“आहारशयनाब्रह्मचर्येर्युक्त्या प्रायोजितै:
शरीरं धार्यते नित्यमागारमिव धारणै:”॥
Ahara (food), Shayana (sleep), and Brahmacharya (celibacy): properly indulged, support the body constantly just like the house is supported by the pillars.
Ahara, Nidra and Brahmacharya are known as trayopstambha- the three pillars of health as per Ayurveda. They are the basis of attaining good health. Out of which Ahara of food is given the first importance.
According to Maharishi Kashyap as well health depends on food.
“आरोग्यं भोजनाधीनम्” I
-(काश्यपसंहिता, खि. 5.9)
The ancient Indian system of Ayurveda is one of the most comprehensive natural healing systems in the world. It teaches that a person's physical and mental health is dictated by their lifestyle, as well as their diet and eating habits.
The first and foremost learning of Ayurveda is “dincharya” or “the daily routine”. Having food is one of our daily rituals. Ayurveda is not based on calorie counting and doesn’t believe in excluding any food item completely unless you are sick. Ayurveda dietary principles are based on the knowledge of Panchmahabhootas, the Tridoshas, and the Shadrasas.
The five elements are the basic constituents of everything in this universe.
Prithvi (earth), Vatta,
Pitta and
Kapha
The six tastes
Madhur(Sweet),
Amla(sour),
Lavan(salty),
Katu (pungent),
Tikta(bitter), and
Kashaya(astringent)
“रसस्यते असो इति रसाः” I
That which can be tasted/ relished is known as “Rasa”.
The knowledge of these six tastes is the prerequisite and key to the right nutrition and a healthy body. Each Rasa is formed by a special combination of Mahabhootas. Ayurveda recommends including all six tastes in your diet, however, the amount to be consumed depends on one’s body constitution. Each taste feeds our mind, body, senses, and spirit in its own unique way.
Matra(amount) and Kala(time) of consumption are also of great significance.
Ayurveda knows the importance of the right food item, it even recommends specific adjuvants for specific medicines as well. Ayurveda has a concept of Pathya and Apathya. “Pathya ahara” are the food items that are suitable for an individual and “Apathya ahara” are the food items that are not suitable for an individual and should not be consumed.
Knowing your dominant dosha is important before beginning an Ayurvedic diet. To get the full benefits of an ayurvedic diet & nutrition, you must consult an Ayurvedic physician.
We can help you in your journey to a healthy you. Please book a consultation with Dr.Ritu Malik for a proper Ayurvedic diet and nutrition guidance according to your body type (prakriti) and your medical condition, if any.
