Ayurveda places a lot of emphasis on prevention rather than cure. All the classical writers emphasize a daily routine called dinacharya and seasonal routine called ritucharya. Dinacharya is made up of two words: dina or day and charya or routine or activity.
Dinacharya brings about health and vitality into our lives. This is of great importance when we get bombarded from all sides by different stimulations. If a person desires good health then commitment is required.
Dinacharya addresses several things as listed below:
- Waking up early in the morning about half an hour or one hour before sunrise. This is called Brahma Muhurta. This time is the ideal time. During this time vata dosha is predominant and this will help with feeling energetic and also help with elimination.
- Cleaning of the teeth. Nowadays there are so many toothbrushes and different types of toothpastes available but during the olden day twigs and stems of plants which had a bitter, astringent or pungent rasa or taste were used. Chewing these sticks is very beneficial as it also has antibacterial properties. It also prevents plaque formation and caries. The tongue also must be cleaned. This is done with a tongue scraper made with copper or gold.
- Elimination of feces and micturition helps in getting rid of the accumulated waste and prevents toxin formation.
- The eyes have now to be addressed. The eye is the most important sense organ. It is dominated by pitta and fire or tejas. Kaajal is applied to the eyes.
- Nasya is next. The nose is the direct entry to the brain. A drop of anutaila should be administered in each nostril. During Covid time this was being advocated a lot.
- Kawala and gandusha are next. In kawala the oil or medicated fluid is taken so that there is space in the mouth for it to move and then it is moved around in the mouth. In gandusha the mouth is filled with the oil or liquid and kept for minutes. Both give strength to the jaw and also prevent dryness.
- Massage or abhyanga of the head and feet is next. This helps with getting a good night’s rest and gives clarity to all the sense organs.
- Snana or bathing is next. It is very purifying and nourishes and strengthens the body.
- Vyayama or exercise is next. Here care should be taken that it is not too strenuous and tiring. It balances the doshas and mental stability is brought about.
- Diet is of great importance. Food should be taken only when the previous food is digested and when a person is hungry.
- Sleep is recommended at the proper time and proper quantity. Good sleep leads to happiness and longevity.
Mrs. Mira Swami, Dept of Ayurveda