Living in Balance, Thriving for Life

“There is a new revolution occurring in health today.
That revolution is you.”

Deepak Chopra

Having just returned from a week with Ayurvedic Doctors and Neuroscientists presenting the latest in vital health practices, we are inspired to share with you a summary of key takeaways that can make it possible to thrive in this modern world. As we live in the midst of increasing environmental challenges, higher levels of toxins in our food sources and increasing stressors on our sensory and nervous systems, our health is being challenged like never before.
These wise doctors reminded us that the seeds of chronic illness are planted years before the first symptoms occur, so the choices we make today are crucial to our present and future health.
Rudolph Tanzi and Dr. Deepak Chopra partnered together in dialogue on what inspired them to write their books Super Brain, Super Genes, and the latest release The Healing Self.  They also personally answered our question about the practice of Kirtan Kriya to prevent brain degenerative diseases and promote brain health. Rudolph Tanzi, the pioneering neuroscientist who discovered the genes that cause Alzheimer’s Disease, emphasized the importance of preventative practices.  He showed us microscopic views of how plaque builds up in the brain 10-15 years before the symptoms, tangles then form and spread through the brain killing neurons leading to neuroinflammation and ultimately dementia. For over 12 years, the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation has funded innovative research focused on reducing risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease and the enhancement of total brain fitness.  Read more on the outcome of the studies utilizing Kirtan Kriya. Furthermore, in a recent double-blind study at UCLA, Kirtan Kriya was shown to significantly aid in relieving the symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.  While it is extremely useful for elders, it is also beneficial for anyone who wants to improve their mental functioning, promote emotional balance, strengthen the nervous system and improves the body all the way down to the level of its genes and DNA. Learn how to practice the Kirtan Kriya meditation (short 6 minute version) with our video here.  
Dr. Sheila Patel emphasized the benefits of incorporating Ayurveda into daily life – this consciousness based healing system is holistic, personalized, preventative and maintains balance by creating a healthy lifestyle that empowers individuals. She shared how mindful movement through yoga and pranayama (breathing techniques) is the foundation for maintaining homeostasis within the body amidst external environmental stressors. 
Dr. Suhas Kshirsager reviewed key food choices that balance your unique mind-body constitution. Ayurvedic nutrition is the science of nutrigenomics – what we put into our bodies ultimately builds all our tissues and provides the fuel for life.
 
The key advice here is to favor vibrant foods that are full of vital life force energy or prana. Those foods include organic fruits and veggies, high-quality grains and oils, and whole foods that are not overly processed or synthetic.
Foods that are frozen, canned, and refined are devoid of nutritional value and are usually processed with artificial colors, flavorings, additives, preservatives, chemicals pesticides, and genetically altered ingredients. These foods lack prana and contribute to an array of imbalances and illnesses.
Dr. Valencia Porter, author of Resilient Health: How to Thrive in our Toxic World reminded us of the increasing toxins in our environment and the importance of avoiding: GMO foods, large fish such as tuna with high mercury levels, all plastics, BPA and harmful chemicals in sunscreens as well as in personal care products. Choose clothing, bedding, furniture and children’s toys that are made from all natural fibers to avoid chemicals and toxic pollutants.
She encouraged the importance of:
  • Drinking pure spring water and green tea
  • Eating an organic plant-based diet with probiotic-rich foods
  • Supporting the liver by limiting intake of sugar and processed carbohydrates
  • Optimizing the function of your genes by eating a clean diet and using stress management techniques such as meditation regularly
Dr. Mona Saint (pictured below with UltraFit’s Melissa) presented the practical application of Ayurvedic principles for emotions and stress management by being aware of our sensory gateways (ears, eyes, skin, tongue and nose) to create balance. Sensory impressions are how we experience the world; so using sight, sounds, scents and touch to heal and maintain homeostasis is key.

Are you ready to integrate this cutting-edge science and holistic healing into your daily life?  

Want to break the cycle of stress and unhealthy habits before it’s too late?

Take your health and happiness into your own hands and get started with a personalized Ayurvedic health plan to promote your lifelong well-being – Schedule your Free Consultation with our Ayurvedic Master Educators here.