A Transformative Journey: From Meditation to Ayurveda
Last week, our meditation group at the ashram wrapped up our time together. We departed feeling a little lighter, with reduced stress, fuller hearts, and deeper connections. One of the highlights was visiting the Beatles Ashram, soaking up the profound energy of a tradition that's relatively recent in Indian culture. It was a reminder of how the Beatles played a significant role in popularising meditation and spirituality in the West.
The experience at the Beatles Ashram felt almost surreal, yet it's essential to honour the impact the Beatles and other cultural icons have had on our spiritual journeys. This cultural exploration was a reminder that we stand on the shoulders of many who brought this wisdom to our souls.
Our week was transformative, embracing Indian cuisine and reconnecting with nature, awakening our senses to the abundance that surrounds us. In India, the wisdom holds that abundance is sacred for everyone, from the poorest to the wealthiest. When we appreciate the abundance in our lives, we all become wealthy.
Shifting our focus to the mind and stress reduction, I delved into the power of Ayurveda, ancient Indian medicine, at the Maharishi Ayurveda Hotel in the north of Rishikesh.
Ayurveda, an ancient healing system from India, seeks to maintain balance in the body and mind. It's like a personalised wellness guide, helping you understand what's right for your unique needs. The harmony it fosters between you and your natural self is the key to well-being and happiness.
During my visit, the Ayurvedic doctor prescribed herbs to support my back and joints and recommended a series of Ayurvedic massage treatments. These treatments were tailored to my needs and involved a lot of soothing oil. Ayurveda recognised that my body type was dry with a busy mind, so the treatments aimed to relieve dryness and calm my thoughts.
Abhyanga: Abhyanga is like a comforting full-body massage using warm oil. It's a way to show love and care for your body. The warm oil makes your skin happy and can help calm your mind. It's like a warm, soothing hug for your body and soul.
Shirodhara: Shirodhara is a bit like a relaxing "oil shower" for your forehead. Warm oil flows gently onto your forehead, creating a peaceful sensation. It's as if all your worries are being washed away, leaving your mind clear and calm. A bit like a mind spa.
Kati Basti: Kati Basti is like a warm, healing bath for your lower back or other areas of the body where you may experience pain. It is particularly good for joint issues.. A well-shaped dam made of dough is placed on your body, and warm oil is poured inside it. This gentle warmth can ease tension and discomfort in your body and joints, like a cozy, healing embrace for that area.
These Ayurvedic treatments aim to bring balance, relaxation, and comfort to your body and mind, like a gentle, caring touch.
If you're interested in Ayurveda, I can highly recommend two businesses for you natural health based needs.
Ayurvedic Practioner, Vivian Cavicchiolo at Vida Ayurveda is based online and in London, she offers a free 15 minute discovery call. If you are Northern based and fancy in person treatments and doctor consultaion, you can find Dr. Jolly at Green Ayurveda Spa.
For meditation enthusiasts, my teacher's book "Why Meditate, Because It Works" offers valuable insights and motivation. Feel free to get in touch with me directly with any questions by sending an email.
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