Doshas

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Ask Dr. Simon: Frustrated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome

August 14, 2009 in David Simon M.D., Doshas, Emotional Wellbeing, Meditation, Physical Health by the Chopra Center | No comments

david-simon-portrait-webDear Dr. Simon,
I have a very debilitating irritable bowel that was diagnosed years ago. Every time I eat, my stomach bloats and remains bloated all day. I take Prilosec and Gas-x, but no medication helps. I also have rings on my esophagus that I have had dilated, and they spasm and mimic chest pain tightness. Prilosec has given me polyps on stomach. Sometimes I just want to give up because eating is such a hardship. I constantly look 6-months pregnant, and on a very bad day, I look 9 months pregnant. I am stressed and so is my body, and no one has been able to help me. Please shed some light on this. Thank you.

Answer: From an ayurvedic perspective, you have a significant Vata imbalance in your digestive tract resulting from weak digestive powers, known in Sanskrit as agni. The Chopra Center experience is that the symptoms of IBS can be reduced through a holistic approach. First, if you don’t already have a meditation practice, my suggestion would be to learn a  mind quieting practice such as Primordial Sound Meditation, which helps heal the body and mind at a cellular level. According to a number of scientific studies, meditation and other stress management techniques can significantly reduce the symptoms of IBS.

Second, for a couple weeks, simplify your diet, eating only cooked basmati rice, steamed vegetables, and a mung dahl. Gradually add fresh ginger to kindle the digestive fire.

At least once a day, gently massage your abdomen using warm, grounding, Vata-pacifying oils such as sesame or almond. After the massage, lie down in a comfortable position, place a hot water bottle over a towel on your belly, and send your digestive system the intention to be soothed. Try this consistently for the next few weeks. If you don’t notice substantial improvement, the next step is panchakarma, an effective ayurvedic cleansing process that identifies, mobilizes, and releases the toxins that get stored in the body and contribute to illness. The Chopra Center offers panchakarma as part of our weekly Perfect Health program. I can hear from your words how much you are struggling with this health issue, and I wish you relief as you continue on your healing path.

With love,
David

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What’s My Dosha?

July 20, 2009 in Ayurveda, David Simon M.D., Doshas by the Chopra Center | No comments

david-simon-portrait-print

Question:
Dear Dr. Simon: I just took the Dosha Quiz, and my scores told me that I have a Kapha body and a Pitta mind. Which diet and lifestyle do I follow? The Kapha or the Pitta?

Answer: First, it is important to recognize that each of us has all three doshas interacting in our minds and bodies, though one or two of the doshas tends to predominate in our individual constitutions. It is not uncommon for those with a strong Pitta mind to eat more when they feel stressed or bored. In fact, a Pitta mind and a Kapha body often go together. In general, we recommend a dietary approach that balances the dosha that is predominant in one’s body. I therefore suggest that you follow a Kapha-pacifying diet using Kapha-balancing spices and teas. You can find more Kapha-balancing recommendations here.

Underlying the Kapha body is the Pitta mind, which is best balanced by developing a regular meditation practice (ideally, half an hour twice a day) as well as a consistent, though not rigid, daily routine. Engage in regular, non-competitive physical exercise. To balance excess Pitta, infuse your environment with soothing aromas (sandalwood, rose, mint), listen to soothing music such as cool jazz, and wear and surround yourself with calming, Pitta-pacifying colors (silver, light blues, and greens).

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Mind-Body Balancing Tips for Summer

July 3, 2009 in Ayurveda, Doshas by the Chopra Center | No comments

fire-hand-xsmallIn the Northern Hemisphere, we are in the midst of Pitta season, with sunny days and intense heat that increase Pitta dosha. [To learn more about the doshas, click here.] in the body, mind, and emotions. If you accumulate too much of this fiery dosha, you are likely to experience irritability, impatience, jealousy, skin rashes, acne, heartburn, hemorrhoids, or digestive problems.

All mind-body types are vulnerable to Pitta imbalances in the summer, but if Pitta is your predominant dosha, it is particularly important to follow a balancing routine to maintain your naturally sweet, joyous, and radiant nature. You can find many recommendations for balancing Pitta at the Chopra Center’s Online Library here.

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