As practitioners of yoga, we know the beautiful transformation that it brings within us. However, imagine adding powerful Ayurvedic tools to your practice that would enhance your experience and offer you a deeper connection with yourself and others. Ayurveda and yoga are intertwined, and Ayurveda offers us valuable tools to align not only the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects but also our energetic bodies. As an Ayurvedic practitioner, yogi, spiritual counselor, and Reiki master, I’ll dive into the tools of Ayurveda that can bring more love and intuition in your yoga practice.

1. The Doshas: Ayurveda categorizes individuals based on a unique combination of doshas- Vata, Pitta, and Kapha- that govern our physical, mental, and emotional characteristics. Knowing your dominant dosha can help you personalize your yoga practice to balance it. For instance, Pitta-dominant individuals may feel drawn to vigorous practices, while Kapha-dominant individuals may opt for a more stimulating approach to uplift their practice. Balancing the doshas will bring more self-awareness, grounding, and balance in your yoga practice.
2. The Breath: Pranayama or breathwork in yoga is a powerful tool to connect with yourself and regulate your energy. Ayurvedic breathwork includes Nadi Shodhana or alternate nostril breathing which promotes a calm and balanced mind, Sheetali or cooling breath that helps regulate the body temperature and soothe Pitta dosha, and Kapalbhati or skull-shining breath that detoxifies the body and uplifts Kapha dosha. Adding Ayurvedic breathwork to your yoga practice can help amplify the benefits of your asana and meditation practice.
3. The Food: Ayurveda teaches us that food is not just for nourishment but also for healing. Eating mindfully, and according to our doshic needs can enhance our yoga practice. Ayurveda emphasizes eating seasonal, whole, and plant-based foods that nourish our body, mind, and energy. As yogis, we also know that Ahimsa or non-violence is a vital aspect of our practice, and therefore, aligning our diet with compassion and sustainability will bring more love and connection in our yoga practice.
4. The Self-Care: Ayurveda also stresses the importance of self-care as it acknowledges that the external environment can impact our physical, mental, and energetic wellbeing. Oil massage (Abhyanga) with Ayurvedic herbal oils can help us release toxins and boost our immunity. Dry brushing (Garshana) can help improve our lymphatic flow and circulation. Tongue scraping (Jihwa Prakshalana) can help remove toxins and promote oral hygiene. Integrating these self-care practices as part of your yoga practice can foster a deeper sense of self-love, compassion, and intuition.
5. The Mind: Ayurveda is a holistic science that recognizes the interconnection between the mind, body, and spirit. Our mental state can significantly impact our physical and energetic wellbeing. Ayurvedic practices like meditation, Yoga Nidra, and mantra chanting can help balance our mental doshas and promote mental clarity, tranquility, and intuition. Incorporating Ayurvedic practices into your yoga routine can help you cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness, mindfulness, and intuition that can transform your life both on and off the mat.

Ayurveda and yoga are potent tools on their own, but when we integrate them, the benefits multiply. By personalizing your yoga practice with Ayurvedic tools that align with your doshic needs, you can enhance your yoga journey and foster a deeper sense of connection, love, and intuition within yourself and towards others. Remember, both Ayurveda and yoga are lifelong practices that require patience, dedication, and self-love. Embrace this journey with an open heart and mind, and the universe will conspire in your favor. Namaste.

Love,

Michelle

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