping on the bandwagon of purchasing supplements to boost the immune system. There is, by inherent design, the desire to self-preserve so the interest in taking immune-boosting supplements makes sense. What isn’t understood, as is understood in the science of Ayurveda, is that there are “NO QUICK FIXES”, “NO SPOT TREATMENT”, and NOTHING that can jump the system, let alone consistently long-term, that would prived such an immediate outcome.

It takes time and consistent behaviors to support proper and long-term immunity. In the context of Ayurveda, this starts with Ahara and Vihara, proper diet and lifestyle, practices. It takes at least 35-40 days to produce proper tissues that also cater to the systems that are all intertwined. The quality of diet and lifestyle are key components to establishing overall health. With so many viruses and bacteria, and other pathogens that are around our daily lives that we are exposed to, how is it that many of us are not ill or that ill? The body and mind must be supported in ways to create this sort of stability. Ayurveda incorporates daily practices (Dinacarya) that are generally aligned with the daily cycles. Ayurveda includes practices around seasons (Rtucarya) and seasonal transitional (Rtu Sandhi) practices such as cleansing (shamana/shodhana), fasting (upavas) for some. Vyayama (physical exercise practices) is an important factor as well and is part of the dinacarya and rtucarya guidelines that align with our constitutional requirements. Without exercise, the body can not be in optimal health. No and’s, if’s, but’s, or excuses around it! The body keeps the score. It is a historical system and requires consistency for health. Therefore, if we know all this, then how can we expect strong immunity if we do not ensure we are somehow involving all these practices. I’m sorry if it seems as though I am the bearer of “bad news” but “don’t shoot the messenger.” I am simply conveying the teachings that Ayurveda has been sharing for thousands of years, along with my experience as an Ayurvedic clinician that has and continues to see so many thriving in health because of Ayurveda.

It is crucial to our well-being that we create a structure in our lifestyle that supports our ultimate intention which is to explore our purpose in life (Dharma), accumulate some level of material gain (Artha) that suits our heart, enjoy (Kama) such things including the manifestation of our life, and ultimate have some form of freedom (Moksha) that we can experience with a certain level of fluidity. We weren’t meant to fall apart as we progress through the different stages of life. We are meant to live a life as fully as possible and available to us. This includes sometimes, for some people, the presence of some illness that may be around long-term. Ayurveda and yoga teach us how to experience this as part of us and not become all of who we are, to the best of our abilities.

It truly is about the little things that add up to the bigger things, whether this consists of ill-health or better health. In many cases, diseases start with a minor or mild symptom somehow and somewhere usually in the digestive system, and eventually make their way around the body and become bigger and bigger. If we can stop a leak at the root, we can prevent flooding, usually.

People tend to become particularly ill during the transition of seasons. Similarly, as we progress into the holiday season, it is especially common for people to become more ill. The stress of the holidays, the rushing around in the office and out of the office, the wear and tear, the sleep disturbances, the erratic eating patterns, the decrease in exercise, and the mental unease, to name a few, are factors that allow for the immunity to drop and pathogens to enter. The first line of defense is the skin. The skin is the largest organ of immunity as it is a barrier that keeps what is inside of us safe from what is outside of us. Ayurvedic practices are extensive around this in supporting increased immunity by applying certain methods and techniques such as snehana (oil) and svedhana (steam) but, again, a lot is dependent upon the state of digestion (agni/jatharagni.) We have an external form of skin, and an internal one that goes from mouth to rectum, and much in between including the ear canals, nasal canals, ocular canals, and oral canal…urethral and rectal too; these are known as the “Nine gates” in yoga.

Think about it. What are you doing to support the building up of your immunity? What is the current quality and strength of your immunity? Are you prone to getting sick? Are you sick and seem unable to get out of this cycle. Are you aware of the little things that are causing you to think something is going on? You can see this based on simple things such as examining whether dry skin is present, stagnation overall is present, sleep disturbances, digestive disturbances (unusual gas, belching, bloating, flatulence, diarrhea, constipation, burning sensations, indigestion, and acidity), low energy or extremely high energy, and even mental fluctuations around anxiety, anger, and depression. Sometimes, it’s possible that some people simply are too busy to regard such little things and keep going. Do you say to yourself “I don’t have the money for this”? My suggestion would be to really ponder this question “can we put a price for our health?” and “when is too much enough”? Health is wealth and when you are on top of your health the world can “be yours.” Remember, you can have that moksa or freedom to move about in a more mobile and fluid way within your body.

Are you “too busy” to attend to self-care, or are doing the bare minimum? Or, are you the type that pushes through any current symptoms, big or small, indirectly waiting for something to come up with your health before you jump on the bandwagon with seeking an expert for support? My advice is to observe how many little things (the subtle signs and symptoms, called Nidana) are developing, not going away, and to slow down so that you can see more of what is here if you choose to. But don’t worry, sometimes when we keep pushing past these little things some of them go away, some seem to go away, and then come back with a vengeance which then debilitates us, anchoring us to the moment for full attention. In Ayurveda, the premonitory signs and symptoms are known as Nidana and the prevention of the accumulation of the signs and symptoms is known as Nidana Parivarjana. My advice is to seek a clinician versed in such practices to help you align with your goals of maintaining or returning to and then maintaining health, body-mind-spirit.

RESOURCES

RIDING THROUGH NOVEMBER

DIGESTION AND THE HOLIDAYS

RITUCHARYA

DINACARYA

STORY OF DISEASE

GUIDELINES FOR HEALTHY EATING

REGULARITY AND HEALTH

EXERCISE, YOGA, MASSAGE

September 29, 2021

SALT IS IN AND DON'T BE SALTY!

September 29, 2021/ Antonio Aragona

As we progress into Autumn (Sharath), there is an understanding in Ayurveda that Agni (particularly Jatharagni, the digestive fire) increases in strength. It is important to manage and regulate Agni to maintain health within each season as one season influences the next. In fact, what we do today affects our tomorrow and what we experience in the current season is partly an outcome of the previous season. It is all connected!

This is the time of year, especially here in the Northeast when the climate becomes colder and drier, and sometimes more moist due to snow, based on your location. A sense of lightness exists in general due to the cold combined with dryness, but a sense of heaviness can occur on cold and moist (snowy/rainy) days. In general, the management of cold dryness is remedied by warm moisture, and the resolution to cold moisture is warming dryness.

According to Ayurveda, there are six tastes (Shad Rasa.) Read more about Lavana HERE and if you’d like to read or review the six tastes. Click HERE for an article discussing the six tastes in detail. Ayurveda uses the six tastes throughout the year as it takes a whole year to achieve health according to the seasons (rtu), and not trying to get all six tastes in one meal. Attempting to create any one meal with all six tastes is incorrect cooking and can contribute to health ailments. Following the seasons, incorporating your prakriti (baseline constitution) and vikriti (deviated state from baseline constitution where conditions occur) and understanding your state of digestion (jatharagni) are important considerations when aligning with any protocol that will support your level of health and homeostasis.

Ayurveda suggests the salty (Lavana) taste to address and regulate Agni. For those individuals that are Vata predominant, whether with Vata prakrti (constitution) and/or vikrti (vitiation from or of constitutional design), they would struggle more so this time of year with the cold as this is a quality that increases Vata. The quality of cold can also affect Kapha since cold is a quality of Kapha and when Kapha is predominant individuals are unable to thermoregulate properly and feel colder and heavier. The dryness, otherwise, is supportive. Kapha predominant individuals may struggle with ongoing upper respiratory ailments such as asthma (Kapha type), colds, allergies, a runny nose in excess with mainly whitish mucus, overall heaviness, and increased lethargy. As a side note, there is a condition known in Ayurveda as Sthauyla where an overweight individual, mostly considered obese, can have the opposite effect but this is not meant to be discussed as part of this article and should be addressed separately. Vata predominant individuals may actually feel increased dryness unless the warm moisture is present. Vata predominant individuals tend to do a little worse in cold and dry climates. Whereas, Pitta predominant individuals generally do better in cooler climates, with dry and/or moist qualities. Importantly, the presentation of health or ill-health for these individuals must be determined by the state of digestion, its potency, or lack thereof. Based on the state of Agni, dietary and lifestyle considerations must be adjusted in order to maintain or regain health and well-being. Though Ayurveda generally suggests the Lavana taste (salty) to rectify the Autumn Early winter it is essential to mention that this taste best supports Vata predominant individuals and/or anyone struggling with Vata-related issues. If a Vata predominant individual is experiencing low Agni or compromised Agni, warming tastes/spices should be integrated into their diet. Using pungent spices can actually cause Vata to become more vitiated and Agni to be harmed even further due to the extreme qualities of pungent. Warming foods and spices such as cumin, cinnamon, black pepper, fresh ginger, mustard, basil, thyme, and rosemary would be better than cayenne, chili, red pepper flakes, or dry ginger. For the Pitta predominant individual with low Agni or compromised Agni, warm spices similar to that used by the Vata individuals can be used along with cardamom, fennel, coriander, black pepper (small dosage), fresh ginger (small dosage), turmeric, and even basil would be much better than the pungent spices. If Vata and Pitta predominant individuals have a generally healthy state of Agni, pungent can be minimally used or avoided, because of pungent containing the elements air and fire which would exacerbate Vata and Pitta accordingly, in order not to cause their Agni to vitiate, along with other aspects of their mind and physiology. Use your body as your guide and notice the Karya Karana (cause and effect) relationship with what you put into your body and what you’re getting out of it.

Below is a basic list of salty items, foods that contain low sodium, that you can include as part of your diet. It is important to remember that too much of a good thing can have the opposite effect and therefore, it is important to know your own physiology and psychology before jumping completely or extremely into any dietary consideration. Start slow because slow and steady wins the race. Foods cooked with the right spices to align with your constitution are an important component to understanding proper cooking and the pharmacological actions of foods. Additionally, Ayurveda considers any food anything that is “lickable, chewable, drinkable, and edible.” Ca Su. 28/1 Ayurveda doesn’t support a “quick fix” mentality and in this case, it is essential to understand that anyone particular substance (Dravya) may have a predominance of a certain taste but that doesn’t exclude other tastes that are inherently present in a substance. That being said, just because something may be known to be mainly bitter it may also have other tastes that can affect the overall design of a diet or plate. This is why it is important to know what the substance is, to its fullest capacity as shown within the science of Ayurveda, and its appropriate application.

Salt
Sauerkraut
Pickles
Olives
Tomato sauce
Bread
Rice
Barley
Quinoa
Anchovies
eggs fully cooked
Beans
Salted nuts
Almonds, Cashews
Cheeses such as gouda, mozzarella, and feta
Broths
Fermented foods such as saeurkraut, Tamari, Soy sauce
Wheat (which happens to be best digested this time of year)

References:

DIGESTIVE STRENGTH AND AGNI

6 TASTES

CAUSE AND EFFECT

SOURCES OF SODIUM

August 26, 2021

HEALTHY DIGESTIVE SIGNS: MOVING ALONG WITH THE ANNUAL PHASES: FOOD FOR THOUGHT

August 26, 2021/ Antonio Aragona

It’s that time of year, again!

Here we are at the beginning of September, wherein Ayurveda, there is a general understanding that around this time of year we enter into a window known as Rtu Sandhi (read the link in references), Seasonal Transition. On top of what normally occurs during this time of year, we have the apparent advancement of climate concerns around global warming occurring. Weather patterns have become more volatile, unpredictable, and extreme which can further confusion around even how to plan for each day, let alone each season and through seasonal changes. Don’t forget to add that we are also amidst a pandemic and trying to still figure out much of our way around it, globally! Much of this has been discussed previously by Ayurveda, thousands of years ago under in the chapter of Caraka Samhita Vimana Sthana Chapter 3 known as “Janapadodhvansaniya Vimana.” (See reference for this chapter and specifics below.) Caraka discusses how pandemics occur, what elements are necessary, literally and figuratively, and how to help return things back to a better place.

This is the time of year that many people tend to become ill because of the trickiness around letting go of the previous season and entering into the next phase. Allergies increase or worsen, digestion can have many “hiccups” and for some constitutions more than others, other respiratory and immune challenges, and simply the adjustment to the decrease in sunlight with each day can certainly cause the beginning phases of winter blues. With all these changes simultaneously occurring, Ayurveda provides us with time-tested insight as to how to address our health in the best way possible, considering the circumstances of the present moment. We can depend on these scientific principles as a necessary foundation to support us.

Traditions such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine have spoken for millennia about the importance of transitioning properly through these windows in order to prevent disease formation and/or progression by means of cleanses. Cleansing is more of an appropriate way of describing what the New Age approach calls “Detoxing”, but to holistic medical systems such as Ayurveda the action of ‘detoxing’ has a very specific definition and protocol. Otherwise, we are cleansing not detoxing. Similarly, Ayurveda implements protocols range from light to moderate cleansing, known as Shamana Chikitsa (palliative treatment), to intense cleansing/purging/maybe detoxing, known as Shodhana Chikitsa (deep cleansing treatment), in which Panchakarma tends to be the process. Such rituals have been implemented for thousands of years by these cultures and other cultures that honor such practices or versions thereof.

Certain practices are put into place that requires a certain level of commitment, awareness, and discipline in order to secure a successful outcome as we navigate through such conditions, pun not intended and intended. Generally, suggestions for cleansing become appropriate during these times of years, and as an important guide Ayurveda provides us with a clear list of qualities/characteristics that define good/healthy digestion (Jirna) and not good/unhealthy digestion (Ajirna.) Ayurveda states that ill health is generally caused by factors involving choices we make and don’t make (Prajnaparadha), mismanagement of the senses (Asaymendryarthasamyoga), the elements of time progression (Parinama), Ahara (diet), and lifestyle (Vihara.)

This list is of Jirna Ahara Lakshanas as follows (you can read more in the below reference link):

1- Clear belching

2- Enthusiasm, energetic, spirited, especially after meals/between meals.

3- Sense of lightness.

4- Natural, healthy, and timely sense of hunger and thirst.

5- Proper evacuation of bowels and urine.

We can then infer that the expression of these opposite qualities would be an indication of digestion being compromised, and it is within this context that we can begin to see how diseases can start or perpetuate, based on Ayurvedic Science. Oftentimes, the incompatibility of foods can contribute to the malfunctioning of digestion. (See the reference below) Furthermore, in cases when we feel heavy Ayurveda says to go “light” (laghu/langhana) and when we feel light (laghu) we go heavy (guru/brmhana.)

Take some time to review the below references for more details, and learn and/or improve upon your ways to transition as optimally as possible now, during all “windows”, and transitions in general. Additionally, meet with me or another qualified clinician to guide you through this time of year with cleansing and supporting you no only as the season is changing but also as the world turns.

REFERENCES

JIRNA LAKSHANAS

INCOMPATIBLE FOODS

RTU SANDHI

UPAVASA

RTUCHARYA

30 DAY SIMPLE RESET

POWER OF A RESET

DINACHARYA

DINACHARYA GENERAL PRACTICAL TEMPLATE

DIGESTION AND DISEASE PREVENTION

STORY OF DISEASE FORMATION

EPIDEMICS/JANAPADODHVANSAVANIYA

BRMHANA/LANGHANA

SHAMANA/SHODHANA

DISCLAIMER: This information is meant for educational purposes only and is not considered medical advice. Any changes in lifestyle should be reviewed with a qualified practitioner and/or primary care physician if you are currently under their care for specific conditions.

July 29, 2021

FOOD COMBINING AND HEALTH

July 29, 2021/ Antonio Aragona

In general, there is a profound understanding that poor food combining can play a major role in disease formation, and you wouldn’t really make the connection unless you reviewed Ayurvedic medical literature and/or had a fine-tuned awareness of when you eat something that didn’t agree with you, produced some sort of symptom, and didn’t necessarily know why. Ayurveda can explain this completely and thoroughly.

An important understanding that Ayurveda shares with us through its lengthy scientific discoveries is the concept of Viruddha Ahara (antagonistic/bad food combining.) Ayurveda possesses vast literature and numerous volumes on the discussion of Ahara (food) and Vihara (lifestyle) being primary considerations that either support health or support illness. Food intake is essential to the body as we can not live without food. Each cell of the body is dependent upon what we take in, where we know this relationship between input and output. What we put into the system will determine much of what we get out of the system. If we are demanding good health from the body, are we giving it what we deserve in order to have this outcome? Are you noticing the quality of health and energy based on what foods (Ahara) you eat, how much you eat (matra), and when (kala)?

Take a look at your health, and notice what is the quality. Take a look at your life, and notice what is the quality. Take a look at your health and your life, and notice the quality. Do they relate? Do they correspond? What are you doing to maintain health? What are you doing to maintain ill health? Your body is your guide. Notice what symptoms you are having and how they relate to what you eat and don’t eat.

Below you will find some articles discussing the topic of Viruddha Ahara in greater length. Here are some general considerations when reading them and applying these principles to your dietary and lifestyle practices.

Some Examples of Incompatible and Poor Food Combining Include: (read the articles below for more details)

Combining fish with dairy, in any form.
Adding cold water to cool off a hot beverage.
Adding ice to a warm beverage.
Adding sweet taste to extremely pungent dishes, or having this combination in one sitting. Or using spices with contradictory potencies in one dish are considered incompatible. For instance, cilantro added to a very spicy dish with cayenne or hot peppers. A portion of spices in relationship to each other is also a factor to consider.
Heating up any dish directly from the refrigerator. It is best to take whatever meal, and appropriate portion and let it sit out until it reaches room temperature.
If some food you are heating up becomes extremely overheated and you want to cool it down, it is best to remove it from the heat rather than add some cold substance to temper it.
Milk should not be combined with sour fruits. Milk should not be combined with melons. In both instances, this combination causes a curdling and inappropriate fermentation process leading to inflammation.
Fresh fruit should not be combined with food and should be eaten as a separate meal unless the fruit has been naturally dried.
Most meats, including pork, should not be combined with honey.
Eating heavy foods when you feel heavy, or eating foods that are light when you feel light/ungrounded is contraindicated.
Avoid combining meat proteins with dairy.
Avoid combining dairy, especially cheeses, with legumes.
Avoid combining dairy, especially cheeses, with wheat.
Avoid eating quantities of food that are incompatible with your natural stomach size. How to know that? Here’s a quick trick: take your two open palms into a cupping position, this is the size of YOUR stomach for your body.

Other Considerations:

What is your state of digestion (agni/jatharagni)? If it is strong, it has the possibility of off-setting poor food combining, but for how long until it is compromised?
How much of what you are eating, is poorly combined, and when? This will determine how slowly or quickly a pathology may form.
Sometimes, in some cases, certain spices can be an anecdote to food combining. Know which spices to use.
In some cases where certain foods such as banana and milk have been combined at a very young age, your body may have developed a capacity to process this food. Again, how often does this occur today? What is your quality of health to measure this combination? Just because you may be used to it may not necessarily make it a healthy practice. In certain cases, this is called Okasatyma in Ayurveda. Learn more about Satmya/Okasatyma/Asatmya (wholesome, moderately wholesome and unwholesome, and unwholesome) practices HERE.
Are you exercising (vyayama) properly? To some degree, exercising supports metabolic processes more efficiently and can have the tendency to slow down the progression of viruddha ahara, but also remember that in order for the body to be able to have the strength and energy to exercise it requires full, or as much as possible, nutrition on a cellular and microcellular level that depends on the quality of digestion, what it has digested, and when!
Poor food combining can express symptoms such as, but not limited to hyperacidity, brain fog, joint pain, indigestion, gas/excessive gas, bloating, diarrhea, toxemia, burning rectum, burning in the esophagus, pain in the abdomen, low energy, low libido, poor sleep, skin issues, and other diseases. Notice if you are having any of these issues.
“Only once in a while” is something that many people say but don’t realize that when they plot or note down how many of the things they do or ingest “only once in a while” in the context of a month, how much it all adds up to not being a good thing overall. Food for thought.

RESOURCES:

BAD FOOD COMBINING

AHARA VIDHI (TAKING FOOD PROPERLY)

SUPPLY AND DEMAND

SEASONAL REGIMEN OF DIET AND LIFESTYLE

YOUR BODY IS YOUR GUIDE

MORE ON INCOMPATIBLE FOODS

June 28, 2021

MAINTAIN HEALTH DURING THE SUMMER AND FOR THE NEXT SEASON TOO!

June 28, 2021/ Antonio Aragona

What we do today, affects tomorrow. What we experience this season could be because of what we did and didn’t do last season to maintain our health. What we do this season affects the next season and our health. What we do this season can change some of what happened last season. There is a principle, siddhanta (core teaching of Ayurveda) known as Karana-Karya which is the relationship between cause and effect. This direct observation can allow us to start tracking and monitoring what we are doing that either produces good health or ill health.

According to Ayurveda, there are two main divisions of the year that fall under the solstices known as the Summer Solstice (Uttarayana - Adana Kala) which pertains to Agni and Winter Solistice (Dakshinaya - Visarga Kala) which pertains to Saumya. This is generally understood that the sun continues to rise higher in the sky heading towards the Northernmost hemisphere as part of summer, with the qualities of the sun become depleting, and when the sun is at the southernmost hemisphere as part of winter we have more building and strengthening qualities. Agni is more present in the summer and Soma is present more in the winter.

TO DO:

1- Avoid mid-day (10-2) exercises, especially intense ones. This includes running.

2- Make sure any physical activities aren’t strenuous or depleting, or over-exerting.

3- Avoid overly sweating/sweating profusely.

2- Avoid skipping lunch (which is generally between 10-2), if lunch is part of your daily regimen.

3- Avoid skipping lunch to exercise, this time of year and any time of year.

4-Avoid staying up late. (Ayurveda says lights out and asleep by 10, ideally.)

5-Avoid drinking excessive alcohol.

6-Avoid eating a lot of fish, or much fish, and the combination with milk. Note: If you have very strong digestion, eating fish can be less of an issue.

7- Avoid drinking too much water.

8- Take naps during the day as needed, like a siesta. Not longer than 15-20 minutes. Not laying down but sitting upright, and/or semi-reclined. No sleeping during the day, otherwise, unless you’re ill.

9- Observe the night sky and its cooling and calming effects.

10- Ensure that your diet has the right amount of spices to support your digestion, even if that means using a little more black pepper, a smidgen more of salt, cinnamon, cardamom, ajwan, feungreek, and turmeric.

11- Avoid overeating especially knowing that digestion is weakest during the summertime.

12- Avoid eating heavy meals past 7/8:00 pm or late at night. (especially when you’re meant to be sleeping.)

13- Stay properly hydrated. Drink when thirsty. Drink throughout the day a combination of water and electrolyte-building beverages. Remember to sip versus guzzle large volumes.

14- Daily lighter gentler physical exercises are a good thing. Base some of this on your physical constitution and adjust accordingly.

15- Pace yourself. Be cool and “BE COOL."

16- Connect with nature. Do some hiking, camping, or anything that allows you to disconnect from your regular daily activities.

76- Properly regulate the temperatures in your home creating a sense of comfort. In dry climates should have humidifiers. Moister/humid climates should have dehumidifiers.

18- Keep the sinus’ moist properly to prevent depletion through dryness. This can best be accomplished by Nasya oils (medicated nasal oils as suggested per constitutional design, season, and per Ayurveda.)

19- Remember, what we do to maintain our health today will benefit us tomorrow. Anything we do that causes depletion today may not show up until tomorrow; tomorrow being weeks from now or even months from now.

20- If there are feelings of anger coming up, especially this time of year, find a constructive way to redirect and/or channel this anger so it helps to release it safely from your system.

21- Get a massage or bodywork. Some examples would be Marma Therapy, Swedish Massage, 5 Sense Therapy, Shiatsu, Thai Massage, Reiki, and even Cranial Sacral. This will help maintain health and regulate the body accordingly.

References:

Uttarayana - Adana Kala

Dakshinaya - Visarga Kala

Agni

Seasonal Transitions and Digestive Health

Winter and Summer Solstice

May 28, 2021

PUNGENT IS POIGNANT!

May 28, 2021/ Antonio Aragona

As we progress into summer, there is an understanding in Ayurveda that Agni (particularly Jatharagni, the digestive fire) decreases in strength. It is important to manage and regulate Agni to maintain health not only during the summer but also within each season as one season influences the next. In fact, what we do today affects our tomorrow and what we experience in the current season is partly an outcome of the previous season. It is all connected!

This is the time of year, especially here in the Northeast when the climate becomes hotter and more humid. In other geographic locations, there will be an increase in heat and dryness. Both locations will have heat as the primary quality and both types of geography should be managed specifically with regard to moisture versus dryness aspect, as this is an important consideration with regard to remedies. A sense of lightness exists in general due to the heat combined with dryness, but a sense of heaviness can occur on hot and moist (humid) days. In general, the management of hot dryness is remedied by cool moisture, and the resolution to hot humidity is cooling dryness.

Ayurveda suggests the pungent (Katu) taste to address Agni that is compromised expressing itself as dissipated, weakened, and low. For those individuals that are Kapha predominant, whether with Kapha prakrti (constitution) and/or vikrti (vitiation from or of constitutional design), they would struggle more so this time of year with hot humidity and less so with hot dryness. Kapha predominant individuals may struggle with ongoing upper respiratory ailments such as asthma (Kapha type), colds, allergies, a runny nose in excess with mainly whitish mucus, overall heaviness, and increased lethargy. As a side note, there is a condition known in Ayurveda as Sthauyla where an overweight individual, mostly considered obese, can have the opposite effect but this is not meant to be discussed as part of this article and should be addressed separately. Vata predominant individuals may actually feel increased dryness unless the humidity is present. Vata predominant individuals tend to do a little better in hot and humid climates. Whereas, Pitta predominant individuals generally do better in cooler climates or dry heat. Importantly, the presentation of health or ill-health for these individuals must be determined by the state of digestion, its potency, or lack thereof. Based on the state of Agni, dietary and lifestyle considerations must be adjusted in order to maintain or regain health and well-being. Though Ayurveda generally suggests the pungent taste (Katu) to rectify a weakening Agni that occurs during the summertime, it is essential to mention that this taste best supports Kapha predominant individuals and/or anyone struggling with Kapha related issues. If a Vata predominant individual is experiencing low Agni or compromised Agni, warming tastes/spices should be integrated into their diet. Using pungent spices can actually cause Vata to become more vitiated and Agni to be harmed even further due to the extreme qualities of pungent. Warming foods and spices such as cumin, cinnamon, black pepper, fresh ginger, mustard, basil, thyme, and rosemary would be better than cayenne, chili, red pepper flakes, or dry ginger. For the Pitta predominant individual with low Agni or compromised Agni, warm spices similar to that used by the Vata individuals can be used along with cardamom, fennel, coriander, black pepper (small dosage), fresh ginger (small dosage), turmeric, and even basil would be much better than the pungent spices. If Vata and Pitta predominant individuals have a generally healthy state of Agni, pungent can be minimally used or avoided, because of pungent containing the elements air and fire which would exacerbate Vata and Pitta accordingly, in order not to cause their Agni to vitiate, along with other aspects of their mind and physiology. Use your body as your guide and notice the Karya Karana (cause and effect) relationship with what you put into your body and what you’re getting out of it.

According to Ayurveda, there are six tastes (Shad Rasa.) Read more about Katu HERE and if you’d like to read or review the six tastes. Click HERE for an article discussing the six tastes in detail. Ayurveda uses the six tastes throughout the year as it takes a whole year to achieve health according to the seasons (rtu), and not trying to get all six tastes in one meal. Attempting to create any one meal with all six tastes is incorrect cooking and can contribute to health ailments. Following the seasons, incorporating your prakriti (baseline constitution) and vikriti (deviated state from baseline constitution where conditions occur) and understanding your state of digestion (jatharagni) are important considerations when aligning with any protocol that will support your level of health and homeostasis.

Below is a basic list of pungent items that you can include as part of your diet. It is important to remember that too much of a good thing can have the opposite effect and therefore, it is important to know your own physiology and psychology before jumping completely or extremely into any dietary consideration. Start slow because slow and steady wins the race. Foods cooked with the right spices to align with your constitution are an important component to understanding proper cooking and the pharmacological actions of foods. Additionally, Ayurveda considers any food anything that is “lickable, chewable, drinkable, and edible.” Ca Su. 28/1 Ayurveda doesn’t support a “quick fix” mentality and in this case, it is essential to understand that anyone particular substance (Dravya) may have a predominance of a certain taste but that doesn’t exclude other tastes that are inherently present in a substance. That being said, just because something may be known to be mainly bitter it may also have other tastes that can affect the overall design of a diet or plate. This is why it is important to know what the substance is, to its fullest capacity as shown within the science of Ayurveda, and its appropriate application.

Honey (especially raw but is heating, and drying, not burning)
Arugula
Mustard greens
Ginger (especially dry)
Dried garlic
Black pepper
Cayenne
Leeks
Chilis
Kohlrabi
Wasabi
Peppers (not the sweet kind) ie. Jalapeno, hot peppers
Radishes
Onions
Horseradish
Spinach (mildly due to its acidic constituent)
Anything that gives you a hot jolt in your mouth and possibly down your digestive system could potentially be pungent.

References:

DIGESTIVE STRENGTH AND AGNI

6 TASTES

CAUSE AND EFFECT

April 26, 2021

SEASONAL TRANSITIONS, DIGESTION, AND HEALTH

April 26, 2021/ Antonio Aragona

We are coming into May which is considered in Ayurveda a point where the seasonal transition (“Ritu Sandi”) occurs. We will be leaving the spring months behind and entering into the summer months. May is that time of year, one of three (January, May, September), where people tend to become ill.

I’m not sure if you have noticed, but as we have been gradually retreating from winter’s coldness and heaviness and entering into the warmer, lighter, and dryer months that the state of healthy appetite and hunger has been also shifting with the seasons. It isn’t uncommon to notice your appetite decreasing to some extent as the summer approaches. It isn’t uncommon to notice when the summer is left behind and colder months follow that the state of a healthy appetite and hunger increases again. According to Ayurveda, agni/jatharagni (state of metabolic digestive functioning and health) performs according to physics involving centripetal and centrifugal forces. Centripetal forces are directed from the periphery to the center. Whereas, centrifugal forces operate from a center point outwardly. In the case of digestion, as heat in the external atmosphere increases as summer months occur, the body’s innate intelligence and physiological functionality adapts where the heat surrounding the digestive system redirects towards the extremities (centrifugal), causing the heat to dissipate in such a way and the main digestive organs lose their potency. Similarly, as the months begin to cool down, the body redirects the heat towards the main digestive organs (centripetal) in order to support stronger digestion causing an increase in healthy appetite and hunger. We can use the analogy wherein the summertime we open the windows and doors to let the cool air in and require less cooking of our foods because it is too hot to cook over a stove, and we eat lighter foods that have been cooked externally by the summer son in the garden, but when it gets colder out we close the doors and windows and turn the heat on in the home so that we can focus the heat within and our appetites increase and we can eat heavier foods such as ground vegetables, increased fats, and proteins.

It is important to consider these facts and observe them for yourself. I have included a classical Ayurveda reference pertaining to explaining dietary guidelines as per seasons but it is important to understand how to dissect this information and apply it to our local geography and climate since these Ayurvedic core principles (siddhanta) were originally applied to the Indian subcontinent. In this case, being a westerner in the New England area of the United States of America, it is important to notice what qualities are presenting in the atmosphere with regard to our climate, notice what our current state of digestion is, and observe what is currently growing locally (as much as possible) to get an understanding of how nature is supporting us in our health and well-being. We can continue to include in our diet the tastes of bitter (tikta) and astringent (kashaya), and as the temperature continues to increase steadily above 80 degrees to 90 and even around 100, we should include the pungent (tikshna) taste. When there are heavy cold rains, sour (amla) is the taste used in general. The reason for mentioning these various tastes is because Ayurveda suggests that even under the context of the primary season when we have daily fluctuations in temperatures/climate, we should adapt the diet that day to meet that specific need even though a particular season may be governing for that time period. This applies to all seasons, whether in transition (sandi) or simply the full expression of the season itself (ritu.)

Pay particularly close attention to your health, well-being, and maintenance plan during the month of May, September, and January (and in general) since the relationship of your health depends much on cause and effect (Karya Karana), causative factors of disease (hetu/nidana), and the prevention of the causative factors known as Nidana parivarjana. View the below links regarding transitioning in May, as an example of how to tailor your seasonal and daily practices in order to reduce the chances of becoming affected or afflicted by any kind of ailment.

References:

SEASONAL PRACTICES (Ritucharya)

DAILY PRACTICES (Dinacharya)

DIGESTIVE STRENGTH AND AGNI

SEASONAL REGIMEN AND DIET GUIDELINES

SEASONAL TRANSITIONS

NIDANA PARIVARJANA

DISCLAIMER: This information is meant for educational purposes only and not considered medical advice. Any changes in lifestyle should be reviewed with a qualified practitioner and/or primary care physician if you are currently under their care for specific conditions.

March 31, 2021

DIET ACCORDING TO AYURVEDA

March 31, 2021/ Antonio Aragona

According to Ayurveda, we have a responsibility for our own self-care. Ayurveda’s vast scientific body of medical literature includes the understanding of Diet, known as Ahara, which involves careful considerations through the various levels and guidelines in dietetics. It is known in Ayurveda that Ahara (diet) and Vihara (lifestyle) are the main contributing factors to what can produce positive or negative health outcomes. As we say here in the west that “the proof is in the pudding", literally it is in the pudding of what we eat and how we live our lives that will either support our well-being or sick-being, freedom from disease, or trapped by disease.

These guidelines provided by Ayurveda have been tested over thousands of years and the siddhanta (core principles) are being applied as part of how Ayurveda can address all individuals globally and appropriately. The Nidana Parivarjana (removal of disease causative factors) is a key component to maintaining or establishing health (svastha) in Ayurveda. What this means is that we have to understand what are the factors and practices that discourage health. Svastha vritti (establishment of healthy living) is a primary core principle that is discussed.

It is up to each one of us to learn what this means for ourselves and make the necessary changes in order to bring about positive health to the best of our abilities. We aren’t meant to do this alone and as this common cliche says '‘a doctor shouldn’t treat themselves”, we should seek help from someone who can encourage, supervise, and guide us since this outer perspective is important for a clearer picture while honoring the inner inclination of our own “inner physician”, “inner guidance”, “inner intelligence”, and “intuition.” Together a great deal can be accomplished and this is the Ayurvedic holistic approach to self-care. Take a look at these guidelines HERE based on the original classical medical texts of Ayurveda and continue your health journey with increased awareness and mindfulness.

References:

DIGESTION AND DISEASE PREVENTION GUIDELINES FOR HEALTHY EATING

NIDANA

SVASTHAVRITTI

February 25, 2021

PUCKER UP and BE ASTRINGENT!

February 25, 2021/ Antonio Aragona

This is the time of year, especially here in the Northeast, being the slow beginning of spring where the qualities in the atmosphere are cold but becoming warmer, wet but becoming dryer (though we have “April Showers to Bring May Flowers”), and heavy but becoming lighter, which can cause the lymphatic system and hematopoietic system to become sluggish. Ayurveda suggests the astringent taste to decrease these qualities in order to prevent the body from having negative effects such as an overall heaviness, lethargy, inertia, depression in the body and mind, and stagnant. You can notice that this is the time of year when snow will thaw out, or at least it did more so a long time ago when global warming wasn’t as prominent as it is today, and this melted snow would create a lot of wetness and muddiness. For those individuals that are Kapha predominant, whether with Kapha prakrti (constitution) and/or vikrti (vitiation from or of constitutional design), they would struggle more this time of year with upper respiratory ailments such as asthma (kapha type), colds, allergies, a runny nose in excess. Vata and Pitta predominant individuals would have less of an issue during this time of year, though, Vata may struggle due to the cold quality still present in the environment.

According to Ayurveda, there are six tastes (Shad Rasa), and Astringent is called Kashaya. Read more about Kashaya HERE and if you’d like to read or review the six tastes, click HERE for an article discussing the six tastes in detail. Ayurveda uses the six tastes throughout the year as it takes a whole year to achieve health according to the seasons (rtu), and not trying to get all six tastes in one meal. Attempting to create any one meal with all six tastes is incorrect cooking. Following the seasons, incorporating your prakriti (baseline constitution) and vikriti (deviated state from baseline constitution where conditions occur) and understanding your state of digestion (jatharagni) are important considerations when aligning with any protocol that will support your level of health and homeostasis.

Below is a basic list of astringents that you can include as part of your diet. It is important to remember that too much of a good thing can have the opposite effect and therefore, it is important to know your own physiology and psychology before jumping completely or extremely into any dietary consideration. Start slow because slow and steady wins the race. Foods cooked with the right spices to align with your constitution are an important component to understanding proper cooking and the pharmacological actions of foods. Additionally, Ayurveda considers any food anything that is “lickable, chewable, drinkable, and edible.” Ca Su. 28/1 Ayurveda doesn’t support a “quick fix” mentality and in this case, it is essential to understand that anyone particular substance (Dravya) may have a predominance of a certain taste but that doesn’t exclude other tastes that are inherently present in a substance. That being said, just because something may be known to be mainly bitter it may also have other tastes that can affect the overall design of a diet or plate. This is why it is important to know what the substance is and its appropriate application.

Honey (especially raw)
Beans in general (ex. adzuki, kidney, chickpea, mung, and lentils)
walnuts, chestnuts
cloves
cinnamon
nutmeg
rosemary
asparagus
artichoke
broccoli
millet
amaranth
buckwheat
cranberries
pomegranates
raspberries
apples
sprouts
Apple Cider Vinegar
Bone broth
turnips
buttermilk
whey
spinach
collard greens

January 31, 2021

BITTER IS BETTER FOR LIVER AND SPLEEN

January 31, 2021/ Antonio Aragona

This is the time of year, being late winter when the qualities in the atmosphere are cold, wet, and heavy, which can cause the lymphatic system and hematopoietic system to become sluggish. Ayurveda suggests the bitter taste to decrease these qualities in order to prevent the body from having negative effects such as an overall heaviness, lethargy, inertia, depression in the body, and stagnant. You may notice in nature that the little animals are scraping away at bark and even whatever greens may still be available in order to keep their own physiology moving.

According to Ayurveda, there are six tastes (Shad Rasa), and bitter is called Tikta. Click HERE for an article discussing the six tastes in detail. Ayurveda uses the six tastes throughout the year as it takes a whole year to achieve health according to the seasons (rtu), and not trying to get all six tastes in one meal. Attempting to create any one meal with all six tastes is incorrect cooking. Following the seasons, incorporating your prakriti (baseline constitution) and vikriti (deviated state from baseline constitution where conditions occur) and understanding your state of digestion (jatharagni) are important considerations when aligning with any protocol that will support your level of health and homeostasis.

Below is a basic list of bitters that you can include as part of your diet. It is important to remember that too much of a good thing can have the opposite effect and therefore, it is important to know your own physiology and psychology before jumping completely or extremely into any dietary consideration. Start slow because slow and steady wins the race. Foods cooked with the right spices to align with your constitution is an important component to understanding proper cooking and the pharmacological actions of foods. Additionally, Ayurveda considers any food anything that is “lickable, chewable, drinkable, and edible.” Ca Su. 28/1 Ayurveda doesn’t support a “quick fix” mentality and in this case, it is essential to understand that anyone particular substance (Dravya) may have a predominance of a certain taste but that doesn’t exclude other tastes that are inherently present in a substance. That being said, just because something may be known to be mainly bitter it may also have other tastes that can affect the overall design of a diet or plate. This is why it is important to know what the substance is and its appropriate application.

Broccoli Rabe
Dandelion Greens
Kale
Eggplant
Cranberries
Cacao (dark chocolate especially)
Green tea
Brussels sprouts
Cabbage
Turmeric
Fenugreek
Asafoetida
Mustard seeds
Garlic
Rosemary
Grapefruit
Wine

December 22, 2020

JANUARY IN REVIEW

December 22, 2020/ Antonio Aragona

A new year is upon us and filled with infinite opportunities as each morning we wake up offers us the blessings of the day itself.

This is the time of year where Eastern Medical systems such as Traditional Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine teach that individuals are prone to getting ill during this window, being January, and generally the points of transition between each season such as around May and September. In having this awareness, there are measures that can be taken to increase optimal health and it is better late than never if you haven’t already been working on this.

If you have been already exploring this journey currently, then remember that there is always room for improvement, no matter how big or small of a step. There is a great amount of potency in the power of now and seizing the moment. The body keeps the score and is a historical system that requires consistency for health. Every little bit you can do today adds to the greater whole of your health and well-being. What we do today can address the past and support a more optimal future if we take the time to be present, commit, discipline ourselves and create a consistent pattern to establish a foundation for health to build upon. Sometimes people say that they don’t have the money for today to invest in their health but what is the long-term payoff for the sacrifice of not getting health in check starting with today? I’ve shared a perspective with many clients that what it costs today to maintain health holistically and Ayurvedically can save money in copayments, medical doctor visits, and even hospital visits. Therefore, jumping on all that Ayurveda has to offer is a great step towards self-care and disease prevention. Health is wealth and the more we invest in ourselves the more we have to gain in health and contentment with life. We are worth the investment and deserve the best for ourselves! Why put off until tomorrow what you can start doing today? The gift of health is the gift that keeps on going, to yourself and the longevity of your life, and to all those who surround you and care for you that you can be around for and enjoy. Take this moment and affirm the commitment to yourself! Take the steps towards yourself by saying yes to life, to health, and happiness. This supports two of Ayurveda’s main goals 1) Maintain the health of the healthy and cure sickness of the sick, as per Caraka, and 2) to support the four goals of life known as the Purusharthas, being dharma (purpose), artha (material gain), kama (pleasure/enjoyment), and moksha (freedom, liberation).

Below you will find links related to previous January recommendations to maintain health as we are transitioning through the depths of winter and progressing into Kapha season. Please take the time to review these tidbits in order to maintain health and well-being. And, as always, I am here to support your healthcare needs and look forward to being of further service to the community in sharing the profound wisdom of Ayurveda and Yoga.

TRANSITIONS AND NEW CHAPTERS

FOUR TIDBITS FOR JANUARY

FOOD FOR THOUGHT and TRANSITIONS

CATCH DRYNESS BEFORE IT CATCHES YOU

DISCLAIMER: This information is meant for educational purposes only and not considered medical advice. Any changes in lifestyle should be reviewed with a qualified practitioner and/or primary care physician if you are currently under their care for specific conditions.

November 29, 2020

MAINTAINING HEALTH THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS

November 29, 2020/ Antonio Aragona

Ayurveda observes patterns and through patterns, we can create health or ill-health. This time of year happens to be when people become ill around the holidays. There is an overindulgence of treats, foods, staying up late, burning the candle at both ends, stress, and emotional/mental upheaval for various reasons. This year especially is a time of year to be mindful of our immune system being that we are currently in a pandemic and observing how the smallest little influence (the COVID virus) can impact a whole world.

Similarly, in Ayurveda, we know that it is the little things that build-up to the bigger things and this can either refer to remaining in good health OR creating the circumstances for ill health. In Ayurveda, we have a scientific term known as Samprapti (“the Six-Stages of Disease Manifestation”) which refers to just this understanding that disease usually starts out way before it is full-fledged. You can view this link HERE to have a general comprehension of disease pathology. We start with the little things and they slowly progress when unmanaged. In order to return to health, we start with the little things and they slowly create the bigger thing which is optimal health. Beginning with the foundation is an important key and component in Ayurveda to helping to maintain health and/or regain health. In the general sense, Diet (Ahara) and Lifestyle (Vihara) are the foundations of health and ill-health. What are the little things that you are doing to either support your health or counter it?

Here are some basic recommendations to consider and implement year-round but especially this time of year:

1) Maintain a consistent schedule

2) Maintain meal times around the same time each day

3) Maintain sleep time around the same time each day, as much as possible

4) Ideally falling asleep should occur at 10, bedtime is before then

5) Determine what meal times work best for you. An overall ideal, according to Ayurveda is one meal around 11 and the other around 6 BUT this also depends on your constitution, your age, your digestive capacity/metabolic capacity, the time of year, and whether there are pre-existing health issues. Also, eat when hungry. Do not skip meals, once in a regimen and you’ve determined where you are at in your health or replace them with exercise.

6) Properly hydrate but don’t fall into the herding mentality that you should drink 8 glasses of water a day or 1/2 your body weight in ounces. Instead, listen to your body’s intelligence and drink when you’re thirsty. Hydrate properly. Drinking coffee doesn’t count since it has the opposite extreme effect. A combination of teas, hot/warm/cool water (depending on digestion and constitution), and electrolyte based beverages.

7) Exercise and exercise properly for your constitution. The ideal time to exercise is before 10 am. The next best time is before sunset. Do not replace meal times with exercise! Find your max point/threshold but don’t overdo it when exercising.

8) Perform practices that help center you and soften you from the worldly stressors such as meditation, painting, time with nature, baths, massages, quiet time, stillness times, watching a light-hearted movie, exploring hobbies, connecting with dear ones (in person or virtually, especially taking into account the current pandemic restrictions), constructive projects, and anything that gives you a break from any stress you may have. Don’t push yourself!

9) Dress appropriately for the weather. Keep your neck and ears and head protected from the cold elements.

10) Lubricate properly by hydrating and ensuring food has adequate oils. Nourishing the inside of the body takes care of much of the outside of the body. Health is mainly an inside job.

Resources

FINDING STILLNESS

LIFE AS A MALA BEAD

SEASONAL DEPRESSION

GRATITUDE

HEALTH TIDBITS

SEASONAL PRACTICES

DAILY PRACTICES

CATCH DRYNESS

DISCLAIMER: This information is meant for educational purposes only and not considered medical advice. Any changes in lifestyle should be reviewed with a qualified practitioner and/or primary care physician if you are currently under their care for specific conditions.

October 29, 2020

RIDING THE NOVEMBER TIDE INTO WINTER

October 29, 2020/ Antonio Aragona

Time is moving forward, regardless of the political nature of the world at this time, and it is up to us to maintain our ground during the levels of changing climate that is swirling around all of us during these times. It is import to note how nature is parallel to our own human existence and how we allow ourselves the opportunity to explore this and integrate it into our current reality. Somethings are within our control such as our perspective and how we act versus react to things. The things outside of us are generally what is not in our control and we can see how each day is such a unique experience in so many ways, more so unpredictable in unknown ways compared to the past.

Ayurveda offers us many tools, rooted in science and its relationship to life as part of life, in order to continue to succeed as much as possible, as simply as possible and at times. We have to “stick it out” to the best of our abilities by using what we know and have available to us right now. Ayurveda shows us that we should still connect with nature as much as possible as a key component to experiencing our human experience in a more optimal and wholesome way. In other words, we return to basics. For some people these days, life is forcing this lesson. While for others, this way of being connected to basics is already inherent in their lives in a way that is already second nature but is more diligently applied to the current times since the current times demand this. This is all happening simultaneously as nature goes through its seasons and all the weather patterns as part of Earths’ essence.

Here are some basic recommendations to help return to basics:

1- Prevent dryness and cold from entering into the body as much as possible.

2- Eat warmer foods

3- Eat seasonally but also according to your digestive/metabolic capacity.

4- Eat your meals consistently around the same time each day.

5- When there are complex health issues or the tendencies towards such things, then simplifying diet and lifestyle are important to integrate.

6- Get to sleep around the same time and ideally around 10pm (or simply not that long after you start to feel tired after your last meal of the day (around 6/7, for instance.)

7- Wake up as soon as you wake up, when the body naturally wakes up.

8- Exercising in the morning before 10 am is ideal. Otherwise before dinner and not too intense of a workout if it later in the day. Do not supplement lunch with exercise of any kind, this includes yoga!

9- Add meditation to your day. Add it any time. Just add it!

10- Find time to collect yourself. Meaning, find time in each day, or a whole weekend, or half a weekend to sit with silence. You can do things around your home but do not speak. Do not interact with others.

11- Find time to pause and be still, anytime before bed.

12- Keep warm. Keep your neck, ears and head protected from the coldness, dryness, and general weather patterns.

13- Bathe/shower daily, and before meals or well after meals.

14- Connect with nature. Drop your phone in your pocket or leave it home or keep it in your car. Just connect with nature. Observe the streams, rivers, sky, leaves, tree, bushes, littler critters, ground growth and anything that has nature all over it.

15- Do not start your day or end your day with the NEWS. Start out with positive heartfelt impressions. This includes not jumping into anything work related as you just wake up. Let the morning time and night time be the ritual in collecting yourself, being present, simplifying and simply being with yourself without the overstimulation of the external environment and all the worldly events that are endlessly happening and can easy cause us to feel turbulent, stimulated, escalated, and stressed. Simplify! There’s a time and place for it all and when everything finds its place then this makes it more easy to exist within our bodies and minds. Remember, the body is affected by how the mind thinks and what we expose our senses to will influence the quality of health of the body.

16- At the end of the day, beginning of the day, remember that we are all doing the best that we can with what we have, and that there is always room for improvement, but to be present and gentle, diligent, consistent, and loving to ourselves as much as possible, as we hold this space and offer this to others too. We are all human and “trying to figure it out.”

DISCLAIMER: This information is meant for educational purposes only. Any changes in lifestyle should be reviewed with a qualified practitioner and primary care physician if you are currently under their care for specific conditions.

September 29, 2020

MAKING TIME

September 29, 2020/ Antonio Aragona

Often I hear people say “they don’t have time” but in essence, they are correct without really knowing what they are saying. To have time can mean to really be capable of organizing and structuring yourself in a way so that certain tasks are accomplished within the confinement of time. To not have time implies that this organization and structure is either lacking or overwhelmed. Sometimes life happens, and in phases where there can be more events going on than others but all of life itself and the time within it isn’t necessarily a constant in this way.

When it comes to health, oftentimes I have heard people say they do not have time to take care of themselves. Very often, in my experience, as time has progressed I see how when time isn’t created for self-care that there is a breaking point with health and that breaking point causes people to stop everything they are doing because all that is pre-occupying them is the need to address health after some condition has developed and demands the time for it to be cared for, right now and immediately. Ayurveda is a substantiated science of medicine that has been established for thousands of years and proven to be effective and it shares that the causes (Nidana) of ill health are a result of diet (Ahara) and lifestyle (Vihara) and mind ((Manas being afflicted by chaotic (Rajasic) or inert/dull/ignorant (Tamasic) tendencies.)) The prevention and alleviation of ill-health occurs by addressing and avoiding the causative factors (Nidana Parivarjana) that aggravate the dosha which sets the ball in motion known as Dosha-Dushya-Summurchana (the conglomeration of the doshas that affect the tissues and other systems of the body. Outside of external causes (Aguntaja) such as traumas of all sorts, ill-health starts within (Nija).

We are each responsible for our own health and it is up to us to do our due diligence in order to maintain this. Hence, making time for ourselves regularly will help prevent accruing enough little things to turn into big things. The earlier in life we start these practices, the better the outcome can be as optimal as possible. However, no matter when we start, the best time is now and the investment is worth it. Falling apart doesn’t have to happen but tends to occur regularly with those who do not implement appropriate practices to encourage optimal health. There’s no time like now so why not start if you haven’t or if you have, then why not go deeper? Are you ready? Willing? I hope so. Ayurveda can help with this amazingly! All you have to do is make time. But remember, if you don’t make time now, then time will eventually force you to do so or you sacrifice health completely and reach a threshold where the point of no return exists and all that can be done at that point is manage it to the best of your ability with limitations.

One of the main reasons why Ayurveda was created was/is to support what is called the Purusharthas or the four goals of human pursuit. These goals are Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha. Dharma, represents our purpose in life. Artha, represents our material gains that evolve as part of our purpose and what we obtain during our lives. Kama, is the enjoyment of such things, and Moksha is mainly the freedom, lightness, non-attachment, and fluidity of such things. When we are in good health it makes it easier to experience these goals as part of life. Ill-health makes it more difficult and at times and for some people ill-health is simply part of the journey that deepens our experience in certain ways as long as the mind can stay on top of such things rather than fall victim and feel tremendous suffering.

Ayurveda knows this and suggests that health is contingent upon the time that we dedicate towards ourselves and the efforts we make to maintain our well-being. It is possible to experience a level of homeostasis within health as we are living in the world, knowing at times there will be fluctuations simply because that is part of life. BUT, it is important to follow practices such as Dinacarya (daily) and Rtucharaya (seasonal) protocols to support the adventures of health and life (Ayu.) Vihara (Lifestyle) practices such as sleep, sex, exercise, mentally productive activities, yoga, meditation, and diet (Ahara) to sustain. It is understood in Ayurveda that the body is a historical system and requires consistency for health. What we do today can affect tomorrow and what we do today can affect the outcomes of yesterday to a degree. Making choices to support health care starts now and requires commitment and dedication. Once this is firmly established, you’ll get into a rhythm where you don’t have to work so hard at it all the time and address the particular moments that do arise, because in reality…moments in life happen.

HERE ARE SOME BASIC SUGGESTIONS IN MAKING TIME WORK WITH YOU VERSUS AGAINST YOU:

1) Create a schedule

2) If you have a schedule already, refine it, re-define it, reassess it, and see how it’s working for you, or not.

3) Stay close to the schedule. Know that this is a way you are affirming yourself by keeping to a certain level of structure. HERE

4) Follow some of the basic guidelines with Dinacarya (daily) practices as shown HERE and seasonal (rtu) practices HERE.

5) Get a massage. I’ve heard people say that they don’t have the luxury for one reason or another but remember that getting a massage isn’t so much a luxury as it is an investment in your health and prevention in reducing how much you spend in co-pays for things that have to be addressed in the mind and body that can be reduced or alleviated simply by regular massage. This also gives you that 60-90-120 minutes to be with yourself. Make sure the massage therapist isn’t talking much. The experience of this can act as a reset. HERE

6) Set some time each day just for you. Doing the previously mentioned Dinacarya practices will easily help with this.

7) Find something you enjoy, that brings you joy and feels light and spend time doing it. Have regular fun! Dance around! Dance like no one is watching. Dance like everyone is watching. Explore your own freedom. Let your hair down. Let go and simply play a little. Let the inner child out here and there.

8) Take a bath. Stay longer in the shower. Take a walk. Turn off the TV. Turn off the music. Turn inward however you can and start from there, where you’re at, and build on this a little each day, each week, each month.

9) If you find yourself fighting against yourself, this will only exhaust you more due to this friction you’re creating. Take a step back. Take a pause. Take a breath. Take a power nap. Take yourself out into nature or even take yourself to see a friend.

10) There are many hidden gems to being affected by this pandemic. One gem is the way it encourages us to be more with ourselves. Take advantage of this by managing the time you have more of by doing some self-care.

11) As the season continues to transition into winter, we are encouraged to go inside more and make use of the time to maybe go to bed earlier since it’s getting darker earlier. Getting up earlier means having more time to do things in the morning such as meditate, walk, yoga, read mentally productive and stimulating but not stressful (like the news.) Enjoy the quiet of the morning. The yogis know that early morning time is better for inspiration and creativity as the world is more still, or at least the world around you tends to be.

12) Consider yourself worthy of the investment and that the abundance of your life depends on how well you treat yourself. You won’t regret and your body will thank you, especially if you do bounce back quicker from something that normally would have lasted longer.

13) Finally, if you’d like support with this, feel free to message me. I love being of service and we can figure it out together!

August 30, 2020

OUT WITH SUMMER, IN WITH FALL

August 30, 2020/ Antonio Aragona

In Ayurveda, the transitioning of seasons is called “Rtu Sandhi” and it is during these periods of the year that many people become ill as they are not sure of or are not following the season in its own process of transitioning. Some people are opposing this and hold on to summer as much as possible and even though it is understood why some people may do this there still has to be an awareness that carrying one season’s behavior into the next will have a cost. This cost is known as a health compromise and is aligned with the siddhanta (core principle) of Ayurveda known as Prajnaparadha (misuse of intelligence), which is one of the primary causes (nidana) of health issues.

What does this look like, you may ask? Here’s an example. Imagine having a cold but your friend is eating pizza next to you and your eyes want the pizza but the rest of your body doesn’t. You have a choice to make. Do you eat the pizza too or do you forego the pizza and make yourself some soup instead? The right use of intelligence suggests that giving up the pizza temporarily will help you have pizza another day, enjoyably, as long as you can recover from your cold immediately or as soon as possible. So often, some people choose to eat the pizza and prolong the cold but complain of the long-lasting symptoms such as congestion, fogginess, constipation, and even runny nose, but they don’t own up to the fact that they made a poor food choice that perpetuated this suffering, or they choose to not care and push through it.

When it comes to seasonal transitions such as summer going into fall, when you slow down you can notice nature also making its shifts. Watch the plants, trees, and the rest of nature. What is happening? The air quality and temperature start to change and slowly fluctuate as nature prepares for hibernation. We are part of nature and when we think otherwise is when we cause more health issues. In Ayurveda, another siddhanta (core principle) is known as Svabhava which is defined as that which occurs naturally. What occurs naturally? Seasons changing, cycles of the day, cycles of life (birth, childhood to adolescents to adulthood to expiration), the urge to eat, the urge to drink, the urge to poop, the urge to sleep, and many other urges and natural processes. When we work against this we cause health problems. Continuing to wear flip flops and shorts and staying up late (regardless of the season but especially when we transition) and eating cold foods on cooler days can cause ill health.

Notice where you may be doing this and how you can make some changes. An investment in health today will grant you more health tomorrow, next week, next month and even years from now. The body is a historical system and it requires consistency for health and as long as we are consistently maintaining (carya) health and a regular daily (dina) and seasonal (rtu) schedule we can remain in health more easily. Even when there is ill-health present, which tends to be a result of dis-ease (not being at ease, due to stress) abiding by a consistent healthy (svastha) regimen, adhering to a routine (stricter) can increase the chances of returning to homeostasis.

Here are some basic suggestions but please be sure to review SEASONAL CONSIDERATIONS which contains more information and other article resources and practices.

1) Start your day off with a simple cup of hot water. Drink it plain right after brushing your teeth and oral hygiene practices.

2) Make sure you are eating meals at consistent times (Kala).

3) Know what foods are harvested this time of year and ensure that they are a part of your diet.

4) Apply oil (nasya) that is in alignment with your constitution or where you are at within your health.

5) Incorporate some self-massage practices and ideally schedule your session for them.

6) Make sure your exercise regimen occurs consistently and ideally before 10 am, for the best practice.

7) Be sure to be asleep by 10 or close to it.

8) Waking up naturally can occur more easily when you get to bed at the best time. It’s more important to get to sleep by 10 and the body will claim what it needs and wake you up when it is ready. Trust it.

9) Once you wake up, force yourself up, especially as the days darken and remain darker longer. Going back to sleep can cause an excess of Kapha dosha (Kapha Prakopa) and this can stress the heart and circulatory/lymphatic system. There are special considerations such as being ill, elderly, childhood and even pregnancy, or days/climates that are hot, that resting during the day is indicated. Find out more. Also, these sleep rules apply to the average person that doesn’t work a night shift. Find out more if you are a night worker of sorts.

10) Be mindful of portions (Matra) and not to overeat. It is best to eat when you START to feel full.

11) Gradually, increase oils such as coconut, butter, olive oil, and even a little ghee as the season changes and becomes more consistent in its pattern.

Remember, what we do now can influence our health not only today but also tomorrow. The investment is worth it and the benefits by far outweigh the negative effects if we take the time to address proper self-care right now. Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can begin today and right now. The sooner the better. You’re worth it and your health will be the reward that allows you to experience the joys and pleasure of life long-term. Ayurveda is the science of health, prevention, sick-care, and longevity.

July 31, 2020

COME STEP OUTSIDE WITH ME...

July 31, 2020/ Antonio Aragona

Connecting with nature can have a major impact on our health in a positive way and especially if we do it wisely and curiously. It is known in Ayurveda that health can be better influenced the more we are aligned with nature and its process. The body-mind-senses can regain balance the more we take time to let them explore a non-digital world. It’s currently summertime and what better time to take some time and take advantage of how easy it is to go outside and to really allow yourself this opportunity. This is a practice that can be done at any time of year. Dress accordingly. Notice the seasonal changes in these scenarios. Notice how this affects you. Which season do you resonate with? Which season makes you feel your best? Your worst? It is important for our overall health and well-being, body-mind-spirit, to be able to connect with nature, outdoors and indoors. How can you bring what is outside in? Not just into your home or dwelling but also into your sacred space within you? How do you create space for this? Hold space for it? Observe it? Allow it? To what degree? Some of you may indulge more than others but to some degree, it is essential that we all have a close relationship with nature somehow since we are part of it. Slowing down is fundamental! Finding stillness in some part of each day is very restorative! Finding silence while awake is crucial to our body-mind-senses-soul!

Take the time to explore this aspect of self-care. You can always make time…5 min…5 hours…5 days…You’re worth it! You definitely won’t regret it and your health will be a sign of thank you when you do.

Come step outside into the garden...

What do you see, when you step outside with me?

Do you notice the sun shining on the grass? Do you see that bud about to blossom? Do you notice the bud that was just a bud yesterday that blossomed today? Do you see the trails of small critters and large critters leaving their presence behind? What colors do you notice? Are you able to see the new growth and decay? Is there water nearby, can you see it?

What do you hear?

Do you hear the birds chirping? The hummingbird flirting? The sounds of bees buzzing? The butterflies fluttering about? Do you hear the wind on the leaves passing by? The sound of a tree moving side to side or the leaves rustling? Are you able to hear the sounds of your own footsteps on the ground? Is there water nearby, can you hear it?

What do you feel?

Do you feel the soil, grass, rocks, stones, brick, or wood beneath your feet? What does the temperature feel like (on your feet)? Are you barefoot or with some footwear? Take them off, if it’s safe, and notice what you notice. Connect with nature as much as you can by letting your feet explore. Do you feel the sun on your skin? Do you notice the stars in the sky and the moonlight, or void where it would normally be? Is there water nearby, can you touch it?

What do you smell?

Can you smell the roses? The flowers? The grass, just cut? The smell of earth around you? What does the dirt smell like? What other smells do you notice?

What can you taste?

That clover? That drop of water from the spring? That basil leaf? That edible flower? That fruit?

Come step out onto the beach…

What do you notice near and far? Can you hear the waves? Feel the sand beneath your feet? Feel the warmth on our skin from the day sun? Or, do you feel the subtle breeze upon the ocean tickling your skin? The stars and moon, or moon void in the sky? If there is a moon, what does that create as an ambiance for you? What else is glowing because of it? What does it feel like to have the waves touch your feet while partially dancing between the sand and the sea? What do you hear near and far? What do you see near and far? What don’t you hear near and far? What don’t you see near and far?

Come step out into the woods….

Do you notice the space between the leaves? Between the branches? Between the trees and shrubs? Do you see how interconnected everything is? How there’s a tree here and there climbing towards the sky? Do you see how that rock happens to be there? Or, how that cascade of trickling water falling over that rock? Can you how it all fits together and without judgment? How you fit in with all of it as part of it? Do you see that little spot waiting just for you to find a sense of oneness with? Did you realize that nature is aware of your presence? That it doesn’t judge you but simply acknowledges you as part of it? Is this relationship reciprocated?

Come step outside with me….so you can step into yourself more and observe your connection with all of nature around you….

Some part of it is always there, however big or small. It’s just a matter of being able to slow down to notice. Can you make the time for this? How does it make you feel? What does it make you think or not think? Can you notice how you respond to when you are with some part of nature?

Can you hear the silence?

Can you see the stillness?

Can you feel the silence?

Can you feel the stillness?

It’s always there when you can slow down and notice it.; not think it or believe it but simply allow for it with a passive awareness. The experience is very tangible. Like the breath, which comes and goes. It’s there but do you slow down enough to notice? What are you avoiding? What are you afraid of if you find this stillness? What is present when all the external distractions are put aside so you can be with yourself, intimately in a way that you may not be used to. If you are used to it, how much deeper can you go because you can always go deeper into the depths of the infinite abyss? How do we know there is a breath and that we are breathing? The answer is simple, which is that if we weren’t breathing we wouldn’t be in our beingness. We can slow down and observe others breathing? Are they really breathing? Is it shallow? Is it fast? Is it slow? Is it deep? Is it erratic? Notice how the mind is correlated to the breath pattern. What is yours doing right now as you are reading these words? How do you feel? Not just feel in the mind or emotions, but simply just feel in the body? What does it feel like? No stories. Just observe the actual feeling by feeling it.

HEALTH TIDBITS

DISCLAIMER: This information is meant for educational purposes only and not considered medical advice. Any changes in lifestyle should be reviewed with a qualified practitioner and/or primary care physician if you are currently under their care for specific conditions.

DISCLAIMER: This information is meant for educational purposes only and not considered medical advice. Any changes in lifestyle should be reviewed with a qualified practitioner and/or primary care physician if you are currently under their care for specific conditions.

Still Point Ayurveda