hiking, swimming, and skiing are appropriate. People with a Vata dosha might
enjoy jogging, but exercises like stretching, yoga, and T’ai Chi are better choices.
They have bursts of energy but tire quickly and may push themselves past their lim-
its. Walking is probably the best exercise for all people as it calms all dosha types.
Ayurveda recommends a brisk half-hour walk every day.
For people over the age of 80 or under 10 as well as those people who have serious
Vata and Pitta imbalance, exercise should be very gentle. Exercise should always
leave a person ready for work as opposed to exercise being work itself. Several other
exercise precautions must be noted. One should not engage in exercise sooner than
half an hour before and one to two hours after a meal. Exercising in the evening is
discouraged because it is better for the body to slow down and prepare for sleep.
Exercise is discouraged in the wind or cold since heavy breathing of cold, damp air is
unhealthy for the respiratory tract. Also discouraged is exercise during the intense
heat of the day, since environmental heat causes an even greater rise in body tem-
perature.
The key to exercise is moderation and regularity. Ayurveda suggests that all exercise
should be done at one-half of one’s capacity. That means working out just until
sweat appears on the forehead, under the arms, and along the spinal column. This
amount of exercise improves digestion, prevents constipation, improves circulation,
stimulates metabolism, regulates body temperature, and maintains body weight.
Exercise keeps one’s senses and mind alert and attentive as well as being effective in
inducing relaxation and sleep. Overexercise, as indicated by panting and heavy
sweating, may cause dehydration, muscle aches, breathlessness, and even chest
pain. It is believed that overexercise eventually contributes to arthritis, sciatica, or
heart conditions.
Yoga, developed in the Ayurvedic tradition, is one of the most effective forms of exer-
cise for the body as well as nourishment for the mind and spirit. Hatha yoga, the
most familiar form of yoga in North America, is a combination of body positions,
breathing exercises, and mental focus on the here-and-now. Stretching helps relax
and tone the muscles, improves circulation and concentration, and helps reenergize.
Yoga is increasingly recognized for maintaining general health as well as helping
people to manage chronic disorders such as headaches, insomnia, hypertension, and
depression. Further information about yoga can be found in Chapter 15.
Breathing
Practicing controlled breathing is a valuable technique that leads to a healthier
lifestyle. Several techniques can be utilized to relax the mind and body. Simple
breathing helps people become aware of their breath and often relieves tension.
CHAPTER 4 AYURVEDIC MEDICINE 61
