66 November 2013 www.womanthismonth.com LIFESTYLE | wellbeing ward off signs of ageing. The primary dictum here is that when one is internally healthy, external beauty radiates. “Indian gooseberries, neem and turmeric are potent herbs that help to cleanse the body and keeps one looking and feeling youthful,” she notes. Ayurveda recommends certain dietary and lifestyle changes to help the herbs do their magic more effectively. “Patients might be advised not to exert themselves or eat particular foods. In other cases, specific exercises might be prescribed,” says Dr Smitha. Ayurvedic massage and external treatments Our expert: Dr Geethika Nagalakshmi, Bahrain Wellness Resort & Hospital “An Ayurvedic massage is completely different from other popular forms. The techniques of massage and the composition of the oils to treat various disorders are unique to ayuveda,” says Dr Geethika. It’s not only about relaxation and rejuvenation. It can also be pain relieving and therapeutic. A full body massage, called ‘abhyangam’, is known to release stress, loosen toxins and bring about a typical lightness to the body. Done regularly, abhyangam can prevent serious disorders like osteoarthritis. “Massages prevents the synovial fluid from drying up, ensuring constant lubrication of joints. It is beneficial for blood circulation and the skin,” Dr Geethika explains. “Stress is the main cause for premature ageing and disease. Abhyangam, along with shirodhara, where medicated oil is gently poured over the forehead, is effective in preventing this.” Dr Geethika mentions different types of treatments for a varied number of ailments. Kizhi involves the use of a warm poultice after a massage. The unctuous nature of oil and the warmth of the poultice is an effective pain reliever. Kizhi helps muscoskeletal disorders tremendously. Udvartanam is a massage done with medicated powders. The strokes are in the opposite direction of hair growth and help to remove adipose tissue, excess fat, from the body. So, here is a completely natural way to lose weight too. The expert tells us a recent success story of a lady who had suffered a stroke due to which she was completely bedridden. “After four months of religious massage treatment, she walks with a walker today. Treatments like shirodhara and pizhichil helped the numbness and muscle stiffness, giving internal strength,” she says. Scores of patients suffering from spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and gout have seen their conditions alleviated with ayurvedic treatments. Like other branches of medicine, ayurvedic therapies have the potential for adverse effects. This can, however, be ruled out with honest communication between the patient and a certified and experienced practitioner. g
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mjk0MTkxMQ==