inspiration2024/03/01

Unlocking the Power of Ayurveda with Sruthi Jayadevan

by Wolf & Badger

Content creator Sruthi Jayadevan, has cultivated a safe and cosy community online as she documents her conscious, clean and slow living lifestyle. We chatted to Sruthi about the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, a system of traditional medicine native to India, which uses a range of treatments, including panchakarma ('5 actions'), yoga, massage, acupuncture and herbal medicine, to encourage health and wellbeing. She talks us through how to accessibly incorporate Ayurvedic practices in your routine, empowering us to take this traditional practice into modern life.

As I sit down to share some insights into Ayurveda, I can't help but reflect on my own journey. Growing up in Kerala, India, the birthplace of Ayurveda, these ancient practices were ingrained in my daily life. However, upon moving to a new country in my teenage years, I found myself drifting away from these rituals of wellbeing. It wasn't until I faced various health challenges and life stressors that I rediscovered the profound wisdom of Ayurveda. Below are some of the practices I include in my morning routine that have helped me immensely in my wellness journey.

1. CCF Tea Every Morning

One of the simplest yet most effective Ayurvedic practices I've reintroduced into my daily routine is starting the day with CCF tea. CCF stands for cumin, coriander, and fennel seeds, a powerful combination known for its digestive benefits. Boiling these seeds in water creates a soothing tea that aids digestion, reduces bloating, and promotes overall gut health. Warm CCF tea is something my family and I used to drink before and after every meal to help with digestion. Any time I feel my digestion could use a little boost, I brew myself a cup of this warm and soothing tea and it works wonders.

2. Dry Brushing

Another Ayurvedic ritual that has made a significant difference in my overall well-being is dry brushing. This ancient technique involves gently brushing the skin with a natural bristle brush (for kapha and vata body types) or a cloth glove (for pitta body types) to get rid of dead skin, boost circulation and aid in detoxification. I find it a great way to wake up my mind and body in the morning and the smooth skin afterwards is just an added bonus!

3. Aligning with Circadian Rhythms

Waking up and sleeping according to the body's circadian rhythm is a fundamental principle of Ayurveda. As someone who once struggled with sleep issues, I've learned firsthand the importance of honoring our natural sleep-wake cycles. By waking up before sunrise and winding down in the evening as the sun sets, we synchronize our internal clock with the rhythms of nature, promoting deeper sleep, enhanced energy levels, and overall well being.

4. Morning Oil Pulling

Oil pulling, an ancient Ayurvedic practice, involves swishing a tablespoon of oil (such as sesame or coconut oil) in the mouth for 15-20 minutes on an empty stomach. This simple yet powerful technique could assist in removing toxins, bacteria, and plaque from the mouth, promoting oral hygiene and supporting overall health. This practice takes some getting used to and you can always start off with just a few minutes every morning. A trick that I use is to do my oil pulling while I’m doing another task that takes me 20 minute so I don’t notice the time fly by.

As I've reconnected with my Ayurvedic roots, I've come to appreciate the profound wisdom and simplicity of these ancient practices. I’m including my typical morning routine filled with Ayurvedic practices below as a starting guide for those who may wish you try them out in our own routine. As you embark on your own journey of incorporating Ayurveda into your life, may you find balance, harmony, and well being.

My Typical Ayurvedic Morning Routine