Editorji Exclusive: Some commonly asked questions about Ayurveda, answered by an expert

Ayurveda is one of the world’s oldest healing systems. It was developed in the Indian subcontinent. This alternative medicine system focuses on the holistic development of the mind, body and spirit. Instead of solely focusing on fighting an illness, it prioritises the idea of being healthy.

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In an exclusive interaction with Editorji, Dr Zeel Gandhi from Vedix, answered some commonly asked questions about this medicine system.

1. Ayurveda was always our strength. These days people are giving a lot of importance to Ayurveda. How do you see the inclination of people towards Ayurveda?

The positive response for Ayurveda is encouraging. Modern research under its trials have proven the therapeutic claims of ayurvedic medicines and procedures. Over the years, we have realized the limitation of chemicals for treatment. 

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Ayurveda is effective in the following ways -

 a) It treats you holistically. So when you take an ayurvedic medicine, one can hardly expect to have side effects. Side benefits are many.

 b) Ayurveda considers every individual different. No two individuals with seemingly same symptoms are treated with the same therapies. 

c) Treatment encompasses all three human dimensions, body, mind and soul. 

2. At times people hesitate to wait for long and want immediate results. What is your reaction?
 
Quick fixes without correcting the underlying issue can aggravate the problem. Finding temporary solutions is never a way out, for life in general.  An in-depth analysis of the root cause and treating it has been the core of ayurvedic treatment modalities. Yes it takes time, but the healing is guaranteed. Patience and positive calming energies can help tide over the crisis as you slowly heal back to health. Our bodies are extremely resilient and work hard to maintain homeostasis. Let's be kind to it and provide our bodies with the time and nutrition it deserves.
 
3. Pandemic has made people conscious about things and they have started taking care of themselves and leading a better lifestyle. Any tips or suggestions for our readers?

Overindulgence is the biggest crime we commit against our body. The pandemic made us realize there is no getting away from it. Diabetics, Obese, and otherwise physiologically unsound individuals were worst affected. It was about time people took control of their ways of life. 

The pandemic put forth the importance of prevention, healthier diet and lifestyle choices, and a daily self-care routine. It summed up Ayurveda in general - the way of life. Ayurveda is what you inculcate in your day to day life to be healthy. For the curious, the texts are brimming full of ideas for self-care. Dinacharya techniques like Nasya, Anjana, Oil pulling, Abhyanga, Vyayama help build immunity. Rasayana chikitsa differ from season to season and help make the immunity bullet proof. 

Science has made humans feel mighty over the past few centuries. Arrogance made us believe that we were invincible against the fury of nature. The pandemic humbled us. Despite our mega machines and potent chemicals, we found ourselves kneeling in defeat. 

(Inputs by Dr. Zeel Gandhi, BAMS inhouse Ayurvedic doctor at Vedix- ayurvedic beauty and wellness brand that provides hair, skincare and wellness regimes)