Unlocking the Healing Power of Water- An Ayurveda Take

Ayurveda is a timeless health science. It emphasizes not only the maintenance of health in individuals but also the effective treatment of diseases. Ayurvedic practices and principles are based on the theory of the five great elements (Panchamahabhuta). We discussed this in an earlier post. These elements serve as the fundamental basis for all srishti, or cosmic creation, in classical Indian literature. Among these five essential elements, water (jala) stands out, having been thoroughly described in both Vedic and Ayurvedic texts. Observing the prescribed rules for drinking water is crucial. These rules enhance an individual’s strength. They significantly increase lifespan. The ancient sages of Ayurveda had profound insights into the properties of water. They recognized its importance, optimal intake approaches, and the precise quantities required. They also advocated for the use of herbs in cooking, tailored to health requirements and environmental changes.

Must-Have Features of Good Drinking Water

Water that is pure, pristine, and undeniably satisfying. The water that nourishes effortlessly and is easy to digest. This makes it the essential foundation for all life on Earth. Its crystalline clarity showcases the natural beauty of unspoiled environments, and its invigorating presence powerfully promotes hydration and vitality.

How Does Polluted Water Actually Look and Feel Like?

The water that has a coarse and greasy texture. It is warm when touched and can lead to tooth sensitivity. Available in various colors, it possesses a distinct flavor that can be overwhelming in its use. It emits an unpleasant smell that is often reminiscent of stagnant pools, which can discourage consumption. Additionally, this peculiar water leads to increased thirst, a sense of heaviness, bodily discomfort, and excessive phlegm accumulation. Furthermore, it requires an extended digestion period within the body, resulting in constipation after consumption. Such effects raise concerns about its impact on overall well-being. Thus, it is imperative to consider the quality and source of such water before indulging.

Cold Water: When to Sip and When to Skip?

Sip the water cold……

When you experience increased pitta conditions, feel thirsty, faint, and overheated during the summer. If you’re facing a hot and burning sensation, you also suffer from vertigo, weakness, and tiredness. You will experience vomiting, hemoptysis(stained mucus while coughing), or epistaxis (nose bleed). If you have poison or alcohol in your system, struggling with alcoholism, then cold water is the choice.

Sip the water boiled well and then cooled…….

When you’ve got a fever, diarrhea, an aggravated three dosha situation, no appetite, tuberculosis, or any eye problems going on.

Skip the cold water….

When you have signs of aggravated vata dosha and kapha dosha, do not resort to drinking cold water. Additionally, if you experience symptoms like sneezing, pharyngitis, bloating, a heavy abdomen, constipation, and fever, avoid cold water in any form. Furthermore, when hiccups, chest pain, and asthma are linked to excess kapha, your Ayurveda doctor advises against consuming cold water.

Is Drinking Hot Water Any Good? Where Should I Do It?

Hot water drinking is a very good habit. Hot water effectively reduces Kapha, Vata, and fat. It powerfully eliminates Ama—the toxins/undigested food. It enhances digestion and promotes overall digestive health. Additionally, it purifies and cleanses the bladder. Hot water is a proven remedy for rhinitis, pharyngitis, cough, hiccup, bloating, asthma, muscle cramps, and recent onset fever.

The one who drinks hot water at night conquers kapha and vata diseases.

Effective Ways to Boil Water and Their Health Benefits

Water boiled down to a quarter is exceptionally light and highly beneficial for digestion. It effectively balances kapha dosha and significantly promotes weight loss.

Boiling the water to reduce ½ is excellent for balancing the pitta dosha.

Boiling water until it reduces to three-quarters effectively pacifies the aggravated vata dosha.

Words of caution:

• In rainy season it is compulsory to boil water to make it easy for digestion.
• Do not resort to hot water if you have any pitta and blood related imbalances.
• Consume water wisely and in the right quantity. When consumed correctly, it becomes AMRIT(=nectar). Otherwise, it can turn potent poison.

Monitor Your Water Intake to Conquer Health Issues!

Water should be consumed thoughtfully when dealing with weak digestion, ascites, or diarrhea. It is important to drink in small sips if you have hemorrhoids or irritable bowel syndrome. This approach helps to prevent any further discomfort or complications. Outside of the summer and autumn months, even healthy individuals should drink water whenever they feel thirsty. It’s crucial not to disrupt their digestive fire or hunger. It is essential to avoid drinking water during hunger pangs. Drinking liquids at this time can dilute gastric juices. This dilution hinders the digestive process. This approach allows for a more efficient and effective digestion process. Moreover, being mindful of hydration along with balanced meals can significantly enhance nutrient absorption and overall well-being.

The Truth About Water Digestion: Insights from Ayurveda

Ayurveda provides intriguing insights into water digestion times, emphasizing details we often overlook in our routines. According to Ayurvedic principles, our bodies need approximately six hours to digest water. But, the way we consume water significantly influences this timing. For instance, boiling water and allowing it to cool to room temperature reduces digestion time to just three hours! The temperature of the water plays a crucial role in how our bodies process it. Furthermore, sipping warm boiled water can reduce digestion time to a mere 1.5 hours! This underscores the importance of our water preparation and drinking techniques, significantly affecting our health and digestion. By adopting these practices, we can enhance our hydration and align with Ayurvedic wisdom.

Does Ayurveda Talks about Drinking Water in the Morning?

Ushapana is the term for drinking water at dawn. It was explained by the ancient sages of Ayurveda to be taken in the dose of 640 ml. This water should be stored overnight. It keeps all three doshas at bay and helps the person live 100 healthy years! This practice is a daily ritual and a vital element in maintaining balance within the body. It helps hydrate the body after a long night of fasting. It is believed that consuming this water at dawn can flush out toxins, promote optimal digestion, and invigorate the mind. By integrating ushapana into daily life, individuals can experience renewed energy and a greater sense of well-being. This integration contributes to a holistic approach to health that honors the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic teachings.

Understanding Nasajala Pana in Ayurveda

A person who begins the day at Brahmi Muhurtha(=a period of 48 minutes, before surise) and drinks 240 ml of water through their nostrils is destined to be exceptionally intelligent, acquire the keen eyesight of an eagle, remain free from aging signs like wrinkles and grey hair, and enjoy robust health without diseases, according to Bhavamishra. He coined the term nasajala pana for this practice.

He also cautions not to practice drinking water through the nostrils if one is suffering from hiccups, bloating, injuries, or vata-kapha diseases, as these conditions can exacerbate discomfort and lead to further complications. To ensure safety and effective remedies, it is always advisable to consult with your Ayurveda doctor before attempting this particular practice.

Key Strategies for Drinking Water with Meals

While having your meals, it is important to allocate half of your intake to solid food. In addition, ensure that 1/4 of your meal consists of water or other liquids, which helps in effective digestion and hydration. This liquid component is vital because it aids in breaking down the solid food, making it easier for the gut to absorb essential nutrients. Furthermore, it is advisable to leave 1/4 of your stomach empty to effectively create space for vata, as this encourages a balanced digestive system. By following these guidelines, you can enhance your overall well-being and maintain a harmonious relationship with your digestive processes.

Ayurveda asserts that sipping water during meals is essential for optimal digestion and achieving balance in the doshas. It is crucial to avoid drinking right before meals, as this can disrupt digestion, potentially leading to emaciation and weakness. Furthermore, consuming water immediately after eating disrupts the balance of kapha dosha, often resulting in unwanted weight gain and contributing to obesity.

Master These Two Takeaway Tea Preparations for Optimal Gut Health

• Prepare Cumin Tea to effectively tackle bloating or anorexia: Boil 200 ml of water. Then add 10 grams of lightly roasted cumin seeds to the boiling water, and cover it. Let it steep and cool to the perfect lukewarm temperature, which may take a few minutes. Once it has reached the desired warmth, enjoy it slowly, savoring each sip, ideally twice a day for the best results.
• Prepare Ginger Tea for indigestion and ama (toxins) in your system: Start with boiling 250 ml of water. Now add 1/4th teaspoon of dry ginger powder. Allow it to stay for some minutes. Sip slowly twice a day. This effectively soothes your digestive tract while diminishing discomfort. With its powerful natural anti-inflammatory properties, ginger is your ally in alleviating nausea and enhancing digestion overall.

Final Thoughts by Bhavamishra

4 Magical Effects of Water on the body:

• Acts as Shadow(CHATRA) for the person who is thirsty
• Acts as Nector(AMRIT)- For the person who drinks at dawn
• Acts as Poison(VISHA) for the person who is hungry
• Acts as Diamond(VAJRA) for the person who sips during the meals