Maharishi Yoga Asanas

Maharishi yoga asanas offer a soft and pleasant approach to yoga 🧘, grounded in the understanding that the body is fundamentally linked to consciousness. This perspective aligns with emerging insights in modern physiology. 

Traditionally, a mechanistic view of the body might suggest that we need to stretch hard, strain, and pull to lengthen our muscles and enhance mobility. However, the body does not function that way. The limitations on how far our muscles can be stretched are determined not by the muscles themselves but by the nervous system. The nervous system prioritises protecting the body from injury 🚫, and as a result, it restricts muscle stretching to what feels safe. When we forcefully strain and pull, we can create stress in the nervous system, which may lead to increased stiffness.

In contrast, Maharishi yoga asanas encourage us to stretch only as far as is comfortable. We then lightly focus our attention on the area of the body that is being stretched 🌟. This effortless awareness enhances the connection among the body, nervous system, and mind. Consequently, our muscles become more flexible over time without the need for effort. 

Additionally, this practice provides numerous other benefits, such as massaging and cleansing internal organs 🛁, releasing stress knots, and promoting a sense of tranquillity in both body and soul ✨. Ultimately, this leads to a greater alignment with the cosmos and our true inner selves 🌌, which is the ultimate goal of yoga. This is an approach that should be embraced in all yoga practices.

Lagom - Ayurveda and the vikings

The word "lagom," which roughly translates to the most appropriate level or amount of something, was recently named the best word in the Swedish language. 🌟 It is also very much in line with Ayurveda. According to legend, the term originated with the Vikings, who would drink mead 🍯 from a communal horn they passed around (lag om = around the group), taking just lagom to ensure there was lagom for everyone. The Swedish Academy suggests that this legend is inaccurate; it argues that the word was originally written as "laghum" and relates to "lag" (law), which originally did not have a legal connotation but simply meant that something was right. 

Regardless of its origins, lagom aligns closely with Ayurvedic principles. 🧘‍♂️ It emphasises moderation, which is essential for our well-being. We should aim to eat the right amount 🍽️, exercise at the right intensity 🏃‍♀️, and get adequate sleep 🛌. So, what is the right amount? It’s often better to rely on our feelings rather than over-intellectualise or try to calculate the perfect amount objectively. 

We should eat until we feel moderately full—neither overstuffed nor hungry. 😌 We should exercise to the point of feeling invigorated and fresh—neither exhausted nor lethargic. 💪 Our sleep should leave us feeling alert and refreshed. 🌅 Trust your instincts and live a wonderful, Swedish, healthy, lagom
life. 🍃

Walpurgis Night

 Today is Walpurgis Eve 🌙, which also happens to be His Majesty the King's birthday—Happy Birthday! 🎉🌹 Tomorrow, on May 1st, Beltane will be traditionally celebrated in Gaelic culture. Although these celebrations are observed in different ways, they share common themes, including the arrival of spring 🌸, singing 🎶, fires 🔥, and protection against evil forces.

These holidays have ancient roots but are also connected to the arrival of Christianity ⛪, particularly on the holy Walpurgis. It’s valuable to cherish old traditions, as many people in the past lived closer to nature 🌳, and these ancient rites can help us understand and harness the powers associated with nature's changes. Plus, singing and celebrating bring joy to both body and soul 😊. So, feel free to sing a song by the fire tonight! 🎤🔥

Gluten

 Gluten is a topic of debate among many people who have differing opinions about food. 🍞 For individuals with celiac disease, it is essential to strictly avoid gluten. Similarly, those who are allergic to wheat must eliminate it from their diet. ❌ However, many others choose to avoid gluten as they believe it negatively affects them. 

One theory suggests that it may not be gluten itself that causes issues for those who are gluten-sensitive, but rather inulin, a carbohydrate found in cereals. 🌾 Inulin is a type of FODMAP (fermentable oligo-, di-, and monosaccharides and polyols), which includes carbohydrates that can be beneficial as they nourish our intestinal flora and act as prebiotics. 🦠 Nevertheless, some individuals are sensitive to FODMAPs and may experience symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as stomach pain and indigestion. 😣

In Ayurveda, there are generally no strict negative views on gluten. Ayurvedic principles state that what is suitable for one person may not be appropriate for another, depending on their specific constitution and body condition. 🌿 For instance, barley is often recommended for balancing kapha, while wheat is seen as a readily available nutrient for those with a high vata constitution. However, it is not considered ideal for individuals with a high kapha constitution.

It's important to note that Ayurvedic texts were written before wheat became as refined as it is today. 📜 For this reason, I prefer using more traditional varieties of wheat, such as spelt, emmer, and einkorn. 🌾 In general, Ayurveda encourages people to listen to their bodies and understand what they need. If you find that gluten-containing foods do not sit well with you, it's wise to reduce your intake. ⚖️ However, it's not advisable to eliminate gluten solely because it has developed a negative reputation.

Darkness

 It is important for our bedroom to be dark 🌙. Light inhibits melatonin production, which prevents us from achieving the beneficial deep sleep, even if we manage to fall asleep 💤. This is particularly crucial for growing children 👶, as growth hormone (GH) is secreted during deep sleep. However, it is also important for adults 👩‍🦳, who may no longer be growing, because deep sleep promotes cell renewal. Every day, our bodies break down and rebuild cells 🔄, and growth hormone plays a vital role in this process. 

To ensure optimal darkness in your bedroom, consider investing in effective blackout curtains 🖤, as there are many light sources in our environment today. Good luck, and sleep well! 🌟

Bedtime

Going to bed early in the evening is essential for health according to Ayurveda 🌙. There is a saying: "Early to bed, early to rise makes a (wo)man healthy, wealthy, happy, and wise." 🧘‍♀️💶😊 This statement is supported by both Ayurvedic principles and modern science. Humans are naturally diurnal creatures, designed to be awake during the day ☀️ and sleep at night.

Research shows that the most restorative deep sleep occurs during the early hours of the night, particularly before midnight 🕛. Sleeping in the morning or during the day does not provide the same quality of rest. According to Ayurveda, the kapha dosha is dominant between 6 PM and 10 PM 🌅. When we go to bed during this time, we benefit from the weight and stability of kapha, which promotes deep, restorative sleep 😴.

Later in the night, from approximately 10 PM to 2 AM, the pitta dosha takes over 🔥. During these hours, pitta energy goes inward, helping to clear away waste and tension in the body and nervous system that may have accumulated throughout the day. This cleansing process occurs only if we are sleeping or at least lying down and resting. Importantly, we should avoid eating during these hours 🍽️🚫.

So, make it a habit to go to bed early 🛌 and enjoy energetic and happy days! 🌟

Milk

Drinking a cup of warm boiled milk 🥛 before bedtime is beneficial for most people, according to Ayurveda. It provides essential nutrition 🍶 and promotes better sleep 💤. It is recommended to use organic, non-homogenised milk. Adding a pinch of cardamom 🌱 can enhance the flavour and make it more digestible—let it boil for a few minutes ⏱️. Allow the milk to cool until it is drinkable, then enjoy it in a peaceful, quiet setting 🌙 before going to bed. 

Evenings

Try to avoid screens in the evening 📵. The blue light emitted by screens interferes with melatonin production and disrupts your circadian rhythm, making it harder to fall asleep 😴. It's also easy to get caught up in endless scrolling 📱. Instead, consider reading a good book 📖, going for a walk 🚶‍♂️, or spending quality time with loved ones 💖. These activities can lead to better sleep and a greater sense of satisfaction 😊.

Kapha in spring

Today is the 1st of March—the first day of spring! 🌼 This marks the beginning of the year when kapha dosha becomes dominant. Kapha is associated with the elements of earth and water, which means it is heavy, cold, stable, and sluggish. It represents the very substance of our bodies, encompassing our tissues: muscle, fat, skin, bone, and more. 💪 Kapha is essential for building our bodies and can support strong muscles and bones. At its finest, kapha transforms into ojas—an exquisite substance that connects us to consciousness, bringing lustre, energy, and joy. ✨ However, an imbalance in kapha can lead to excess weight in the form of too much fat tissue and ama—waste products and impurities.

To keep kapha in balance during spring, especially if you have a predominance of kapha in your constitution, consider the following suggestions:

• **Exercise:** 💃 Movement is crucial for balancing kapha. This time of year, it’s beneficial to engage in vigorous exercise to enhance circulation. Spring is an excellent opportunity to strengthen your muscles and bones through strength training. While many people start training with the goal of achieving a "beach body," it’s essential to focus on long-term health and happiness rather than just appearance. 🌊

• **Stay warm:** Avoid particularly damp and cold environments. ❄️

• **Eat hot foods:** 🍲 Choose hot meals and beverages, especially with your food. Avoid overeating and consuming heavy meals. Opt for hot soups and stews filled with green leafy vegetables, beans, or lentils. For snacks, fresh or cooked fruit is preferable. 🍏

• **Use spices:** 🌶️ Incorporate a variety of spices into your cooking. This not only enhances flavour but also aids digestion and helps the body detoxify. Generally, all spices except for salt are beneficial for kapha, so feel free to experiment with different flavours.

• **Savour your food:** 🍽️ Kapha is linked to taste and smell and thrives on exquisite culinary experiences. Consider using aromatic oils for delightful olfactory experiences; scent can have a profound impact on us.

• **Stay active:** 🌍 Engage in activities that you find enjoyable and rewarding—there’s so much to explore and enjoy in our beautiful world. 

Embracing these practices can help maintain a harmonious balance of kapha as we move into the spring season! 🌷

Supper

In the evening, it's best to have a lighter meal 🍽️ and try to eat it not too late, ideally around 6 PM. However, it's still important to enjoy a hot, well-cooked, and nourishing meal 🌟. A hearty soup is an excellent choice, especially during winter ❄️. Additionally, consider drinking something warm ☕, such as herbal tea or simply warm water. 

Creative afternoons

 During the afternoon, vata dosha dominates according to Ayurveda. Then it is good to have social and/or creative activities. It is important that we do things that we find fun and rewarding – it also strengthens our health.

Midday meal

 Midday is the ideal time to enjoy our main meal 🍽️, which is reflected in the Swedish word "middag," meaning midday. Traditionally, people would have their heaviest meal in the middle of the day. Modern science supports this idea, indicating that digestion is most efficient in the early afternoon 🌞. Therefore, having your main meal around noon is recommended. During this time, the pitta dosha is at its strongest, aiding in the complete digestion of food and preventing any impurities from obstructing our body's channels 💪. This is especially important if you plan to eat heavier or harder-to-digest foods. Enjoy your meal! 😊 

According to Ayurveda, the best time for physical exercise is late morning or before noon. 🌞 Regular exercise is particularly important as we age; if we don't exercise, our muscles and bones can start to deteriorate as early as age 35. However, with regular exercise, we can actually be healthier and stronger at 80 than we were at 25! 💪

Exercise is also highly effective at combating stress and preventing stress-related diseases. 😌 It's important to note, though, that we should not push ourselves too hard, as this can have the opposite effect. Ayurveda suggests exercising at around 50% of our capacity. 👍 While interpretations vary, I believe that exercise should always feel good both during and after the activity—it should be a source of joy, not a chore. 😊

To maintain strength, it is essential to incorporate a variety of exercise types: strength training to prevent loss of muscle and bone density, cardio workouts for heart, blood vessel, and lung health, and activities like dance or ball sports to enhance coordination between the mind and body. 🏋️‍♂️💓🕺

If you're interested, I offer Ayurvedic health consultations that include a personalised training program. 📅 This service can also be arranged online if you do not reside in Gothenburg. 🌍

Morning walk ☀️

 Taking a morning walk is beneficial for your health. 🚶‍♂️ When we expose ourselves to natural daylight in the morning ☀️, our internal clock can calibrate with the cosmos, helping us maintain a balanced circadian rhythm, which is essential for our well-being. According to Ayurveda, the first rays of the sun at sunrise are especially health-promoting. 🌅 And during this time of year, you don’t have to wake up too early to enjoy them. 😊