Ayurveda and Dietary Cycles

By Sudarshan Devendra May 15, 2024

In a world filled with numerous nutritional diets catering to various preferences and trends, complaints about common issues such as abdominal bloating, constipation, intestinal gas, and post-meal heaviness have become increasingly common. Even though these diets are relatively healthy and well-balanced in their nutritional proportions, Ayurveda sheds light on how our choice of diet can yield the desired results. Whether it's a macrobiotic, vegetarian, vegan, lacto-vegetarian, or raw vegan diet, it's essential to remember that the best diet is not necessarily the trendy one but the one that suits your constitution.

Ayurveda teaches us that the timing of our meals significantly influences the assimilation, absorption, and nutrition within our bodies. This entire process is governed by Agni, the digestive fire. Maintaining a harmonious level of Agni in our bodies, which varies based on our constitution, diet, lifestyle, climate, and the timing of meals, is crucial.

Following a proper schedule allows us to keep our digestive Agni at an optimal level for our constitution. It's important to understand that this metabolic force in our bodies is regulated by the sun throughout the day.

Hourly Cycles:

6 am - 10 am: As the sun rises and gradually gains strength, the digestive Agni in our bodies is still at a low level around 6 am. Therefore, the metabolism of foods tends to be slow during these hours. It is advisable to consume foods that do not require the action of many digestive enzymes. The most suitable options during this time are fruits and certain high-fiber cereals like oatmeal. Excessive dairy and fats during these hours are considered challenging to digest since our bodies have limited digestive strength. However, individual digestive capabilities may vary based on one's constitution. In any case, it is recommended to consume highly energetic foods that are easy to digest in moderate quantities.

10 am - 2 pm: As the sun gets stronger, the digestive Agni increases, making this the ideal time for the main meal of the day. This is when our bodies have the necessary metabolic strength to absorb nutrients efficiently without causing digestive issues. The energy acquired during this time supports our functions throughout the rest of the day. While other meals are essential, none can compare to the benefits of a substantial and well-balanced midday meal.

2 pm - 6 pm: As the sun starts descending and a windy force known as Vata appears, the digestive strength gradually decreases. Consequently, the digestion of substantial and hard-to-digest foods becomes slower. Consuming items that inhibit the digestive Agni, such as dairy-based ice cream, is not advisable during this period. Cold beverages are better consumed separately from main meals. It is recommended to have a small snack or herbal tea to aid digestion during this time.

6 pm - 10 pm: While the sun's influence diminishes, a light dinner is advisable. The digestive Agni continues to weaken, and overconsumption of heavy or difficult-to-digest foods may result in slow digestion or the accumulation of undigested residues from previous meals. Ideal choices include light soups, non-acidic fruits, and moderate portions of whole carbohydrates. It is best not to eat after 8 pm or, at the very least, ensure that the last meal is consumed at least two hours before bedtime.

10 pm - 2 am: Although we may not see it, the sun remains active on the other side of the globe during this time. It promotes natural detoxification in our bodies, particularly in the liver. Our digestive Agni shifts its focus to this function. Consuming any food during these hours is considered harmful to digestion.

2 am - 6 am: Around 4 am, as the sun rises, there is an increase in highly energetic subtle energy in the purified air molecules. This energy benefits both our mental and physical well-being. However, it does not provide the necessary strength to activate our digestive Agni. During this period, it is best to consume warm water and engage in physical movement, such as self-massage or meditation. These activities help balance our Agni and activate digestive enzymes harmoniously. Consuming food at this time would confuse our system, as the body is naturally inclined to eliminate waste, not process nutrients simultaneously. Such confusion can become challenging for the body over time.

In conclusion, when it comes to food consumption, it is essential to consider the type of food, the timing, the climate, and our daily activities. Eating is an act that requires discernment and consciousness for maintaining overall health."

 Ayurveda and Its Intrinsic Commitment to Climate Change and Sustainability by Sudarshan Devendra Febrary 15, 2024

Sustainability is a rapidly growing movement in our global community, and we all play our part to the best of our ability and with the level of consciousness we acquire. Some examples include getting into the habit of bringing our own bags when shopping, knowing someone who cycles to work or school a few days a week to reduce fuel dependence, or even owning an electric car. But have you ever thought about what lies behind the pill you take to manage a common symptom? Do you know that often, repeatedly attacking the symptom with synthetic medication can have effects on the root cause of the disease due to resistance generated by the medicine?

Many times, we perceive the impact on the environment regarding the most perceptible and visualized events covered by the media, such as the new "more sustainable" clean energy companies that, in their development, still involve high consumption of non-renewable fossil fuels. Even if the final product doesn't seem to have a significant impact, the development process does. For example, many solar panel manufacturing plants, despite their green energy goal, have raised concerns about their use of non-renewable energy sources. Not to mention the large industries directly using fossil fuels, with their finished products still contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

However, there are other, less perceptible factors with a significant long-term impact, such as the irresponsible use of synthetic chemical pharmacology. Both production and the symptom-focused treatment model contribute to exponential consumption. Ayurvedic pharmacology aims to address the root cause of the problem and, therefore, symptoms gradually decrease as health improves. This is in stark contrast to the modern pharmaceutical industry, which, to some extent and in certain cases, has diverted the integral health purpose. Many pharmaceutical companies have developed more and more drugs to manage symptoms, resulting in a consumption cycle that incurs expenses related to the unsustainable use of chemicals, exploitation of natural plants for synthesis, and animal testing.

In this sense, awareness is crucial when it comes to managing your health, both in your internal and external environment.

However, in recent times, we have noticed that due to the benefits of Ayurvedic pharmacology, there has been overexploitation of natural resources in plantations, especially in India, where many plants are becoming increasingly scarce due to high demand. There are even proposals to manipulate plants to maximize their components by altering their biochemistry.

This, far from being regulated by Ayurvedic principles, distorts its initial purpose of understanding human beings in a harmonious relationship with the environment. Just because Ayurvedic plants provide us with well-being does not mean we should remain silent about indiscriminate cultivation and scientific modification attempts aimed at purportedly enhancing their effects.

At Sattva Herbs, we prioritize our customers' health. In line with this, we offer not only a range of Ayurvedic plants and ancient formulations like Chyawanprash but also ongoing training through seminars and courses that empower students with knowledge. This follows the Vedic principle that guides us: "Self-realization." Our goal is the well-being of patients, which implies a phase in which even beneficial Ayurvedic plants should be periodically suspended to allow the organs involved in the treatment to self-regulate.

At Sattva Herbs, we use two types of Ayurvedic plants, some derived from pulverized fruits and others from roots and leaves. The latter must be consumed in specific periods according to the prior recommendation of an Ayurvedic professional or a doctor with knowledge of these processes. As for those derived from fruits, they can be consumed regularly without interruption.

 The Planets and Their Influence on Our Health

By Sudarshan Devendra November 15, 2023

Human beings are receptacles of planetary influence, and both our bodies and minds receive their effects. By understanding the distinct energies of these celestial bodies, we can use Ayurvedic herbal knowledge to create balance. In this way, planetary effects become more manageable.

Jyotish, or Vedic astrology, is a branch of Vedic philosophy that works in collaboration with Ayurvedic science. Many therapists use astrological predictions to determine when certain diseases are likely to manifest. In such cases, remedies often include gemstones and mantras, both of which were traditionally part of Ayurvedic training.

Here are some relationships between planets and common health issues:

• Sun: Eye problems

• Moon: Mental illnesses

• Mars: Heart or digestive issues

• Mercury: Insomnia

• Jupiter: Diabetes

• Venus: Sexual health issues

• Saturn: Kidney problems

• Rahu and Ketu: Surgical issues

To better understand this process, let’s consider how Ayurvedic herbs can serve as remedies for astrological ailments and, over time, activate preventive mechanisms.

For example, an adverse position of the Sun in your natal chart, combined with a planetary transit that intensifies Solar energy (such as Mars), can have a double impact on both the body and mind. The imbalance of fire energy may affect the eyes, leading to potential eye disorders. Ayurvedic pharmacology offers solutions such as Manjistha and Amla, which help reduce excess heat and regulate Mars's energy. By doing so, the adverse effects of the Sun are mitigated.

Biorhythms and Ayurvedic Nutrition by Sudarshan Devendra

 Biorhythms and Ayurvedic Nutrition

by Sudarshan Devendra

October 11, 2023

We can find our own balance and develop greater discernment when making decisions about our habits. One of the principles presented by Ayurvedic cosmology is the triad of time and space known as the three gunas: Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas.

Understanding this concept allows us to fully integrate life's harmony, which arises when we live in accordance with the dynamic forces of the triad, governing the relative field of life. The gunas act in our bodies according to our original constitution, or genetic map. Additionally, they are influenced by the force of Sattva, Rajas, or Tamas, which can increase, decrease, or balance depending on our lifestyle habits and external environmental influences, such as climate, activities, and the geographical region where we live.

Let's briefly define each of the gunas:

Sattva Guna: This represents the creative, driving force, perceived as pure and clean energy. In the time rhythm, it is observed in two cycles: from 3:45 am to 8:00 am and from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. During the first cycle, meditative or creative activities are ideal. Physical activity is also suitable due to the lightness of the air, but it should not be strenuous. The most appropriate diet during this period is light and nutritious, with a higher energy intake during the first cycle, and lighter, nutritious meals in the second cycle. Ayurvedic advice is to avoid sleeping during this time, as sleep belongs to the domain of Tamas. An abrupt transition from Sattva to Tamas is discouraged, as the stabilizing force of Rajas is needed before transitioning to the rest provided by Tamas.

Rajas Guna: This represents the force of construction, metabolism, and action, perceived as active and dynamic energy with residual heat. In the time rhythm, it is perceived from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. This is the time for action, work, and active study, where we respond to challenges and make decisions. It is also a time for communicative strength. Solar energy aids us during this time, as the Agni (fire) force is more present in the air. A substantial intake of food, particularly between 11:00 am and 12:30 pm, helps with digestion and optimal nutritional absorption. It is important to take advantage of Agni's strength, as between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm, we still have metabolic and functional energy to efficiently perform physical and mental tasks.

Tamas Guna: This represents stillness, inertia, rest, slow regeneration, low metabolism, and a sense of heaviness or tiredness. This period starts around 8:00 pm and lasts until approximately 3:30 am. During this time, our bodies and minds need rest after a long and active day. Engaging in activities that relax the system, such as enjoyable reading, pleasant conversations, uplifting music, or even watching a movie, is recommended. Dinner should ideally be eaten during the second Sattva cycle, between 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm, with the meal ideally finished by 6:00 pm to allow the body's restorative processes to function efficiently when Tamas takes over. It’s also advisable to go to bed around 10:00 pm at the latest. This ensures proper recovery during the Tamasic period, allowing us to wake up feeling energized at 4:00 am or 5:00 am, during the Sattvic period.

Ayurvedic pharmacology offers significant support in following these biorhythms and harmonizing our systems. During the Sattvic morning cycle, between 4:00 am and 8:00 am, consuming Triphala (by Sattvayurvedic) is recommended, as it supports healthy bowel movements and activates digestive enzymes for the day. Triphala also aligns us with the beneficial Sattvic energy. After consuming some fruit (but not on an empty stomach), Brahmi powder (by Sattvayurvedic) is ideal. Brahmi strengthens the mind, helping to tackle mental challenges without exhaustion. In the second Sattvic cycle, between 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm, a second dose of Brahmi and a bit of Guduchi (to boost immunity) is recommended around 6:00 pm.

During the Pitta cycle, it is advisable to take Ashwagandha powder (by Sattvayurvedic) in the early hours around 9:00 am. Ashwagandha improves vitality and reduces stress due to its adaptogenic properties. As temperatures rise, Amalaki should be taken regularly to cool the system and maintain its antioxidant effect, counteracting the free radicals we encounter throughout the day.

Once we have understood the interaction between the external environment and the triad of the gunas, it is crucial to address the internal environment. As mentioned, we are born in balance according to our doshas, but the dynamic energy of the gunas acts within us based on our habits. It is important not to assume that an increase in one guna over another is inherently beneficial. The key is to follow the natural rhythms of each guna and act accordingly to maintain balance.

Ayurveda invites us to fully experience the field of relativity with the three gunas, while also encouraging us not to forget our transcendent dharma, which we can achieve as human beings. In doing so, our central nervous system becomes a map for attaining higher states of consciousness, which, in turn, helps maintain the balance of our doshas and gunas over time.