Metabolic Wellness | Ayur Ai

Dr.Harinee S, B.A.M.S., M.D.(Ayu.)

Updated on AUG 08, 2023

• Physical activity is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, and Ayurveda highlights the various benefits of exercising regularly. Incorporating physical activity into our daily regimen improves the overall health and wellbeing, as well as prevents various diseases. Inactivity is one of the major lifestyle components recognized as a risk factor and linked to over 35 different diseases.
• Regular exercise is believed to balance the doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), enhance circulation of blood throughout the body, improves the digestion, and boost immunity. Additionally, Physical activity has various body-mind benefits, like managing weight, and blood pressure, decreasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, breast cancer, colon cancer, type 2 diabetes; preventing depression, osteoporosis, and impotence; lengthening life span, lowering stress levels, and cholesterols; relieving arthritis and back pain, strengthening muscles, bones and joints; improving sleep, elevating sense of well-being, and improving the brain functioning and coherence.
• Variety of physical activities including yoga, walking, swimming, dancing, and other forms of moderate exercise can be incorporated into daily routine for optimal health. Based on the prakriti (dosha constitution of the body) and current status of health, specific type of physical activity can be chosen that are enjoyable to work out too.
• At least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day and ideally in the morning is recommended. Consistency also plays a major role. Even if there is a time constraint, simple forms of movement such as taking a brisk walk during lunch break or doing some stretching before bed can be incorporated.
• However, it's essential to listen to the body and not to indulge in overexertion as it can lead to imbalances and injuries. It's important to integrate rest and recovery days into daily routine.
• When proper hydration, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are combined with regular physical activity, the result is a widespread approach to wellness that helps in maintaining optimal health and vitality.