• Ayurveda Health
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DETOXIFY YOUR BODY IN NO TIME WITH THESE THREE SIMPLE TECHNIQUES

In our day to day life, we’re faced with a multitude of factors that contribute to the accumulation of toxins in our body that makes cleansing rituals a necessity. Pollution, sun exposure, stress, processed foods and even changes in the weather can cause toxins to build up at a pace that overtakes the body’s natural processes of detoxification. When we are thrown out of balance by these toxins, we can experience weight gain, indigestion and bloating, anxiety, acne and more.

There are a number of ways we can change our lifestyles to minimize the factors that contribute to the overaccumulation of toxins, such as adopting a healthier diet and exercising. However, certain dangers—like weather changes, sun exposure and pollution—can’t be avoided. While we should always strive to alter our habits to develop regular routines based in healthful eating, mindful meditation and restful sleep, the process of achieving that is challenging and long, and we all experience bodily imbalance and toxin accumulation from time to time.

Fortunately, Ayurveda offers a number of detox tips and practices that help us restore balance by amplifying our body’s natural ability to detox. While there are a number of transformative detox practices that require one to carve out a certain period of time (such as panchakarma and self-massage), there are also several ways to detox that are extremely quick, simple and still powerfully effective. Here are 3 detox tips from Ayurveda that will help you incorporate detox into your daily routine—best of all, all of these practices take less than 10 minutes!

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Use A Tongue Scraper For An Instant Morning Detox

In Ayurveda, it is believed that the toxins harbored on the tongue offer insights into greater underlying conditions in our bodies. Furthermore, failing to practice strong oral hygiene techniques can contribute to an excess accumulation of toxins, which can in turn lead to the development of conditions like acne and digestive issues.

Tongue scraping is an extremely effective practice that can redress these imbalances by extracting toxins—or ama—from the mouth. Through tongue scraping, the negative effects of toxin accumulation can be countered and prevented; as one study showed, tongue scraping improves bad breath and eliminates harmful coatings on the tongue.

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In Ayurveda, tongue scrapers are typically crafted out of copper, which is revered for its antimicrobial properties. Our UMA Pure Palate Tongue Scraper is crafted by community artisans in India, who draw on ancient technical wisdom and the powerful detoxifying properties of copper to create a tongue scraper that feels luxurious to use. To tongue scrape, gently run the tongue scraper from the back of the tongue to the front. Rinse and repeat this process several times over the entire surface of the tongue. Wash your scraper with soap and warm water and store in a dry place.

For more information on the benefits and importance of tongue scraping, you can check out our blog on the topic here.

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Use A Kansa Wand For Circulation And Radiance

The Kansa wand is a handheld wooden tool whose rounded tip is made of copper and tin. In Ayurvedic practice, Kansa wands are used to stimulate our facial marma points, which are energy centers that determine our internal balance. The process of running a Kansa wand along one’s marma points promotes circulation and lymphatic drainage. As a result, not only do the lymph nodes experience natural detoxification, but one’s complexion also becomes more radiant as a result of an increase in circulation.

Studies have shown that facial massages like these boost the complexion with a natural glow. 

For more information on how and why you should incorporate the Kansa wand into your daily routine, check out our blog here. If you don’t have one of your own, our luxuriously-crafted UMA Kansa Wand is sure to deliver a restorative, rejuvenating self-care experience.

 

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3

Drink Water In The Morning And Take Triphala At Night

It’s essential to drink a glass of room temperature water in the morning as a means of flushing out toxins and stimulating the digestive system. In Ayurveda, our agni—or digestive fire—is central to helping our digestive systems process what we eat. Drinking a glass of lukewarm water (not cold water, which impedes agni) stimulates our agni and helps to promote healthy digestion. Furthermore, staying well-hydrated and a healthy detox diet also improves skin tone and radiance.

At the end of the day, you can take triphala, which is an ancient polyherbal blend of three fruits native to India—bibhitaki, amalaki, and haritaki. Bibhitaki is known for its ability to detoxify muscles, fatty tissue and blood. Rich in Vitamin C, Amalaki, or Indian gooseberry, is known to boost the immune system and lower cholesterol. Haritaki is abundant in antioxidants and helps to combat inflammation, promote healing and enhance brain function. Triphala is revered in Ayurveda for its nourishing and balancing properties.

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Furthermore, research has shown that it supports healthy bowel movements, internal cleansing and tissue nourishment. Taking triphala at the end of the day will help you to establish strong, healthy digestion. It is one of the best detoxification technique.

Our UMA Digestive Detox Herbal Supplement harnesses the detoxifying powers of triphala to cleanse the digestive system and promote overall healing. To use, take one capsule in the evening (or in the morning, if you prefer) before or after a meal. Note: Always consult with your doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner before making significant changes to your routine. We do not recommend triphala for pregnant women.

• Ayurveda Digestive & Gut Health Health
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HOW TO COMBAT BLOATING & INDIGESTION WITH AYURVEDA

Bloating is that uncomfortable, tight sensation in the abdominal area that can cause frustration when it becomes a regular occurrence. It can manifest as gassiness or distention, and it may be the cause of burping, which signals a release of excess gas in the body. As it turns out, this uncomfortable condition is quite common: studies suggest that 15-30% of the U.S. population experience symptoms of bloating. There are many potential causes of bloating, including a build-up of gas in the digestive system, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, IBS and high sodium levels.

Bloating is also a symptom of indigestion, which is a condition that causes people to feel full, uncomfortable and pained when their body struggles to properly digest food. Indigestion can be caused by eating a large meal, but it can also be a result of one’s lifestyle and dietary routines (such as smoking, drinking too much alcohol or eating greasy, fatty foods) and medical conditions (such as IBS, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or peptic ulcers).

If you experience bloating and indigestion, it’s important to see a medical professional to determine their cause and to formulate a routine specific to your needs. In addition, there are also a number of natural, Ayurvedic remedies that aid in alleviating these uncomfortable symptoms—regardless of their cause—and that will improve one’s overall health and wellness. Here are 3 Ayurvedic solutions for combating bloating and promoting a healthy, regulated digestive system or fitness regim

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Eat Slowly And Mindfully

Many of us have a tendency to eat quickly. However, eating too fast can cause indigestion and cause us to eat more than we normally would have. Ayurvedic tradition emphasizes the importance of eating slowly and mindfully, taking small bites, eating less food and savoring the meal. This helps you stay in touch with your digestive system and to provide it with essential nutrients without overwhelming it. Also, ensure a healthy ayurvedic diet.

In terms of what you should be eating, Ayurveda recommends consuming natural, unprocessed foods and a balance of fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts. Furthermore, eating foods like yogurt or kefir—which contain lactobacillus and bifidobacterium, good bacteria—can further help combat indigestion. Ayurveda also recommends drinking room temperature water (especially first thing in the morning) as a means of stimulating our agni, or digestive fire; avoid cold water, as it stunts agni.

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Take A Triphala Supplement

Triphala is an ancient polyherbal blend of three fruits native to India—bibhitaki, amalaki, and haritaki. Bibhitaki is known for its ability to detoxify muscles, fatty tissue and blood. Rich in Vitamin C, Amalaki, or Indian gooseberry, is known to boost the immune system and lower cholesterol. Haritaki is abundant in antioxidants and helps to combat inflammation, promote healing and enhance brain function. Comprised of these potent herbs, triphala is revered in Ayurveda for its nourishing and balancing properties, and especially for its positive impact on digestion; research has shown that it supports healthy bowel movements, internal cleansing and tissue nourishment. Taking triphala at the end of the day will help you to establish strong, healthy digestion.

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Our UMA Digestive Detox Herbal Supplement harnesses the detoxifying powers of triphala to cleanse the digestive system and promote overall healing. To use, take one capsule in the evening (or in the morning, if you prefer) before or after a meal. Note: Always consult with your doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner before making significant changes to your routine. We do not recommend triphala for pregnant women.

3

Try Out Navel Therapy

Navel therapy is an ancient and revered Ayurvedic practice that involves pooling warm oil or ghee in the belly button. In Ayurvedic tradition, the navel is a vital energy center in the body; it also represents the origin of life, as it marks the site connecting mother and child during pregnancy. Navel therapy has a number of detoxifying benefits, which include balancing vata, relieving pain and inducing tranquility and calm. It also serves as a powerful tool for combating bloating and indigestion—navel therapy reignites our agni, or digestive fire, which contributes to healthy and regular digestion. 

Our UMA Body Balancing Navel Therapy Oil, formulated with purifying and detoxifying neem, turmeric and ginger, is specifically designed to stimulate agni and help balance the digestive system. To use, apply 1-2 drops of the oil onto your belly button before a night’s rest. Gently massage the skin around the belly button using your finger and thumb, using a gentle pinching motion for about 1 minute. Use a small ball of cotton on the belly button to prevent staining of clothes. Leave on overnight.

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• Ayurveda Health
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3 POWERFUL NEW ARRIVALS + PRACTICAL GUIDE TO A HAPPY FALL

Leaves are turning auburn, pumpkin-scented everything is sneakily taking over our lives. Fall is coming… and we love it! In Summer we are ripe, full, at our peak and ready for action. We are open to the world, out in the sun, having drinks with friends on rooftops, barbecuing by the pool. It’s a time to be outgoing. As the leaves fall, we naturally begin to direct the heart and mind inward. Fall is a time for containment, balance and introspection, to come back to a place of peace and tranquility as we let go of what is no longer needed.

At Uma, we see Fall as a time to cultivate self-love and to lay the foundation of our well being for the rest of the year. Just as the trees are drawing in and letting go of their leaves, it’s time for us to let go of our tension so that we can make space for that which nourishes us and strengthens us. Through the month of September we are proudly launching three new products! Each new arrival will help still your mind and heart as you take time to practice self-love.

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Absolute Anti Aging Face Mask

 

Do we have a treat for you? The Absolute Anti Aging Face Mask concentrates 12 of the most powerful youth-boosting ingredients in the world to fight all signs of aging in a short 7 minutes. Saffron is the primary ingredient in this indulgent mask. Did you know it takes over 4k crocus flowers to make just one ounce of saffron?! This miracle spice was the secret behind the luminous, baby-soft skin of the royal women of India who were known for complexions that never seemed to lose their luster. Papaya and watermelon extracts deliver a robust dose of vitamins, while tightening pores. Rich yogurt extracts boost cellular turnover while pure almond extracts deeply nourish and hydrate skin. Deeply antioxidant honey and turmeric fight environmental damage, and potent doses of Vitamin E restore elasticity and firmness.

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Absolute Anti Aging Eye Oil

The eyes have long been considered the windows to the soul – and in the ancient Indian world of silken veils and secret glances, they were beacons of depth, knowledge, and strength. However, despite its powerful symbolism, the delicate eye area is often the first to give away signs of stress, age, and environmental damage. We’ve bottled a time-honored Ayurvedic formula of potent botanical extracts and luxurious oils to rejuvenate and refresh the eyes – so they can do justice to the mind and soul they embody. Frankincense and Sandalwood essential oils prevent signs of aging, as rich Rose essential oil deeply hydrates the skin, leaving it soft and supple. Geranium essential oil stimulates circulation, while eucalyptus oil invigorates the under eye area, eliminating puffiness and other signs of fatigue. Coming to you late September.

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Ultimate Brightening Mask

With a silky smooth texture, this delicate yet indulgent blend is abundant in the sweetly scented and deeply hydrating rose oil that was prized by Indian royalty – and will be cherished by your skin. This fast-acting mask instantly promotes radiantly healthy skin, creating a luminous complexion and a dewy glow for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin. Rose extract deeply hydrates. Sandalwood powder calms inflammation. Saffron fades dark spots and evens tone. Honey and almond extract repair skin cells while providing nutrition. Vitamin C-packed tomato extract rapidly brightens the skin and reduces the appearance of acne scars and sun damage. Powerful botanicals like cinnamon and lemon work to deliver antioxidants deep into the dermis, and combat the effects of free radicals and the toxins that lead to uneven pigmentation, fine lines, and other signs of aging. Launching late September.

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Ayurveda Tips To Remember For Fall

 

Ayurveda considers a seasonal routine an important cornerstone of health. Fall is considered a vata season: crisp, dry, windy, cool, subtle, and erratic. By making diet and lifestyle choices that counter the effects of vata, you can better navigate Fall and maintain a sense of inner balance.

cting in Autumn as we did in Summer can lead to sickness and imbalance. The outgoing activities of Summer are over, it’s time to start saving our energies. Instilling small and easy self-care practices at the beginning of Fall will prepare you for the changing seasons and for the cold to come. Take time to gather and collect your spirits, to turn inward so that you are nourished once winter comes around.

A practical rule of thumb for day-to-day life is to follow the Ayurvedic principle that opposites balance. Vata season’s cold and unpredictable nature can be neutralized by filling your life with warmth and stability. Loving date nights by a fire, sipping on a warm cup of tea with a good read… think of activities that make you feel nurtured and grounded. As women we often battle with the thought that self-care is selfish or too time consuming as we glorify the busy in our lives. The truth is, without self-care you can’t care for others. Find the self-care practices that make you feel full of life, and commit to honoring them. Masking is the perfect weekly indulgence, as it encourages you to carve out time solely focused on nurturing your needs. Make yourself the homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte you’ve dreaming of all Summer, slather on your favorite Uma mask, sit back, relax and indulge in your not-so-secret Scandal obsession. What a better treat than to feel instantly refreshed and beautiful?

Your diet is a powerful way to soothe seasonal imbalances. Remember to eat what is in season and focus on nourishing foods that are high in protein, high in fat, and served warm. Have fun with warming spices and oily garnishes like clarified ghee. Breakfast of hearty grains like oatmeal and quinoa porridge topped with apples and dates are perfect for Fall. Lunch and dinner should be hearty and grounding – think soups, steamed root vegetables, and stews. In general, you want to eat less raw, frozen and cold foods.

Savor the simplicity of Fall by establishing a daily routine. Wake up early to enjoy the stillness of the early morning hours. Awaken your senses and uplift your mood by massaging Pure Bliss Wellness Oil between your toes, onto the bottom of your feet, pulse points, and temples. Take a deep inhale from your hands and enjoy the aromatic experience as it stimulates confidence and mental energy, and preserves physical and emotional balance. Further your sense of wellness and stability with some gentle yoga and ten minutes of meditation.

Finish your day with an indulgent night routine. Take your time washing the day away and spoiling your skin and hair with your favorite oils. Gently massage the Absolute Anti Aging Eye Oil around the eye using your fingertip, move from the outer corner to the inner corner of the eye. A blend of Clary Sage, Lavender and Chamomile sets the tone for a peaceful evening as it calms and soothes the skin, while promoting stress relief, alleviating tension and reducing anxiety. You should feel warm, cozy and relaxed just like wrapping yourself up on your favorite chunky scarf on the first crisp day of Fall. Ahh…

As Summer turns to Fall, remember to be kind to yourself. Maintain a daily routine, be gentle to your body, give it enough sleep, nourish it with hearty foods, and stay warm with your favorite cozy sweaters. Make self-care practices a regular part of your day. Give yourself the love and time you need to relax, recharge and enjoy life!

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• Ayurveda Ayurvedic Remedies Health
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BOOST YOUR HEALTH WITH AYURVEDIC SUPPLEMENTS: A SIMPLE GUIDE

Making concrete changes toward living a healthier, more balanced lifestyle is as important as it is difficult. As many of us have experienced firsthand, it can be especially challenging when we try to make lifestyle changes that radically alter our previous routines—not to mention the disorientation it can cause our bodies and minds.

Balance is a difficult and delicate thing, not only to achieve but also to maintain on a long-term basis. In Ayurveda, there are a number of small practices that promote balance in a profound way, practices that add up to contribute meaningfully to our overall well-being. These kinds of practices are not only easy to approach, but they are easy to incorporate into one’s daily wellness routine, making it more likely that we’ll maintain those habits and reap their long-term benefits. Seamless, quick rituals like oil pulling, dry brushing and using a kansa wand all promote holistic detoxification, radiant complexion, youthful skin and more. What’s more, they often serve as acts of self-care that are indulgent and pleasurable to experience.

One radically simple way you can alter your daily wellness routine is also by taking Ayurvedic herbal supplements. Herbs, herbal formulas and adaptogens are a crucial component of Ayurvedic practice. These natural remedies were formulated by ancient Ayurvedic practitioners who developed profound knowledge from the plants and various earth substances around them. As Dr. Vasant Lad notes, “The pharmacology of Ayurveda is a vast science including thousands of medicines, many of them herbal preparations.”

Ayurvedic supplements are all-natural, potent ways to make a profound difference on your overall physical and mental health. You can cultivate some serious long-term benefits by simply taking one capsule a day. Does it get any better than that?

At UMA, we have four different herbal supplements which offer various benefits for the mind, body and spirit. Here’s a breakdown of each of them; they all have different targeted purposes, so you can formulate a supplement regimen that is best suited for your individual needs

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UMA Digestive Detox Herbal Supplement

Formulated with triphala, an ancient blend of three fruits native to India (bibhitaki, amalaki, and haritaki), our Digestive Detox Herbal Supplement cleanses the muscles, fatty tissue and blood; boosts the immune system; lowers cholesterol; and eases inflammation. It’s a powerhouse for boosting one’s overall health and an especially potent supplement for improving, detoxifying and regulating the digestive system.

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2

UMA Love-thy-liver Herbal Supplement

This healing, detoxifying supplement targets the liver, a vital organ that expels toxins and keeps our blood clean, metabolizes nutrients, stores energy and even aids us in processing our emotions and experiences. As such, it’s an extremely important organ to protect and keep healthy; when our liver health declines, we can experience immediate negative (and potentially fatal) effects on our overall health. This supplement, formulated with Triphala, was specifically designed to protect and bolster the liver, providing essential support to this hard-working organ.

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3

UMA Brilliant Brain Herbal Supplement

This potent supplement boasts a wide array of mental benefits. It’s formulated with Brahmi, which is revered for its abilities to promote overall brain enhancement, improve memory and even potentially treat neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. Brahmi is also known to promote restorative sleep. By incorporating a Brahmi supplement into your everyday routine, you can take a powerful step toward maintaining cognitive function and focus.

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4

UMA Deep De-stress Herbal Supplement

Ashwagandha is one of the most well-known Ayurvedic herbs. It’s highly revered in the wellness world—and for good reason. Ashwagandha’s benefits include alleviating physical and psychological stress, reducing inflammation and promoting overall vitality. Research demonstrates that the herb also has profound effects on one’s mental health, promoting memory and proving to be a helpful source in treating neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Harnessing this potent herb for stress relief, mental sharpness and physical detoxification, our Deep De-Stress Herbal Supplement will renew both mind and body.

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• Ayurveda Health Oral Health
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HOW TONGUE SCRAPING CAN FIGHT OFF ACNE, BAD BREATH, AND MORE

For many, the tongue is an essential organ, enabling the daily processes of eating, taste, and speech. However, this important body part is also a site of toxin buildup—and without proper oral care, these toxins can lead to problems like acne, digestive issues, halitosis, and other bodily imbalances which makes oral hygiene a necessity.

Fortunately, these potential issues can often be combatted by employing good oral hygiene practices. But besides the basics of brushing and flossing, you can take one step further to improve oral health—through the practice of tongue scraping, or jihwa prakshalana.

WHAT IS TONGUE SCRAPING, AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT? 

In Ayurvedic tradition, tongue scraping is an extremely simple practice and a fresh breath solution that has a major impact on our health: it removes the impurities on the tongue that might otherwise compound into more serious health problems. As we sleep, a combination of food, bacteria, fungi, and other toxins accumulate on our tongues. Without proper care, these impurities—or ama—can be reabsorbed into the body, leading to problems as varying as digestive issues, acne, or bad breath. Through tongue scraping, the negative effects of accumulation can be countered and prevented—as one study shows, this Ayurvedic practice improves bad breath and eliminates harmful coatings on the tongue.

HOW TO USE A TONGUE SCRAPER: 

Fortunately, a high-quality tongue scraper is an easy and accessible purchase. Our own Pure Palate Tongue Scraper is made of copper, which has antimicrobial and detoxifying characteristics. To use a tongue scraper, gently run the scraper across your tongue from back to front in the morning. Rinse off the scraper and repeat several times. When finished, you can wash the scraper with warm water and soap and store it in a dry place. Simple, right? What’s more, it only takes a minute of your day—a minute that can go a long way toward your health and well-being.

UMA Pure Palate Tongue Scraper $10

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• Ayurveda Digestive & Gut Health Recipes
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AYURVEDIC SECRETS UNVEILED: GINGER AS THE ULTIMATE DIGESTIVE PANACEA

In Ayurvedic tradition, it is believed that one should eat fresh dinner before meals to aid digestion. That’s because ginger acts as a potent resource for the digestive system in more ways than one: it stimulates agni, our digestive fire responsible for the digestive and metabolic processes of the body; it boosts appetite; and it improves the distribution and assimilation of nutrients throughout the body. In addition to its digestion-aiding capacities, ginger also offers a number of other therapeutic benefits, including the alleviation of joint pain and the lowering of cholesterol levels. It is one of the most healthy ayurvedic herb. 

Ginger, a medicinal herb is a staple in many Asian cuisines, and its versatility makes it easy to incorporate into a wide number of delicious dishes. It can also be taken dried or powdered, or applied to the skin in the form of essential oils. Curious to learn more about ginger’s potent detoxifying and digestion-boosting properties? Here, we explain the benefits of ginger and how to reap its benefits by incorporating it into your daily routine.

(Note: Ginger is not recommended for those who are experiencing hyperacidity, such as hemorrhage and vertigo.)

BENEFITS OF GINGER FOR DIGESTION, WEIGHT LOSS & MORE

Ginger’s medicinal powers can be attributed in part to its main bioactive compound, gingerol, which is revered for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties enable ginger to treat a wide variety of ailments, as discussed below.

HOW TO INCORPORATE GINGER INTO YOUR ROUTINE

Eaten Fresh Or Raw

For those who enjoy or are accustomed to ginger’s strong flavor, you can eat slices of raw ginger with salt and lime juice before eating a larger meal. Raw ginger is also used as a palate-cleansing side in Chinese and Japanese cuisines. To mellow out its taste, you can also sauté ginger as part of a simple stir fry made out of whatever ingredients you’d like.

Applied Topically Through Oils

You can also massage essential oils containing ginger into the skin as a way of reaping ginger’s wellness benefits while also immersing yourself in a soothing self-care experience. Navel therapy is one particularly effective method that uses essential oils to improve digestion, relieve pain and promote overall tranquility and calm. Harnessing the detoxifying and incorporative properties of ginger, our UMA Body Balancing Navel Therapy Oil was formulated specifically to stoke agni and boost the digestive system.

Brewed As Tea

You can also brew ginger into fresh tea, which can be made in an extremely simple fashion by simmering sliced ginger and water for 5-10 minutes. You can also add other spices, like turmeric or cinnamon, for extra flavor and medicinal benefits. Alternatively, you can try out golden milk, an all-star panacea incorporating ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom and other spices for digestion, inflammation, immunity and more.

UMA Body Balancing Navel Therapy Oil $45

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• Ayurveda Health Ingredients
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GOTU KOLA: A POWERFUL AYURVEDIC HERB FOR MENTAL CLARITY AND JOINT PAIN RELIEF

Gotu kola—sometimes referred to as brahmi, Centella asiatica and Indian pennywort—is a widely used Ayurvedic herb renowned for its benefits for the mind. Known as “the herb of enlightenment,” gotu kola is a powerful herb that is often used as a supplement to promote mental focus, concentration and clarity. But the benefits of this herb are not only mental—gotu kola is also known to help reduce stress and anxiety, alleviate joint pain, soothe the nervous system and promote radiant hair and skin.

In Ayurvedic tradition, gotu kola is tridoshic, which means that all doshas can effectively reap its many benefits. It’s especially helpful for Pittas, though it may risk exacerbating Vata. It is also believed to strengthen agni, our digestive fire that helps us regulate and process what we let into our bodies; a strong agni is crucial for maintaining one’s overall health.

Below, we break down some of the central benefits of gotu kola alongside ways to incorporate this brain-boosting superstar into your routine. (Note: You should only be taking gotu kola for up to 6 weeks at a time. Consult a medical practitioner beforehand to ensure it’s compatible with your lifestyle.

BENEFITS OF GOTU KOLA

HOW TO TAKE GOTU KOLA

There are many ways to incorporate gotu kola into your routine. One is by consuming it as a powder, which can be mixed with water or milk. You can also try using a liquid extract for more fast-acting relief, both mentally and physically. In addition, you can eat fresh gotu kola leaves, or incorporate them into salads or teas. For convenient daily consumption, we also have our very own UMA Brilliant Brain Herbal Supplement, designed to boost cognitive function, combat the development of neurological disorders, memory enhancement and promote better sleep.

UMA Brilliant Brain Herbal Supplement $30

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• Ayurveda Health
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UNDERSTANDING COFFEE FROM AN AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE

For many people, coffee is an indispensable part of the day. Infused with a sharp, deep flavor, many enjoy it not only for the caffeine but also for its taste. From coffee-flavored cakes to espresso martinis, coffee has assumed a powerful position in our culinary palates, whether or not we actually drink it.

We tend to view coffee as a general and universal energy-booster, helpful for anyone who needs a quick pick-me-up. However, as some will attest, coffee certainly doesn’t work for everyone; if you’ve ever felt jittery, stressed or anxious after drinking a cup (or even a few sips) of coffee, you’ll understand what we mean.

An Ayurvedic perspective can help us understand the reasons for these differences. Contrary to popular culture, in Ayurveda, coffee is not a universal cure. While it is beneficial to some, it can aggravate and send others into states of imbalance.

In this blog, we break down some of the fundamentals about coffee according to Ayurvedic tradition, which can help you understand how to best use (or avoid) coffee for your individual constitution and needs.

Benefits & Qualities Of Coffee

In addition to its stimulating, energy-boosting capacities, coffee also contains a number of health benefits. Because of its polyphenol content, coffee has powerful antioxidant properties, which can enable it to combat the free radical damage that can cause disease and aging effects. (However, these polyphenols tend to be depleted during the roasting process, and so the potential antioxidants of coffee depend in part on the type of roast and how it is prepared.) In addition, nutrition experts suggest that coffee can protect against conditions like heart failure, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, colon cancer and stroke. Furthermore, research has demonstrated that coffee can improve cognitive function and potentially lower rates of depression.

Within Ayurvedic tradition, coffee is considered bitter, astringent and drying, which means it boosts air and fire elements. As such, coffee thus increases Vata and Pitta. Despite the benefits of coffee, then, it’s important to understand how coffee interacts with one’s individual constitution. Furthermore, regardless of one’s dosha, coffee must be consumed in moderation to avoid its negative effects.

Coffee And The Doshas

The qualities of coffee interact with each dosha differently.

UMA Digestive Detox Herbal Supplement $30

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How To Use Coffee Effectively

For Vatas and Pittas who love coffee, it is still possible to consume coffee in a balanced way. In particular, it is most suitable to drink coffee during Kapha season, when qualities of heaviness and stagnation increase. In addition, adding cardamom or a healthy fat source to your coffee can help alleviate some of its overstimulating, anxiety-inducing effects.

However, if you find that coffee is not suitable for your constitution, there are also a number of ways to reduce or eliminate your dependence on coffee for a boost of energy. Making sure you get adequate sleep, switching to non-caffeinated teas or green and black teas (which have less caffeine than coffee) and taking energy-boosting, adaptogenic supplements can all help you curb your reliance on coffee.

• Ayurveda Ayurvedic Remedies Health
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AYURVEDIC TREATMENTS FOR BACK PAIN: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

Despite being a common condition, back pain often feels difficult and even impossible to treat. Whether one experiences a backache after a long day of physical exertion or finds their back more regularly in pain due to other lifestyle factors, back pain comes in many forms and intensities. Oftentimes, treatments that provide immediate relief are only temporary in effect, and back pain lingers as a recurrent condition. Especially for those who experience chronic back pain, unproductive visits to doctor’s offices and days spent at home because it feels too difficult to walk can lead many to feel like their pain is an inevitable and unsolvable condition.

However, while back pain might seem like a mysterious and insurmountable condition, Ayurveda believes that such pain is never something we should resign ourselves to—nor do we deserve to live in such a state. If we are attuned to both our internal state and our environment, we can identify sources of imbalance and institute effective lifestyle changes that can lead to long-lasting results. Whether one wants to alleviate PMS symptoms or combat brain fog, an Ayurvedic approach can illuminate specific points of weakness within our own bodies and offer concrete, natural strategies for improving the balance between ourselves and our environment. Back pain is no different—equipped with an Ayurvedic understanding of its root causes, we can feel empowered to take charge of our ailments and practice effective solutions.

How Ayurveda Views Back Pain

Back pain takes a number of different forms—it can affect many areas, from the upper back to the lower back and the base of the spinal cord, and it can occur along the muscles, spinal nerves, joints and discs. There are also a wide range of potential causes for this pain, including sitting with poor posture, not eating a balanced diet, texting or typing too much and engaging in strenuous exercise and other forms of labor. Understanding on a more immediate level what kind of lifestyle practices may be causing your back pain is a good first step in rectifying the situation: for example, if you find that your back feels strained after a long period of sitting at a desk, make sure to insert movement breaks and to sit with an erect and well-balanced posture.

Ayurveda locates the root cause of back pain as an excess of Vata, which is characterized by ether and air. When Vata becomes elevated, there is an influx of dryness and stiffness, which in turn negatively impacts the spinal cord, making it difficult to bend, twist, stand and walk. To remedy back pain, an Ayurvedic approach involves the pacification of Vata.

Tips For Alleviating Back Pain

Stay Warm

Similarly to how Ayurveda recommends eating warm foods, it is essential to keep yourself warm when experiencing back pain to combat the coldness of Vata. Whether that be by taking warm showers or dressing warmly, there are many ways to ensure that your body is well-heated, as coldness will only make your back more susceptible to pain.

Practice Self-Massage For Back Pain

One extremely potent way of back pain relief on your own is through self-massage, which is a practice that involves massaging oil into different parts of your body. You can tailor your self-massage routine to focus on specific areas and to include oils that target your needs. For those with back pain, applying a warm massage oil onto your back can help soothe tension. Sesame and mustard oils are especially revered for their pain-alleviating abilities. In addition, our UMA Absolute Essential Self Massage Oil is made with a versatile formula designed to reinvigorate skin, detoxify the body and combat inflammation, stagnation and pain.

For more information on self-massage and how to get started, check out our blogs on the topic:

• Self-Massage: The Gift That Keeps Giving
• How to Self-Massage: The Best Essential Oils for Your Self-Care Routine
• Abhyanga Self-Massage: Our Favorite Ayurvedic Gift of Self-Care 

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Try Out Ayurvedic Herbs

There are a number of herbs that combat the inflammation associated with back pain, including turmeric, ginger and black pepper. In addition, since the seat of Vata is the colon, the strength of one’s digestion can actually impact back pain—those who experience indigestion and constipation, the toxins that the body cannot excrete spread to other parts of the body, including the back. It’s thus important to eat well and take care of one’s digestion. One way to combat indigestion and bloating is by taking a triphala supplement (like our UMA Digestive Detox Herbal Supplement), which alleviates inflammation and cleanses the digestive system.

• Ayurveda Health Women's Health
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NAVIGATING MENOPAUSE THE AYURVEDIC WAY

The importance of diet and lifestyle during menopause cannot be overstated. For many women, menopause may appear to be a frightening, painful period of life. When we think of menopause, we think of hot flashes and sleepless nights, or of other challenges associated with aging.

To be sure, menopause carries with it unique challenges—especially for those who work, raise children or have other obligations that make it hard to find time to prioritize one’s health. However, when viewed with an Ayurvedic lens, menopause is not something to be feared or dreaded. Instead, it is a natural stage of life that, like all stages of life, presents both difficulties and great benefits.

Here, we go over the Ayurvedic perspective on menopause, how it affects our internal hormonal balance and remedies for alleviating imbalances during this time of transition.

THE AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON MENOPAUSE

In Ayurveda, life is divided into three major stages. In the first stage, childhood, is considered to be a Kapha period, as it is a time of growth, learning, stability and development. The second stage, adulthood, is associated with Pitta, as it is during this time that we establish ourselves, putting our ambitions into action and advancing in our careers and personal lives. The third period, elderhood, is associated with Vata, as we enter into a state of greater fluidity and focus on letting go some of the earlier preoccupations of life.

It is during the transition between Pitta-dominated adulthood and Vata-dominated elderhood that menopause occurs. During this time, it is believed that Pitta and Vata increase, while Kapha remains stable. If we are not attuned to the role these doshas play during this transition, both Pitta and Vata can become elevated, leading to the discomforts and pains we typically associate with menopause. If these two doshas are brought into balance through a healthy, tranquil lifestyle, then we can enter menopause with lucidity and happiness.

SIGNS OF A VATA IMBALANCE

Vata dominates the lower half of the body (including the reproductive system) and is characterized by mobility, airiness and dryness. When Vata becomes elevated during menopause, it can carry essential energy and nutrients away from the digestive system, leading to problems like indigestion, constipation and bloating. It can also lead to dryness of the vagina. As is typical of a Vata imbalance throughout all stages of life, it can also lead to anxiousness, fear and insomnia.

SIGNS OF A PITTA IMBALANCE

During a balanced and healthy transition to menopause, Pitta levels avoid elevation as the body transitions into a Vata-dominated stage. However, for many women today, we participate in Pitta-elevating activities that worsen this imbalance—we work and overexert ourselves when we should be be resting and bringing coolness to the body. When out of balance, Pitta, which is fiery, intense, passionate and hot, can lead to many of the most commonly-known symptoms of menopause: hot flashes, irritability, excess sweat and inflamed skin.

TIPS FOR BRINGING THE DOSHAS INTO BALANCE DURING MENOPAUSE

To ensure a smooth and peaceful transition to menopause, it’s important to keep both Vata and Pitta levels in check. In addition, embracing the stability and groundedness of Kapha, whether through diet, exercise or other lifestyle changes.

1. Try Out Soothing Shatavari

Shatavari is a member of the asparagus family that is lauded for its impressive range of benefits for women’s health. It is also an adaptogen, meaning it adapts to the body’s unique constitution and aids it in responding to stress. Thanks to its phytoestrogen, Shatavari has been shown to be effective in reducing menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, brain fog and night sweats.

Reaping the benefits of this Ayurvedic herb is simple: all you need is to mix ½ teaspoon of Shatavari powder with warm water. You can also combine it with warm milk and spices like cardamom, turmeric and cinnamon for extra herbal benefits and flavor.

3. Eat a Vata-Pitta Pacifying Diet

To promote strong digestion and overall health, try to avoid over-stimulating foods that aggravate Vata and Pitta, like pungent and fermented foods, and alcohol and coffee. Instead, eat sweet and cooling foods like fruits, cooked green vegetables (Vata is aggravated by raw vegetables), black pepper, cardamom, mint, cheese, milk and nuts.

5. Self-Massage To Increase Hydration & Tranquility

Given the increase of Vata during menopause, we are susceptible to dehydration and dryness. It’s important to keep an eye on your hydration by drinking plenty of water, staying out of overly-heating situations and moisturizing.

One powerful ayurvedic practice for bringing deep hydration to the body while also promoting mental tranquility and self-love is self-massage. To self-massage, you massage essential oils into your body, imparting essential nutrients and boosting circulation.

The benefits of this luxurious self-care ritual are impressive:

2. Prioritize Forgiveness & Letting Go

As we enter into elderhood, we become susceptible to looking back on our lives—and not always in the most productive or positive way. Holding onto regrets, grudges and anger can amplify both Pitta and Vata, leading to feelings of resentment and anxiety that will put us at odds with our bodies and with those around us.

It’s crucial to let go of these feelings to promote a peaceful transition into menopause. One way to do that is by instituting a regular journaling practice. You can also try meditating or practicing yoga. If there are certain people in your life toward whom you struggle to let go of certain negative emotions, check out our blog on sing Ayurveda to heal relationship conflicts.

4. Calm Down Hot Flashes WithI Pranayama

If you struggle with hot flashes, one simple, yet effective way to cool the body down during these periods is by practicing pranayama. Pranayama is a yogic breathwork technique that involves following certain breathing sequences to bring balance and peace to the mind and body. Sheetali pranayama, which involves breathing with the nose and curling the tongue, is an excellent pranayama technique for cooling down the body.

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it can relieve pain, boost mental function, combat irritation and inflammation and promote mental and emotional contentment. You can use specific essential oils depending on your needs. Or if you’re looking for a potent, versatile mix of Ayurvedic ingredients or herbal supplements , you can try our UMA Absolute Essential Self Massage Oil, which incorporates the soothing, rejuvenating powers of calamus, cardamom, lavender and more for the ultimate self-care experience.