And then, I discovered naturopathy

I consider myself a fitness freak. I’ve certainly been around, seen much of the fitness world, tried new regimes, routines and adapted to new wellness technologies. And as I was beginning to consider myself self-reliant, I discovered naturopathy.

Our current lifestyles create some imbalances and intolerances that a gym, cardio or spa routine cannot deal with. If one is a genuine seeker of lasting solutions, it is likely that he/she will end up finding answers with naturopathy. I did, and it was certainly an aha! moment.

Naturopathy is science of nature. As is aptly said, ‘If nature cannot cure, nothing can.’
Naturopathy has to its credit many laurels, since many acute and severe medical cases that modern doctors give up on, can be cured by naturopathy. It is often the last door that chronically ill patients knock on, often returning with gift of a renewed zeal for life.

Ayurveda, a better-known term, is a gift that Indian Subcontinent has given to the world. Across the world, Ayurveda has gained much prominence as a source of alternative medicine. A layman equates Kerala Massage, Ramdev Baba’s medicine and Spa with Ayurveda.

Talking of Spa, the concept emerged a water treatment called baleno therapy, as such ‘spa’ centres used to be located near hot water springs but today, they are more of a lifestyle option for relaxation and cosmetology. Naturopathy is a branch of Ayurveda that uses spa techniques of water, and other natural elements like nutrition, exercise and fasting for treatment.

One of the aims of naturopathy is to detox. High levels of stress, which get accumulated due to modern corporate lifestyle, pollution and unhealthy diet lead to significant degeneration of health. Cleansing of the nose, ear, throat and eyes are a means to detox; also aiding it is cleaning of intestines through enema and colon hydroscope. An early morning is ideal for such cleansing.

Since skin is the largest organ of the body and is subject to a lot of external pollution, cleansing of the skin is of paramount importance. Natural products like neem, aloe vera, milk, curd, turmeric, natural oils and mud are used for therapy, alongwith steam, sauna and hydrotherapy. There are also very interesting spinal baths for those suffering from stomach ailments like acidity and burning sensations.

Another natural practice – yoga – is a confluence of mind, body and spirit. A kriya – Sang Prakshalana – is a master cleanser for detox. It must start at about 4:30am on an empty stomach. A warm lemon water is had followed by five specific yoga steps, with the intention to clean the entire digestive tract – from throat to rectum.

The number of health enthusiasts opting for naturopathy for detoxification is growing by the day. A weight loss experienced, and pain relief in joints due to such practices is a bonus! Not to forget, a psychological and emotional well being.

The writer is an entrepreneur and educationist.