We often underestimate the simplest things in life, like drinking water, yet it is very essential to our existence. What if I told you that water is much more than that, holding the key to the Ayurvedic holistic journey? Yes, water, or Jala as they call it, is the most powerful and potent remedy for your healing and transformational path. In this article, Madhusudan Wellness invites you to be amazed by the role water plays in Ayurveda and the science behind its magic.
Understanding Jala in Ayurveda
Water in ayurveda, referred to as jala, is considered to be jeeva or the life-giving force for all the living beings breathing on Mother Earth. It’s considered a Pancha Maha Bhuta, one of the five elements – earth, air, fire, ether, and water, that form the building blocks of the universe and our bodies in maintaining our physical and energetic balance. 60% of your body is composed of water, meaning every cell, tissue, and organ dearly depends on water to function optimally. This further proves the fundamental role water plays in our very existence. Studies also show when dehydrated, cognitive function and physical performance decline, leading to fatigue and decreased concentration.
Here’s an Inspiring Fact: Studies have shown that proper hydration can improve athletic performance and endurance.
Water as Energy
In Ayurveda, everything possesses an energy (dosha). Water is associated with “Ap”, the dosha governing fluidity and nourishment, and it is believed to possess a calming and grounding energy. When Ap is balanced, you experience vitality and a healthy glow. When dehydrated, this delicate balance goes awry, leading to a symphony of discomfort – headaches, fatigue, constipation, and a weakened immune system.
How Much Water Do We Really Need?
The age-old question of “eight glasses a day” might not be the one-size-fits-all answer Ayurveda offers. Instead, it stresses drinking water according to thirst, what the ayurvedic practitioners called matrayajalapana. This personalized approach acknowledges that factors like body size, activity level, and climate influence individual needs. Your ideal water intake depends on your individual constitution (dosha), activity level, and climate.
- Climate: A person living in a hot and humid environment will constantly lose water content through sweat, so he needs to cautiously hydrate his body.
- Activity level: The more active person, will require more water for their body needs to refill fluids.
- Prakriti (Ayurvedic body constitution): Someone with a Vata dosha, i.e., prone to dryness, may need more water, while a Kapha dosha person, i.e., naturally well-hydrated, might need less.
The Rules of Drinking Water
Ayurveda goes beyond just “how much” to explore the “when” of water consumption. Drinking water at the wrong time and the wrong temperature can disrupt your digestive fire and lead to imbalances. Here’s why:
- No water while standing: This may seem unusual, but Ayurveda advises against drinking water while standing. But why? The reason is standing stretches your digestive organs, and water can dilute digestive juices, hindering proper nutrient absorption. However, Ayurveda suggests sitting and drinking water will promote mindful consumption and better digestion.
- Warm water in the morning: As per ayurvedic approach, starting your day with a glass of warm water can be beneficial. The idea behind this morning ritual is to flush out toxins hoarded overnight and to prepare your body for the day ahead.
- Sipping warm water: Regarding the temperature, sipping warm water throughout the day stimulates and aids in digestion, whereas cold water can weaken your digestive fire. This is very similar to pouring cold water on a campfire – it dampens the flames. Also, having 4-5 gulps of water 15-20 minutes before a meal is like preparing your stomach for digestion. However, drinking a large amount of water right before a meal makes it harder to break down food properly.
- Water with ayurvedic touch: While preparing warm water, add some herbs like mint, ginger, or jeera for additional health benefits. Or you can buy Teaquil by Madhusudan Wellness for the ayurvedic touch.
Benefits of Drinking Water
Here are some benefits that will inspire you will adopt water in your ayurvedic healing journey.
- For digestion: Water acts as a lubricant, smoothing the passage of your digestive tract. Dehydration can lead to constipation, bloating, and discomfort.
- For detoxification: Water flushes out toxins and waste products, keeping our bodies clean. Imagine your body is a temple; use jala as the purifying agent to keep it clean.
- For nutrient absorption: Water transports nutrients from food to your cells for the body to acquire necessary nourishments.
- For fighting disease: Hydration strengthens your immune system and builds up resistance to fight infections and illnesses. Kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and some skin conditions are the consequence of Dehydration.
- For glowing skin: Water keeps your skin plump and hydrated, giving a radiant complexion. A much simpler and far better option than your expensive creams and lotions for skin hydration.
- For weight loss: Thirst is often mistaken for hunger. On the contrary, it curbs the craving and prevents overeating. Also, it processes fat efficiently.
Choosing the Right Container for Water
Storing water is as important as knowing how to drink it. Here are some tips to store water for your hydration.
- Copper: A classic choice for storing water. According to ayurvedic beliefs, it balances the three doshas and infuses the water with trace minerals. But what the studies show is that copper has natural anti-bacterial properties making it a perfect storage option. Although, people with Pitta imbalance or liver issues should consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before using it.
- Stainless steel: A safe and readily available option in every household. Stainless steel is non-reactive, and no flavors or minerals will be added. However, it might not offer the same potential health benefits as copper.
- Clay pot: Our ancestors used clay pots, and they lived a long and healthy life. Earthenware pots are natural coolant and have a hint of earthy taste in the water. The best option for a person with pitta imbalance.
Takeaway
Remember, true wellness begins with a deep connection to the natural world, and water is the very essence of that connection. By hydrating yourself, you are not just drinking water; you are nurturing your inner ecosystem, fostering balance, and igniting the spark of vibrant health within you. Start your journey today, sip by sip, and discover the magic hidden in this amazing drink.
Spread the word, and let a simple glass of water become the cornerstone of your health journey.