"The healing science of Ayurveda is based totally upon the knowledge of "prakriti", the individual constitution. If every individual knows his own constitution, then one can understand, for instance, what is a good diet and style of life for oneself. One man's food is another man's poison. Therefore, to make one's life healthy, happy and balanced, the knowledge of constitution is absolutely necessary.” ~ Dr. Vasant Lad
"Ayurveda is useful for everyone because the main objective of Ayurveda is to preserve and maintain health. Those who are healthy will benefit from ayurveda by becoming stronger and having more energy; while those who are sick will be able to bring back their health in a natural way." ~ Dr. Vasant Lad
AYURVEDA: THE VALUE OF OILING YOUR FEET
BY MANORAMA
During my years of study with Guru ji (Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati), he often told students to oil their body with sesame or coconut oil as a way to bring healing and quiet to the nervous system. He would suggest oiling just prior to sleeping so that the oil had an opportunity to soak into the skin over night. According to Ayurveda, the practice of oiling gives a calm and tranquil feeling to the body and mind. When I was first told about it I was skeptical and questioned one of the long time students and she said, “After oiling you will feel so good you’ll feel like a queen.” I was intrigued and liked the metaphor, so I tried oiling that very night. What I found when I woke up was that I had this incredibly tranquil, relaxed feeling both inside and out. My mind was more at ease, my skin was smooth and supple, my breathing rhythmic and steady. Moreover, from the oiling practice I noticed that I carried a relaxed feeling with me all day.
During the months of November and December I offer this to you.
Try oiling the soles of your feet prior to bed and then going to sleep allowing the oil to soak in. Do the exercise for 5 days and observe your self daily. See if you experience greater clarity and peace within through this simple ayurvedic practice.
Oiling Your Feet Practice:
Just prior to bed put a towel down on your bed.
Oil your feet with sesame or coconut oil.
Lay your oiled feet on the towel and cover them with the towel and then blanket.
Sleep.
Wake up and notice how you feel throughout the day.
"Our body knows how to create a perfect balance, but we need to learn body’s language first to understand it."
–Dr. Vasant Lad
