Chapter 46

  • Vyayama (Exercise)

Description: Engaging in physical exercises tailored to individual needs and conditions.

Benefits:

  • Strengthens the body and improves flexibility.
  • Enhances mental clarity and mood.
  • Supports metabolic health.

Contraindications: Individuals who are excessively fatigued, pregnant, or recovering from surgery should consult a physician before engaging in vigorous exercise.

  • Mardana

Description: Applying proper pressure in the body for further relaxation.

Benefits:

  • Alleviates muscle tension.
  • Promotes physical well-being.
  • Enhances circulation.

Contraindications: Those with injuries or chronic pain should approach with caution and ideally under professional guidance.

before use.

  • Udwartana (Herbal Powder Massage)

Description: Massaging the body with herbal powders to promote detoxification and weight management. For this especially herbs having astringent taste like Terminalia chebula, Triphala  or aromatic herbs like turmeric, sandalwood etc are used.

Benefits:

  • Reduces excess fat.
  • Improves stability and strength
  • Improves skin texture.
  • Enhances lymphatic drainage.

Contraindications: Not recommended for individuals who are underweight or have skin sensitivities.

Udwartana (Dry powder Massage)

  • Udwartana is a Ayurvedic therapy that involves the application and massage of herbal powders on the body.
  • It is typically performed using dry powders or pastes made from a mixture of herbs, with a focus on stimulating circulation and detoxification.
  • Unlike traditional oil massage (Abhyanga), Udwartana is a dry and invigorating therapy aimed at improving skin tone, reducing fat, and balancing Kapha dosha.
  • Procedure of Udwartana
  1. Preparation:
    • Herbal Powders: Commonly used powders include black gram powder, Turmeric, Triphala, and Mustard powder, mixed with other Kapha-reducing herbs, generally having hot potency.
    • The powder can be mixed with water or herbal oils, depending on the desired consistency and purpose (dry or moist massage).
  2. Massage:
    • Direction of Application: The powder is applied to the body in an upward, circular, and vigorous motion. The direction is important: it should always be applied against the direction of hair growth to stimulate the skin and circulation.
    • Specific Areas: Special attention is given to areas with high Kapha accumulation, such as thighs, abdomen, and hips.
    • Circular Movements for Joints: At the joints, the massage is performed in circular motions to improve flexibility and break down Kapha accumulation.
    • Horizontal Strokes for Spine: Along the spine, horizontal strokes are used to improve circulation and release tension in the back.
  3. Duration:
    • The entire process usually lasts 30 to 45 minutes depending on the individual’s condition and therapeutic needs.
  4. Post-Procedure:
    • After the massage, the patient may be advised to take a warm bath to rinse off the powders and relax the muscles.
  5. Types of Udwartana
  1. Snigdha (Moist) Udwartana: Involves mixing herbal powders with oil, making the massage more lubricating and less abrasive. It is more suitable for individuals with dry skin or Vata imbalance.
  2. Ruksha (Dry) Udwartana: Uses only dry powders and is more stimulating. This form is especially recommended for individuals with excess Kapha and those who seek weight loss and cellulite reduction.
  3. Benefits:
  • Reduces excess fat.
  • Improves stability and strength
  • Improves skin texture.
  • Enhances lymphatic drainage.
  • Contraindications: Not recommended for individuals who are underweight or have skin sensitivities.
  1. Snana (Bathing)

Description: Taking a bath using warm water (pouring over the body enhances strength of the body but warm water should not be used for head as it results in hairfall and harmful to the eyes)

Benefits:

  • Cleanses the body and mind.
  • Increases strength and enthusiasm
  • Increases Digestive power (Agni)
  • Acts as an aphrodisiac
  • Removes itching, dirt, sweat, tiredness, burning sensation.
  • Helps to get rid of sinful thoughts and tendencies
  • Promotes relaxation.
  • Improves skin health.

Contraindications: Indigestion, facial paralysis, diseases of eyes, mouth, ears, diarrhoea, flatulence, rhinitis and just after food intake.

Summarization

  • Dinacharya, or the daily regimen in Ayurveda, is essential for maintaining balance and harmony in the body, mind, and environment.
  • By aligning our routines with nature’s cycles, such as waking up in Brahma Muhurta, practicing oral hygiene, exercise, and self-care rituals like Abhyanga (oil massage), we support optimal health, prevent diseases, and promote longevity.
  • These practices also enhance mental clarity, digestion, and emotional stability, making them key to a balanced lifestyle.