By Dr. Shamna
Routine is one of the most comforting gifts you can give your body. While you may find it challenging to establish a daily routine that is loving, consistent, and holistic, Dinacharya—a daily Ayurvedic routine—plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal health.
For thousands of years, Ayurveda has offered a comprehensive self-care system. A regular and consistent routine brings rhythm and harmony to the body and mind, promoting greater stability and balance.
To create a personal and effective routine, it is essential to know your dosha and follow your Ayurvedic doctor’s guidance. However, there are foundational practices you can adopt regardless of your dosha or unique needs:
- Wake up early, before sunrise—at Brahma muhurtha (between 4 am and 6 am). This auspicious time is believed to offer clarity and vitality to both mind and body.
- Wash your face and splash fresh water on your eyes 4–5 times.
- Brush your teeth with natural tooth powder or paste.
- Perform tongue scraping, preferably with a copper scraper, to cleanse the tongue and stimulate the digestive system.
- Gargle with sesame oil for 3–5 minutes to support oral health.
- Practice nasya: place two drops of nasya oil in each nostril and inhale deeply. This helps prevent mucus buildup and supports brain function.
- Drink a glass of lukewarm water with the juice of half a lemon and one teaspoon of honey before breakfast.
- Evacuate your bowels and bladder.
- Engage in 15–30 minutes of yoga, meditation, and pranayama (breathing exercises). If you don’t have a regular practice, consider resources like the “Practical Awakening” course.
- Perform self-oleation (Abhyanga) once or twice weekly—massage oil into your head and body for 15–20 minutes, then bathe with warm water and herbal soaps or shampoos. This practice recharges muscles and calms the mind.
- Consider an oil enema (basti) 1–2 times per week, as recommended by your Ayurvedic practitioner.
- Choose a warm, nourishing breakfast over dry or cold cereals. Try soups or other hearty, “out-of-the-box” options.
- Pursue work that brings happiness and reduces stress. While this may feel challenging, regular meditation can help you feel more secure in making choices aligned with your natural gifts.
- Make lunch your largest meal of the day.
- Drink plenty of plain, lukewarm water throughout the day, or enjoy herbal teas made with cardamom, cumin, ginger, basil, or mint. Avoid cold drinks.
- Exercise daily for 30 minutes, using about half your body’s capacity.
- Treat your daily shower as a relaxing, restorative ritual.
- Opt for a light, early dinner.
- Spend 10 minutes in the evening meditating and reflecting on your day. Cultivate gratitude and self-appreciation.
- Establish a healthy and regular sleep routine—aim to be in bed by 10 pm.
Your body, mind, and overall well-being thrive on routine. With a steady, mindful approach, you can express your ideas, emotions, and potential more fully. For a personalized daily routine, consult our practitioners.