In the quest for a sustainable and holistic way of losing weight, the ancient Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda, offers a unique and comprehensive approach. The main focus is on how one balances their mind, body and soul. However, Ayurveda is not only a plan for weight loss but rather a complete way of life that promotes overall well-being. Beyond calorie tracking, Ayurveda’s time-tested principles offer a comprehensive framework for weight loss. It provides a sustainable and all-natural method for reaching and keeping a healthy weight by treating the underlying causes of weight gain. There are many weight loss retreats in Sri Lanka that now focus on the Ayurvedic approach to wellness. Here are 6 effective Ayurvedic tips for a simple, doable approach to shed your weight:
1. Get Enough Sleep
According to many studies and research, poor sleep plays a major impact on weight gain. Inadequate sleep disrupts the body’s natural rhythms, leading to imbalances that can contribute to an increase in body weight. In Ayurvedic principles, establishing a consistent sleep routine (preferably 7 hours) and creating a calming bedtime environment can help you gain a good night’s sleep. It’s also important to keep in mind that sleeping during the daytime aggravates “Kapha Dosha” and contributes to increasing one’s weight.
2. Choose Food that Supports Weight Loss
“You are what you eat”. This quote emphasizes the vital impact food has on your body. Ayurveda accentuates the significance of mindful eating and choosing foods that align with one’s unique composition. It’s important that one incorporates a variety of fresh, seasonal, and whole foods. In Ayurveda it states that including spices like ginger, turmeric, and cumin can enhance digestion and metabolism, supporting the body’s natural weight loss processes. Additionally, make sure to surround yourself in a peaceful environment while eating as it helps your body to digest and maintain a healthy eating pattern.
3. Exercise Regularly to Break a Sweat
Physical exercises are essential to any weight loss strategy and are a main element that helps burn fat. Make sure to take a few walks, do light stretches or even engage in yoga/meditation. It’s important that we stay active and take part in physical activities to help us stay fit and healthy. According to Ayurveda, exercising and keeping your body physically active, lightens one’s mood and provides a good appetite. Not to mention, regular exercises also help with overall energy boost and improve your sleep. Additionally, Ayurveda recommends that we exercise between fifty and seventy percent of our potential capacity, ideally breathing through our nose the entire time. By doing this, physiological stress is avoided and the body is able to reap the full benefits of our efforts.
4. Focus on Reducing Stress
As much as we need to focus on our food intake and the external condition of our physical bodies, it’s also important to check on our mental health. Stress is one of the significant factors that contributes to weight gain. Practicing meditation and breathing exercises will ensure that your mind and your body are aligned. Start your mornings with a few minutes of yoga for a balanced and successful day. Not only will this balance your mind and emotions, but also help you calm the nervous system and activate the vital life force from within.
Ayurveda recommends you to set positive and sustainable goals for your weight loss journey. Make sure to engage in light meditations during the day, or journal your thoughts and aspirations if it helps. At the end of the day, be kind and patient to yourself rather than feeling guilty and stressed about your weight.
5. Practice Ayurvedic Therapies
One of the Ayurvedic treatments that aid weight loss, is “Panchkarma”, a detoxification session that helps you eliminate all toxins and reset the body’s natural balance. Panchakarma is a therapeutic detoxification and rejuvenation process that is thorough, customized, and all-encompassing. It can help with chronic, deep-seated issues like obesity and can be administered under the supervision of an Ayurvedic practitioner.
A few other Ayurvedic therapies that help in weight loss are Udvartana, which is a specialized herbal powder massage that is known for its slimming effects and its ability to enhance circulation, Mardanam, a deep dry massage, Abhyanga, a massage with warm, herb infused oils followed by a steam bath and Virechana, a therapeutic purgation.
6. Seek an Ayurvedic Consultation for a Personalized Weight Management Plan
An Ayurvedic consultation helps understand your unique weight loss needs by assessing your constitution, which is also known as Prakriti, a combination of the Doshas (energy principles) of the mind & body. Balancing the constitution can lead to variations in natural weight. Ayurveda encourages self-awareness and tailored health goals. The consultation addresses digestion and metabolism, which are crucial for natural weight loss, as well as calorie intake reduction.
Some of the advantages of Ayurvedic consultation include achieving sustainable results, a holistic well-being, an individualized approach, and an emphasis on preventive measures. This empowers individuals to address weight concerns while cultivating overall balance and a positive vibrancy in their lives.
Santani Wellness Kandy is your ideal retreat in terms of building your wellness in both mind and body. Hidden amongst the lush greenery in Sri Lanka’s verdant interior, this peaceful sanctuary is more than just a place to visit—it’s a life-changing encounter. The resort offers a personalized weight loss journey and customized approaches that fit your personal needs and goals. The program starts with a consultation with the resident doctor to understand each individual’s “dosha” imbalances and lifestyle factors. It includes tailored dietary recommendations, lifestyle modifications, and Ayurvedic therapies for sustainable results. The serene location of this wellness resort along with its expert guidance, creates an ideal environment for those seeking a balanced and rejuvenating weight loss journey.
