Ayurvedic home routine: A subtle return to balance
With modern life moving at a fast pace, numerous individuals are slipping quietly back into more traditional modes of living in hopes of finding serenity and stability. One such route drawing attention once again is
Ayurveda
, not as a trendy exotic wellness movement, but as a simple, earthy lifestyle.
With its emphasis on natural cycles, Ayurveda fosters a daily routine to nourish body and mind through tiny, deliberate habits. In Indian families, this philosophy is gradually making a comeback, particularly as ancient customs become simpler to merge with contemporary living.
Morning rituals
that determine the day
According to Ayurvedic philosophy, the way the day starts has a profound influence on how it continues. Waking up before dawn is usually considered viable when the air is cool and the mind is at its clearest.
A glass of hot water usually constitutes the first step, at times accompanied by lemon or ginger water, to facilitate the stimulation of digestion. This is followed by tongue scraping to extract toxins, oil pulling using sesame or coconut oil, and gentle self-massage with warm herbal oils to stimulate circulation and relax muscles.
Bathing is not merely thought of as a cleansing process, but rather as a process of rejuvenation.
Soaps or powders from herbs and minerals are frequently used. Most families employ familiar Ayurvedic products in their lifestyle. Patanjali is one of many available brands in India that provide herbal oils and tooth powders, which complement these simple practices without having to make elaborate preparations.
Meals, movement, and
mindfulness
Digestion is held to be central to health in Ayurveda, and so meal planning forms part of the daily rhythm.
Food is best fresh, warm and made out of seasonal foods. Spices including cumin, turmeric and coriander are not just used for flavor, but also because of their digestive qualities. The principal meal of the day is usually consumed around noon, when digestive power is thought to be strongest.
Slow movement is also supported, be it yoga, walking or gentle stretching. These are not considered workouts, but are seen as self-care practices.
Even afternoon routines make room for rest. Rather than caffeine, most opt for soothing teas such as tulsi or fennel. In households where the ritual is followed, kitchen shelves tend to have staples such as rock salt, cow ghee and herbal powders. Some use Patanjali staples for their familiarity and ease of access, especially in urban areas.
Evenings are designed to slow down
As the sun sets, the Ayurvedic routine inclines towards slowing down. Dinner is light and preferably several hours ahead of sleep.
Light oil massages, warm baths, or a few minutes of introspection are popular means of shedding the day's mental burden. Screen time is minimized, substituted by soothing music, reading, or silence. Sleeping before 10 p.m. is given a push when the body automatically starts its repair mechanism.
These practices can sound idealistic, yet for most, they are not perfect. Even embracing two or three tiny practices can have a sense of stability.
The intention is not to adhere to ancient principles rigidly, but to discover a rhythm that is sustainable and soothing within contemporary life.
"Ayurveda was something I'd only ever heard mentioned in passing, but when I was going through a really nervous period, I started getting more into it. I started with little things, such as warm water in the mornings and herbal oils. I also bought a couple of Patanjali products because they were so readily available at the shop. Gradually, I could feel my energy was steadier and my mind quieter. The most dramatic change wasn't outward.
It was the feeling of equilibrium I had inside."
— Pragya Chakraborty
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
28 minutes ago
- Time of India
Monsoon eye care: 7 essential safety tips for contact lens wearers
The Indian monsoon brings cool relief but also increased risks of eye infections, especially for the country's 10 million+ contact lens users. Rainwater may seem clean but often carries bacteria, allergens, and pollutants that can irritate or infect your eyes, particularly when trapped beneath lenses. Rising humidity, dirty hands, and even improper lens care can make things worse. However, you don't need to ditch your lenses. With expert-recommended hygiene practices and simple swaps like daily disposables or protective eyewear, you can keep your vision safe and clear. This guide offers the precautions every contact lens wearer should take during the rainy season. Why the monsoon season puts your eyes at risk Rainwater may look clean, but it can carry dust, allergens, bacteria, and even parasites. When it splashes into your eyes while you're wearing lenses, it can increase your chances of infections like: Conjunctivitis (pink eye): Highly contagious and marked by redness and irritation. Keratitis: An infection of the cornea, often caused by bacteria or fungi that thrive in water. Corneal ulcers: Serious open sores on the cornea that can lead to vision loss if untreated. Even seemingly safe sources like tap or bottled water should never be used for rinsing lenses. Water can get trapped under the lens, creating a moist environment where bacteria can multiply rapidly, leading to irritation and infection. Why your lenses feel uncomfortable during monsoon Humidity outside combined with dry indoor air conditioning can throw off your eyes' moisture balance. This sudden change can make lenses feel sticky, blurry, or just plain uncomfortable. Your eyes may also dry out faster, especially if you wear lenses for long hours without breaks. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Monsoon eye health guide: How to wear contact lenses safely during rainy season These are 7 essential steps to protect your eyes while continuing to wear lenses during monsoon: Practice strict hand and lens hygiene Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before touching your lenses. Any moisture on your fingers, even clean-looking water—can carry microbes. Use only a doctor-recommended cleaning solution to disinfect your lenses. Avoid all types of water, including tap, bottled, or filtered, for cleaning. Avoid going out in the rain with lenses Rain can splash harmful contaminants into your eyes. If you're stepping out, consider wearing glasses instead. They act as a physical shield against water, dust, and airborne allergens. Switch to daily disposables Daily disposable lenses are a hygienic choice during the monsoon. Since you use a fresh pair each day, there's no need for cleaning or storing, reducing the risk of infections significantly. Never rinse lenses with water It's worth repeating—water is not sterile. Whether filtered or not, it can carry harmful organisms that don't belong anywhere near your eyes. Always use lens solution, and remember to replace your lens case every 2 to 3 months to avoid microbial build-up. Know the warning signs If you experience symptoms like redness, blurry vision, pain, itching, or excessive watering, remove your lenses immediately. These may be early signs of an eye infection. Prompt medical advice can prevent long-term complications. Give your eyes a break Make it a habit to go lens-free at least one day a week. Wearing glasses allows your eyes to rest and rehydrate naturally—especially helpful in a season where humidity and pollution levels can fluctuate unpredictably. Consider switching to glasses or adding sunglasses During heavy rains, opt for eyeglasses instead of contact lenses. They offer better protection against raindrops, allergens, and even UV rays, which can still damage your eyes through clouds. If you still prefer lenses, wear sunglasses on top for an extra shield against the elements. You don't need to stop using contact lenses during monsoon; just be smarter about it. Prioritise hygiene, stay alert to early signs of discomfort, and avoid water contact. With a few thoughtful adjustments, you can enjoy clear, healthy vision even in the wettest weather. This monsoon, let protection and prevention guide your eye care routine. Also Read: Colon Cancer vs. Irritable Bowel Syndrome: How to recognise symptom differences early
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Everything to know about the ancient art of hair oiling
(Image Credits: Pinterest) From enjoying the benefits of yoga to embracing the traditional methods of Ayurveda , we've explored many practices passed down through generations in Indian culture. But if you think you've tried it all, there's one Indian tradition that has quietly woven its way into Western culture, often without due credit. It's the ancient art of hair oiling, a time-honored ritual deeply rooted in Ayurveda, the 5,000-year-old science of healthy living that originated in India. Making it one of the oldest healing systems in the world, hair oiling is an ancient practice that involves pouring oil onto your hair and scalp, then gently massaging it, which further deeply nourishes the hair and scalp, boosting overall hair health. (Image Credits: Pinterest) The wisdom of Ayurveda The wisdom of Ayurveda provides a holistic approach to Indian haircare traditions, which focuses on the interdependence of body, spirit, and mind in order to achieve healthy hair. By integrating the Ayurvedic concepts into the current haircare regimens, it allows people to nourish their strands with lifestyle practices and natural oil, which then promotes vitality, balance, and long-lasting beauty. This ageless wisdom of Ayurveda continues to guide and inspire people on the road to having vibrant, voluminous, and healthy locks and is a reflection of India's rich culture, which is deeply rooted in our nature. 5 things you didn't know about liquid hair Simple benefits of oiling for our hair strands Provides nourishment and moisture: Oil penetrates deeply into hair follicles, which gives necessary nutrients that feed and hydrate the hair shaft, further decreasing the dryness and frizz from our strands. Hair growth and strength: This process increases the blood circulation to the scalp, which then promotes hair development and strengthens hair roots while decreasing hair loss and breakage issues. (Image Credits: Pinterest) Maintains scalp health: Massaging oil into the scalp improves overall scalp circulation, decreases dandruff issues, soothes inflammation, and promotes a healthy scalp environment. Provides natural shine and lustre: Religious use of hair oils gives natural shine and lustre, improving its appearance, which makes it easier to manage overall. Calms and relaxes the mind: The act of massaging oil into the scalp overall promotes relaxation, which reduces stress and relieves tension headaches as well. Develop a personalised approach to hair oil and improve its effectiveness, addressing your scalp and hair demands. The religious process of applying hair oil is not just a haircare treatment but a voyage of self-discovery and development.
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
Fatty liver: Why even healthy, fit people are at risk and don't know about it
You may feel healthy, look fit, and go about your day without much trouble-but your liver might be silently waving a red flag. Fatty liver disease, once linked only with alcohol abuse, is now showing up in women, children, fitness enthusiasts, and even teetotallers. It's quiet. It's sneaky. And if you miss the early signs, the consequences can be far-reaching. What causes fatty liver? In one word-lifestyle Your liver suffers when you consume that packet of instant noodles, deep-fried chips, frozen pizza, or a sugary iced coffee from a café. These contemporary food choices, which are loaded with hydrogenated fats, refined sugars, palm oil, and preservatives, overwhelm the liver with toxins that it cannot adequately process. And it's not just adults-children as young as 10 are showing early signs of fatty liver, thanks to soft drinks, junk food, and a lack of physical activity. 7 Ways to check for fatty liver at home Alcohol, of course, remains a major culprit-but it's not the only one. Even non-drinkers develop what's now called Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Sedentary habits, stress, irregular sleep cycles, late-night eating, and skipping meals all contribute to sluggish liver function and fat accumulation in liver cells. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Tan Dinh: Unsold Furniture Liquidation 2024 (Prices May Surprise You) Unsold Furniture | Search Ads Learn More Undo So how does the body signal that something is off? Until blood reports raise concerns, these subtle symptoms-such as persistent fatigue, dull skin, slight pain or heaviness under your right rib, frequent bloating, mood swings, trouble losing belly fat, and even bad breath-are frequently disregarded. The good news? Your liver has an extraordinary power to regenerate-if you allow it to. Here's how to begin healing naturally: Begin your mornings with warm water, lemon juice, and a pinch of grated ginger. It stimulates bile flow and aids detox. Add Ayurvedic herbs like punarnava, kalmegh, bhumyamalaki, and kutki under guidance-they are powerful liver rejuvenators. Ditch processed food and embrace whole grains like jowar, bajra, ragi, and red rice. Use mustard oil, ghee, or cold-pressed oils. Snack on soaked walnuts, almonds, and seeds. Healthy fats help flush stored liver fat. Move your body. Walk, stretch, do yoga-or dance to your favourite song. Prioritise sleep and reduce stress. The liver repairs at night, and stress hormones only worsen the condition. Your liver is your body's detox factory. Treat it with the respect it deserves, and it will return the favour with lifelong vitality. Don't wait for a report to remind you start the reversal today. Monica B. Sood, CEO – Navjivan Health Service Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Raksha Bandhan wishes , messages and quotes !
