Total Health For All in 2000 A.D.

WHO has set the year 2000 as a target for total health for all. This is amusing because total health is the essence of Ayurveda, the Sri Lankan Medical system adopted from India over 3,000 years ago. If Sri Lankans are short of this ideal it is because we have been confused over the years by the introduction of what is loosely termed Western Medicine.

The reason for this adulteration is easy to find. It is basically a question of time. ayurveda ensures good health for all those who practise it in their daily lives. But it is a very slow process. The reward is that it does not have any side effects like the new wonder drugs or even the commonplace asprin.

The special strength of Ayurveda is that it embodies a whole philosophy of life. It begins with the mind. It is the development of mental strength through deep breathing and meditation which by relaxing the mind and body keep sickness at bay. This is a familiar idea to westerners too who keep using the phrase psychosomatic which means that the state of your mind affects your body, in a headache or more seriously with blood pressure or heart ailments.

so ayurveda recommends a lifestyle that does not stimulate you endlessly artificially. Meditation, deep breathing and of course a balanced diet are the rules to follow. rich foods and overeating are strictly forbidden. Fresh foods, leafy vegetables and home grown herbs and vines, made up as a salad or gruel keep you in good condition. Orientals also advise eating in silence so that you can chew each mouthful well.

Gentle exercise is also recommended, graded acording to your age. Many Ayurveda followers boast that they can read without specs right up to their eighties and don’t forget plenty of sleep.

There are many home remedies for common ailments like tummy upsets and efficacious oils to be messaged in even for fractures.

My favourite remedy for colds and flu is to inhale steam in which lemon leaves have been boiled. I have not had a cold or flu for 1 1 1/2 years. Now, ...... Isn’t this something to tell everyone about!

Like a well maintained car look after your body without waiting for something to break down. This is the philosophy of Sri Lankan medicine.