Four morning Ayurvedic Habits

Ayurveda, the ancient holistic healing system from India, emphasizes harmony between the mind, body, and spirit. Rooted in natural and preventive care, Ayurveda advocates for daily practices that align us with the rhythms of nature, fostering optimal health and well-being. Here, my favorite four essential Ayurvedic morning habits that I hope can transform your daily routine too and promote lasting wellness.

1. Tongue Scraping

Oral hygiene is a cornerstone of overall health in Ayurveda. Tongue scraping with a copper tongue scraper, right after brushing your teeth, is a simple yet powerful practice to remove bacteria and toxins from your tongue.

How to Practice Tongue Scraping:

• Hold the scraper at both ends, place it at the back of your tongue, and gently pull it forward.

• Rinse the scraper and repeat several times until your tongue feels clean.

Benefits:

• Removes bacteria on your tongue leaving you a fresh feeling.

• Enhances taste perception.

• Promotes overall oral hygiene and health.
  

2. Oil Pulling

Following tongue scraping, practice oil pulling with coconut oil. This involves swishing a tablespoon of oil in your mouth for 10-15 minutes. Oil pulling helps collect bacteria and toxins, soothing your gums and enhancing oral health.

How to Practice Oil Pulling:

• Take a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth.

• Swish it around for 10-15 minutes, making sure not to swallow it.

• Spit the oil into a trash bin to avoid clogging your sink.

• Rinse your mouth with warm water.

Benefits:

• Detoxifies the mouth by removing bacteria.

• Promotes healthy gums and teeth.
  

• May reduce inflammation and improve overall oral health.

 3. Self-Massage (Abhyanga)

Start your day with the soothing ritual of self-massage, or Abhyanga. Using warm herbal oils like almond oil, sesame oil, or currently I am using Ethiopian black seed oil, Abhyanga improves circulation, nourishes the skin, and calms the nervous system. You can combine it with Dry Brushing.

How to Practice Abhyanga:

• Warm the oil slightly even in between your hands.

• Apply the oil to your entire body moving towards your feet.

• Use gentle, circular motions on joints and long strokes on limbs.
  

Benefits:

• Enhances blood flow and lymphatic drainage.

• Promotes healthy, radiant skin.

• Reduces stress and promotes relaxation.
  

4. Start the Day with Herbal Tea

Kickstart your day with a revitalizing herbal tea made from hot water, lemon juice, fresh ginger (or ginger powder), and turmeric. This potent concoction offers numerous health benefits.

How to Make Herbal Tea:

• Boil a cup of water.

• Add the juice of half a lemon.

• Grate a small piece of fresh ginger or use half a teaspoon of ginger powder.

• Add half a teaspoon of turmeric powder.

• Stir well and let it steep for a few minutes before drinking.

Benefits:

• Boosts digestion and metabolism.

• Strengthens the immune system.

• Reduces inflammation and pain.

• Detoxifies the body and promotes clear skin.

Embrace Ayurveda for a Healthier Life

Incorporating these Ayurvedic habits into your morning routine can set a positive tone for the rest of your day, fostering physical, mental, and emotional balance. Ayurveda’s holistic approach to health is not just about treating ailments but about creating harmony within yourself and with the world around you.

What's your favorite morning routine?