Over the years, I’ve immersed myself in various healing traditions, but studying Ayurvedic digestion therapy with Hale Paule Ayurveda has been one of the most transformative experiences. Ayurveda, often referred to as the “science of life,” teaches us to live in harmony with our bodies, minds, and nature. In my studies, I’ve learned the profound impact of digestion on our overall health, energy, and well-being. Here are some of the key insights that have shaped how I approach food, cooking, and nourishment:
1. The Importance of Eating Mindfully
Ayurveda emphasises that how we eat is as important as what we eat. Eating in a calm, relaxed environment, free from distractions, allows the body to fully focus on the process of digestion. I’ve embraced practices like sitting down to eat, avoiding screens, and creating a peaceful atmosphere for meals. Chewing food thoroughly is another crucial habit—it signals the body to release digestive enzymes and ensures food is properly broken down before it reaches the stomach.
2. Cooking the Ayurvedic Way
Cooking is an act of love and a way to infuse your meals with positive energy. In Ayurveda, food is considered medicine, and cooking methods are tailored to make food more digestible and nourishing. Root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets are particularly valued for their grounding and calming effects on the body. Incorporating spices like cumin, coriander, fennel, and ginger not only enhances flavor but also aids digestion by stimulating digestive fire (Agni).
3. Eating Small Portions
One of the fundamental teachings of Ayurveda is to eat until you are satisfied, not stuffed. Overeating taxes the digestive system, leading to discomfort and fatigue. Smaller portions are easier to digest and ensure that your body can efficiently absorb nutrients. This aligns with the Ayurvedic principle of moderation and balance in all things.
4. Walking After Meals
Another practice I’ve incorporated into my daily routine is taking a gentle walk after a main meal. Ayurveda recommends a short walk (about 100 steps) to help stimulate digestion and prevent the heaviness or lethargy that often follows eating. This practice has become a simple yet effective way to stay active and feel lighter after meals.
5. Choosing Easy-to-Digest Foods
Ayurveda teaches that not all foods are created equal when it comes to digestion. Warm, cooked meals are generally preferred over raw or cold foods, as they are gentler on the digestive system. Foods like root vegetables, soups, and stews are particularly nourishing and grounding. Drinking ginger tea regularly has also become a ritual for me, as it helps to calm the stomach and enhance digestion.
6. The Power of Spices
Spices are an integral part of Ayurvedic cooking. They not only add flavor but also have therapeutic properties. Turmeric is anti-inflammatory, fennel soothes the digestive tract, and black pepper enhances nutrient absorption. Learning how to blend these spices into meals has made cooking both an art and a science for me.
7. Honoring Hunger and Satiety
Ayurveda emphasizes listening to your body’s natural hunger and satiety cues. Eating only when hungry and stopping when satisfied is a simple yet profound way to maintain balance. I’ve also learned the importance of allowing adequate time between meals to let the previous meal fully digest before eating again.
8. Calm Mind, Healthy Digestion
The state of the mind greatly influences digestion. Stress and anxiety can hinder the digestive process, while a calm and happy mind supports it. Practices like deep breathing, gratitude before meals, and mindfulness have helped me create a more harmonious relationship with food and my body.
Bringing It All Together
Studying Ayurveda with Hale Paule Ayurveda has been life-changing. It has taught me that digestion is the foundation of health, and even small changes in how we eat can make a significant difference. Whether it’s savoring a warming bowl of soup, enjoying a post-meal stroll, or sipping on ginger tea, these simple practices have brought me closer to vibrant health and well-being.
Ginger-Spiced Lentil & Vegetable Stew
A comforting, nutrient-packed dish that’s easy to digest and full of vibrant flavors.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup red lentils (soaked for 20 minutes and rinsed)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 1 sweet potato (peeled and cubed)
• 1 cup chopped purple cabbage
• 2 handfuls of fresh spinach (optional, added at the end)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger (grated)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp fennel seeds (optional)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder (for warmth)
• 1 tbsp ghee or coconut oil
• 4 cups vegetable broth or water
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Sea salt and black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Heat the ghee or coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and fennel seeds (if using) and let them sizzle for a few seconds until aromatic. Stir in the onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until softened.
2. Add Spices:
Add the turmeric, coriander, and cinnamon powder to the pot, stirring for 30 seconds to release their flavors.
3. Cook the Lentils and Vegetables:
Add the rinsed lentils, carrots, sweet potato, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Incorporate Purple Cabbage:
Add the purple cabbage to the pot and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
5. Finish the Dish:
Stir in the fresh spinach (if using) and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Adjust seasoning with sea salt and black pepper.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with a wedge of lemon on the side for added brightness.
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