The power of abstinence

This week, when the month of Karkidakam begins, there would be much talk of rejuvenation and detoxification, using ayurveda to avoid the harmful effects of the changing season. Like many things in our life, Karkidakam’s focus on health has also been commercialised to such an extent that many people believe it is a short cut to year-long bliss and health.

Actually, in the bygone days, Karkidakam was the month when people were forced to remain at home because of the heavy rains. The paddy would be getting ready for harvest, and there would not be much work left. So confined to home, the farming community was free to indulge in their annual healthcare regime including long oil baths and a special diet.

Over time, this regime came to be acknowledged as an ayurvedic rejuvenation therapy, and people now opt for elaborate treatment measures prescribed by this ancient branch of medicine during this month. And it is no longer a treatment regime for the old. Youngsters, especially those working unholy hours, slouching in front of the computer, eating junk food and keeping away from exercise, can benefit from this traditional medicine.

Working in air-conditioned rooms, late into the night without any break, and having an irregular sleep pattern can play havoc with health in the long run. For these new generation employees burdened with the stress of work, Karkidakam is the ideal time to launch a new healthy lifestyle. They may not need to go for panchakarma or nasyam to detoxify the body, a few healthy habits along with a few therapies like abhyangam and swedanam would work like magic. It is ideal to follow a vegetarian diet during the month since the digestive system would be weak. And do keep away from smoking and drinking. Since all toxins reach the liver through food, this organ needs detoxification the most.

Although liver cells automatically regenerate, in today’s conditions, the liver is never given the time for it. So, this month can be the right time to bring in good food habits. Since the general health is weak, the effects will show immediately. So include more fibre in the food or else there would be constipation and indigestion. Have more vegetables and fruits, and leafy vegetables should not be given the shrug-off. And everyone should take care not to be lured by advertisements about various therapies. Many of them are pre-operative procedures which ready the body for major treatments, and not many people require them.

Abhyangam, the whole body massage can be done during this month to relax the body and recharge the cells. It helps to increase the sensory perception of the body, expel carbon dioxide and let oxygen flood in. Swedanam, or steam bath, helps eliminate many diseases as toxins are removed through sweating. Abhyangam is not suitable for those who are obese. They can instead go in for Udvarthanam, which is a massage with herbal powders which can tone the muscles and help in weight loss.

It may not be easy for to continue the therapies for one whole month, but seven days would be good for them. One should however take care to avoid hard work, strenuous exercise and jogging. It is ideal to do only stretching exercises and warm-ups or yoga during this month. Take a week off from your busy schedule this month for a thorough recharge. And it should be the beginning of a healthy lifestyle.

The body is just like an automobile. After one service, you cannot expect it to work smoothly for years. You need to maintain it well. So add a healthy diet and regular exercise to your life, and let this Karkidakam be the step to a new you!

The writer is an assistant professor at Nangelil Ayurveda College, Kothamangalam.

Courtesy:Deccan Chronicle