Ayurveda is a Sanskrit word meaning “the science of life and longevity.” It is an ancient natural system of holistic health and healing that has been practiced in India for thousands of years. Ayurveda encompasses diet/nutrition, lifestyle, exercise (yoga), relaxation, meditation, breathing practices and medicinal herbs, along with cleaning and rejuvenation for healing body, mind and spirit. The objective of this science is to maintain the well-being of a healthy person and heal the disease of an unhealthy person. Many modern healing modalities (including western medicine) have roots in Ayurvedic philosophy and practice.

Ayurveda is not only a science but also a way of leading a wholesome, balanced life. Swasthawratta is a special section of Ayurveda which deals with the science of healthy living. It means “the regime of abiding in one’s own nature” and involves certain practices to ensure vitality and longevity. Acknowledging the intimate relationship between each individual and the environment, it focuses on fine-tuning your daily routines in concert with nature’s seasonal changes. In Ayurveda there are principles to follow which, when observed each day, help you maintain proper well-being of body and mind.

According to the wisdom and practices of Swasthavratta, the day should start by eliminating the colon and bladder at the time of sunrise, followed by the cleaning of eyes, ears and mouth. Morning exercise, breathing, yoga and massage are recommended as these help rejuvenate your body and mind (as well as eliminating stress). Having a bath is suggested after exercise. Consumption of a healthy diet is important. All meals, including breakfast, should be in accordance with season and body type. Lunch is recommended at or before afternoon. Dinner is suggested in early evening. Exercise immediately following a meal is not recommended. Leaving space for digestion is important, so it is prudent to stop eating before your stomach becomes full. Relaxing and meditating are encouraged before bedtime to ensure more peaceful sleep. It is advised that each person maintain regular sleeping hours and wake up at sunrise.

According to writings and studies about Ayurveda, those who follow the daily routines and eat according to their body type and in tandem with the seasons are less stressed and more holistically nourished and content. Ayurveda also believes in detoxification of the body in cases of sickness, seasonal changes or as recommended by an Ayurvedic physician with whom you are working toward enhanced wellness.

If you consider job atmospheres (or even societies) that are well organized and in which workers maintain good conduct by following certain social rules and regulations, you tend to see high productivity, strong community and resulting successes. These can include workers’ (citizens’) greater physical and emotional well-being, in addition to higher revenues and a healthier overall environment for the organization (or culture). It sets a positive cycle in motion so that great things can be achieved and maintained. So it is with the disciplined behaviors of Ayurveda’s Swasthavritta, a form of preventive medicine that enables your body and mind to sustain a more healthful and disease-free life.

Dr. Jaya Daptardar B.A.M.S., M.H.A., has been practicing and teaching Ayurveda since 1991. She earned her Bachelors degree from Amarawati University in India and a Masters in Healthcare Administration and Management from California College of Health Sciences. Dr. Daptardar is a certified Panchakarma Therapist and certified Beauty Therapist, as well as Founder and Director of Active Ayurveda and Yoga and The Institute of Ayurveda and Life Style Management. A faculty member of the Association of Ayurvedic Professionals of North America and a member of the International Society of Ayurveda and Health, she is also an active member of the American Association of Practitioners and Researchers of Ayurveda. For information, call Dr. Daptardar at 203.460.0189, or visit AyurBeautyAndLifestyle.com or ActiveAyurveda.com.