Our modern lifestyles constant demands from our busy schedules often means we are left feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and depleted. Ayurveda encourages us to slow down and practice daily rituals to promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. There are so many Ayurvedic rituals you can choose from but in the spirit of simplicity we have listed our favourite practices which have helped us find balance and a sense of calm in our lives.    

1. Mindfully Eating and Drinking  

The Ayurvedic diet seeks to balance the body and mind through nutrition. Dietary recommendations are connected to individual constitution, imbalances, and overall health.  Here are some of the key principles: 

• Individualised Approach: Ayurveda recognises that each person has a unique constitution or "dosha" (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). The diet is tailored to balance one's dosha to promote health.  

• Six Tastes: Ayurveda categorises foods into six tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent. Including all six tastes in your meals is believed to provide a balanced and satisfying diet. 

• Eating Fresh Whole Foods Seasonally: Ayurveda emphasises consuming foods that are in season and locally available. Focus on fresh, whole, and unprocessed foods. This helps align the body with the natural cycles of nature. 

• Mindful Eating: Eating in a calm and mindful manner is important. Avoid distractions like screens and focus on your meal. Chew your food thoroughly to aid digestion. 

• Hydration: Sip warm water throughout the day to aid digestion. Avoid very cold or iced beverages. 

• Awareness of Agni: Agni refers to digestive fire. Eating foods that support your agni promotes efficient digestion and assimilation of nutrients. 

 2. Tongue Scraping  

Dating back to ancient times in India, the Ayurvedic belief is your tongue reflects the overall health of your internal organs and digestion. Using a copper tongue scraping tool first thing in the morning removes everything that is consumed during the day and prevents the reabsorption of the toxins that your body expelled overnight. The benefits can include fresher breath, better oral health and improved digestion.   

3. Daily Meditation 

Ayurvedic meditation, also known as "Dhyana" focuses on the breath, to calm the mind and balance the doshas.     

Ayurveda suggests that the best times for meditation are during the transitional periods of the day, specifically before sunrise and before sunset.  Choose a quiet and peaceful space for meditation.  

Sit in a comfortable and stable posture that supports the natural curvature of your spine. This could be in a cross-legged position on the floor, or in a chair with your feet flat on the ground. Focus on slow, deep breaths and use techniques like "Pranayama" to regulate your breath. Using mantras, sacred sounds or phrases can also help channel your mind's energy. 

Cultivate mindfulness by observing your thoughts and sensations without judgment. This helps develop self-awareness and a deeper connection to your inner self.  Set a positive intention for your meditation session. It could be for healing, balance, gratitude, or any other positive focus. 

4. Self-Massage  

Self-Massage or Abhyanga is an Ayurvedic ritual that involves the application of herbal infused oil to the body, followed by a gentle massage. It is a traditional practice aimed at promoting relaxation, improving circulation, nourishing the skin, and balancing the body's energies.  

Abhyanga is often done in the morning before bathing, using oils that are selected based on an individual's dosha (constitution) and specific health needs. The rhythmic massage strokes help stimulate the lymphatic system, release tension, and calm the mind. It is considered a rejuvenating practice that contributes to overall well-being in Ayurveda. 

5. Morning Movement  

A simple morning movement practice to start your day will give you energy and positivity.  Go for a walk outside, do a Yoga flow or even just some stretches. Moving mindfully for 10 to 20 minutes in the morning will help energise your body and focus your mind.   

Herbal Remedies  

We know there was only five rituals on the list but we couldn’t end without mentioning the important ritual of consuming herbal treatments and remedies. Ayurveda utilises a wide range of herbs to support health, well-being and hormonal balance. The ritual we love most every morning is consciously consuming either ashaya In-Flow Period & PMS Relief or Re-Glow Perimenopause Relief Powder. Knowing you are nurturing and supporting your hormones every day is so reassuring. Here are some key Ayurvedic herbs included in our supplements: 

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Known as an adaptogen, ashwagandha helps the body adapt to stress, supports energy levels, and promotes overall vitality.  

Turmeric (Curcuma longa): A powerful anti-inflammatory herb, turmeric contains curcumin, which is known for its antioxidant and immune-boosting properties. 

Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): Particularly beneficial for women, Shatavari supports hormonal balance, reproductive health, and energy. 

Consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner can provide personalised guidance tailored to your needs and goals. Always consult with your healthcare professional before taking any herbal supplements. 

For more information on Ayurvedic practices: 

Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre 2018, Practical Ayurveda, Dorling Kindersley, London, UK. 

Matthews, S, 2016, The Art of Balanced Living, Finch Publishing, Sydney, Australia