Dinachariya is an ayurvedic model explaining how to lead a healthy life. It is based on the idea to eliminate toxins on a daily basis, expanding your mind and finding connection to others. In my recent trip to India we learnt all about it and I'm going to attempt to keep it going in Australia. The principles are as follows;
Time to wake up
Brahma Muhutha is defined as the special time, which is auspicious for waking up in the morning. According to ayurveda, the time between 3 A.M. to 6 A.M. Ayurveda states down various benefits of waking up early in the morning. Moreover, it has been proven that people who wake early in the morning turn out to be more successful than others.
Natural urges
Follow your urges and do not suppress them. It you have a blockage in this area it may be because your vatta is not flowing properly and you may experience stomach pain and gastric bloating.
Brushing
Should be done with astringent, bitter and pungent taste twice daily. In India they use tooth powder and the twigs of the Neem tree. My best tip is to not use something full of chemicals that says "do not swallow" on the side. Try Divine Tooth mousse.
Water splashing for eyes
This reduces the tension in the eyes and improves vision. Splash cold water in summer and warm water in winter.
Pranama
Pranama is a form of "respectful salutation". It includes worship, prayer, meditation & yoga. I like to stick to the easy to do concept, be grateful for something every day, meditate for 10 minutes and do at least 3 yoga poses. Some days I excel past this but this is my easy to do minimum.
Anjana/ Kajal
This is the application of medicine or kohl to the eye. Eyes are the seats of fire and it helps to clean the impurities from the eye. The ayurvedic doctor says eyes become more beautiful and it helps to see even minute things. I love the concept of cosmetics as medicine, where did we go wrong?
Nasya
Nasya is the practice of lubricating your nasal passages with a special herbalized oil referred to as Nasya oil. It cleans the sinus and takes out toxins.
Mouth wash or oil pulling
This is where you use an oil to swish around your mouth and spit out. Helps remove toxins and bacteria from the oral cavity. I personally like coconut oil.
Abhyangam/ Body massage
Self abhyangam highly recommended every day. Apply head, ears, feet and body. Helps with sleep
Vyayama/ Exercise
Very important for daily routine to keep ourselves fit. It lightens our body and makes us strong. When doing exercise you should only use 1/2 your energy and do a oil massage after.
Bathing
Bathing increases the appetite and cleans the body. Use only hot water below the head which helps for getting strength
Bhojana priciples
Don't take food in a hurry
Prayer before food
Take food in a pleasant mood
Better to sit on the floor
Sadvrtta/ Right conduct
Spend time with good friends
Read good stories
Discuss things related to Dharma
Only desire for knowledge
Sleep
Prayer before sleep
Sleep in a pleasant mood
Keep head towards the east
How a person should be;
Calm and composed
Charitable
Humble
Affectionate to guests
Perform religious rites
Start the conversation if you meet someone
