Positive habit-forming is one of the most important areas of our lives that we should focus on. A wise man once said;
“Those who succeed in life are the people who do the little things the best.”
However, today, I want to take things one step further. Ayurveda, the practice of the ‘knowledge of life’, is a traditional and ancient medical science that can help you improve your health, your happiness and your overall well-being.
So instead of focusing on just the little things in your life, such as making your bed in the mornings, or cutting down on screen time, maybe it’s time for us to start creating so really positive habits that will benefit is both the long and short-term.
With this in mind, here is a collection Ayurveda for you to practice every day, helping you to become a happier, healthier you!
Give Oil Pulling a Try
If you haven’t heard of oil pulling until now, then you’re in for a treat. This is an Ayurveda practice where you take your favourite, or available type of oil and swish it around your mouth like mouthwash for 10-20 minutes. For this, you’ll want either coconut or sesame seed oil.
This is an ancient, yet very people Ayurveda habit which more and more people today are seeing the benefits of. The oil is fantastic at pulling toxins out of your mouth and even has teeth-whitening and freshening effects.
With extended use, you can also enhance your sense of smell and taste, and the act of doing so is renowned for being therapeutic.
Get Up with the Sunrise
What time do you currently get up and start your day? According to Ayurveda practices, you’ll want to aim to set your alarms for when the sun rises, since this is what our body clocks are tuned into naturally.
Ideally, you’ll want to aim for several minutes before sunrise since you’ll be able to feel your body fully wake up as it rises. Also, you’ll get to see a beautiful sunrise every morning. Is there a better way to start your day?
Focus on What You Eat
If you were to keep track of all the foods you ate every day for a week, do you think you would know what you’ve eaten or do you think you’d be surprised? While this may be enough to get you eating more fruit and veg, that’s not all.
Equally important to what we eat is how we eat. We live in such fast-paced lifestyles that we usually end up eating on the go or while we’re focusing on other things, but this isn’t a good way eat.
Instead, take time out to eat your food and actually stop to have a break, even if it’s only for ten minutes or so. Slow your eating down and eat with intention. Focus on the smells, the taste and the feeling of actually consuming food.
According to Ayurveda practices, food is sacred and should be honoured with respect and attention. This is also a great way to find food more enjoyable and to help your digestive functions.
Using a Tongue Scraper
Ayurveda practices place a lot of focus on the toxins in your body and how you can regulate and get rid of them. Before brushing your teeth in the mornings, try scraping your tongue, since the mouth is a primary gateway for toxins, thanks to air and your food.
Not only is this a great way to improve your breath and your general oral hygiene, but it can also actually aid your digestion as well. Over time, you can even improve your sense of taste.