While the concept of storing water in a copper water bottle or other copper vessel arose centuries ago and has its origins in Ayurvedic principles, the practice is gaining increasing attention from the scientific community. In fact, several recent studies have substantiated  that drinking water stored in a copper vessel is a safe and beneficial health practice. In this blog post, we'll summarize the results of three recent scientific studies concerning the use of copper water vessels as well as a report from the World Health Organization.

In one recent study, which was published in the Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition, scientists studied the effect of storing water in a copper pot on microbially-contaminated drinking water, including harmful bacteria such as E.coli and salmonella. In particular, scientists stored water contaminated with this bacteria in copper pots for 16 hours at room temperature. Incredibly, following the 16-hour storage period, the scientists were unable to recover any bacteria from the water. In addition, the scientists found that the water's pH level had increased, meaning that it had naturally become more alkaline. As other studies have shown, natural alkaline water has a variety of health benefits.

Significantly, the scientists also determined that the copper content of the water was less than 0.2 ppm (parts per million), which represents an amount far less than the permissible limit set by the World Health Organization ("WHO"). As the study states, “safety of leached copper does not appear to be an issue since studies have shown that the current WHO guideline of 2 mg Cu/L is safe” and the levels absorbed in the study were well within permissible limits.

The WHO's recent report entitled Guidelines for Drinking Water Quality identified an upper limit for consumption of copper in water as 2.0 ppm (or 2 mg per litre), which is far higher than the amount of copper found in the water that was stored overnight in the copper pots as part of the study. Accordingly, the scientific evidence shows that there is no realistic risk of consuming too much copper by drinking water stored in a copper vessel, even when that water is stored in the copper vessel overnight or even for several days (more on that below). As a result, there is no realistic risk that drinking water from a copper water bottle will cause gastrointestinal irritation or other health issues.

In another recent study, scientists again studied the effect of storing water in a copper pot on water contaminated with bacteria. In this study, the scientists incubated water with a colony of harmful bacteria and then stored the water overnight at room temperature in both copper pots and glass bottles. In the morning, the bacteria was no longer recoverable from the water that had been stored in the copper pots, although it was recovered from the water stored in the glass bottles. The study found that the water stored in the copper pots had also become more alkaline.

Significantly, the scientists also determined that while the water stored in the copper pots absorbed some of the copper overnight, the water’s copper content was less than 0.475 ppm, which is well within the permissible limits for human consumption and is thus safe for drinking.

In yet another recent study, researchers stored water contaminated with bacteria in a variety of different water containers, including copper and silver containers, in order to determine their efficacy at removing biological contamination from drinking water. The study revealed that the copper vessels had a significant inhibitory effect on the bacteria in the water after only a few hours of exposure. The scientists found that the pH of the water had also increased within a healthy range.

The scientists in that study also measured the concentration of copper in the water every 2 hours in order to determine whether the water remained safe for consumption. While the scientists detected a gradual increase in the amount of copper absorbed by the water, they determined that the amount still remained well within the permissible limits laid out by the WHO even after the water was stored in the copper vessel for several days.

The following graph from the report provides a helpful illustration of the rate at which copper was absorbed into the water. In particular, the data shows that the copper levels in the water remained within permissible levels even after several days. This study suggests that storing water in a copper bottle overnight or even for a few days does not pose any risk to health.

The conclusions of these and many other research studies support what Ayurvedic medicine has been telling us for centuries: that drinking water stored in a copper vessel can be a safe and beneficial health practice. We look forward to seeing more evidence in support of the use of copper water bottles as the practice gains increased attention from scientific community.

About the Authors: This article was collaboratively written by our team of researchers and writers with the benefit of all available scientific studies and other relevant literature. Our team of researchers and writers include experienced health researchers including a qualified medical professional. Please note that information in this article is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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Drinking alkaline water can be a great way to support a healthy lifestyle. However, did you know that there are two very different kinds of alkaline water with very significant differences between them from a health perspective?

In this blog post, we’ll introduce alkaline water, explain the benefits of alkaline water, and identify the important differences between the two kinds of alkaline water: natural alkaline water and artificial alkaline water. We’ll also share with you the well-kept secret of how you can make natural alkaline water easily, safely and inexpensively using a copper water bottle. Let’s dive in!

What is Alkaline Water?

The word “alkaline” in the term “alkaline water” essentially refers to the pH level of water. The term “pH” is a scientific term which essentially refers to the acidity or non-acidity of a liquid. All liquids have a pH, which is expressed on a scale of 0 to 14. Liquids with a lower pH (that is, closer to a pH of 0) are more acidic than liquids with a higher pH (that is, closer to a pH of 14).

For example, liquids with a pH lower than 7 (like coffee and vinegar) are acidic liquids, while liquids with a pH higher than 7 (like liquid soap and baking soda) are non-acidic liquids, which are also known as “alkaline” or “basic” liquids. Pure water has a pH of 7, which is considered neither acidic nor alkaline. Accordingly, alkaline water is water that has a pH greater 7 and is non-acidic. As discussed in more detail below, healthy alkaline water typically has a pH of 8 or 8.5.

Alkaline water is commonly believed to be beneficial to health. In particular, health advocates believes that alkaline water helps neutralize acidity in the body and thereby helps increase energy levels, slows the aging process, boosts the immune system, supports weight loss, detoxifies the body, cleanses the colon, rejuvenates the skin, supports the health of muscles and joints, and prevents numerous diseases, including cancer.

In fact, recent studies have found that alkaline water may benefit those with high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Moreover, other recent studies have found that drinking alkaline water neutralized acid in the bloodstream, leading to improved circulation and increased oxygen distribution throughout the body. Another recent study has also determined that drinking alkaline water can help fight or even eliminate acid reflux disease.

Differences Between Natural Alkaline Water and Artificial Alkaline Water

In general, there are two types of alkaline water. The first type of alkaline water is commonly known as “artificial alkaline water” or “artificially alkalinized water”. This is typically water that has been produced by passing tap water through an alkaline water machine, which is also known as an electrical ionizer.

Alkaline water machines operate by a process known as ionization or electrolysis, which is essentially a process that electrocutes water by repeatedly sending electric currents through it. Throughout the process, the water molecules are forcibly split by the electrical current and pushed over metal plates generally made of platinum and titanium. This process creates an exchange of platinum and titanium ions which essentially “forces” the water into a greater state of alkalinity. Adjusting the electrical flow determines how many ions are forced into the water. Some alkaline water machines also come with artificial powders that can be added to the water to make it even more alkaline.

Alkaline water machines generally increase the pH of water from 7 (being the “neutral” pH level of normal water) to an extreme pH of 12 or even 13, which is just short of the highest possible pH level (being a pH of 14).

While alkaline water machines are widely available for purchase in many stores as well as online, they are often marketed in a very aggressive manner along with claims that are false or misleading. As a result, you should exercise significant caution when considering an investment in an alkaline water machine. In fact, as described in detail below, many health advocates have cautioned that drinking artificial alkaline water for an extended period can have serious health side effects.

One reason advanced by health advocates is that the metals contained in alkaline water machines (platinum and titanium) are toxic and detrimental to your health. Accordingly, while water will become more alkaline as it passes through an alkaline water machine, it will also become increasingly toxic. In addition, alkaline water machines can increase the pH of water to an extreme level, which can negatively affect the body. In particular, excessive alkalinity can decrease natural stomach acidity, which can make your body more vulnerable to bacteria and viruses. In addition, drinking water that is too alkaline can cause gastrointestinal issues, negatively affect bone health, and cause skin irritation, as well as other health problems.

Artificial alkaline water is very similar to “empty food” that is high in calories but lacks the essential minerals that your body needs to flourish. In fact, a study published by the World Health Organization cautions against drinking water with low mineral content. When artificial alkaline water is consumed, its high pH level essentially “tricks” the body into thinking that it is receiving water that contains a significant amount of dissolved minerals. This “trick” can cause the body to release mineral reserves into the blood and kidneys, thereby ultimately making the body deficient in minerals as a result. In addition, the powders provided along with alkaline water machines are not pure and may also have negative health consequences. Beyond these health concerns, alkaline water machines can also be expensive to purchase and operate.

The issues associated with artificial alkaline water can be avoided by drinking what is commonly known as “natural alkaline water”, “naturally alkalinized water”, or “living water”. Natural alkaline water is essentially naturally-sourced water that has become alkaline as a result of its natural environment. For example, water can become naturally alkaline as it passes through a mountain spring. As the water flows and rubs against rocks in the earth, it will naturally pick up and absorb various minerals that will increase the water’s pH and make it more alkaline. Unlike artificially alkalinized water, naturally alkalinized water has a more naturally alkaline pH of 8 or 8.5, which is much healthier for your body.

Unfortunately, unless you live near a mountain spring, you may feel that you have little choice but to resort to buying natural alkaline water from a grocery store or health food store. Unfortunately, such water is almost always packaged in plastic bottles, which can leech chemicals into the water and thereby harm your health. In addition, plastic bottles are very harmful to the environment. Beyond these concerns, bottled water is generally expensive and the costs can quickly add up.

In addition, it is important to exercise significant caution when purchasing alkaline water in bottled form. Many grocery stores and specialty stores sell bottled alkaline water that is marketed as natural alkaline water when it is in fact artificially alkalinized water. In general, this water has been created through the process of reverse osmosis and has then been mixed with a powder in order to alkalinize it. As noted above, these powders are often not pure and can be harmful to health.

Fortunately, as described in more detail below, you can avoid the issues associated with artificial alkaline water and bottled alkaline water by making your own natural alkaline water easily, safely and inexpensively using a copper water bottle.

How to Make Natural Alkaline Water Using Your Copper Water Bottle

When you store water in a copper water bottle, the water naturally and safely absorbs very small amounts of copper. This naturally ionizes the water and causes the water to become natural alkaline water.

As a result, a copper water bottle is essentially a natural alkaline water bottle. In fact, the process for making natural alkaline water in a copper bottle is much like the process by which water becomes natural alkaline water in nature. In nature, water can become alkaline by passing through a mountain spring and absorbing minerals. Water stored in a copper water bottle essentially does the same thing as it rubs against the walls of the copper bottle.

In fact, in a recent study scientists studying the effect of storing water in a copper vessel determined that the water became alkaline. In particular, the scientists discovered that the water's pH rose steadily the longer it was stored in the copper vessel. In addition, the scientists studied the effect of the copper vessel on microbially-contaminated drinking-water, including serious bacteria such as e.coli and salmonella. Incredibly, the scientists determined that water infected with these bacteria was completely decontaminated after being stored in a copper vessel for a number of hours at room temperature.

Apart from naturally making water alkaline, storing water in a copper water bottle can also have other health benefits. Copper is an essential mineral, and copper water (also known as “tamra jal” in ayurvedic medicine, and also commonly known as “copper infused water” or “copper charged water”) can have excellent health benefits. For example, copper is anti-bacterial, acts as an effective anti-oxidant, improves immunity, supports good health, prevents aging, eliminates toxins and free radicals, and stimulates the brain. Because copper is naturally anti-bacterial, copper water bottles are naturally self-sterilizing and do not require as much cleaning as other water bottles. Interesting, copper water vessels have been recognized for their health benefits throughout history.

Making alkaline water using a copper water bottle is as easy as pouring water into your copper water bottle and giving the water time to naturally alkaline. Water stored in a copper vessel will become increasingly alkaline the longer it remains in the copper vessel, and the speed and degree of the alkalinization process will depend on various environmental factors, including the temperature of the water and its original pH level. In general, the natural alkalinization process will occur a bit faster if the water is at room temperature or slightly warmer.

You can use any type of water in your copper water bottle, including tap water, water that has been passed through a filter, or even bottled water. You will probably notice the greatest difference with tap water, which is generally the least alkaline and in the need of the most care. Although tap water is generally fine in most first-world cities, you may wish to consider filtering you water before pouring it into your copper water bottle.

Make sure you use a copper water bottle that is made of 100% pure high-grade food-safe copper and does not have any other metals, alloys or lining. Make sure to do your research and ensure that you are avoiding certain manufactures (particularly those who sell on Amazon and Ebay and manufacture their copper bottles in China and India) who falsely claim to sell pure copper water bottles that are actually plain metal bottles plated with copper. Also make sure to avoid sellers who sell copper bottles that are coated on the interior with a toxic lacquer. Our copper bottles are 100% pure high-grade food-safe copper and contain absolutely no toxic materials of any kind.

In addition, you should try to use a hammered copper water bottle, as the hammered texture increases the surface area of copper on the inside of the copper water bottle which makes contact with the water stored in it. The greater the physical contact between the water and the copper, the greater the health benefits for you and the faster the speed of the natural alkalinization process.

In general, we suggest storing water in your copper water bottle for 6-8 hours for the most beneficial effect. For best results and a healthy start to your morning, try storing water in your copper water bottle overnight and drinking from it first thing in the morning. For some great tips on the healthiest way to drink water, check out our recent blog post about the healthy way to drink water. 

About the Authors: This article was collaboratively written by our team of researchers and writers with the benefit of all available scientific studies and other relevant literature. Our team of researchers and writers include experienced health researchers including a qualified medical professional. Please note that information in this article is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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Most of us drink water without giving much thought to how we do it. After all, isn’t drinking water as simple as pressing a water bottle to our lips? In fact, the way in which we drink water can actually be life-changing.

Do you ever find yourself feeling bloated after eating? Do you ever find yourself feeling sleepy or drowsy after lunch or dinner? Do you ever find that your efforts to stay hydrated result in many frantic trips to the bathroom, including at night? Do you ever suffer from clogged pores, acne, or dull-looking hair? Amazingly, these and other issues can be mitigated by adopting a special method for drinking water which has been prescribed by ayurvedic medicine and followed by practitioners for centuries.

In this blog post, we’ll explain how making a few small changes in the way in which you drink water (which we call “hydration hacks”) can have a profound impact on your health and well-being.

How to Drink Water

The most important aspect of the ayurvedic method of drinking water is to ensure that you are drinking water in a manner that permits your body to effectively absorb it and use it efficiently. In order to do so, ayurveda suggests that you adopt what we call the “continual hydration approach” rather than what we call the “high volume hydration approach”. In particular, you should be aiming to take a few small sips of water frequently throughout the day instead of drinking large volumes of water a few times throughout the day.

In particular, it is ideal to take a couple sips of water at least every 30 minutes (subject to the other ayurvedic guidelines described below). In fact, drinking small amounts of water frequently throughout the day maximizes hydration and accelerates the body’s detoxification process. Accordingly, adopting the continual hydration approach can increase your energy levels, improve the health of your skin, nails, and hair, combat premature aging, improve digestion, strengthen your immune system, and generally result in a greater overall sense of well-being.

Many people set a particular goal for themselves in terms of the amount of water they need to drink each day and make sure they stick to that goal, even if it requires that they drink a large volume of water in a short period of time in order to “catch up” or “stay on target”. Such an approach may, for example, lead us to drink 2 or 3 glasses of water in one sitting in order to meet our goal of drinking 8 glasses of water per day (more on that later in this blog post).

Most people are surprised to learn that the high volume hydration approach (also known as “chugging”) can be less productive than they think. As amazing and adaptable as our bodies are, they aren’t designed to absorb large volumes of water in a short period of time, which means that the high volume hydration approach will generally result in the water running right through you! Unfortunately, this will not only cause you to go to the bathroom frequently (including during the night, which can disturb your sleep), but it will also deprive you of the benefits of proper hydration. In addition, the high volume hydration approach can, over time, lead to the depletion of essential minerals from our bodies.

Of course, the high volume hydration approach is perfectly understandable! We’re all busy, and we can’t always manage to keep hydrating throughout the day, particularly when our days become loaded with meetings, trips across town, emergencies, and other occurrences that aren’t conducive to always ensuring that we have a nearby source of water. Accordingly, many of us may feel the urge to drink a large volume of water once we return to a source of water so as to help us meet the goal we have set for ourselves.

If you find that your lifestyle tends to push you towards the high volume hydration approach, then there are a few handy “hydration hacks” you can employ to make it much easier to enjoy the benefits of the continual hydration approach. One easy hydration hack is to find a water bottle that you love, both functionally and aesthetically. We tend to surround ourselves with things that give us joy, so a water bottle that meets that requirement is much more likely to make its way into your bag as your leave home for the day. In addition, you are much more likely to actually drink from a water bottle that you love.

Many of our customers find that they have adopted excellent hydration practices through using one of our copper water bottles. In particular, many of our customers have commented that the aesthetically pleasing nature of their copper bottle makes it much more likely that they will keep it at their desk or in their bag when they leave home, and also makes it much more likely that they will take sips from it throughout the day. The gorgeous gleam of pure copper can be a great reminder to keep sipping!

Another great hydration hack is to set automatic alerts on your smartphone that remind you to take a few sips of water every 30 minutes. To avoid intrusions, you can set the alerts to vibrate. While the reminders may be annoying for the first day or two, they should soon help make your new hydration regime a habit, at which time you will have no further need for the reminders and can safely remove them. Interestingly, after a few days of this approach you may also find that your body becomes accustomed to your new hydration regime and that you naturally and automatically take a few sips of water every 30 minutes without needing to actively think about it.

The Timing of Drinking Water

It’s also important to keep in mind exactly when you are drinking water relative to the timing of your meals. In general, you should try to avoid drinking water while having a meal and instead hydrate at least 30 minutes before eating or 2 hours after eating. This is important because drinking water can have the effect of dousing the digestive fire that builds up in our stomachs before a meal (this digestive fire is also known as “agni” in ayurvedic medicine). Drinking water well before you have a meal ensures that your digestive system works as efficiently as possible, which can help avoid stomach-aches and that bloated feeling that many people experience after having a meal.

The same concept applies to drinking water while eating. In general, you should avoid drinking water during a meal if possible. However, if necessary, and particularly if you are consuming salty foods, it’s fine to sip a small amount of water while having your meal. If you drink too much water while you eat, your digestive system may not operate as well as it otherwise would. In order to avoid feeling thirsty after a meal, aim to have a few sips of water 30 minutes before a meal. In addition to helping you avoid feeling thirsty after your meal, the water will also hydrate your stomach’s lining, which will make it easier to produce enough stomach acid to properly digest your meal.

The Temperature of Drinking Water

It’s also vital to be mindful of the temperature of the water that you are drinking. In general, you should aim to drink room temperature water (or, better yet, lukewarm water) rather than cold water. The logic for this is the same as that set out above, except that cold water is even more prone to douse the digestive fire that builds up in our stomachs. In particular, cold water can freeze the enzymes and fluids in your gut, which can prevent your body from properly digesting food, and which can in turn increase the amount of toxins in your body.

In addition, drinking cold water can cause a contraction of blood vessels, which further increases the likelihood that toxins will remain inside your body rather than being excreted through your lymphatic system, which is essentially the network of tissues and organs in your body that is responsible for getting rid of toxins. The constriction of blood vessels can also prevent blood from circulating throughout your body, thereby reducing the delivery of nutrients through your body.

Conversely, drinking room temperature or lukewarm water supports the lymphatic system, which means that, over time, more toxins will be expelled from the body. In particular, drinking room temperature or lukewarm water flushes the lymphatic system, helps soften hardened tissues, dilates, cleanses and hydrates deep tissues, and heals and repairs the digestive system.

Drinking room temperature or lukewarm water can be particularly important for women during menstruation or for couples that are trying to become pregnant. This is because cold water can reduce circulation in a manner that weakens the reproductive organs. Of course, this isn’t to say that you can never enjoy drinking cold water, particularly on a hot day or after a hard workout! Cold water can be fine provided that you enjoy it in moderation and at least 2 hours before any meal.

It’s interesting to reflect on how the above differs dramatically from the usual custom at most restaurants, particularly in North America. Upon arrival at a restaurant, the server generally greets us with large glasses of ice water – precisely the sort of thing we should be avoiding right before we enjoy a nice meal! To avoid that, try politely asking your server at the outset to provide room temperature water – most servers will understand and will be pleased to do it! And, remember to keep any drinking during your meal to a minimum in order to preserve your digestive fire.

How Much Water Should I Drink?

Ayurvedic principles can also help you determine if you are drinking enough water to ensure that you are always feeling your absolute best. Most of us have heard the suggestion that we all need to all drink eight glasses of water a day to avoid being chronically dehydrated. While this may be a helpful guideline or rule of thumb, it does not apply universally.

In order to maintain good health and hydration we need to take in enough water to replace the amount of water we lose daily through perspiration, excretion, and other bodily functions. The ideal daily water intake varies widely from person to person and will depend on a variety of factors, including a person’s size, diet, age, daily activities and the environment in which they conduct their activities. Obviously, a petite person sitting stationary at a desk in an air-conditioned office will need less water on a daily basis than a very tall person working at a construction site in the blistering heat.

Fortunately, our bodies are very good at determining when they are becoming dehydrated and signalling that fact to us by creating the sensation of thirst. Dryness in the lips, skin, eyes, or hair can also be a good indication that the body is becoming dehydrated. Similarly, inflammation in the skin as well as clogged pores, acne, rashes, and red eyes can be a good indication that you need to increase you water intake. Constipation or infrequent bowel movements, or little to no sweat, can also be a good indication that your body is becoming dehydrated. Finally, the colour of your urine is also a good way to determine the quality of your hydration. Urine that is fairly clear and straw-coloured is a good indication that you are staying well-hydrated, while urine that is dark yellow is a good indication that you need to drink more water.

Start Your Morning by Drinking Water

Ayurveda also recommends that you start your morning by drinking water (which is a practice known as “ushapan” in ayurvedic medicine). During the night, our bodies engage in a detoxification process, which explains why we often need to use the bathroom first thing in the morning. You can assist your body in flushing out accumulated toxins and stimulate a proper bowel movement by drinking water immediately after waking up. Helpfully, hydrating first thing in the morning can also reduce drowsiness and make it easier for us to launch into our mornings with energy and vigour.

To make sure you remember to hydrate first thing in the morning, keep a water glass or other water vessel on your night table. Many of our customers fill their copper water bottles before bed at night, leave them on their night tables overnight, and then drink from them first thing in the morning. Using a copper water bottle also has the benefit of transforming water into natural alkaline water, which can have a variety of health benefits.

Watch for Improvement in Your Body

By making some minor changes to your hydration habits, you can dramatically improve your health and well-being.

After following these principles for a few weeks, you should start seeing results. In particular, you should start noticing that your skin and lips are less dry. You should also notice that the health of your skin and hair has improved. Your skin should also start to clear, your pores should start becoming less clogged, and you should be much less prone to acne or other skin issues.

You may also find that your digestion has improved, that you feel less drowsy in the mornings or after meals, and that you generally feel more energetic. And all it takes is a few simple and intuitive changes in the way you consume water.

About the Authors: This article was collaboratively written by our team of researchers and writers with the benefit of all available scientific studies and other relevant literature. Our team of researchers and writers include experienced health researchers including a qualified medical professional. Please note that information in this article is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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Ayurvedic medicine is the oldest medical institution in the world. It began in India and dates back thousands of years. This article explores the origin and history of Ayurvedic medicine.

History

It is believed that the ancient rishis or seers of India received the gift of Ayurveda from their Hindu gods about 5,000 years ago. Essential information for how to achieve a balanced and healthy life was recorded in their sacred texts, the Vedas, specifically the Atharva Veda.

It is said that the Hindu god Brahma, one of the chief triumvirate gods of Hinduism, created Ayurveda. He then transmitted this knowledge to his son, Daksha Prajapati. Daksha passed it down to the twin Vedic gods Ashwini Kumaras. The twin gods became the physicians of the gods, and the Devas of Ayurveda. The twin gods presented Ayurveda to Indra, the king of gods. Indra had three physicians as his disciples, namely Acharya Bharadwaj, Acharya Kashyapa and Aacharya Divodas Dhanvantari. From Bharadwaj’s teaching, his student Agnivesha developed the fundamental Ayurvedic text of internal medicine. Agnivesha’s disciple, Acharya Charak then revised this body of work. This started the tradition of passing down the knowledge of Ayurveda from gods to sages.

The Mahabharata, India’s epic narrative, also tells of the incarnation of Vishnu in the being of Dhanvantari. During the great cosmic churning of the ocean for the celestial nectar of immortality, Dhanvantari emerged, and Vishnu commissioned him to help humanity cure diseases.

The rishis and munis of Indian society dedicated their entire lives to understanding the truth about the universe. They passed down their knowledge and practices to their students, with which the oral tradition continued on for thousands of years. They recorded their discoveries in the holy book of Vedas. One of the most prominent rishis was Bharadwaja who lived around the time of 700 BCE.

What are the Vedas?

The Vedas are the world’s oldest form of literature. They are written in Sanskrit, India’s ancient language. They hold Hinduism’s sacred scriptures, which are said to be records of revelations discovered by ancient seers and sages.

There are four different bodies of the Veda. These are the Rig Veda, Yajur Veda, Sama Veda, and Atharva Veda. These books detail practices in rituals, worship, hymns, mantras, and ways of life.

Atharva Veda, the latest book to be added to the four Vedas, was compiled in approximately 900 BCE. It is in this body of knowledge that India’s ancient medical practice is comprehensively and systematically outlined.

Ayurvedic Texts

Ayurveda established its own identity as a distinct science after the Vedic period. The Ayurvedic texts are composed of two halves, the Great Three Classics Of Ayurveda and the Lesser Three Classics Of Ayurveda.

The Great Three Classics of Ayurveda consist of Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridayam Sangraha. The Charaka Samhita is believed to have thrived between the second century BCE and the second century CE. The original texts of this book were thought to be written by Agnivesha. He was one of the disciples of Punarvasu Atreya, an Ayurvedic scholar. Agnivesha and his co-disciples created the Samhitas, drawing from the knowledge they received from Atreya and adding their comprehension on the subject. Agnivesha’s Samhita was of particular interest because of its unique and detailed content. Charaka later annotated Agnivesha's work, and focused more on the diagnosis of a disease and channeled Ayurveda as a means of preventing and curing illnesses. Charaka also detailed the medicinal value and qualities of over 10,000 herbal plants.

Sushruta Samhita explains the concept and practice of surgery in Ayurveda. Modern scholars and researchers suggest that the Sushruta Samhita was created approximately in the middle of the first millennium BCE. It is believed to be authored by Sushruta, one of the students of Divodasa. Sushruta Samhita is composed of 184 chapters and presents 1,120 health conditions, 300 types of operations that require 42 different surgical procedures, 121 various kinds of instruments, and 650 kinds of medicine derived from animals, plants, and minerals.

Ashtanga Hridayam Sangraha was formed by Vagbhata some years after the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita were written. It mainly focuses on Kayachikitsa, the branch of Ayurveda that specializes in internal medicine. It was in this body of knowledge that the dosha and their sub-parts were presented in detail.

The Lesser Three Classics of Ayurveda consist of the Sharngadhara Samhita, Bhava Prakasha, and Madhava Nidanam. Sharngadhara Samhita was written by Sharngadhara and is valued for how it specified and explained pharmacological formulations utilized in Panchakarma. It is also in this book that the diagnosis of a person’s health status is made through their pulse. Bhava Prakasha was created around the 16th century, which is one of the later Ayurvedic texts. It also deals with Kayachikitsa, and explains the qualities of various food, plants, and animals in respect of their medicinal and health benefits. Madhava Nidanam emerged around 700 CE and is valued for discussing diseases that involve women and children, toxicology, and conditions of the throat, nose, and ears.

Threats to Ayurveda

The practice of Ayurveda became a tremendously influential force for both the eastern and western world. In fact, Ayurvedic texts were translated into Chinese in 400 CE, and Chinese scholars extensively studied Ayurvedic medical principles in 700 CE. Ayurveda also reached the shores of Greece where it influenced the evolution of medicine in the country.

The great age of Ayurveda dwindled when waves of foreign invasion arrived in India. At around 1200 CE, Islamic forces near Turkey and Afghanistan occupied India. During this period, Muslim culture and traditions infiltrated India’s way of life, which also caused the decline of Ayurveda. These Islamic invaders waged anti-Buddhist and anti-Hindu crusades and destroyed most of Indian culture and literature. A combination of Arabic medicine and Ayurveda emerged, which became known as Unani.

The conquest of the British Empire over India in the 15^th century further threatened the principles and practice of Ayurveda. During this time, the British rulers prohibited Ayurveda and promoted the practice of Western medicine. Lord McCauley decreed that English methods of medicine were required to be performed in all territories governed by the East India Company.

During the 19th century, a shift in the Indian political landscape and a nationalist movement reawakened people’s interest in Ayurveda. By the dawn of the 20^th century, when India achieved independence, India strived to restore Ayurvedic practices. During this time, Ayurveda was acknowledged as medicine, and the government promoted its growth. Numerous colleges, hospitals, and dispensaries were built. Legislation and government policies were also formed to assess Ayurvedic practice and education. Production and sale of Ayurvedic medicine became regulated under the law. Ayurveda continues to thrive in modern society as a means of alternative medicine.

The Concept of Ayurveda

The word Ayurveda is comprised of two Sanskrit terms. Ayur means life, while Veda translates into science or knowledge. Ayurveda has extensively explored natural methods for improving the wellness of the body and mind for millennia. Ayurveda continues to evolve as it responds to the discovery of new diseases.

The main principle of Ayurveda states that the mind and body are connected and the mind has the power to heal and transform a person’s whole being.

In Ayurvedic practices, treatment is specifically created for each person and will largely depend on the state of his or her dosha. In particular, an Ayurvedic practitioner will assess the composition of a person’s dosha and the illnesses he or she is experiencing. It is only then that the Ayurvedic practitioner will recommend a specific treatment for the illness or imbalance. Practitioners of Ayurveda believe that the manifestation of illness is not the same for all people, and that sickness will vary based on how their bodies manifest the symptoms.

Dosha

Three forces are fundamental to the concept of Ayurveda. These are the vata, pitta, and the kapha. They are also known as dosha. They are thought to circulate through the body and control a person’s physiological operations.

Vata is said to be connected to the wind, always mobile and dynamic, and regulates the central nervous system. Pitta is viewed similarly to the sun, which is the source of energy, and governs the digestive system and other biochemical processes. Lastly, kapha controls the balance of the body’s tissue fluids, the growth of cells, and the body’s muscular tone.

These dosha can also affect an individual’s temperament and personality. The concept of prakruti explains an individual’s dosha composition and suggests each person has a combination of the three dosha. These energies actively change in response to a person’s thoughts, actions, food, and environmental factors such as the seasons. Identifying a person’s dosha composition will enable him or her to take measures that will bring their state to balance.

There are three states in which the dosha can manifest. The ideal state is balanced or having achieved equilibrium. This happens when all three dosha are in natural proportion with each other. Another condition is the increased state where one of the dosha are greater or excess in proportion relative to the others. Lastly, the decreased state happens one of the dosha is depleted, reduced, and lesser than the other dosha.

When the dosha become imbalanced, a person's state becomes what is known as vikruti. It can manifest in physiological and behavioral symptoms. For example, a person who has a dominant vata dosha may exhibit the imbalance through dehydration, low energy, feelings of dizziness, anxiety, confusion, and excessive movement and speech.

Ayurveda seeks to maintain the balance of the dosha. Optimum health is claimed to be achieved when these dosha are in perfect harmony with each other. In contrast, negative health status is said to be a result of an imbalance among the dosha. An Ayurvedic practitioner can customize remedies and therapies to heal a person according to his or her needs and bring the dosha into balance.

Vaidya

The vaidya is a person who practices Ayurveda. In Sanskrit, the word translates into physician. A senior practitioner of Ayurveda is known as vaidyaraja (physician king). Royal families had their own vaidya and were called raja vaidya.

To be a reputable vaidya, one would have to study the principles of Ayurvedic medicine for 12 years. Schools and universities offer formal education in Ayurvedic medicine. A person who desires to become a vaidya can enroll for short-term approved training programs or a formal bachelor’s degree. One does not need to be a licensed medical professional to become an Ayurvedic practitioner. However, Ayurvedic practitioners who want to pursue formal medical training must finish an undergraduate degree. Part of Ayurvedic education includes the study of the principles of dosha, yoga techniques, herbal treatments, and healthy dietary practices.

Branches of Ayurveda

There are eight different components in Ayurvedic medicine that encompass the body’s holistic health. These branches further explain various bodily functions, and how to prevent and cure diseases in these areas:

1. Kayachikitsa (internal medicine): this branch is concerned with the overall treatment of the entire body. It also focuses on the body’s digestive system and metabolism. Procedures can be executed internally and externally, and may include orally taking medicine as prescribed by the Ayurvedic practitioner and applying oils, lotions, and creams.
2. Baala Chikitsa (treatment for children): this branch is also called Kaumara Bhritya. It focuses on diseases and sickness that manifest in children. It is also concerned with pre and postnatal care. Ayurvedic practitioners keep in mind that children cannot fully explain the problems they are feeling, that each treatment will be different for each child, and that the medicine prescribed should be pleasant to the taste.
3. Graha Chikitsa (psychiatry): also known as Bhoot Vidya, this branch deals with problems and diseases of the mind. Some of the treatments used under Graha Chikitsa include herbs, recommended diet, yoga, deep breathing, and Mantra Chikitsa which involves chanting mantras.
4. Urdhyaanga Chikitsa: also known as Shalakaya Tantra, this branch is primarily concerned with health and issues in the upper part of the body, particularly the eyes, ears, nose, and throat.
5. Shalyaroga Chikitsa (surgery): this branch is mainly concerned with surgical procedures. It describes the use of surgical devices such as scalpels and scissors.
6. Damstra Chikitsa (toxicology): this branch deals with the study and remedy of toxins and poisons in the body, food, and environment.
7. Jara Chikitsa (geriatric): this branch is concerned with the care of the elderly. It focuses on the treatment of sickness and diseases brought about by old age. Therapies focus on rejuvenation, longevity, memory, and strength.
8. Vajjikaran Chikitsa (reproductive health): this involves sexual health and treatment of reproductive problems such as infertility and the insufficiency of essential fluids.

Components of Ayurvedic Treatment

Treatment in Ayurveda involves four components. These are the Bhishak, (physician/surgeon), Rogi (patient), Upasthata (nurse or caregiver), and Dravyam (food/medicine). These components are linked with one another and must possess certain qualities in order for the overall treatment to be effective.

The bhishak must possess vast medical knowledge and experience. He or she must be dexterous, disciplined, and clean. The rogi must be able to describe the complaints he or she is feeling, comply and follow the bhishak’s prescription carefully, and must be tolerant of the procedures. The upasthata must have substantial knowledge and experience in nursing, must be dexterous and compassionate towards the patient. Lastly, the dravyam should be abundant and easily accessible and appropriate to cure the particular disease. In addition, the herbs must be transformable into different forms and doses, and must be prepared through a method which ensures that it retains all of its desired therapeutic characteristics.

Treatments and Remedies in Ayurvedic Medicine

Diagnosis in Ayurveda is conducted in two steps. The first step is to identify the state and type of pathology. This can involve health examinations and other investigations to determine the disease, such as asking questions and assessing the patient. The second step is to determine the form of treatment to be prescribed or conducted. The status of the patient's strength and physical state is also evaluated in formulating the appropriate treatment.

There are five types of treatment in Ayurvedic medicine. They are all based on the five primary senses of sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell. All five methods aim to bring balance to the person’s dosha and can be done in any combination as prescribed the practitioner.

Sight

Ayurvedic practitioners believe that the colors a person perceives can affect their mood and the balance of their dosha. Balancing the dosha can be performed through color therapy or chromotherapy. This is best done together with other forms of remedy such as aromatherapy and hydrotherapy. Exposing a person to a particular color can trigger the effects that are needed to balance their dosha.

Some colors that are believed to have healing effects are:

• red (stimulates circulation and aids those with anemia, fatigue, and exhaustion)
• yellow (assists in digestion and liver processes and can also work as a decongestant and antibacterial agent)
• blue (exudes a calming atmosphere and is used to treat inflammation, burns, etc.)

A study was conducted to explore the effects of color therapy on recovering stroke patients and their caregivers. The researchers noted that stroke patients had a level of depression and at the same time their caretakers also suffered from psychological distress. The results showed remarkable difference after color therapy was conducted. The study concluded that the method could be a useful after-treatment therapy to help improve a patient’s psychological state.

Sound

Treatment by sound can be carried out through music, mantras, chanting, toning, and the use of bells, gongs, and bowls. It is believed that vibrations and frequencies can create harmony that are needed to bring balance to the body and the universe. If a cacophony ensues, it will bring disturbance, disease, and discomfort. In practice, one way a person can bring balance and eliminate impurities through sound is to practice Nada Yoga. This can be done externally by focusing on musical notes, the sounds that nature emits, and other non-vocal tones. Internal Nada Yoga involves listening to one’s inner sound. Toning is another method of sound therapy where one can bring balance to a specific region of their body by creating vibrations that resonate with the particular area.

One study proposes that a particular compound is responsible for the physiological and psychological calming effects of sound therapy. Nitric oxide is necessary for the development and function of the auditory system. The researchers explored how nitric oxide mediates the impact of music on the emotion centers of the nervous system. Other research also investigated the effects of vibroacoustic therapy in pain management and the possibility of using it in the nursing environment to help improve patients’ well-being.

Taste

Drawing from the sense of taste, Ayurvedic practitioners can prescribe a diet or a combination of medicinal plants that can balance the patient’s dosha. This composition of food and herbs is tailor-made for the person seeking to bring balance and healing to his or her body and mind.

In Ayurveda, there are six facets of taste. These are sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent. Each flavor has a specific function, such as calming the nerves, increasing the absorption of minerals, and stimulating digestion. Ayurveda believes that all six facets must be incorporated into a meal to achieve optimum health. It also makes sense that all six facets constitute complete dietary nutrition that the body needs.

Touch

Treatment through touch can be administered through massages and oils. Various strokes and pressures can affect the dosha and help bring them into balance. One type of Ayurvedic massage therapy is Marna, which focuses on stimulating the flow of life energy (prana) by kneading different points and channels of the body.

One study examined past evidence of massage therapy for the treatment of back pain. The researchers concluded that massage therapy was indeed effective in alleviating persistent backache. Another study was also conducted to see how massage therapy relieved the symptoms of cancer patients. The research spanned three years and involved over 1,000 patients. The subjects were asked to rate the level of pain they experienced before and after the massage therapy. Results showed that 50% of the symptom scores were reduced. The study indicates that massage therapy is linked to significant improvement in cancer patients’ symptoms.

Smell

Remedy through smell is practiced through the inhalation of different scents and aroma from essential oils and plants. The oil molecules reach the limbic system in the way of nerve impulses and send signals to the nervous system. This stimulating of the limbic system can help improve one's memory.

One of the primary forms of treatment is aromatherapy, and varying types of scents are identified as suitable to bring balance to the dosha. Essential oils are mainly used to stimulate the olfactory system and enhance the mood. A relaxing aromatic bath can also release tension in the body. It can also be executed in conjunction with massage therapy using essential oils.

Several studies have been conducted to explore the effects of aromatherapy. One such study examined the effects of aromatherapy on a person’s mood and alertness in relation to math problems. Results of the study showed that subjects were more relaxed, had lower levels of depressed mood and finished the math problems faster.

Another research study investigated the effects of aromatherapy in managing agitation levels in patients with severe dementia. The research used lemon balm and applied it to the patients’ faces and arms. The study revealed a 35% overall improvement in the patients’ agitation level. It also concluded that the quality of life improved for the patients who received the essential oil treatment.

Panchkarma

Panchkarma focuses on detoxification. The purificatory effects aim to improve bodily functions, known as Samshodhana and Samshamana. Panchkarma treatment can be a combination of five processes - Vamana (Emesis), Virechana (Purgation), Niroohavasti (Decoction enema), Nasya (inhalation of medicine through nostrils), and Anuvasanavasti (oil enema).

Studies have been conducted to determine how Panchkarma affects the health. One study observed the application of Panchkarma to 20 female participants pre-treatment, immediately after the treatment, and three months post-treatment, and assessed their quality of life and psychosocial and behavioral states. Results showed significant improvement in the participants’ health and well-being.

Another study also explored how Panchkarma can be applied in geriatrics. Researchers have noted the increase in life expectancy in India and overseas, and how Panchkarma can respond to geriatric diseases.

It is vital to note that Ayurveda can be harmful if it is applied without the direction and guidance of an expert practitioner. A person who has insufficient knowledge of Ayurveda can wrongly prescribe a particular formula of herbs. Some medicines can also be potentially toxic if too much is prescribed.

Ayurvedic Medicine in Modern Times

The emergence of Western medicine and modern science has threatened Ayurveda’s integrity. However, scientific studies and research that aim to objectively investigate Ayurveda have been conducted in an effort to connect current medicine and Ayurveda and to validate Ayurveda’s healing principles.

One researcher produced an article review aiming to connect Ayurveda with evidence-based scientific approaches in Western medicine. The article describes a practical evaluation of the quality, methodology, and extent of scientific research in Ayurvedic medicine. The article concludes that Ayurveda and experimental evidence-based medicine should be combined, and encourages researchers to work together with innovative initiatives that explore predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine.

There has also been an increase in demand for Ayurvedic herbal medicine due to its phyto-pharmaceutical properties. Western countries have started to acknowledge Ayurveda as a safer alternative compared to synthetic drugs. However, industrialized production of Ayurvedic medicine is facing the challenge of complying with the fundamental principle that treatment should be crafted and customized for each unique patient.

The SRS Clinic, headed by Dr. Raj Sidhu, makes a distinction between modern medicine and Ayurveda. The clinic states that Ayurveda should not be viewed in competition with Western medicine. There are situations where Western medicine is most suitable, and then there are cases where Ayurveda works best. However, the researchers distinguished Ayurveda from modern medicine on the basis of its healthy holistic lifestyle which addresses the causes of illness and not only the symptoms. Ayurveda also does not trigger side effects like those of modern medicine. It nourishes and rejuvenates the body’s tissues instead of weakening and killing them, which is typically the side-effect of pharmacuetical drugs.

In an interview of Dr. Jayarajan Kodikannath, Director of Kerala Ayurveda Academy, he notes that Ayurveda can work in harmony with other medical processes. Each health system, whether ancient or modern, Eastern or Western, has its strengths and limitations. The essential takeaway to consider is how to combine Ayurveda with modern medicine without any contradiction.

Modern Research of Ayurvedic Principles and Application to Illnesses

A study was conducted to identify the parameters of a person’s dosha objectively. The researchers sought to determine that the phenotype of an individual is similar to the determinants to his or her dosha-prakriti. A similar study was also conducted to explore the concept of ayurgenomics. The researchers also explored how the gene EGLN1 could be the molecular counterpart of the tridosha which regulates different phenotypic outcomes. Ayurgenomics can also be used to identify and discover therapeutic approaches for a specific individual.

Another review explores the causes of cancer from the perspective of Ayurveda. The researchers noted that despite the large sum of money invested in cancer research, there have not been any significant breakthroughs in the past 50 years. Cancer also occurs more commonly in Western countries compared to Eastern nations. The researchers aimed to discover how Ayurveda could be integrated with modern medicine for the treatment of cancer.

Further scientific research was conducted to determine the use of Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. The study looked into a particular Ayurvedic herb known as the ashwagandha. In Ayurveda, herbs are classified as brain tonics or rejuvenators, with ashwagandha ranking first as one of the plants commonly used for this treatment.

Another Ayurvedic herbal treatment was a subject of a scientific study. The rejuvenating properties of Rasayana herbs are worth exploring for antioxidant treatment and disease management. The researchers noted that Rasayana herbs encourage significant antioxidant activity, but only a few have been closely examined.

A recent study also aims to explore the development of modern medicine derived from Ayurvedic ingredients. The researchers acknowledge that Ayurvedic medicines cause fewer side effects and suggest that these herbal treatments be incorporated into the production of contemporary medicine. The herbs used in Ayurveda contain many active components, many of which have not yet been extensively studied scientifically.

Other research examined an Ayurvedic approach to maintaining a healthier liver. The researcher noted a variety of Ayurvedic herbs, such as Andrographis Aerial Parts (Andrographis paniculata), Hellebore Root (Picrorhiza kurroa), Ginger Rhizome (Zingiber officinale), and Embelia Fruit (Embelia ribes). These herbs have been traditionally used to cure liver diseases, promote digestion, and enhance metabolism and circulation.

Ayurveda’s Relevance to Modern Society

Ayurveda has long been acknowledged as an integral part of India’s health system and as an important part of its national heritage. Medical systems such as Ayurveda that are rooted in knowledge and availability of medicinal plants and herbs are a significant component of modern alternative medicine, and play an increasingly crucial role in modern cultures. This understanding of medical processes has been passed down from generation to generation and has been modified along the way with the emergence of scientific research.

The emergence of modern medical practices and remedies has also come with a very significant price point. Ayurveda provides an excellent alternative for people who cannot afford the cost demanded by modern medical treatment due to socio-economic factors.

Finding a cure for severe diseases such as AIDS, cancer, and alzheimer’s disease has been a challenge for medical researchers. Not only are treatments costly, but they also pose the risk of side effects caused by medications. Medical researchers are increasingly turning their attention to Ayurveda.

Since Ayurveda is deeply rooted in spirituality and prescribes a holistically healthy lifestyle, there has been an increase in people practicing its principles around the world. Yoga and meditation have become widely popular globally. Ayurveda-based massages are offered in spas and many people benefit from such services. Ayurveda's influence is steadily seeping into societies internationally. Not only does Ayurveda provide health benefits but it also offers a positive economic impact.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recognized Ayurveda’s relevance and importance to the modern medical field within the context of India during the International Conference on Primary Health Care (also known as the Alma-Ata Declaration of 1978). The WHO acknowledged the role of traditional, alternative and complementary systems of medicine in health sectors for both developed and developing countries. With the slogan “Health For All”, WHO outlined the Traditional Medicine Program, which is defined as “the knowledge, skills, and practices of holistic healthcare, recognized and accepted for its role in the maintenance of health and the treatment of diseases. It is based on indigenous theories, beliefs, and experiences that are passed on from generation to generation.” WHO continues to encourage the preservation and promotion of the traditional medicine of each country.

One of the challenges that Ayurveda faces in its development is the standardization of its medicine. For Ayurveda to be fully launched on a global scale, standardization and quality control are essential. Uniformization must begin from the first phase of harvesting raw resources. Ayurvedic manufacturing must also adhere to internationally acceptable standards. However, these standards are mostly relevant to modern pharmaceutical conventions.

This increased interest in Ayurveda has also caused a wave of anxiety for natives in India. Some people think that Ayurveda must not be reproduced on such a global scale as it will become a target of exploitation by multinational companies at the cost of India’s economy and national interest. This fear has also heightened due to new laws affecting patents and other intellectual property. A supply crisis is also threatening various medicinal plants, many species of which are considered rare and vulnerable to extinction.

Medicinal plants and herbs used in Ayurveda are also threatening the conservation of India’s flora. A study was conducted to explore how Ayurveda can support India’s sustainability management practices. Around 1,200 species of herbs and plants are used in Ayurvedic medicine and about 500 are commercially traded. Despite the importance of these medicinal plants, the trade for them remains unorganized, unregulated, and complicated. Entities in India’s central government have intervened to handle issues with medicinal plants, such as the Department of Indian Systems of Medicine (working under the Ministry of Health), the Department of Science and Technology, and the Department of Biotechnology, among others. Part of their operations for conservation include developing bio and agricultural technologies, identifying threatened species, and regulating the export of medicinal herbs.

How to Implement Ayurvedic Practices at Home

An ancient Ayurvedic practice that is easy to begin yourself at home is drinking copper infused water. Water stored in a copper vessel (which is known as tamra jal in Ayurvedic medicine) balances the three dosha in your body (vata, kapha and pitta) by gently infusing the water with the positive health properties of copper. Water stored in a copper vessel will also become natural alkaline water, which helps balance your body’s pH levels. A copper water bottle is a great investment to create your own tamra jal at home and on the go!

Things to Consider Before Subscribing to Ayurveda

Ayurveda’s existence for thousands of years can be viewed as evidence of its efficacy and usefulness. If you are considering Ayurvedic treatments, you should always consult with your healthcare provider. You should ask their advice on how Ayurveda can be used in conjunction with the treatments they prescribe. You should also be careful not to use Ayurveda as a complete replacement for conventional care or to postpone seeking professional medical attention in favor of Ayurvedic treatments. This precaution is especially vital for pregnant women and children. Lastly, you should disclose all of your health practices, both in respect of conventional medicine and Ayurvedic procedures, to allow your healthcare provider to provide safe, coordinated care.

About the Authors: This article was collaboratively written by our team of researchers and writers with the benefit of all available scientific studies and other relevant literature. Our team of researchers and writers include experienced health researchers including a qualified medical professional. Please note that information in this article is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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In one of our previous posts, we discussed the importance of proper hydration from an athletic standpoint. While fitness is a necessary component of maintaining a healthy and well-rounded lifestyle, we should not forget that most of us spend a substantial amount of time in the workplace. When we speak about proper hydration, we tend to only focus on the things that we can do at home or at the gym.

Unfortunately, there is very little emphasis put on proper hydration in workplace environments. As a result, employees can end up being dehydrated and stressed out. What tends to be overlooked is that well-hydrated employees often yield better results at work. The good news is that proper hydration is a skill that can be easily learned through practice. The other good news is that proper hydration can also be incorporated with another skill: meditation. In this post, we discuss a new concept of hydration called "mindful hydration", which essentially involves drinking water while in a meditative state.

When to Practice Mindful Hydration

Good mental health and productivity go hand in hand in the workplace. It is easier to maintain a sense of purpose and deal with the ups and downs of your workday if you maintain good mental health. However, we all know that mental health can change with life circumstances. Accordingly, it is important to be able to recognize when something does not feel right and take remedial steps. The earlier you do, the sooner you will be able to bounce back and make the most of your potential.

When can you say that you are distressed at work? Mental distress can manifest itself in many ways. You may notice that you become tired much more easily, that you are making uncharacteristic mistakes at work, or that you are lacking motivation. You may also find it hard to arrive at work on time. In addition, you may find that you are isolating yourself from your colleagues.

Mental distress should not be the end of the road. There are many ways to pull yourself back on track. As it happens, there is a simple exercise you can easily perform at work which involves two simple things: water and meditation.

A 90-Second Exercise to Regain Peace and Calm at Work

The mindful hydration exercise provides the benefits of meditation and hydration in a single action, and it only takes 90 seconds to perform. This workplace skill was developed by Bill Howatt (President of Howatt HR Consulting and Chief Research and Development Officer of Workforce Productivity with Morneau Shepell in Toronto) and Darren Steeves (Professional Exercise Physiologist and co-founder of Vendura Wellness).

Before starting, you should first self-evaluate your workplace situation. You can complete an assessment to help you determine your stress levels. You may also need to determine your hydration levels in order to maximize the benefits of this exercise. Lastly, you will need to have a water vessel (e.g. glass or bottle) that will serve as your ‘anchor’ for the entire duration of the activity.

The mindful hydration process involves the following three step process:

1. Find a peaceful place without distractions. Take your vessel (filled with water) with you and sit in a comfortable position. Once you are comfortably seated, take three deep breaths and slowly exhale after each breath. Place your hand on your water vessel on your third breath.
2. After your third breath, be mindful of the water that you hold and appreciate how calm and peaceful it is. During this moment, free your mind from any thoughts and allow yourself to recognize the ‘now’ moment. It is okay if you find it hard to refocus and clear your mind of any thought – that is normal. These first two steps should take you approximately 30 seconds.
3. It is now time to practice mindful hydration; take a mouthful of water and let it flow down your throat slowly. Take a deep breath between each mouthful and exhale. Recognize the water and appreciate this peaceful ‘now’ moment. Should you become distracted, simply shift your focus back to the water and nothing more. This last step should take you approximately 60 seconds.

Perform this exercise every day for six weeks. After the sixth week, take the assessment again to measure its impact on your well-being and gauge your improvement. You should see a significant, positive change in both your physical and mental health. You may also see a significant improvement in you hydration levels.

Using a Copper Bottle in Mindful Hydration

A copper bottle is an excellent tool to use in mindful hydration. Our copper bottles are not only beautiful works of art, but excellent for your health as well. In particular, water stored within a copper water bottle will become natural alkaline water which offers a variety of health benefits, including increased energy levels and mental clarity.

About the Authors: This article was collaboratively written by our team of researchers and writers with the benefit of all available scientific studies and other relevant literature. Our team of researchers and writers include experienced health researchers including a qualified medical professional. Please note that information in this article is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Read more...