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By Vaidya R.K. Mishra
Bhava Mishra (Bhavaprakash) says that ghee...
Would you like to learn more about the nature and uses of ghee from the Ayurvedic standpoint?
By Vaidya R.K. Mishra
Our body is connected to the environment in all aspects. Any little change in the environment effects both our vibrational and physical bodies. Just as the transition of one season into another causes visible changes in nature, we can feel and notice seasonal impact on our mind, emotions, and physical and spiritual stamina. Even if we don't notice the changes, we experience them minute by minute and day by day. If we follow seasonal codes of conduct and stay in harmony with nature, our entire physiology will have greater capacity for health and vitality and greater resistance to discomfort and disease.
To balance and protect the physiology from the scorching heat of the summer, Vaidya Mishra's family lineage Shaka Vanshiya Ayurveda (SVA) bases all teachings and protocols on the recommendations from the founding text of Ayurveda, the Carak Samhita. Ayurveda is the only science that offers complete understanding of the importance of seasonal routine.
By Vaidya R.K. Mishra
"We have learnt that Ayurveda is the maintenance manual of our bodies. According to the vedic tradition, its author is none-other than Brahma himself, the ultimate source of all knowledge. “Svasth vrit” is a major aspect of ayurvedic science that we can translate as “life-style medicine.” This branch includes the following sections: “dinacharya” – daytime routine, “ratricharya” – nighttime routine, “ritucharya” – seasonal guidelines. The main purpose of this ‘Svasth vrit’ is “how to live healthy and happy for a 100 years!” According to the ancient texts, this is the life-span allotted to human beings in this day and age (kaliyug).
The Sanskrit verse I selected from Yajurveda featured on the cover page indicates that through the proper care of the body (that is: following the daytime, nighttime and seasonal routines and guidelines) one can indeed enjoy a long and healthy life. Unlike what we commonly believe, the winter season is, indeed, the best time to enjoy radiant health! Taking care of health during the wintertime also ensures overall total health for the rest of the year. So the verse says: “live a 100 winters, see a 100 winters, hear a 100 winters, speak a 100 winters, be seen by others for a 100 winters, and create a good life history (with good actions and lifestyle) which can serve as an inspiration for others.”
While increasingly younger people are falling victim to chronic and terminal diseases, technology and modern findings have also drastically increased the life expectancy of individuals. However, the point is to live up to a healthy 100, not to lead a long and impaired life! The Yajurveda says that one should strive to live a healthy 100 having full use of one’s organs and all senses (live, see, hear, speak..).
It is my sincere hope that this small booklet will guide you and help you to enjoy this winter season in accord with the spirit of Yajurveda and the practical teachings of Ayurveda…"
Vaidya Ramakant Mishra
Karthik Purnima – November 21, full moon day, 2010
Los Angeles, CA