Extending International Yoga Day: Embracing Yoga’s Transformative Power Beyond June
Ayurveda Post | July 2023
Namaste!
Welcome to the July 2023 issue of Ayurveda Post, an extension to our ongoing celebration of the timeless practice of Yoga, keeping the momentum alive from International Yoga Day.
Dive into enriching content that unveils Yoga's transformative power for personal health, community vitality, and global harmony. We're thrilled to include a profound 'Shloka of the Month' illuminating Yoga's spiritual essence. 'Ayurvedic Recipe' section offers nutritious, Yoga-aligned meals for optimal well-being.
Don't miss highlights section – an inspiring speech from Honourable PM Narendra Modi from the 9th International Yoga Day in New York. Additionally, our 'Research Insights' and 'Interesting Reads' offer the latest Yoga-centric studies and articles.
As we extend our celebration of International Yoga Day even in July, we encourage you to infuse Yoga into your life, promoting natural harmony, inner peace, and unity. Relish in the tranquility that Yoga continues to offer beyond June.
We hope this issue brings inspiration and joy, and we look forward to your valuable feedback.
Warm Regards
Prof Abhimanyu Kumar
Chairman & CEO
Centre for Ayurveda Education, Innovation & Technology (CAYEIT)
Interesting Reads
1. Yoga's Role in Building a Strong Immune System
In a world where staying healthy is more important than ever, a strong immune system is key. Yoga, an age-old practice from India, is well-known for helping people feel good physically and mentally. Now, research is showing that regular Yoga practice might also help to strengthen our immune system. In this article, we will explore how Yoga can help boost your immunity and keep you healthy.
2. Top 10 Yoga Poses (Asanas) Everyone Should Know - Unleashing the Power of Yoga for Health and Happiness
Yoga is an ancient practice that involves physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. It's known for boosting physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This article will introduce you to the top 10 Yoga poses (Asanas) that everyone should know. They are easy to learn and can provide a wide range of health benefits. Keep in mind to always respect your body's limits and avoid any movements that cause pain.
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Research Insights
Yoga for Adults with Type 2 Diabetes
The review revealed that consistent yoga practice significantly improved various aspects of diabetes management. More specifically, the studies showed improved blood glucose control, which is crucial in managing and preventing complications in type 2 diabetes. Beyond glucose control, the studies also pointed to improved lipid levels, indicating healthier cholesterol levels and overall better cardiovascular health among the participants. Lastly, it was noted that yoga had a positive impact on body composition, often promoting healthy weight management and improved body mass index (BMI).
Based on these findings, the review concluded that yoga could be beneficial as an adjunctive or complementary therapy in the management of type 2 diabetes. Adjunctive therapies are used in conjunction with standard treatment to enhance its effects and the patient's overall well-being. Therefore, while yoga isn't suggested as a standalone treatment for type 2 diabetes, when used alongside conventional diabetes treatments, it can improve the overall health outcomes and quality of life for individuals with this condition.
You can read the full article HERE
News & Views
Prime Minister Narendra Modi leads an extraordinary Yoga Day celebration at the esteemed United Nations headquarters in New York City!
During his inaugural State visit to the United States, PM Modi embarked on a remarkable journey to commemorate International Yoga Day at the UN HQ in New York. This momentous occasion not only sparked a renewed enthusiasm for Yoga but also served as a source of inspiration for the global community to embrace its life-altering potential and foster a harmonious coexistence.
Shloka of the Month
योगश्चित्तवृत्तिनिरोधः
Ref: Patanjali's Yoga Sutras -second sutra of the first chapter (Samadhi Pada)
Romanized Transliteration: Yogaś citta-vṛtti-nirodhaḥ
The Yoga sutra, "Yogaś citta-vṛtti-nirodhaḥ", encompasses the essential goal of Yoga to calm and control the constant fluctuations of the mind. This fundamental concept applies to various scientific fields. From a neurological viewpoint, Yoga helps inhibit the brain's default mode network, which is associated with mind-wandering and rumination, thereby promoting focused awareness. Psychologically, Yoga helps manage mental health issues like anxiety and stress by bringing the mind to the present, aligning with therapeutic mindfulness practices. I
In terms of cognitive science, Yoga mirrors techniques used in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to control disruptive thought patterns and foster healthier thinking. The sutra has inspired numerous studies on Yoga and meditation benefits, including enhanced attention, stress reduction, increased well-being, and improved cognitive function.
Thus, this sutra reflects a profound scientific principle, advocating for practices that promote positive brain function and psychological well-being.
Ayurvedic Recipes / Home Remedies
Satwika Diet- Quinoa Vegetable Pulao
Quinoa Vegetable Pulao is a nutritious, flavorful, and easy-to-prepare dish that embodies the principles of a Satwika diet in Ayurveda. This pulao serves as a delightful fusion of ancient Ayurvedic wisdom and modern culinary preferences, promising a unique and nourishing culinary experience.
Servings: 2-3 persons
Ingredients:
1 cup quinoa, 2 cups of water, 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter), 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, 1/2 cup chopped carrots, 1/2 cup peas, 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers, Salt to taste, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon coriander powder, fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Preparation:
Rinse the quinoa under running water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for about 15 minutes, then drain.In a pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and wait until they start to crackle.Add the chopped carrots, peas, and bell peppers. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender. Add the drained quinoa to the pan, followed by salt, turmeric powder, and coriander powder. Stir well to mix everything.Add the water and bring the mixture to a boil.Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed.Turn off the heat, fluff the quinoa with a fork, and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.Serve the Quinoa Vegetable Pulao warm.
AyurvedicProperties:
This recipe is Tridoshic, meaning it is balanced for Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The quinoa is warming and grounding, good for balancing Vata and Pitta. The ghee is also good for balancing Vata and Pitta, and in moderation, is good for Kapha too. The vegetables used are all balancing the doshas, and the spices like cumin, turmeric, and coriander are all well known in Ayurveda for their medicinal properties and their ability to aid in digestion.
Benefits:
Easy to digest, energizing and nourishing, supports a strong immune system, enhances digestion and metabolism, provides grounding and satisfaction, promotes mental clarity
Nutritional Value (Approximate values per 100 grams):
Calories: 120 kcal, Protein: 4.1 g, Fat: 1.9 g, Carbohydrates: 21.3 g, Dietary Fiber: 2.8 g, Sugars: 0.9 g. The pulao also provides essential micronutrients like vitamins A, C, E, K, and B6, and minerals such as magnesium, zinc, iron, copper, and selenium.
In the Ayurvedic perspective, the goal is not just to feed the body but also to nourish the mind and spirit. Hence, the food should be consumed in a calm and peaceful environment to get the most benefits.
As we close this special issue, we hope you found inspiration in the profound world of Yoga. Your feedback helps shape our content, so do share your thoughts at contact@cayeit.com .
Thank you for your continued readership. Here's to health, harmony, and the transformative power of Ayurveda and Yoga. Until next time,
Warm Regards,
Ayurveda Post Team,
Centre for Ayurveda Education, Innovation & Technology