Menopause – important life transition not an illness

Thankfully the menopause is getting a lot of airtime now, and so it should.  It has been a source of shame and misunderstanding for too long.  How do we view the menopause in Ayurveda? Menopause essentials Let’s first recap the menopause essentials.  The accepted definition of the menopause is the Read more…

Vegetables

Boost immunity, reduce stress, stay strong

There is no doubt this is a testing time for everyone around the globe. Along with the obvious physical concerns, there can be financial and emotional stress to deal with. Many of us are not just concerned for ourselves but also our loved ones. While feeling generally calm and optimistic, Read more…

travel hot air balloon

To travel is to live – but don’t let it cost your health

Many of us love to travel and find that a change of scene, a rest or an expanse of mind all help to boost our health.  The travelling itself can take its toll, however, and has long been documented in Ayurveda as something to watch out for.  All the principle Read more…

Natural Cycle

Women, love your cycle (and men, it REALLY helps to know)

Women have an amazing aid to living a healthy and happy life. The menstrual cycle. Now, if you are man, please don’t stop reading here as likely as not, you know a woman. She would likely be very impressed and grateful for any glimmer of understanding of this topic and Read more…

Tune into daily rhythms for best health

Sleepy in the afternoon? Sluggish in the morning? Unable to fall asleep at night?  Finding meditation or study difficult? You may be planning your activities at times when they work against you rather than for you. While writing my last article on sleep, I got really excited by the new research Read more…

Good sleep, great health

When I was 13 I suffered from severe insomnia for a few months and it was, to that date, the most painful thing I had had to endure.  Lying there awake, feeling like everyone was asleep apart from me was a deeply lonely and exasperating experience.  Thankfully that was my Read more…

Neti pot

Your nose doesn’t have to welcome germs; introducing the neti pot

If you haven’t had a good old cold this winter, don’t let your guard down now.  Spring often arrives with a nice sprinkling of viruses which are desperate to get into your nose and mouth. Ideally your digestion will be working well, your body tissues will be well nourished and Read more…

Benefits of abhyanga massage

“Massage is essential” – now that sounds good

Abhyanga (Ayurvedic warm-oil massage) is not a luxury, it’s essential.  That’s not from me, it’s from the ancient Ayurvedic texts: ‘Abhyanga should be resorted to daily.  It wards of old age, exertion and aggravation of vata.  It bestows good vision, nourishment to the body, long life, good sleep, good and Read more…