The Importance of Dinacharya in Our Lifestyle

Dinacharya, a Sanskrit term that translates to "daily routine", is an essential aspect of Ayurvedic medicine and holistic health. Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine that has been around for over 5,000 years and strongly emphasises the importance of maintaining a daily routine to achieve optimal health and wellness.

In Ayurveda, the daily routine is designed to help balance the body, mind, and spirit by aligning our daily activities with the natural rhythms of the universe. Dinacharya involves a series of self-care practices meant to be done daily, ideally simultaneously each day, to help promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

One of the critical principles of dinacharya is waking up early, ideally around sunrise. This is considered the most auspicious time of the day and is believed to be the best time to start our daily activities. Upon waking up, drinking a glass of warm water is recommended to help stimulate digestion and eliminate toxins from the body.

Next, dinacharya involves tongue scraping, oil pulling, and nasal cleansing. These practices help remove toxins and improve oral and nasal hygiene. Tongue scraping consists of using a metal scraper to clear any buildup on the tongue. In contrast, oil pulling involves swishing oil in the mouth for several minutes to help remove bacteria and promote oral health. Nasal cleansing is done using a neti pot to pour warm saline water through the nasal passages to help clear congestion and promote respiratory health.

After completing these practices, engaging in physical activity, such as yoga or a brisk walk, is recommended. This helps stimulate the body and improve circulation, essential for overall health and well-being.

Another critical aspect of dinacharya is mindful eating. This involves eating a balanced diet tailored to our needs and preferences. Ayurveda recommends eating three meals daily, with the main meal being eaten around noon when digestion is most vital. Eating in a calm and relaxed environment and avoiding eating while distracted or stressed is also recommended.