The Desi Health Blogs

Introduction : Cervical spondylitis or cervical osteoarthritis is another disease process that is rather widespread and results in pain and stiffness in the cervical region and limited range of motion. Ancient cure and natural medicines and healing processes such as herbal and Ayurvedic medicines and yoga and traditional healing procedures have been used in the Indian subcontinent for the treatment of this since centuries. Our purpose in this blog is to become familiar with some of the few desi remedies that can be taken in the diet with regards to cervical pain. Understanding Cervical Spondylitis: In layman’s terms, cervical spondylitis means the wear and tear of cervical vertebrae due to the shrinking of the discs which lie in between the vertebral bodies and the formation of bony spurs in the spinal column. Applying much pressure on nerves around the site causes such sensations as pains and at times even what is termed as numbness, which may stretch to the parts of the limbs

Introduction:   Pawanmuktasana or Wind-Relieving Pose is as easy as the easy pose, and it is one of the basic yoga poses that need to be practiced in the Desi way to ease digestion and help those who are suffering from digestion troubles. Here, you lie down flat on the back, then, flex your knees and pull them closer to the chest, touching the abdomen, and then take some breaths. This is one of the simplest and the most effective positions designed to help with the functioning of the stomach and improvement of digestion.   Benefits for Digestive Health:   - Relieves gas and bloating: In relief of bloatedness; Pawanmuktasana can help get rid of trapped gas hence, the symptoms associated with it. This helps to make you feel so much lighter and comfortable.   - Stimulates digestion: The deep breathing in along with the compression and stretching of the abdomen increases the digestive fire. This makes digestion as well as the overall metabolism of the foods consumed to be well enha

Introduction: Half spinal twist or Ardha Matsyendrasana is one of the popular yogic postures of the yogasanas that are very useful to the spine. In Desi health care, this yoga pose is feel to be good for the backbone muscles and mass and also tones the internal organs and nerves. If one has middle and lower back issues, improper posture & alignment and for minimising or preventing some forms of spinal degradation from the yogic position one should do Ardha Matsyendrasana for at least 30 days. In this particular blog post, I will also explain how exactly Ardha Matsyendrasana helps to contribute to a healthy spine if seen through the perspective of the Desi health system. Benefits for the Spine: - Low impact on the spine – the twisting movement aides to promote muscle relaxation and elasticity around the spinal column since it has a low impact on it. It is believed to be helpful in the reduction or even prevention of stiffness or tightness.   - Enhances joint strength – tw

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Fish pose is a back-bending yoga pose that has many benefits, the most significant and noticeable being the effects on the respiratory system. Through the expansion of the chest and lungs, Matsyasana could be very beneficiary to the respiratory system and overall health. Here's how: Expands Lungs While entering into Matsyasana, the chest rises up and the spine moves backward. This expanding and stretching personally aids in the expanding of lung capacity and in the expansion of the lungs so more air is allowed to enter the lungs during the time of inhalation. Several individuals that have challenges in taking deep breaths can be advantaged by this expansion. Strengthens Lungs When done frequently, the lung tissues become more flexible and also get strengthened due to practice of Matsyasana. If additional space is created by a further expansion

Introduction Halasana or Plow Pose is a passive asana of yoga which has been used traditionally for indigestion and for modulation of bowel movement in Desi systems of medicine. In Sanskrit the name used is ‘hala,’ which is the Indian term for ‘plow,’ and the body position in this inverted asana resembles that of a plow. Halasana, thus, becomes an inversion that functions in a direction that neutralises the effects of gravity with respect to the vital organs as well as the organs of circulation; in addition to having health-giving effects. How Halasana Improves Digestion When practiced effectively it can help in massaging the liver, pancreas, and intestines which are the internal organs of digestion. This gently applied internal pressure is said to assist in the awakening of thedigestive fire (jatharagni) and hence enhance the nutritive functions of these organs. It also facilitates the passage of gases and wastes in the digestive system to help avoid conditions such as bloating

Introduction Natarajasana is another pose which is further known as the Dancer’s Pose, and it is a standing yoga pose which assists in increasing the balance, stability and flexibility. Resilience is one of the most significant aspects of health in the different forms of Desi health and body science such as yoga and Ayurveda. It is therefore possible to say that exercising that has a positive impact in the flexibility of an individual may in equal measure be of positive benefit to the same individual in a psychological sense. The Serenity of Natarajasana To enter the Natarajasana, one has to stand on one leg while drawing another backwards and bending it at the knees. One of the arms stretches up to the ceiling while the other hand extends back to capture the elevated foot. This graceful stretch enables lengthening of the shoulders, chest field, hip flexors, and upper spine area. Being a balancing pose, it also benefits the standing leg and challenges your core stability. Bene

Introduction Specific yoga postures that involve the chest for example can be of great benefits when it comes to respiratory health. Parvatasana or Mountain Pose is a standing yoga pose in Desi traditions and can help in many ways pertaining to breathing and lung capacity. This is a very basic and yet very effective asana that can be performed anytime of the day. Main Section The name Parvatasana is derived from two words, ‘parvata’ which stands for a mountain and ‘asana’ meaning posture. With respect to the name of the pose, the intention is to create a feeling of tall and strong structure of the body as if it is the mountain. To come into the pose, the feet can be placed side by side or hip width apart with the spin kept straight. This involves lifting the arms up overhead with the biceps by the ears. The shoulders should drop at the back away from the ears, and the ribs should expand outwards as far as possible from the pelvis to create space for the lungs. You can maintain th

Introduction Ustrasana or camel pose is also a regular and highly effective yoga asana in Desi health practices. The word “Ustra” is meaning camel in Sanskrit and on the other hand “Asana” is meaning posture. This pose is named after the camel because of its back that resembles an arched camel. If done correctly Ustrasana offers a multitude of benefits primarily to the spine and the digestive system. Benefits for the Spine Ustrasana is a heart chakra exercise mainly because it slows and lengthens the anterior of the trunk and the chest. When you arch backward look at the follow in the figure above, the spine expands to allow a gap between the vertebrae. This helps to come off pressure from the discs and nerves besides promoting flexibility of the back region. In as much as it is practiced daily then Ustrasana would play a long roll in fixing the spine and would help greatly in avoiding disc herniation or cervical spondylitis. It also assists in preserving the spine stability by e

Introduction Shavasana or the Corpse Pose is one of the popular asanas, which is indicated during the ending of a set of yoga poses in the conventional Indian systems of healing. Despite its appearance, which resembles a dead man’s pose where a person lies still on the back with arms and legs arranged comfortably, Shavasana is very effective in relaxation. Deep Muscle Relaxation    In Shavasana, every part of the body is to be in a relaxed manner and all the muscles except the ones holding the body in position have to be completely relaxed. Lying on the floor or mat, focusing on the release of tension from each limb, muscle fibers relax fully after intense yoga exercise. This aids in the recovery and growth of muscles. Calms the Mind Muscles and bones also relax during Shavasana and the mind also finds its rest. Conscious breathing and awareness of the physical body reduces thought disturbances. This elicits the relaxation response, which helps decrease blood pressure, heart

Introduction One of the several types of breathing in yoga, named as Anulom Vilom or Nadi Shodhana or Alternate Nostril Breathing which has great importance in Indian subcontinent’s tradition. They have been used for centuries for stress and anxiety disorders and as a method of charge and boost in the organism. These are at first glance, the benefits of the technique of Anulom Vilom in respiratory diseases: In addition, Anulom Vilom has advantages in as much as the respiratory is concerned especially the lungs. Hence doing blowing air through the nose only, especially when pinching the other nostril tight; increases the chance of fresh air, blown into the lungs and the whole body. Some of the key benefits include:Probable opportunity is:   - Assists in elevating the dial of working capacitance of the lungs. - Assists in efforts to reduce the thickness and thus the ease in the opening of the nasal passages and sinuses. - Improves the blood oxygenation that is circulated with

Introduction Kapalbhati Pranayama or the light of the skull breath is the purifying breath exercise known to yogis that embrace and strengthen the respiratory system and the physique as a whole. The Kapalbhati in Desi healing traditions is used in cleaning of the lungs and to build up respiratory organs and to give a feeling of mental peace. This dynamic breath is very vital in many of the Desi ways of managing health. Cleansing the Airways The characteristic of Kapalbhati is, the forceful and fast elimination of air from the lungs using the contraction of the muscles of the abdomen. This pumping action aid in the washing of the airways as well as the lungs in that it clear toxins and excessive mucus in the lungs. It is customization that them opens and it is practice that them renders easier and fuller. Increasing Lung Capacity   While the core muscles that are used in Kapalbhati are contracted during the breaths, the passive inhales stimulate vital expansion of the lungs an

Introduction It is a general fact that positions like Garudasana require concentration and balance, thus they are beneficial for both physical and mental health. These two poses are also found in Indian wellness traditions since they have been scientifically found to provide so many health benefits when practiced. In this blog post, you will understand what Garudasana entails; the correct way to assume the posture; the focus and steadiness skills that come with the posture.   Garudasana or the Eagle pose is the ASANA that is assinged to Eagle, and this pose opens the hips, tones the stomach muscles, work on the liver and kidney glands.   Garudasana or Eagle Pose is actually a pose that mimics the form of an eagle which spreads its wings. That is why when going into the pose one has to simultaneously position the first leg over the second and attempt to stand on one leg. The arms are entwined [as one above the other again] and the palms are open as if of eagle. Garudasana has be

Introduction Padmasana also known as the lotus position is a sitting yoga posture in which the feet rest on the thighs. This position has been with Indians for several years in their yoga exercise routines due to the many perks to the meditating mind. Various traditional Desi health systems such as Ayurveda and Yoga consider Padmasana as the most effective for bringing about the mental state of quiescence, to ease the mind and enhance focus and concentration. In that form, this pose activates the chakras, which are the energy centers in the human body that affect one’s thoughts and emotions. In understanding the role of Padmasana in Ayurveda and Yoga, we will find out how incorporating this pose into our mindfulness practice can lead to a higher state of tranquility within.   Padmasana: One Sitting and the Doshas in Harmony The Ayurvedic concepts about health and disease were based on three fundamental principles or doshas namely Vata, Pitta and Kapha. A shift results in dise

  Introduction Asanas such as Tadasana or Mountain Pose have been part of the Desi tradition for ages primarily used as tools to maintain correct posture or balance and strength and overall health. In this, my first yoga blog post for newbies, I will explain how practicing Tadasana or Mountain Pose helps to adjust posture issues that are typical of our everyday existence and serves as the basis for increasingly complex asanas. What is Tadasana? Tadasana is also amongst the most fundamental but essential yoga standing poses that practitioners should master. The name of the posture as well as the Sanskrit word ‘tada’ meaning mountain signifies stillness, strength and stability. To practice Tadasana you just stand with heels of feet touching but the toes divided, and your arms should hang at the sides of your body. Benefits of Practicing Tadasana - Improves posture and alignment of the spine: Tadasana helps in learning how to place the joints properly on top of one another throu

Introduction : Shirshasana (Headstand) and many other asanas have been in practice in India for several years as a part of the Seated Yogalasics. Shirshasana is one among the most therapeutic asana’s which is very effective in increasing the memory power, concentration and particularly focus. But in what way and to what extent does this activity of flipping upside down contribute to the well-being of the brain? Well, let me dissect it for you.   The Blood Flow Benefits Other benefit of Shirshasana is given by the fact that it helps to reverse direction of blood flow in the body, and the head receives fresh blood filled with oxygen. They assist in the promotion of the pituitary and pineal glands that are in the brain to work correctly. This means that raised blood flow in the body allows neurons and nerve cells in the brain to receive sufficient quantity of oxygen and nutrition that is needed for the improvement of brain in processing information. Impact of Relaxation of the Ner

Introduction: Pain in back region is a common ailment in the world today. Long hours of sitting in front of a computer or lifting weights and other heavy items improperly have seen back strains and injuries becoming prevalent. In a situation where normal treatment yields limited results, people embrace other modes of treatment such as practicing yoga. Out of all the forms of Yoga, there is one form of yoga which is probably not much well-known but is extremely helpful, especially for back pain, and it is called Shalabhasana or Locust Pose. Shalabhasana, as is the case with most yoga poses, has its roots in Indian history; it was practiced and documented thousands of years ago. This natural source has been trusted for years to provide relief and to rebuild the back,” she said. With more integrative medical systems starting to learn the values of disciplines such as Yoga, Shalabhasana is gradually being associated with a postural therapy that has the effect of reducing back spasm, re

Introduction: Some of the movements practiced during yoga include Trikonasana (Triangle Pose) which is commonly used by the Desi for health purposes. In addition to a very intense stretch of muscles, it strengthens them stunningly well, this asana is truly a classic. Trikonasana when performed on a regular basis, aids in making the body more balanced and stable besides improving the carriage of the body. Before we discuss how Trikonasana improves flexibility and builds strength when incorporated into a self-care plan, it is crucial to take a closer look at the benefits of the technique. Flexibility from All Angles But as you laterally bend to this side and finally assume the posture of Trikonasana, every muscles along a spine, hips and legs are well stretched. This means that by maintaining the chosen position for 5-8 breaths, your hamstrings, inner thighs, hips, and torso will release tension that has been accumulated over time and loosen the tightened areas. The deep side stret

  Introduction Stretching exercises that have an impact on digestion is also a strong tradition in Desi culture. One such pose described as Vajrasana or Thunderbolt Pose. Vajrasana is another basic yet highly effective posture to help to digest the food, applying a very mild compressive force on the stomach region. Vajrasana is also found to be in habit with Desis, where one can practice Vajrasana after the meals to enhance the digestion system. In this blog learn why this pose holds such a special place in Desi culture and why it is good for the gut. The History Behind Vajrasana It is noteworthy to note that Desi people have for a long time considered Vajrasana as asana that can help in digestion. Literally the term vajra can be translated as thunderbolt or diamond in Sanskrit. This means that the nature of the pose where the legs are positioned makes the body become as rigid as a thunderbolt. As time passed, Yogis noted that Vajrasana helped digestion as the blood flow in the s

This is the name they gave their chosen yoga position and it is one that immediately resonates with everyone because everybody has energy in them and it is something that we all need to keep flowing freely. Introduction Healthy exercises in Indian Vedic science include yoga postures that help to build up muscles in the spine and facilitate the awakening of energy pathways in the body. One of these remarkable asanas is Chakrasana or the Wheel Pose. To be able to pull this powerful backbend is beneficial in many ways as per Desi traditions of both the physical and the psychological aspects. In this blog, the practice of the Wheel Pose, according to ancient Desi advice, can bring more strength, flexibility, joy, and energy in the system through Chakras. Physical Benefits Chakrasana is regarded as a rejuvenation pose prevalent in Desi yoga and can effectively energise organs, muscles and joints in the spine and shoulders. When you are arching backward, the spine is stretched making

Introduction Dhanurasana also known as Bow Pose is a yoga pose that focuses on the back side of the body and takes the shape of an archers bow. In Desi health practices, this yoga asana has several roles and significance as a health indicator or in health status. As people incline to Desi wisdom and attempt to improve the health by doing yoga, it becomes peculiar to know how a pose such as Dhanurasana comes handy. Helps Develop Flexibility in the Lower Back and Shoulders Another aspect of backbending, Dhanurasana is an intense exercise that stretches and tones the back muscles and shoulders while loosening the areas in front. As mentioned earlier, this is a great stretch for the spine and practicing this pose can enhance flexibility of the spine thus creating a good posture and a larger angle of motion. For those who have to spend long hours at a desk typing at a computer, this extra space can be beneficial in helping the back relax or alleviate stiffness or pain.   Massages Ab

Introduction Vrikshasana or tree pose is one of the simple standing yoga poses that is still used in Desi health and wellness system. This graceful pose helps in building the muscles of the legs and back, and tests one’s ability to balance on the limbs. Some of the modern investigations have established that when a person practices vrikshasana every day, he/she improves the balance and coordination. Thus, in this blog, we will be focusing on the desi health benefits of vrikshasana, which can help enhance the strength of the muscles which are responsible for balance and stability. Connecting to Nature In desi culture the tree is believed to be revered and vrikshasana is the word that has been derived from the Sanskrit language word ‘vriksha’ meaning tree. The ancient Indian yogis found trees as the most suitable for their meditation because of their stability and their upward branches. This pose is useful since it fosters an understanding of the energy and liveliness of trees. The

Introduction Yoga is an age-old discipline in India that involves coordination between the physical aspects and the spiritual part of an individual with the help of an asana and pressure. Bhujangasana is also known as the Cobra Pose and is a reclining back bending yoga which is very effective when performed regularly for our health. The sanskrit name Bhujanga derives from ‘Bhujang’- snake or serpent in English. Like the snake on the belly helps to move the spine in a smooth fashion, in the same way, this pose assists us in moving our spines. In this blog, we will discuss how this particular yoga pose can be incorporated into desi health care for boosting health and physiological and psychological conditions. Enhances Spinal Flexibility The first and quite obvious change that a person will be able to observe after practicing Bhujangasana is improvement in the flexibility of the spine. When you carefully push your upper part of the body up from the floor with palms flat on the surf

In this paper, Yoga is defined as not only the exercise that one can do, but it is a complete phenomenon. Yoga is an art that had begun in the prehistoric period, and bears both relation and link with religion and has been a means to arrive at the Supreme Goal. Yoga however maintains its spiritual character to date though it transforms at the society’s modern phase. Practice of yoga comprises of the movements, the breathing techniques and the meditations which are all in an attempt to attain the physical, psychological and religious harmony. This blog post will discuss how each aspect of yoga causes a change in the individual and personal spiritual development. The actual positions and flows of yoga assist in the regulation of thought processes and lowering of stress and anxiety, and brings attention to the current experience of the moment. Being aware of our prana and balancing left and right nostrils is used to synchronize internal energy and listen to our body. Yoga empowers us to d

Introduction Yoga is a set of physical and psychological disciplines which originated in the prehistoric period of five thousand years ago in India and is an important part of Indian culture. What people mean by yoga in general now it is famous in the world but Desi yoga only refers to the classical yoga of India. Desi yoga is a method of the integration of the body and the soul with the help of various bodily postures, pranayama and meditation. Desi yoga comprises movements that produces variable, constructive outcomes on the physical health of an individual and this post will touch on.   Types of Desi Yoga There are several traditional Desi yoga styles that each offer physical benefits:The following are some of the Desi yoga forms that contain physical benefits;   - Ashtanga Yoga – Focuses on managing the body recommended in two categories of postures and breath work. - Ashtanga yoga – Another lively type of yoga, the practitioner has to switch from one pose to another in