un-natural diets will only imbalance the body further and should be avoided. Detox programs ar e best
done under the supervision of a qualified nutritionist but there is no harm in trying them yourself as long
as you stop as soon as you begin to experience any unpleasant ‘detoxing symptoms’ (headaches, nausea
etc).
We’ ve a l s o included an overview of some of the therapies that may be administered during Panchakarma
(an Ayurveda detox program). Ayurveda employs a wide range of powerful massage techniques to help
rectify imbalances within the physiology, many involving two technicians working in harmony on either
side of the body. Most Ayurvedic massages are luxuriously relaxing, to soothe the body and calm the
mind, while others are more stimulating, to energise the body and mobilise impurities. Treatment plans
are usually individually tailored, so whether you need to relax the mind or purify and revitalise the whole
body a suitable treatment package will be prescribed to help bring the body back into balance. However,
on a daily basis you can also carry out your own ‘mini-massage’ – it is simple to do and highly effective
in delaying the signs of aging, toning the skin and helping strengthen the immune system. This section
w i ll also help you understand the benefits of improving your digestion and keeping your bowels cleansed
and healthy for optimum assimilation of nutrients.
As well as herbal oil massages, Panchakarma detox programs also utilise bastis; herbal oil enemas, which
scientific studies have shown to increase the effective elimination of impurities by up to sixty percent.
They are an essential component if you wish to lose weight, improve complexion or remove long-
standing aches and pains from the muscles and joints. If you desire a flatter belly and a healthy glow
these are the key to success.
Chapter four contains a glossary of both Ayurvedic and western terminology used to describe the
properties of herb and essential oils. It also includes a list of herbal formulas and the conditions they can
be used for. Chapter five is dedicated to practical therapies and techniques you can do at home. There is
information on nasal cleansing, to unblock the sinuses, and advise on how to cope with allergies. T h e r e i s
a l s o i n f o r mation on joint problems and how they can be rectified, as well as some valuable information
and remedies for female related problems.
Chapter six gives practical advice for balancing the mind and resolving emotional conflicts. We’ve also
included a section on Thought Field Therapy , a powerful technique developed by Dr. Roger Challahan, a
clinical psychologist from the USA. By utilising this technique you can l e a r n h o w t o ‘tap’ some powerful
meridian points that can relieve some of life’s most stubborn obstacles to growth and development such
as phobias and fears.
We have included a chapter on mantra chanting for you to experiment with. Many of our clients have had
extraordinary results by introducing some of these mantras into their d a ily lives. We h ave also included a
section of our favourite recipes to give you some idea of the types of meals you can prepare using
ayurvedic principles. Each recipe provides a foundation on which you can experiment and adapt to your
own particular tastes. Many are these recipes are tri-doshic and therefore suitable for all body-types;
especially with the addition of churnas (herb and spice combinations).
Finally, we’ve included a selection of famous quotes and saying in which we hope you’ll find elements of
truth o r i n s piration relative to your own life path. We trust they will help motivate you move forward on
your journey towards a more fulfilling, more healthy, more joyous life.
Th e ‘Resources’ section, in the appendices, contains the website addresses for obtaining s o m e o f t h e
products, herbs, oils and supplements mentioned in this guide.