Ayurveda does not contemplate complicated diet systems, but it does suggest some simple and very effective remedies to help weight control in a healthy way, which I learned during one of my Ayurveda retreats in Kerala. I have always tended to get weight easily and in the past it was a problem, but an ayurveda treatment a few years ago was a fundamental step in learning to live peacefully while managing weight without effort.
We live in a world with a big obsession with weight, the newspapers are teeming with miraculous (and dangerous) and often complicated diets. Ayurvedic treatments for weight control, on the other hand, do not involve anything difficult and Ayurveda suggests some simple but effective remedies to help you lose weight in a healthy way. According to Ayurveda, being overweight causes an excess of Kapha and leads to a further increase in kapha in the body; therefore, it is important to balance this dosha by following some principles. As we know, Ayurveda does not focus on short-term results, so it does not provide for drastic limitations of food or limitation of the variety of food that can be taken. Instead, it offers us guidelines that help us lose weight in the medium and long term and that help us live a healthier life.
It is important to eat three satisfying meals every day
As per Ayurvedic tradition, the concept of digestive fire, transformation and digestion are closely intertwined. Maintaining a healthy metabolism requires adequate ignition of the digestive fire, which can be achieved by adding regular and reliable fuel to the body. It is therefore important to eat healthy and digestible meals every day without snacking between meals to achieve the necessary balance.
It is important to follow a diet that is pacifying for the Dosha Kapha
Eating a pacifying diet helps eliminate excess kapha from the system and can affect the change in the body. Ideally, the kapha diet should include hot, dry, rough, light and digestible foods. It is important to choose freshly prepared homemade food.
Eat a light dinner between 6pm and 7pm
Eating a light dinner (ideally before 7pm) allows the stomach to empty before going to sleep and supports the natural detoxification processes that occur during the night. Soups and vegetables guarantee us a proper cleansing of the body.
Sip hot water or tea throughout the day
Hot water is known to be an elixir of life in the Vedic tradition. Toxins, also known as ama, tend to accumulate in the body. The ama is said to be sticky in nature and can be easily dissolved with hot water. It is important to drink a few sips of hot water first in the morning. Some fresh herbs such as ginger can be added.
Exercise at least three days a week
Taking time for physical activity ensures a faster metabolic rate and efficient fat burning. Walking, running, cycling, yoga or swimming are all relaxing physical activities. A great way to increase your good mood too.
Sleep well
Disturbed sleep quality can ruin health and impact weight. In fact, modern research studies have found that insufficient sleep may be a contributing factor to weight gain. According to Ayurveda, the ideal time period should be 10pm to 6am.
These tips may sound trivial, but they are effective over the long term. A healthy lifestyle is definitely the key to losing weight.
Do you want to discover an Ayurvedic center for a good Ayurvedic treatment for weight control? What would be your favorite destination for an Ayurveda retreat? India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bali or Europe?