Kapha

Women’s Hormone: A Seeding Story

The “Divine” has created this universe and many ecosystems, which includes many living and nonliving things. To sustain this ecosystem, he thought to create an organism that could reproduce, and thus he created “feminine beings” in every creature. This feminine being could create and nurture.

In human beings, females reproduce and nourish as they have some peculiar physical and physiological characteristics. Hormones play a key role in maintaining these characteristics. Menarche is one of the first stages in a female’s life during the adolescent period and continues as a regular monthly menstrual cycle for fertility. This cycle ends with menopause after a particular duration. This cycle of menarche to menopause in a female act as a shield to protect her from various diseases and disorders.

Let us dig deeper into the of a female as follows:.

1. Menarche

Starting phase of the reproductive period: Estrogen and Progesterone are the key players of the whole cycle. Sound nourishment and a healthy lifestyle during childhood and adolescence are the necessities of a healthy menstrual cycle.

Menarche also brings in newly bodily changes, skin issues, digestion changes causing sensitivity. Adding seeds like carrom (ajwain) or cumin (jeera) & coriander (dhaniya) seeds in small quantities to their diets provides relief from period pains or cramps.

2. Fertile stage up to 30 years:

Women’s peak reproductive years are from the late teens to 40 years of their age. The menstrual cycle has three phases in a month:

i) Follicular phase:

The Follicular phase is the first phase of 1 to 14 days. Growth and development of the follicles occur in this phase due to the rise in Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) secreted by the Pituitary gland. Basal body temperature stays normal in this phase while Estrogen levels rise gradually. During the ovulation phase, they are at a peak.

During this phase, female physiology needs micronutrients such as Vitamin B12, D, C-rich foods, Calcium, Zinc, Iron-rich foods, essential fatty acids with phytoestrogens. All these nutrients are available in superfoods like flax and pumpkin seeds, Avocado, milk, red meat, walnuts, and dandelions. Such foods are good in the follicular phase for ease of menstruation.

According to Ayurveda principles, Kapha dosha dominates in the follicular phase and is called Rutu kala. Kapha dosha – acts as the binding substance. It is a synonym for ojas, which nourishes, supports, and gives strength. Owing to this property of Kapha, it usually involves the follicular phase until ovulation.
Seeds like ‘flax seeds & pumpkin seeds’ taken in small quantities over small periods will help reduce the aggravated Vata, balance Kapha, and serve as binding & strengthening agents in this phase. Always add the seeds to your diet under guidance of an Expert.

ii) Ovulation phase:

The Corpus luteum, the outer covering of the remaining follicle secretes Progesterone and Estrogen. The timeline of the ovulation phase is from the 13th day to the 14th day. One of the follicles matures into the egg and gets released from an ovary which moves along a fallopian tube toward the uterus. It can last for 16 – 32 hours.

Estrogen levels are at the peak, thickening the endometrial linings and breast tenderness. It could be a preparatory phase for pregnancy. If the egg gets fertilized with sperm, only then the pregnancy occurs else that egg starts disintegrating. It is the beginning of the next phase.

Adding seeds like sesame seeds (roasted) with dill seeds (balantshepa or suva seeds toasted) added with black salt or with a small pellet of jaggery can help in balancing the hormones.

iii) Luteinizing Phase:

The luteinizing phase starts from day 15 – day 28. Progesterone hormone starts gradually increasing and is at its peak between the 22nd-24th day. Along with this, Estrogen levels rise gradually which dropped just after ovulation.

One needs to consume foods that will improve the secretion of progesterone. There are no particular foods containing progesterone, but the following foods will certainly help elevate progesterone secretion and ease this part of the cycle.

# Fiber-rich food: Oats, Flax seeds and Quinoa
# Zinc-rich food: Lean beef, seafood, Pumpkin and squash seeds and nuts

# Vitamin B6-rich food: Sunflower seeds, fish, Turkey and dried fruits (dates, apricots, raisins)
# Magnesium-rich food: Spinach, fish, dark chocolate, whole grains (Barley, Bulgur, also called cracked wheat, Farro, Quinoa Black rice, Brown rice)
# Vitamin C-rich food: Oranges, broccoli, Kiwi
# L-Arginine-rich food: Lentils, Salmon, pumpkin seeds, pork, chicken, lean beef.

3. Post 30 physiological changes:

After 30, metabolism starts declining which impacts the quality of the ovum and hormonal secretions. Women should take care of their diet and Lifestyle to overcome these physiological changes.

To increase metabolic rate, one should perform physical activities like Yoga, exercise, Brisk walking, Pranayama, meditation, etc, and consume superfoods like nuts and oil seeds which may boost the secretion of feminine hormones. Adding seeds like flax seeds (roasted) with dill seeds (balantshepa or suva seeds toasted) along with salt and made into a powder can be consumed with a glass of warm water or buttermilk post meals can help in balancing the metabolism.

4. Post 40 physiological changes:

By every decade, metabolism declines 7-10% of every individual body. Also, the water content of the body reduces due to advancing age. Female body composition has a high-fat percentage as they tend to have lower metabolism by birth than males.

Pre and perimenopausal changes begin between 40- 50 years of female age that may depend on their genetic makeup and lifestyle.

Adding seeds like toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds along with carrom or dill seeds in small amounts and consuming post lunch & dinner have shown effect in taking care of the pre-menopausal symptoms.

5. Post 50 physiological changes:

Usually, in most females, menopause occurs between 50 -60 years of age or early menopause may occur. The ovulation process ceases and ultimately there will be no ovum production, leading to no secretions of female hormones like Estrogen and Progesterone.

From menarche to menopause, female health is under the protection of these feminine hormones. Metabolism is effective and boosts psychological strength to overcome conditions like stress, anxiety, nervousness, etc. During menopause, females must take care of their health, as such valued protection is ripe off. Calcium metabolism disturbs that leads to less calcium deposition in bones and muscles, reducing bone density, and muscular strength. Due to these physiological changes, females are more vulnerable to disorders like osteoporosis, arthritis, and sarcopenia. Also, they become more emotionally sensitive.

According to Ayurveda principles, the menopausal stage is a period of Vata domination. The lower abdomen and pelvic region are the site of “Apana Vayu” which has expulsion as the main function. As dryness is one of the characteristics of Vata, it causes dryness to the inner lining of the uterus, vagina, skin, hair, etc. Aggravated Vata leads to several psychological issues like mood swings, depression, and anxiety.

Sometimes in some females, Pitta aggravation in the menopausal stage may lead to symptoms like anger, irritability, hot flushes and sweating.

The Kapha dosha gets reduced due to Vata predominance, which decreases the binding capability and lubrication of the Strotasas.
Adapting to lifestyle changes and consuming superfoods like nuts and seeds can overcome physiological and psychological stress. These superfoods are packed with essential nutrients with phytochemicals that boost feminine hormones required for ease of journey from menarche to menopause.

Adding seeds like roasted sesame seeds and flax seeds with turmeric and pink salt and consumed early morning on empty stomach helps in managing the changes in the hormones and also help with the symptoms.

Thank you for reading the story of seed formation in a female, which gives rise to creation, and the cycle will continue until eternity!!

Happy International Women’s Day 2023.

Author. Archana Amol Patil.
Nutrition wellness coach,
Atreya Innovations Pvt Ltd.

Vaidya Shillpa Venkatesh Jamdarkhana
Certified Ayurveda Wellness Coach
Atreya Innovations Pvt Ltd.

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HOLI: Festival of colors and bonding!

Millions of Indians and South Asian countries mark the arrival of spring with the festival of colors, joy, and renaissance named Holi. Holi is a way of announcing the end of colder days and the beginning of warmer days. It is celebrated on the last full moon of the year.
Holi is a part of the regimen for the season of Vasant (spring), the arrival of warmer days. These days, the temperature rises, along with the increasing humidity, melts the Kapha Dosha (phlegm) in the body and can lead to many Kapha-related diseases. The rituals of the festival aim to restore the three doshas to their balanced state.

The highlights of Holi are Day 1: Holika Dahan (celebrated at night), Day 2: Dhuli Vandan (enjoying with colors). In many places of Maharashtra, the 5th day from the day of Holi i.e., Rang Panchami is celebrated with colors.

Holika Dahan signifies winning over demons, rising to a new dawn by scarifying your sins and deeds in the “Pyre of wood-Holika” as per ancient Hindu Mythology.
Like all festivals in India, Holi too has its own traditional recipes, which are prepared on this occasion as part of the celebration. Indeed, the delicacies prepared on this special occasion add to the delight and excitement.

Holika Dahan

The most famous in the lot are Puran Poli (traditional Maharashtrian sweet stuffed paratha), Katachi amti (dal-based Maharashtrian stew), Ghujiya (North Indian sweet and savory fried wheat para), Malpua (sweet-dal based delicacy), Khasta kachori (dal based savory item), etc. The food delicacies are helpful in dehydration-related problems caused by sudden temperature rise.

Dhulivandan (RT.Com)

Dhulivandan is mostly associated with the celebration of colors. Traditionally, Holi was celebrated with dry colors known as ‘Gulal’, which were prepared naturally from flowers and other products that had dyeing properties. Color powders were traditionally prepared from Ayurvedic herbs like Neem (Azadirachta indica) and Henna (Lawsonia inermis) for green, Kumkum and Raktachandan (Pterocarpus santalinus) for red, 

Haldi (Curcuma longa) for yellow, Jacaranda flowers for blue and herbs like Bilva (Aegle marmelos), Amaltas (Cassia fistula), Marigold (Tagetus erecta), etc. Applying these color powders reduces Kapha dosha and Kapha-related skin problems due to seasonal changes.

The biggest highlight of the Dhulivandan menu is the lip-smacking Thandai (milkshake or smoothie with traditional herbs and dry fruits) and Jal-jeera (a cooling drink from cumin seeds). These drinks provide proper hydration and nourishment to the body. They are helpful to the body for acclimatizing to seasonal changes.
Indian festivals have very scientific and logical rituals and traditions associated with the maintenance of health. Understanding and adopting these rituals in day-to-day life is very important for maintaining good core health.

Here are some tips for celebrating healthy Holi –

  1. Use natural, non-synthetic colors for Holi. Take care of your skin while playing Holi.
  2. Limit your playtime too. That way you can prevent the risk of health problems like cough, cold, headache, etc.
  3. Ensure that your body cools down to room temperature before taking a bath.
  4. After a shower, moisturize your body well and put on comfortable clothes.
  5. Make sure to eat healthy food. Don’t consume extra spicy food along with cold drinks and ice creams.

Thandai

Celebrate this festival of colors with your loved ones and stay tuned for some delicious healthy Holi recipes.

New post coming up TOMORROW!!

Author:
Dr. Gayatri Kulkarni – Mulye

MD (Ayurved)
Blogger @ Turyaa Wellness

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Ancient Non – invasive health monitoring system – Ashtavidha Pariksha

Ayurveda is science of life, and it focuses on the complete physical, mental, social and spiritual health of an individual. The principles of Ayurveda are based upon Tridosha- Saptadhatu- Agni and its role in maintaining health harmony. Impairment of single or multiple elements often leads to health hazards.

For diagnosing impairment within the body or for assessing underlying changing pathophysiology, Ayurveda had mentioned a very unique, Non-invasive eightfold examination system called Ashtavidha Pariksha. Acharya Charak mentioned this unique, non-invasive diagnostic tool approximately 5000 years ago in Charak Samhita. By conducting this examination with a patient thoroughly, one can conclude impaired Dosha and its probable effects on systems of the body or can diagnose particular disease.
A very unique feature of this diagnostic tool is that it can diagnose early stage of diseases, prognosis, pre-clinical stage, probable side effects on other systems and also helps in diagnosis of root causes for particular disease.

Eightfold diagnostic tools -

1. Nadi Pariksha - (Pulse diagnostics)

According to Ayurveda, pulse is the representation of underlying Tridoshik entities of the body. It is examined with respect to its rate, volume, tension and type of pulsation. Predominant Dosha within the body can be assessed by feeling pulse at different points.
Various velocities of Nadi are also mentioned in texts like Hansa gati, Sarpa gati, Manduka gati etc.
This tool of pulse examination is very unique, pinpoint can be used for further management.

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2. Mutra Pariksha - (Examination of Urine)

Particular questions and some tests are illustrated to be carried out for urine examination. Quantity, frequency and appearance like color, froth in urine etc. are main parameters used for assessment of underlying pathologies.

3. Mala Pariksha - (Stool Examination)

It is similarly conducted like a urine examination. Color of the stool, frequency, smell and consistency are some parameters used for diagnosing underlying vitiation of Doshas.

4. Jihwa Pariksha- (Tongue Examination)

Color of the tongue, coating on the tongue and appearance should be assessed for further diagnosis.

5. Shabda Pariksha - (Voice Examination)

Quality of voice, strength should be assessed for further diagnosis

6. Sparsha Pariksha - (Skin Examination)

Skin color, changes in skin color, texture, temperature and any discoloration should be examined for accurate diagnosis.

7. Drik Pariksha - (Eye Examination)

Complaints related eyes should be noted for knowing underlying pathophysiology.

8. Akrti Pariksha - (General appearance Examination)

General build, body physics, changes if any should be noted for conclusion of diagnosis.
By conducting an eightfold detailed examination, it is very easy to diagnose accurately. This ancient Ayurvedic medical diagnostic tool is the actual boon for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Author:
Dr. Gayatri Kulkarni – Mulye
MD (Ayurved)
Blogger @ Turyaa Wellness

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It’s Time to Detox: Rekindling the “Self-Love mode”!!!

Hello…. How was your Valentine’s Day celebration yesterday? We are sure you are on the top of the world, feeling loved & pampered in several different ways. So, did you celebrate your Valentine’s Day with your Loved ones in a homely environment? Or did you hang out with your loved ones or friends enjoying late night dinners with a high-spirited mood? For some as the day approached the anxiety levels must have been aggravated before and after the celebrations causing lack of sleep. And the new trend of “Wine & Dine” with new spirits may now add on to the already elevated anxiety levels. Thinking about what to do next, don’t worry, keep reading along and we will give you the best Detox solution to keep the Self Love back on track!!

Celebrations are meant to spread happiness. Valentine’s Day should be celebrated to spread love and affection. However nowadays feelings are not important but the way you celebrate them becomes more valuable. Consumption of deep fried, confectioneries, desserts, non-veg food are calorie dense, heavy to digest and lack nourishment may cause some impact on your metabolism the next day.

Major consequence posts any happy celebrations is slowing down of the metabolism reflecting into indigestion, bloating, hyperacidity and abdominal pain the next day.

According to Ayurveda, lack of sleep, late night heavy food (guru aahar) consumption leads to aggravation of Vata, and it affects the normal function of Pitta. Vitiation of pitta increases toxins (Samata) in the body. This may lead to weight gain. Aggravated Vata may lead to elevated anxiety levels, nervousness and feeling of depression.

To overcome this situation, one needs to calm and detoxify not only the body but also the mind.
To detoxify the body, one should prefer easily digestible food (laghu aahar), along with some soothing and warm beverages and some relaxation activities. This will not only soothe your senses but also help you rekindle the beautiful moments you shared with your loved ones the previous day.

 

Options

Early morning

Sip in warm water with an herb of your choice

Breakfast

A light warm home-made breakfast, complemented with a fruit of your choice or a prune detox juice option.

Lunch

Soft, cooked dish or a steamed (non-fermented) option, complemented with (mint leaves infused water)

Dinner

A warm clear soup or with scrumptious Indian rice with dal combo khichdi full of veggies with humble serving of clarified butter (ghee) 

Relax

A warm bath with your favorite music & soothing aroma candles is a great closure for the day.

One should prefer such easily digestible food and a detoxifying diet for the next 2 days which is low in calories and soothing for G.I tract making your senses calm and re-kindling.

These recommendations will help you rejuvenate yourself through a detoxifying regimen. Energize and get back to your normal daily routine & cherish the moment of loving yourself first to start loving others….so shall we put On the Self Love mode!!

Author-
Archana Amol Patil.
Vaidya Shillpa Venkatesh Jamdarkhana.

Credits –
Vaidya. Tejaswini Sameer Bhale
Mrs. Shruti Prashant Kulkarni

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Your soulmate Your Real valentine

Lets see your Love, relationship with a new perspective. Ayurveda explained different personalities and Prakruti. The three energies play a romantic role in our life too.

The bond of love and affection starts when someone likes another’s nature, his or her company and feeling of support and comfort.
Opposite poles attract each other. And this is very true if we consider our emotional and psychological traits.

In Ayurveda body constitution or body type or Prakruti is defined as Manas that is emotional and psychological and sharir i.e. physical and physiological. If you know the body type of your partner you can easily accept or change yourself for a better life.

Body type not only covers the mind state but also their physical appearance, strength, stamina and digestion, metabolism which leads to final immunity.

If you could find out whether this is a normal or balanced state of your partner then you can easily accept their habits, nature and food preferences. As A Result, no one will blame others by their nature or hobbies or food habits.

Kapha

A Kapha person is very calm, steady and loves arts. To balance kapha needs the opposite pitta. Pitta is very courageous, dynamic and supports the kapha mind. Also, Vata is very creative and charming which enhances kapha artistic mind. Plan for a romantic candle light dinner or musical mehfil.

Kapha has slow digestion and slow metabolism. Select light and low calorie diets. Take care of meals with a frequency of 2 or 3 times a day.So if your partner cooks or orders food of your preference then that is most healthy. Order healthy soups like veg clear or lemon coriander soup with rice recipes like biryani or Mexican sizzlers for your valentine.

Kapha can work out heavily and steadily but for less duration has poor stamina. Kapha people have more inclination towards laziness, sluggishness. So, making him or her active, motivate for physical exercise is the real partner.

Pitta

Pitta is very dynamic, aggressive and with quick anger. To cool down this, kapha helps with its calm and loving nature. Kapha is more loving and compassionate to Pitta. Pitta are very romantic and express their feelings gently. Pitta partner should or can surprise him or her with romantic, soothing, candle Riverside light dinner and calming music.

Pitta has a strong appetite and digestion. Pitta loves sweet, bitter, and astringent. Pitta people can consume heavy and high calories diets. Prepare 3 to 4 heavy meals for pitta partners. Italian, Mexican, Punjabi  food is the correct menu for this valentine.

Pitta has moderate stamina so go for a mild gym workout, swimming and fresh air exercises more.

Vata

Vata’s personality is very much creative, cherishing and full of energy and enthusiasm. And so to control it needs the steadiness of kapha and to flow this energy in the correct and positive way needs pitta support. Throwing a dance party with many friends will be a big surprise and appreciable to Vata.

Vata has irregular hunger and unstable digestion with fair strength and good stamina. Vata likes sweet, sour and salty food. Go for chole bhature, pasta, sizzlers, milk shakes or chat and street food menus.

Go for good workouts together with more mountaineering, running and biking.
Now try to find out your partner’s body type and accept their habits and routines and try to mold yourself for the best relationship with your soulmate. This is the best way to balance each other’s positive side for your life partner’s healthy and peaceful life.

If you accept each other with his or her good and bad. Actually those bad are by your thoughts but they are good for their Prakruti.

Life will be more beautiful and loving when you understand each other in this scientific way too. And this is not limited only for Valentine’s day but for the whole life.

Author-
Vaidya. Tejaswini Sameer Bhale
Ayurvedacharya, PGPP, MBA, DYA
Prakruti Ayurveda and Panchakarma Clinic, Pune
Nadi Pariksha domain expertise
Nadi Tarangini, Atreya Innovations Pvt Ltd. Pune

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