What happens as we grow up?
Modern research is exploring ‘how’ ageing happens with some fascinating research coming out about the ability of DNA to repair itself. Some question if the DNA has the ability to repair itself ad infinitum then why with age is the process of DNA repair less effective?
Ayurveda explains that we age because we see others ageing. The ancient Ayurvedic texts describe ageing as a natural process whose effects can be reduced through the taking of Rasayana – special formulas like the powerful Maharishi Amrit Kalash, along with a good daily routine. It surprised me to learn that Ayurveda also suggests a healthy life expectancy for this age to be 120 years!
So when you are 40 years of age, you are still a young one, with 60 being middle-aged and 90 still relatively young!
Moving through the decades
Ayurveda considers the healthy process of ageing has 12 stages which coincide with moving through each decade from 0-10 years to 120 years. With each passing decade, one by one, the focus for nourishment and prevention changes.
0 – 10 years of age
This is considered the time of childhood which is dominated predominantly by Kapha dosha. This means food, drink and lifestyle choices that help to reduce the heavy, moist, sweet and oily qualities of Kapha dosha are favoured.
Upper respiratory congestion is common at this time of life as is immune challenge as the body creates it’s primary database of germs and bugs. This formative time prepares our immune system to fight invaders in order to maintain our wellbeing, often without us even being aware of it. Isn’t your body intelligent! Maharishi Amrit Kalash is also very helpful at this time.
About MA1793 Haritaki/Sarsaparilla complex
For the times when congestion is present and the body could do with a helping hand, then MA1793 Haritaki/Sarsaparilla complex is very helpful.
This complex helps to maintain the health of the respiratory system aiding in cleansing, moisture balance, supporting natural immunity and the optimal functioning of the entire respiratory system. It is a useful herbal to have in the cupboard for use when a sniffle or cough occurs.
10 – 20 years
During these years much growth occurs as the child grows into a pre-teen, teenager and then young adult.
As Kapha dosha continues to have a strong influence during this time it is helpful to follow the recommendations for balancing Kapha dosha as above, including the taking of MA1793 Haritaki/Sarsaparilla complex
Maharishi Amrit Kalash is also very helpful at this time.
As one matures from 15 onwards while Kapha dosha continues to be dominant the fire element of Pitta dosha starts to have an influence too. Pitta governs digestion and metabolism of what we eat and our capacity to absorb ideas and experiences. In balance, it brings intelligence, enthusiasm for life and promotes understanding and intelligence. When out of balance it gives rise to the teenage expressions of anger, hate or jealousy.
Tonic for Pitta Imbalance (MA3323)
This preparation is useful when Pitta, the fire element, is out of balance. Ash Gourd/Amla complex paste (MA3323) is a cooling herb that helps to keep stomach acid in balance and supports the pathways of detoxification.
Amla contains a very high concentration of vitamin C, one of the highest known in the plant kingdom – it can be 20 times that of oranges. Amla balances Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, though it is especially calming to Pitta. In addition, Amla rejuvenates all of the tissues in the body and builds ojas, the essence of immunity and youthfulness.
When working with a mother to support her teenage daughter who had a Pitta imbalance with emotional fluctuations and a tendency for anger I recommended Ash Gourd/Amla complex paste (MA3323). It was remarkable. Her daughter became content, emotionally stable and able to talk about her needs once again. Mother was very pleased!.
20-30 years
As we move through the early 20’s to 30 years of age Ayurveda suggests we move our focus to support our lustre and complexion.
Ayurveda explains the lustre of our hair, nails and skin is a reflection of how well-nourished the tissues in our body have become. As Pitta dosha governs our digestion and metabolism it is best to favour a Pitta Balancing Diet and lifestyle recommendations.
Maharishi Amrit Kalash is also very helpful at this time.
The specific Pitta subdosha (sub-area) associated with the formation of the skin is Bhrajaka Pitta. This sub-area is imbalanced when we take too much salty, sour, spicy or hot foods, alcohol, caffeinated food and drinks, fermented drinks and foods and fast excessively. Then symptoms such as rashes, boils, acne or skin disorders are the body’s way of telling us that help is needed. Following Pitta dietary and lifestyle recommendations and taking Radiant Skin (MA926) formulation can be helpful to maintain skin health during this time of life.
About Radiant Skin tablets
This effective herbal supplement combines 14 Ayurvedic herbs to help keep the liver, blood, kidneys clean and opens the pores to maintain healthy elimination of skin cells.
Radiant Skin (MA929) supports the absorption of nutrients, balances skin moisture and temperature and improves the entire process of skin development, giving radiance to your complexion. You could say that it helps to create beauty from within!
About Healthy Hair and Nails (MA953) tablets
Healthy hair is the result of your food choices and your ability to digest and metabolise what you eat.
Healthy Hair and Nails (MA953) provides nutritional support, strengthens the liver helping to flush out toxins and helps to prevent split ends, brittle hair or flaky scalp. It also helps with resistance to stress, which can be damaging to hair.
Prevention Oriented
Maharishi AyurVeda aims to help you maintain health and promote wellbeing.
As children grow into teenagers, to young adults and into a full-fledged adult, the one formula that best supports all these stages of growth is the two Maharishi Amrit Kalash formulae – MAK Nectar paste and MAK Ambrosia tablets.
This 2 part formula is considered to be at the top of Ayurvedic Rasayana formulations. Rasayanas are potent traditional preparations designed to help promote strength, resistance to disease and longevity. The larger goal of Rasayanas are to help eradicate disease and prolong ageing. Just like the sap nourishes all parts of a tree, a Rasayana nourishes our essence to support the whole of our mind and body.
About Maharishi Amrit Kalash
- Supports the experience of greater happiness, tranquillity and mental balance.
- Modulates and enhances the immune system in addition to protecting healthy cells and helps to reduce susceptibility to allergy.
- Helps to protect against toxic chemicals and has been shown to help prevent the side effects of chemotherapy.
- Helps to reduce oxidation of fats, the formation of arterial plaque and platelet aggregation.
- Is rich in vitamins and antioxidant enzymes including vitamin C, vitamin E, riboflavin, beta-carotene, bioflavonoids, polyphenols.
Wishing you and your family the bliss of a well-nourished physiology.
Look out for Part 2 of what happens as we age – 30 to 90 years, coming soon!
Linda Sinden, Maharishi AyurVeda Consultant
Linda Sinden has been a practising Maharishi Ayurveda Consultant since 1990 and is a regular contributor to our health articles. She has a practice in Auckland, New Zealand and also provides phone or Skype sessions for those who need assistance, but don’t have a consultant in their vicinity.
Email: lindasinden@orbislife.co.nz
Mobile: +64 212237525
Skype: Linda.Sinden
DISCLAIMER: The information in this document is presented for the sole purpose of imparting education on Maharishi AyurVeda and neither the information nor the products are intended to diagnose, treat, mitigate, cure or prevent any disease. If you have a medical condition or are pregnant or lactating, please consult a health professional and it is recommended that you speak with your physician before making significant changes to your diet or routine.
