Spring Rejuvenation Guide

Nourish Your Entire Being

Now is a great time to offer your system a little extra support in the way of deeply nutritious rejuvenatives. If you
just completed or intend to complete a cleanse this spring, your body will be craving deep nourishment in the
coming months. If you havent done a cleanse, you can still benefit from the Ayurvedic tradition of rejuvenation.

Ayurvedic Rejuvenation

Improves strength, energy and vitality

Bolsters immunity
Promotes courage, confidence, and success
Slows the aging process
Increases longevity
Improves memory
Promotes cellular intelligence
Brings balance, awareness, joy, and clarity into ones life and relationships

Select your constitution for specific information on rejuvenation for Spring.

Spring Rejuvenation for

Vata

Customer Service rep, Jennifer (Vata type), enjoys spending time in the garden.

Rejuvenation: A Constitution Specific Guide

for Spring
By its very nature, spring is wet, fertile, nutritive, and revitalizing. Everywhere around us, the natural world is reemerging to embrace the sense of renewal that the spring season has to offer. Given this context, now is truly a
perfect time of year to invite deep nourishment, love, and abundance into our lives. Ayurvedic rejuvenation is
aimed at doing just that, and the process helps our bodies repair and revitalize on a very deep level body, mind,
and spirit. As a vata-predominant type, the spring and summer months are a particularly wonderful time for you to
consider a rejuvenation program because the practices involved can help to ground and soothe vata after the more
challenging fall and winter months.
For those of you who recently completed (or intend to complete) a cleanse, rejuvenation is the final component of
the cleanse itself. After working so hard to purify and reset your physiology, you are prepared for deep
nourishment on all levels. And even if you did not do a spring cleanse, rejuvenation alone can strengthen and tone
your physical, mental, and emotional spheres.

Whats An Appropriate Period of Time?

As with many things in Ayurveda, the length of an appropriate rejuvenation program varies from one person to the
next. Rejuvenation therapies are typically implemented for a set period of time usually at least one month and up
to three months. While this may strike you as a long time, keep in mind that rejuvenation should feel nourishing
and enjoyable to you. And, it can really be as simple as adding one practice or one herb to your daily routine.

If you completed a full seven-day cleanse, your body will benefit from a longer period of rejuvenation (about three
months), starting as soon after you complete your cleanse as possible. If that timeframe feels overwhelming to you,
commit to at least one month of rejuvenation.
If you completed a shorter cleanse, be sure to do at least one month of rejuvenation. Or, if you like, you too can
rejuvenate for up to 3 months.
Even if you did not complete a cleanse at all, vata-types normally benefit from a longer period of rejuvenation
about three months. However, there may be some instances where this would not be appropriate.
If you have a known kapha imbalance (especially if it is of greater concern than any vata imbalances you may
have), youll want to go easy on rejuvenation so as not to further aggravate kapha.
Similarly, if you have a lot of toxicity in your system, which can be identified by a thick coating on the tongue,
youll want to keep your rejuvenation routine very simple so that you dont inadvertently nourish the toxins.
In either case, a simple rejuvenation program (of 1-3 therapies) for about a month is probably sufficient and it
might be helpful to think about choosing therapies because they are seasonally appropriate and vata-pacifying
rather than focusing on their rejuvenative properties. You could also favor kapha-type rejuvenatives, which are
lighter and less likely to aggravate either of the above conditions.

Pathways Toward Rejuvenation

What follows is a list of many possible rejuvenative therapies. Please dont feel overwhelmed. The idea is not to
do all of these things, but to pick and choose those recipes and practices that most resonate with you. As you
consider each therapy, remember that your rejuvenation process needs to feel beneficial. It should not add stress to
your life but should instead add a sense of groundedness, contentment, and joy. If several possibilities peak your
interest, consider starting with 1-3 therapies and then gradually expand your repertoire of rejuvenatives only if and
when it feels appropriate.

Dietary Rejuvenatives
At the most fundamental level, a healthy, balanced diet supports deep rejuvenation. All of your tissues, organs, and
systems draw directly from the nourishment contained within the food you eat every day. A diet primarily
composed of freshly cooked, whole foods is quite rejuvenative. On the other hand, processed foods and old, stale
foods have little life force, are difficult to digest, and often contain toxins. As a vata-predominant type in the midst
of kapha season, focus on eating a healthy and balanced kapha-pacifying diet, being careful not to aggravate vata in
the process. Eating cooked foods over raw choices can be very helpful in this respect. You can compliment these
broad strokes with some especially rejuvenative foods:

Almonds, Soaked and Peeled

Soaked almonds are very grounding, nourishing, and energizing. Soaking and peeling them makes them more
digestible and more beneficial to the body. As such, almonds are a highly revered rejuvenative in Ayurveda.
Soaked Cashews
Cashews which are oily, nutritive, and building can also be used in a rejuvenation program. They actually share
many qualities with soaked almonds, including the fact that soaking them makes them more digestible.
Rejuvenative Almond Milk
This very restorative drink provides another delicious way to ingest soaked and peeled almonds. You can cook
with it or drink it plain. It is especially useful in fall and winter, or after a period of major exertion.

Dr. Lads Date & Almond Shake

This shake is a warm, nourishing, and deliciously sweet breakfast or snack. It is very nutritious, grounding, and the
dates, soaked almonds, and milk make it an excellent rejuvenative.
Alakananda Mas Non-Dairy Ojas Drink
This restorative almond drink is lighter and more subtle than the date and almond shake and is a nice spring and
summer rejuvenative. Ingredients like soaked almonds, rose petals, ghee, and saffron make it a potent
rejuvenative.
Dream Date Balls
A very good and sumptuous rejuvenative. In ancient India, these would have been considered an aphrodisiac of
sorts. Very yummy.
Saffron Asparagus Kitchari
This light and subtle tridoshic dish is filled with nourishing ingredients that are perfect for spring and summer
periods of rejuvenation. Originally designed to tonify both the female and male reproductive systems, it is
especially useful for promoting fertility, potency and menstrual health.
Urad Dal
This legume soup detoxifies the system and nourishes the muscle, bone, and reproductive fluids while energizing
the whole body.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Rejuvenative Herbs
There are many different types of rejuvenating herbs each with a distinct purpose. The most widely used
Ayurvedic rejuvenatives work simultaneously on all of the bodys tissues. Below are several herbal rejuvenatives
well suited for your constitution and for the spring and summer seasons. Taking these herbs and formulas with a
catalytic agent such as ghee, honey, or ginger tea helps to deliver the benefits deep into the tissues, increasing the

potency and efficacy of the herbs. Instructions for using each of these specifically as a rejuvenative are provided,
but if you prefer to take your herbs in water or without ghee and honey, they will still be beneficial.

Triphala With Ghee and Honey - Triphala is a tridoshic formula that naturally rejuvenates all of the tissues in the
body (while encouraging the elimination of toxins). It is an especially potent rejuvenative when taken with ghee
and honey usually first thing in the morning. Mix teaspoon of powdered triphala with teaspoon of ghee and
teaspoon of raw honey. Or, if powdered herbs arent your thing, take one triphala herbal tablet, followed by a
mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw honey.
Choose One: Healthy Kapha or Healthy Vata Tablets
Healthy Kapha Tablets This warming and astringent formula is designed to restore and maintain balanced
kapha, without aggravating vata or pitta. In particular, Healthy Kapha supports a clear respiratory system, a robust
immune system, and helps support the maintenance of a healthy weight. Healthy Kapha is an excellent formula for
the winter and spring seasons, when the cool, wet weather tends to disturb kapha. If you are doing a longer
rejuvenation program, you might consider switching from Healthy Kapha to Healthy Pitta in the late spring or
summer whenever the weather heats up enough to make balancing pitta a higher priority. Take 1-2 Healthy
Kapha Tablets, once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Healthy Vata Tablets - Even though it is kapha season now, if the fall and winter tend to be your most
challenging seasons or if you struggle with vata imbalances and are less disturbed by kapha imbalances, Healthy
Vata may be more appropriate for you. This rejuvenating blend of herbs is specifically formulated to restore and
maintain balanced vata, without aggravating pitta or kapha. The herbs in this formula promote energy and vitality
while supporting overall health and well-being. Healthy Vata is an excellent formula for replenishing the system,
especially if the fall and winter have taken a toll on vata. Take 1-2 Healthy Vata Tablets, once or twice daily, or as
directed by your health practitioner.
Chyavanprash - Chyavanprash is a delicious nutritive jam. It is an ancient herbal formula containing both ghee
and honey both of which help to deliver the herbs to the tissues. Chyavanprash can be taken alone, it can be
stirred into milk or water, or it can be spread on toast, bread, or crackers like any other jam. Taking chyavanprash
in warm milk (or almond milk, if dairy is not appropriate) helps to carry its tonifying and rejuvenating qualities
deep into the tissues. As a rejuvenative, chyavanprash is typically taken in the morning, or sometimes in both the
morning and the evening. Take 1-2 teaspoons once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Ashwagandha -Ashwagandha is a highly esteemed herb aimed at improving strength, energy, and vitality. It
improves ones ability to handle stress, promotes physical strength, rejuvenates the tissues (especially the muscles,
bones, joints, and the nervous system), and it supports sound sleep at night. A typical rejuvenative dose would be
teaspoon powdered ashwagandha in the morning, in teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw honey. Or, if you would
prefer a tablet, take one ashwagandha herbal tablet, followed by a mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw
honey.
Haritaki - Haritaki is one of three ingredients in the famous Ayurvedic formula, triphala, but it is particularly
suited to calm vata. If your primary imbalance relates to vata, you could use haritaki instead of triphala, but in a
similar manner taking teaspoon of powdered haritaki with teaspoon ghee and teaspoon honey in the
morning, or taking 1 haritaki herbal tablet followed by a mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon honey.
Vata Digest This formula is heating, grounding, and oily and is very supportive of proper digestion in vatatypes. Whether youre in the rejuvenation phase following a cleanse (when your digestive fire requires a little
boost) or youre simply trying to redirect your bodys tendency toward vata-type digestive issues, this formula is
fabulous. And since proper digestion is a cornerstone of effective rejuvenation, these tablets can truly enhance
your rejuvenation experience. Take 1-2 Vata Digest tablets, once or twice daily, or as directed by your healthcare
practitioner.

Rejuvenating Practices

Not surprisingly, your lifestyle has a profound impact on your bodys ability to repair, regenerate, and revitalize
itself. When we fill our days particularly our mornings with calming, nurturing practices that set a tone of
health, relaxation, and self-love, our bodies are much better able to nurture the rejuvenation process.

Simple Lifestyle Adjustments To Support Rejuvenation

Minimize stress
Minimize travel
Maintain positive relationships
Avoid unfamiliar places or situations that might incite anxiety, fear, or loneliness
Wear enough clothes to avoid getting chilled, especially when the weather is cool and breezy
Undertake a period of celibacy to preserve your vital life energy

In addition to any of the above commitments that appeal to you, you can incorporate some more formal practices to
invite rejuvenation on a very deep level.

Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Oil Massage) Each morning, before a shower or bath, massage about cup warm Vata
Massage Oil or Organic Sesame Oil into the skin. This practice calms, lubricates and rejuvenates the tissues in
particular, the nervous system. For further instructions on this rejuvenating technique, click here.
Oil Your Scalp & Feet Before Sleep Before bed, apply some warm Vata Massage Oil or Sesame Oil to your
scalp and to the soles of your feet. This practice grounds the energy, soothes the nervous system, reduces stress,
and quiets the mind all of which support sound sleep. Remember that sleep is one of the bodys most essential
avenues of rejuvenation.
Nasya Each morning (or at least several times per week) apply 3-5 drops of Nasya Oil into each nostril. This
practice helps to soothe the nasal passages while promoting unobstructed breathing, relieving accumulated stress,
supporting mental clarity and fostering the unfolding of awareness.
Yoga - Vata Pacifying Yoga, which is very gentle, grounding, and nourishing, is the best practice for you this
season, especially if you are undertaking a period of rejuvenation. Restorative postures such as legs up the wall,
and corpse pose are particularly beneficial when it comes to rejuvenation.
Meditation, Pranayama, Quiet Time, and/or Reflective Time Any quiet, contemplative practice even if it is
only 5-15 minutes in duration is incredibly rejuvenative to the mind and physiology. Practicing in the early
morning hours, especially before and around dawn, is powerfully supportive of rejuvenation.

Rejuvenative Products to Consider

Powdered Triphala or Triphala Herbal Tablets

Healthy Kapha or Healthy Vata Tablets
Vata Digest Tablets
Chyavanprash
Powdered Ashwagandha or Ashwagandha Herbal Tablets
Powdered Haritaki or Haritaki Herbal Tablets
Organic Ghee
Vata Massage Oil or Organic Sesame Massage Oil
Nasya Oil

Recipes

Rejuvenative Almond Milk

Dr. Vasant Lads Date & Almond Shake
Alakananda Mas Non-Dairy Ojas Drink
Dream Date Balls
Saffron Asparagus Kitchari
Urad Dal

References
1. Chyawanprash. Wikipedia. Online. Retrieved 24 Apr. 2012. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chyawanprash
2. Lad, Vasant. Ayurvedic Cooking for Self-Healing. The Ayurvedic Press, 2006. 73, 236.
3. Lad, Vasant. Textbook of Ayurveda, Volume 3: General Principles of Management and Treatment. The
Ayurvedic Press, 2012. 407-409, 418.
4. Morningstar, Amadea. The Ayurvedic Cookbook. Lotus Press, 1990. 236, 245, 256.
5. Pole, Sebastian. Ayurvedic Medicine: The Principles of Traditional Practice. Churchill Livingston Elsevier,
2006. 296-297.

Spring Rejuvenation for

Pitta

Banyan Ambassador, Maria (Pitta type), welcomes the rejuvenating energy of Spring.

Rejuvenation: A Constitution Specific Guide

for Spring
By its very nature, spring is wet, fertile, nutritive, and revitalizing. Everywhere around us, the natural world is reemerging to embrace the sense of renewal that the spring season has to offer. Given this context, now is truly a
perfect time of year to invite deep nourishment, love, and abundance into our lives. Ayurvedic rejuvenation is
aimed at doing just that, and the process helps our bodies repair and revitalize on a very deep level body, mind,
and spirit. As a pitta-predominant type, the spring and summer months are a particularly wonderful time for you to
consider a rejuvenation program. It capitalizes on the soothing effect that the winter months can have on pitta and
helps to restore optimal strength to the entire system in preparation for pitta season, which is right around the
corner.
For those of you who recently completed (or intend to complete) a cleanse, rejuvenation is the final component of
the cleanse itself. After working so hard to purify and reset your physiology, you are prepared for deep
nourishment on all levels. And even if you did not do a spring cleanse, rejuvenation alone can strengthen and tone
your physical, mental, and emotional spheres.

Whats An Appropriate Period of Time?

As with many things in Ayurveda, the length of an appropriate rejuvenation program varies from one person to the
next. Rejuvenation therapies are typically implemented for a set period of time usually at least one month and up
to three months. While this may strike you as a long time, keep in mind that rejuvenation should feel nourishing
and enjoyable to you. And, it can really be as simple as adding one practice or one herb to your daily routine.

If you completed a full seven-day cleanse, your body will benefit from a longer period of rejuvenation (about three
months), starting as soon after you complete your cleanse as possible. If that timeframe feels overwhelming to you,
commit to at least one month of rejuvenation.
If you completed a shorter cleanse, be sure to do at least one month of rejuvenation. Or, if you like, you too can
rejuvenate for up to 3 months.
Even if you did not complete a cleanse at all, pitta-types normally benefit from a longer period of rejuvenation
about three months. However, there may be some instances where this would not be appropriate.
If you have a known kapha imbalance (especially if it is of greater concern than any pitta imbalances you may
have), youll want to go easy on rejuvenation so as not to further aggravate kapha.
Similarly, if you have a lot of toxicity in your system, which can be identified by a thick coating on the tongue,
youll want to keep your rejuvenation routine very simple so that you dont inadvertently nourish the toxins.
In either case, a simple rejuvenation program (of 1-3 therapies) for about a month is probably sufficient and it
might be helpful to think about choosing therapies because they are seasonally appropriate and vata-pacifying
rather than focusing on their rejuvenative properties. You could also favor kapha-type rejuvenatives, which are
lighter and less likely to aggravate either of the above conditions.

Pathways Toward Rejuvenation

What follows is a list of many possible rejuvenative therapies. Please dont feel overwhelmed. The idea is not to
do all of these things, but to pick and choose those recipes and practices that most resonate with you. As you
consider each therapy, remember that your rejuvenation process needs to feel beneficial. It should not add stress to
your life but should instead add a sense of vitality, groundedness, contentment, and joy. If several possibilities peak
your interest, consider starting with 1-3 therapies and then gradually expand your repertoire of rejuvenatives only if
and when it feels appropriate.

Dietary Rejuvenatives
At the most fundamental level, a healthy, balanced diet supports deep rejuvenation. All of your tissues, organs, and
systems draw directly from the nourishment contained within the food you eat every day. A diet primarily
composed of freshly cooked, whole foods is quite rejuvenative. On the other hand, processed foods and old, stale
foods have little life-force, are difficult to digest, and often contain toxins. As a pitta-predominant type preparing to
transition from kapha season into pitta season, focus on eating a healthy and balanced kapha-pacifying diet, being
careful not to aggravate pitta in the process. Moderating the amount of heat in your diet can be very helpful in this
respect. You can compliment these broad strokes with some especially rejuvenative foods:

Almonds, Soaked and Peeled

Soaked almonds are very grounding, nourishing, and energizing. Soaking and peeling them makes them more
digestible and more beneficial to the body. As such, almonds are a highly revered rejuvenative in Ayurveda.
Soaked Cashews
Cashews which are oily, nutritive, and building can also be used in a rejuvenation program. They actually share
many qualities with soaked almonds, including the fact that soaking them makes them more digestible.
Rejuvenative Almond Milk
This very restorative drink provides another delicious way to ingest soaked and peeled almonds. You can cook
with it or drink it plain. It is especially useful in fall and winter, or after a period of major exertion.

Dr. Lads Date & Almond Shake

This shake is a warm, nourishing, and deliciously sweet breakfast or snack. It is very nutritious, grounding, and the
dates, soaked almonds, and milk make it an excellent rejuvenative.
Alakananda Mas Non-Dairy Ojas Drink
This restorative almond drink is lighter and more subtle than the date and almond shake and is a nice spring and
summer rejuvenative. Ingredients like soaked almonds, rose petals, ghee, and saffron make it a potent
rejuvenative.
Dream Date Balls
A very good and sumptuous rejuvenative. In ancient India, these would have been considered an aphrodisiac of
sorts. Very yummy.
Rice Khir
This delicious rice pudding is especially rejuvenative for pitta, so this might be a good choice if you feel like the
heat got the better of you this past summer.
Saffron Asparagus Kitchari
This light and subtle tridoshic dish is filled with nourishing ingredients that are perfect for spring and summer
periods of rejuvenation. Originally designed to tonify both the female and male reproductive systems, it is
especially useful for promoting fertility, potency and menstrual health.
Urad Dal
This legume soup detoxifies the system and nourishes the muscle, bone, and reproductive fluids while energizing
the whole body.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Rejuvenative Herbs

There are many different types of rejuvenating herbs each with a distinct purpose. The most widely used
Ayurvedic rejuvenatives work simultaneously on all of the bodys tissues. Below are several herbal rejuvenatives
well suited for your constitution and for the spring and summer seasons. Taking these herbs and formulas with a
catalytic agent such as ghee or honey helps to deliver the benefits deep into the tissues, increasing the potency and
efficacy of the herbs. Instructions for using each of these specifically as a rejuvenative are provided, but if you
prefer to take your herbs in water or without ghee and honey, they will still be beneficial.

Triphala With Ghee and Honey Triphala is a tridoshic formula that naturally rejuvenates all of the tissues in
the body (while encouraging the elimination of toxins). It is an especially potent rejuvenative when taken with ghee
and honey usually first thing in the morning. Mix teaspoon of powdered triphala with teaspoon of ghee and
teaspoon of raw honey. Or, if powdered herbs arent your thing, take one triphala herbal tablet, followed by a
mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw honey.
Choose One: Healthy Kapha or Healthy Pitta Tablets
Healthy Kapha Tablets This warming and astringent formula is designed to restore and maintain balanced
kapha, without aggravating vata or pitta. In particular, Healthy Kapha supports a clear respiratory system, a robust
immune system, and helps support the maintenance of a healthy weight. Healthy Kapha is an excellent formula for
the winter and spring seasons, when the cool, wet weather tends to disturb kapha. If you are doing a longer
rejuvenation program, you might consider switching from Healthy Kapha to Healthy Pitta in the late spring or
summer whenever the weather heats up enough to make balancing pitta a higher priority. Take 1-2 Healthy
Kapha Tablets, once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Healthy Pitta Tablets Even though it is kapha season now, pitta season is right around the corner. If the heat of
summer tends to disturb your system, or if you struggle with pitta imbalances and are less disturbed
by kapha imbalances, Healthy Pitta may be more appropriate for you. This cooling rejuvenative formula is
designed to restore and maintain balanced pitta, without aggravating vata or kapha. In particular, Healthy Pitta
supports a calm mind, soothes fiery emotions, and promotes a cooler, more balanced temperament. Take 12 Healthy Pitta Tablets, once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Chyavanprash Chyavanprash is a delicious nutritive jam. It is an ancient herbal formula containing both ghee
and honey both of which help to deliver the herbs to the tissues. Chyavanprash can be taken alone, it can be
stirred into milk or water, or it can be spread on toast, bread, or crackers like any other jam. Taking chyavanprash
in warm milk (or almond milk, if dairy is not appropriate) helps to carry its tonifying and rejuvenating qualities
deep into the tissues. As a rejuvenative, chyavanprash is typically taken in the morning, or sometimes in both the
morning and the evening. Take 1-2 teaspoons once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Ashwagandha Ashwagandha is a highly esteemed herb aimed at improving strength, energy, and vitality. It
improves ones ability to handle stress, promotes physical strength, rejuvenates the tissues (especially the muscles,
bones, joints, and the nervous system), and it supports sound sleep at night. A typical rejuvenative dose would be
teaspoon powdered ashwagandha in the morning, in teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw honey. Or, if you would
prefer a tablet, take one ashwagandha herbal tablet, followed by a mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw
honey.
Amalaki Amalaki is one of three ingredients in the famous Ayurvedic formula, triphala, but it is particularly
calming to pitta. If your primary imbalance relates to pitta, you could use amalaki in place of triphala, but in a
similar manner. Either take teaspoon of powdered amalaki with teaspoon ghee and teaspoon honey in the
morning, or take 1 amalaki herbal tablet followed by a mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon honey.
Pitta Digest This formula is designed to cool and soothe the digestive tract and to promote healthy digestion in
those who tend toward pitta-type digestive issues. And since proper digestion is essential to effective
rejuvenation, these tablets can truly enhance your rejuvenation experience. Take 1-2 Pitta Digest tablets, once or
twice daily, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner.

Rejuvenating Practices

Not surprisingly, your lifestyle has a profound impact on your bodys ability to repair, regenerate, and revitalize
itself. When we fill our days particularly our mornings with calming, nurturing practices that set a tone of
health, relaxation, and self-love, our bodies are much better able to nurture the rejuvenation process.

Simple Lifestyle Adjustments To Support Rejuvenation

Minimize stress and travel

Maintain positive relationships and reduce any tendency toward judgment and criticism
Relinquish your attachment to perfection.
Let go of any need to control the people or situations around you
Practice forgiveness toward your self and others
Undertake a period of celibacy to preserve your vital life energy

In addition to any of the above commitments that appeal to you, you can incorporate some more formal practices to
invite rejuvenation on a very deep level.

Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Oil Massage) Each morning, before a shower or bath, massage about cup warm Pitta
Massage Oil into the skin. This practice calms, lubricates and rejuvenates the tissues in particular, the nervous
system. For further instructions on this rejuvenating technique, click here.
Oil the Soles of Your Feet Before Sleep Before bed, apply some warm Pitta Massage Oil or Organic Sesame
Oil to your scalp and to the soles of your feet. This practice grounds the energy, soothes the nervous system,
reduces stress, and quiets the mind all of which support sound sleep. Remember that sleep is one of the bodys
most essential avenues of rejuvenation.
Nasya Each morning (or at least several times per week) apply 3-5 drops of Nasya Oil into each nostril. This
practice helps to soothe the nasal passages while promoting unobstructed breathing, relieving accumulated stress,
supporting mental clarity and fostering the unfolding of awareness.
Yoga Pitta Pacifying Yoga, which is grounded in relaxed effort, and also appropriately challenging is the best
practice for you during a period of rejuvenation. Adding restorative postures such as legs up the wall, and corpse
pose are particularly beneficial when it comes to rejuvenation.
Meditation, Pranayama, Quiet Time, and/or Reflective Time Any quiet, contemplative practice even if it is
only 5-15 minutes in duration is incredibly rejuvenative to the mind and physiology. Practicing in the early
morning hours, especially before and around dawn, is powerfully supportive of rejuvenation.

Rejuvenative Products to Consider

Powdered Triphala or Triphala Herbal Tablets

Healthy Kapha Tablets or Healthy Pitta Tablets
Pitta Digest Tablets
Chyavanprash
Powdered Ashwagandha or Ashwagandha Herbal Tablets
Powdered Amalaki or Amalaki Herbal Tablets
Organic Ghee
Pitta Massage Oil and / or Organic Sesame Massage Oil
Nasya Oil

Recipes

Rejuvenative Almond Milk

Dr. Vasant Lads Date & Almond Shake
Alakananda Mas Non-Dairy Ojas Drink
Dream Date Balls
Rice Khir
Saffron Asparagus Kitchari
Urad Dal

References
1. Chyawanprash. Wikipedia. Online. Retrieved 24 Apr. 2012. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chyawanprash
2. Lad, Vasant. Ayurvedic Cooking for Self-Healing. The Ayurvedic Press, 2006. 73, 236.
3. Lad, Vasant. Textbook of Ayurveda, Volume 3: General Principles of Management and Treatment. The Ayurvedic
Press, 2012. 407-409, 418.
4. Morningstar, Amadea. The Ayurvedic Cookbook. Lotus Press, 1990. 236, 245, 256.
5. Pole, Sebastian. Ayurvedic Medicine: The Principles of Traditional Practice. Churchill Livingston Elsevier, 2006.
296-297.

Spring Rejuvenation for

Kapha

Customer Service rep, Zimryah (Kapha type), skates her way through Spring.

Rejuvenation: A Constitution Specific Guide

for Spring
By its very nature, spring is wet, fertile, nutritive, and revitalizing. Everywhere around us, the natural world is reemerging to embrace the sense of renewal that the spring season has to offer. Given this context, now is truly a
perfect time of year to invite deep nourishment, love, and abundance into our lives. Ayurvedic rejuvenation is
aimed at doing just that, and the process helps our bodies repair and revitalize on a very deep level body, mind,
and spirit. As a vata-predominant type, the spring and summer months are a particularly wonderful time for you to
consider a rejuvenation program because the practices involved can help to ground and soothe vata after the more
challenging fall and winter months.
For those of you who recently completed (or intend to complete) a cleanse, rejuvenation is the final component of
the cleanse itself. After working so hard to purify and reset your physiology, you are prepared for deep
nourishment on all levels. And even if you did not do a spring cleanse, rejuvenation alone can strengthen and tone
your physical, mental, and emotional spheres.

Whats An Appropriate Period of Time?

As with many things in Ayurveda, the length of an appropriate rejuvenation program varies from one person to the
next. Rejuvenation therapies are typically implemented for a set period of time usually at least one month and up
to three months. While this may strike you as a long time, keep in mind that rejuvenation should feel nourishing
and enjoyable to you. And, it can really be as simple as adding one practice or one herb to your daily routine.

If you completed a full seven-day cleanse, your body will benefit from a longer period of rejuvenation (about three
months), starting as soon after you complete your cleanse as possible. If that timeframe feels overwhelming to you,
commit to at least one month of rejuvenation.
If you completed a shorter cleanse, be sure to do at least one month of rejuvenation. Or, if you like, you too can
rejuvenate for up to 3 months.
Even if you did not complete a cleanse at all, vata-types normally benefit from a longer period of rejuvenation
about three months. However, there may be some instances where this would not be appropriate.
If you have a known kapha imbalance (especially if it is of greater concern than any vata imbalances you may
have), youll want to go easy on rejuvenation so as not to further aggravate kapha.
Similarly, if you have a lot of toxicity in your system, which can be identified by a thick coating on the tongue,
youll want to keep your rejuvenation routine very simple so that you dont inadvertently nourish the toxins.
In either case, a simple rejuvenation program (of 1-3 therapies) for about a month is probably sufficient and it
might be helpful to think about choosing therapies because they are seasonally appropriate and vata-pacifying
rather than focusing on their rejuvenative properties. You could also favor kapha-type rejuvenatives, which are
lighter and less likely to aggravate either of the above conditions.

Pathways Toward Rejuvenation

What follows is a list of many possible rejuvenative therapies. Please dont feel overwhelmed. The idea is not to
do all of these things, but to pick and choose those recipes and practices that most resonate with you. As you
consider each therapy, remember that your rejuvenation process needs to feel beneficial. It should not add stress to
your life but should instead add a sense of groundedness, contentment, and joy. If several possibilities peak your
interest, consider starting with 1-3 therapies and then gradually expand your repertoire of rejuvenatives only if and
when it feels appropriate.

Dietary Rejuvenatives
At the most fundamental level, a healthy, balanced diet supports deep rejuvenation. All of your tissues, organs, and
systems draw directly from the nourishment contained within the food you eat every day. A diet primarily
composed of freshly cooked, whole foods is quite rejuvenative. On the other hand, processed foods and old, stale
foods have little life force, are difficult to digest, and often contain toxins. As a vata-predominant type in the midst
of kapha season, focus on eating a healthy and balanced kapha-pacifying diet, being careful not to aggravate vata in
the process. Eating cooked foods over raw choices can be very helpful in this respect. You can compliment these
broad strokes with some especially rejuvenative foods:

Almonds, Soaked and Peeled

Soaked almonds are very grounding, nourishing, and energizing. Soaking and peeling them makes them more
digestible and more beneficial to the body. As such, almonds are a highly revered rejuvenative in Ayurveda.
Soaked Cashews
Cashews which are oily, nutritive, and building can also be used in a rejuvenation program. They actually share
many qualities with soaked almonds, including the fact that soaking them makes them more digestible.
Rejuvenative Almond Milk
This very restorative drink provides another delicious way to ingest soaked and peeled almonds. You can cook
with it or drink it plain. It is especially useful in fall and winter, or after a period of major exertion.

Dr. Lads Date & Almond Shake

This shake is a warm, nourishing, and deliciously sweet breakfast or snack. It is very nutritious, grounding, and the
dates, soaked almonds, and milk make it an excellent rejuvenative.
Alakananda Mas Non-Dairy Ojas Drink
This restorative almond drink is lighter and more subtle than the date and almond shake and is a nice spring and
summer rejuvenative. Ingredients like soaked almonds, rose petals, ghee, and saffron make it a potent
rejuvenative.
Dream Date Balls
A very good and sumptuous rejuvenative. In ancient India, these would have been considered an aphrodisiac of
sorts. Very yummy.
Saffron Asparagus Kitchari
This light and subtle tridoshic dish is filled with nourishing ingredients that are perfect for spring and summer
periods of rejuvenation. Originally designed to tonify both the female and male reproductive systems, it is
especially useful for promoting fertility, potency and menstrual health.
Urad Dal
This legume soup detoxifies the system and nourishes the muscle, bone, and reproductive fluids while energizing
the whole body.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Rejuvenative Herbs
There are many different types of rejuvenating herbs each with a distinct purpose. The most widely used
Ayurvedic rejuvenatives work simultaneously on all of the bodys tissues. Below are several herbal rejuvenatives
well suited for your constitution and for the spring and summer seasons. Taking these herbs and formulas with a
catalytic agent such as ghee, honey, or ginger tea helps to deliver the benefits deep into the tissues, increasing the

potency and efficacy of the herbs. Instructions for using each of these specifically as a rejuvenative are provided,
but if you prefer to take your herbs in water or without ghee and honey, they will still be beneficial.

Triphala With Ghee and Honey Triphala is a tridoshic formula that naturally rejuvenates all of the tissues in
the body (while encouraging the elimination of toxins). It is an especially potent rejuvenative when taken with ghee
and honey usually first thing in the morning. Mix teaspoon of powdered triphala with teaspoon of ghee and
teaspoon of raw honey. Or, if powdered herbs arent your thing, take one triphala herbal tablet, followed by a
mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw honey.
Healthy Kapha Tablets This warming and astringent formula is designed to restore and maintain balanced
kapha, without aggravating vata or pitta. In particular, Healthy Kapha supports a clear respiratory system, a robust
immune system, and helps support the maintenance of a healthy weight. Healthy Kapha is an excellent formula for
the winter and spring seasons, when the cool, wet weather tends to disturb kapha. If you are doing a longer
rejuvenation program, you might consider switching from Healthy Kapha to Healthy Pitta in the late spring or
summer whenever the weather heats up enough to make balancing pitta a higher priority. Take 1-2 Healthy
Kapha Tablets, once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Chyavanprash Chyavanprash is a delicious nutritive jam. It is an ancient herbal formula containing both ghee
and honey both of which help to deliver the herbs to the tissues. Chyavanprash can be taken alone, it can be
stirred into milk or water, or it can be spread on toast, bread, or crackers like any other jam. Taking chyavanprash
in warm milk (or almond milk, if dairy is not appropriate) helps to carry its tonifying and rejuvenating qualities
deep into the tissues. As a rejuvenative, chyavanprash is typically taken in the morning, or sometimes in both the
morning and the evening. Take 1-2 teaspoons once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Ashwagandha Ashwagandhais a highly esteemed herb aimed at improving strength, energy, and vitality. It
improves ones ability to handle stress, promotes physical strength, rejuvenates the tissues (especially the muscles,
bones, joints, and the nervous system), and it supports sound sleep at night. A typical rejuvenative dose would be
teaspoon powdered ashwagandha in the morning, in teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw honey. Or, if you
would prefer a tablet, take one ashwagandha herbal tablet, followed by a mixture of teaspoon ghee and
teaspoon raw honey.
Bibhitaki Bibhitaki is one of three ingredients in the famous Ayurvedic formula, triphala, but it is particularly
calming to kapha. If your primary imbalance relates to kapha, you could use bibhitaki in place of triphala, but in a
similar manner taking teaspoon of powdered bibhitaki with teaspoon ghee and teaspoon honey in the
morning.
Kapha Digest This formula is designed to kindle a strong digestive fire while burning away fat and natural
toxins. And since proper digestion is essential to effective rejuvenation, these tablets can truly enhance your
rejuvenation experience. This formula simultaneously rejuvenates the lungs and supports clear and healthy
respiratory channels. Take 1-2 tablets, once or twice daily, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner.

Rejuvenating Practices
Not surprisingly, your lifestyle has a profound impact on your bodys ability to repair, regenerate, and revitalize
itself. When we fill our days particularly our mornings with practices that set a tone of health, and self-love, our
bodies are much better able to nurture the rejuvenation process.

Simple Lifestyle Adjustments To Support Rejuvenation

Minimize stress
Reduce any tendency toward attachment to things or relationships
Avoid melancholic or depressing situations and be careful not to oversleep
Start your day with some stimulating exercise or a vigorous yoga practice
Wear enough clothes to avoid getting chilled, especially when the weather is cool or wet

Cultivate creativity and flexibility in your life

In addition to any of the above commitments that appeal to you, you can incorporate some more formal practices to
invite rejuvenation on a very deep level.

Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Oil Massage) Each morning, before a shower or bath, massage about cup warm Kapha
Massage Oil into the skin. This practice calms, lubricates and rejuvenates the tissues in particular, the nervous
system. For further instructions on this rejuvenating technique, click here.
Nasya Each morning (or at least several times per week) apply 3-5 drops of Nasya Oil into each nostril. This
practice helps to soothe the nasal passages while promoting unobstructed breathing, relieving accumulated stress,
supporting mental clarity and fostering the unfolding of awareness.
Yoga Kapha Pacifying Yoga, which is active and invigorating is the best rejuvenative practice for kapha-types,
especially as you move deeper into the winter and spring. However, incorporating restorative postures such as legs
up the wall and corpse pose with a bolster opening the chest will be equally beneficial this fall and winter.
Meditation, Pranayama, Quiet Time, and/or Reflective Time Any quiet, contemplative practice even if it is
only 5-15 minutes in duration is incredibly rejuvenative to the mind and physiology. Practicing in the early
morning hours, especially before and around dawn, is powerfully supportive of rejuvenation.

Rejuvenative Products to Consider

Powdered Triphala or Triphala Herbal Tablets

Healthy Kapha Tablets
Kapha Digest Tablets
Chyavanprash
Powdered Ashwagandha or Ashwagandha Herbal Tablets
Powdered Bibhitaki
Organic Ghee
Kapha Massage Oil and/or Organic Sesame Oil
Nasya Oil

Recipes

Rejuvenative Almond Milk

Dr. Vasant Lads Date & Almond Shake
Alakananda Mas Non-Dairy Ojas Drink
Saffron Asparagus Kitchari
Urad Dal

References
1. Chyawanprash. Wikipedia. Online. Retrieved 24 Apr. 2012. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chyawanprash
2. Lad, Vasant. Ayurvedic Cooking for Self-Healing. The Ayurvedic Press, 2006. 73, 236.
3. Lad, Vasant. Textbook of Ayurveda, Volume 3: General Principles of Management and Treatment. The Ayurvedic
Press, 2012. 407-409, 418.

4. Morningstar, Amadea. The Ayurvedic Cookbook. Lotus Press, 1990. 236, 245, 256.
5. Pole, Sebastian. Ayurvedic Medicine: The Principles of Traditional Practice. Churchill Livingston Elsevier, 2006.
296-297

Spring Rejuvenation for

Vata-Pitta

Customer Service Rep, Shawn (Pitta-Vata), dances in the park to enliven her being.

Rejuvenation: A Constitution Specific Guide

for Spring

By its very nature, spring is wet, fertile, nutritive, and revitalizing. Everywhere around us, the natural world is reemerging to embrace the sense of renewal that the spring season has to offer. Given this context, now is truly a
perfect time of year to invite deep nourishment, love, and abundance into our lives. Ayurvedic rejuvenation is
aimed at doing just that, and the process helps our bodies repair and revitalize on a very deep level body, mind,
and spirit. As a vata-pitta or pitta-vata type, the spring and summer months are a particularly wonderful time for
you to consider a rejuvenation program. Having just passed through vatas most challenging time of year the fall
and winter rejuvenation offers a great opportunity to reset vata for optimal health. Rejuvenation also helps to
strengthen the entire body, and with pitta season right around the corner, now is the perfect time for a recharge.
For those of you who recently completed (or intend to complete) a cleanse, rejuvenation is the final component of
the cleanse itself. After working so hard to purify and reset your physiology, you are prepared for deep
nourishment on all levels. And even if you did not do a spring cleanse, rejuvenation alone can strengthen and tone
your physical, mental, and emotional spheres.

Whats An Appropriate Period of Time?

As with many things in Ayurveda, the length of an appropriate rejuvenation program varies from one person to the
next. Rejuvenation therapies are typically implemented for a set period of time usually at least one month and up
to three months. While this may strike you as a long time, keep in mind that rejuvenation should feel nourishing
and enjoyable to you. And, it can really be as simple as adding one practice or one herb to your daily routine.

If you completed a full seven-day cleanse, your body will benefit from a longer period of rejuvenation (about three
months), starting as soon after you complete your cleanse as possible. If that time frame feels overwhelming to
you, commit to at least one month of rejuvenation.
If you completed a shorter cleanse, be sure to do at least one month of rejuvenation. Or, if you like, you too can
rejuvenate for up to 3 months.
Even if you did not complete a cleanse at all, those with a strong vata component in their constitution normally
benefit from a longer period of rejuvenation about three months. However, there may be some instances where
this would not be appropriate.
If you have a known kapha imbalance (especially if it is of greater concern than any vata imbalances or pitta
imbalances you may have), youll want to go easy on rejuvenation so as not to further aggravate kapha.
Similarly, if you have a lot of toxicity in your system, which can be identified by a thick coating on the tongue,
youll want to keep your rejuvenation routine very simple so that you dont inadvertently nourish the toxins.
In either case, a simple rejuvenation program (of 1-3 therapies) for about a month is probably sufficient and it
might be helpful to think about choosing therapies because they are seasonally appropriate rather than focusing on
their rejuvenative properties. You could also favor kapha-type rejuvenatives, which are lighter and less likely to
aggravate either of the above conditions.

Pathways Toward Rejuvenation

What follows is a list of many possible rejuvenative therapies. Please dont feel overwhelmed. The idea is not to
do all of these things, but to pick and choose those recipes and practices that most resonate with you. As you
consider each therapy, remember that your rejuvenation process needs to feel beneficial. It should not add stress to
your life but should instead add a sense of vitality, groundedness, contentment, and joy. If several possibilities peak
your interest, consider starting with 1-3 therapies and then gradually expand your repertoire of rejuvenatives only if
and when it feels appropriate.

Dietary Rejuvenatives

At the most fundamental level, a healthy, balanced diet supports deep rejuvenation. All of your tissues, organs, and
systems draw directly from the nourishment contained within the food you eat every day. A diet primarily
composed of freshly cooked, whole foods is quite rejuvenative. On the other hand, processed foods and old, stale
foods have little life-force, are difficult to digest, and often contain toxins. As a vata-pitta or pitta-vata type
preparing to transition from kapha season into pitta season, focus on eating a healthy and balanced kapha-pacifying
diet, being careful not to aggravate pitta. Moderating the amount of heat in your diet can be very helpful in this
respect. You can compliment these broad strokes with some especially rejuvenative foods:

Almonds, Soaked and Peeled

Soaked almonds are very grounding, nourishing, and energizing. Soaking and peeling them makes them more
digestible and more beneficial to the body. As such, almonds are a highly revered rejuvenative in Ayurveda.
Soaked Cashews
Cashews which are oily, nutritive, and building can also be used in a rejuvenation program. They actually share
many qualities with soaked almonds, including the fact that soaking them makes them more digestible.
Rejuvenative Almond Milk
This very restorative drink provides another delicious way to ingest soaked and peeled almonds. You can cook
with it or drink it plain. It is especially useful in fall and winter, or after a period of major exertion.
Dr. Lads Date & Almond Shake
This shake is a warm, nourishing, and deliciously sweet breakfast or snack. It is very nutritious, grounding, and the
dates, soaked almonds, and milk make it an excellent rejuvenative.
Alakananda Mas Non-Dairy Ojas Drink
This restorative almond drink is lighter and more subtle than the date and almond shake and is a nice spring and
summer rejuvenative. Ingredients like soaked almonds, rose petals, ghee, and saffron make it a potent
rejuvenative.
Rice Khir
This delicious rice pudding is especially rejuvenative for pitta, so this might be a good choice if you feel like the
heat got the better of you this past summer.
Dream Date Balls
A very good and sumptuous rejuvenative. In ancient India, these would have been considered an aphrodisiac of
sorts. Very yummy.
Saffron Asparagus Kitchari
This light and subtle tridoshic dish is filled with nourishing ingredients that are perfect for spring and summer
periods of rejuvenation. Originally designed to tonify both the female and male reproductive systems, it is
especially useful for promoting fertility, potency and menstrual health.
Urad Dal
This legume soup detoxifies the system and nourishes the muscle, bone, and reproductive fluids while energizing
the whole body.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Rejuvenative Herbs
There are many different types of rejuvenating herbs each with a distinct purpose. The most widely used
Ayurvedic rejuvenatives work simultaneously on all of the bodys tissues. Below are several herbal rejuvenatives
well suited for your constitution and for the spring and summer seasons. Taking these herbs and formulas with a
catalytic agent such as ghee, honey, or ginger tea helps to deliver the benefits deep into the tissues, increasing the
potency and efficacy of the herbs. Instructions for using each of these specifically as a rejuvenative are provided,
but if you prefer to take your herbs in water or without ghee and honey, they will still be beneficial.

Triphala With Ghee and Honey Triphala is a tridoshic formula that naturally rejuvenates all of the tissues in
the body (while encouraging the elimination of toxins). It is an especially potent rejuvenative when taken with ghee
and honey usually first thing in the morning. Mix teaspoon of powdered triphala with teaspoon of ghee and
teaspoon of raw honey. Or, if powdered herbs arent your thing, take one triphala herbal tablet, followed by a
mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw honey.
Choose One: Healthy Kapha, Healthy Vata, or Healthy Pitta Tablets
Healthy Kapha Tablets This warming and astringent formula is designed to restore and maintain balanced
kapha, without aggravating vata or pitta. In particular, Healthy Kapha supports a clear respiratory system, a robust
immune system, and helps support the maintenance of a healthy weight. Healthy Kapha is an excellent formula for
the winter and spring seasons, when the cool, wet weather tends to disturb kapha. If you are doing a longer
rejuvenation program, you might consider switching from Healthy Kapha to Healthy Pitta in the late spring or
summer whenever the weather heats up enough to make balancing pitta a higher priority. Take 1-2 Healthy
Kapha Tablets, once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Healthy Vata Tablets - Even though it is kapha season now, if the fall and winter tend to be your most
challenging seasons or if you struggle with vata imbalances and are less disturbed by kapha imbalances, Healthy
Vata may be more appropriate for you. This rejuvenating blend of herbs is specifically formulated to restore and

maintain balanced vata, without aggravating pitta or kapha. The herbs in this formula promote energy and vitality
while supporting overall health and well-being. Healthy Vata is an excellent formula for replenishing the system,
especially if the fall and winter have taken a toll on vata. Take 1-2 Healthy Vata Tablets, once or twice daily, or as
directed by your health practitioner.
Healthy Pitta Tablets Similarly, pitta season is right around the corner. If the heat of summer tends to disturb
your system, or if you struggle with pitta imbalances and are less disturbed bykapha imbalances, Healthy Pitta may
be the best choice for you. This cooling rejuvenative formula is designed to restore and maintain balanced pitta,
without aggravating vata or kapha. In particular, Healthy Pitta supports a calm mind, soothes fiery emotions, and
promotes a cooler, more balanced temperament. Take 1-2 Healthy Pitta Tablets, once or twice daily, or as directed
by your health practitioner.
Chyavanprash Chyavanprash is a delicious nutritive jam. It is an ancient herbal formula containing both ghee
and honey both of which help to deliver the herbs to the tissues. Chyavanprash can be taken alone, it can be
stirred into milk or water, or it can be spread on toast, bread, or crackers like any other jam. Taking chyavanprash
in warm milk (or almond milk, if dairy is not appropriate) helps to carry its tonifying and rejuvenating qualities
deep into the tissues. As a rejuvenative, chyavanprash is typically taken in the morning, or sometimes in both the
morning and the evening. Take 1-2 teaspoons once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Ashwagandha Ashwagandha is a highly esteemed herb aimed at improving strength, energy, and vitality. It
improves ones ability to handle stress, promotes physical strength, rejuvenates the tissues (especially the muscles,
bones, joints, and the nervous system), and it supports sound sleep at night. A typical rejuvenative dose would be
teaspoon powdered ashwagandha in the morning, in teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw honey. Or, if you would
prefer a tablet, take one ashwagandha herbal tablet, followed by a mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw
honey.
Haritaki - Haritaki is one of three ingredients in the famous Ayurvedic formula, triphala, but it is particularly
suited to calm vata. If your primary imbalance relates to vata, you could use haritaki instead of triphala, but in a
similar manner taking teaspoon of powdered haritaki with teaspoon ghee and teaspoon honey in the
morning, or taking 1 haritaki herbal tablet followed by a mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon honey.
Amalaki - Amalaki is another of the three ingredients in the famous Ayurvedic formula, triphala, but it is
particularly calming to pitta. If your primary imbalance relates to pitta, you could use amalaki in place of triphala,
but in a similar manner taking either teaspoon of powdered amalaki with teaspoon ghee and teaspoon
honey in the morning, or take 1 amalaki herbal tablet followed by a mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon
honey.
Choose One: Vata Digest or Pitta Digest
Vata Digest This formula is heating, grounding, and oily. Whether youre in the rejuvenation phase following a
cleanse (when your digestive fire requires a little boost) or youre simply trying to redirect your bodys tendency
toward vata-type digestive issues, this formula is fabulous. And since proper digestion is a cornerstone of
effective rejuvenation, these tablets can truly enhance your rejuvenation experience. Take 1-2 Vata Digest tablets,
once or twice daily, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner.
Pitta Digest - This formula is designed to cool and soothe the digestive tract and to promote healthy digestion in
those who tend toward pitta-type digestive issues. And since proper digestion is essential to effective rejuvenation,
these tablets can truly enhance your rejuvenation experience. Take 1-2 Pitta Digest tablets, once or twice daily, or
as directed by your healthcare practitioner.

Rejuvenating Practices
Not surprisingly, your lifestyle has a profound impact on your bodys ability to repair, regenerate, and revitalize
itself. When we fill our days particularly our mornings with calming, nurturing practices that set a tone of
health, relaxation, and self-love, our bodies are much better able to nurture the rejuvenation process.

Simple Lifestyle Adjustments To Support Rejuvenation

Minimize stress
Minimize travel
Maintain positive relationships
Avoid situations that might incite anxiety, fear, anger or criticism
Relinquish your attachment to perfection
Undertake a period of celibacy to preserve your vital life energy

In addition to any of the above commitments that appeal to you, you can incorporate some more formal practices to
invite rejuvenation on a very deep level.

Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Oil Massage) Each morning, before a shower or bath, massage about cup warm Pitta
Massage Oil into the skin. This practice calms, lubricates and rejuvenates the tissues in particular, the nervous
system. For further instructions on this rejuvenating technique, click here.
Oil the Soles of Your Feet Before Sleep Before bed, apply some warm Organic Sesame Oil to the soles of your
feet. This practice grounds the energy, soothes the nervous system, reduces stress, and quiets the mind all of
which support sound sleep. Remember that sleep is one of the bodys most essential avenues of rejuvenation get
enough of it to soothe pitta without overindulging kapha.
Nasya Each morning (or at least several times per week) apply 3-5 drops of Nasya Oil into each nostril. This
practice helps to soothe the nasal passages while promoting unobstructed breathing, relieving accumulated stress,
supporting mental clarity and fostering the unfolding of awareness.
Yoga Kapha Pacifying Yoga, which is active and invigorating is the best rejuvenative practice for kapha-types,
especially as you move deeper into the winter and spring. However, incorporating restorative postures such as legs
up the wall and corpse pose with a bolster opening the chest will be equally beneficial this fall and winter.
Meditation, Pranayama, Quiet Time, and/or Reflective Time Any quiet, contemplative practice even if it is
only 5-15 minutes in duration is incredibly rejuvenative to the mind and physiology. Practicing in the early
morning hours, especially before and around dawn, is powerfully supportive of rejuvenation.

Rejuvenative Products to Consider

Powdered Triphala or Triphala Herbal Tablets

Healthy Kapha, Healty Vata, or Healthy Pitta Tablets
Vata Digest or Pitta Digest Tablets
Chyavanprash
Powdered Ashwagandha or Ashwagandha Herbal Tablets
Powdered Haritaki or Haritaki Herbal Tablets
Powdered Amalaki or Amalaki Herbal Tablets
Organic Ghee
Pitta Massage Oil, and Organic Sesame Oil
Nasya Oil

Recipes

Rejuvenative Almond Milk

Dr. Vasant Lads Date & Almond Shake
Alakananda Mas Non-Dairy Ojas Drink
Dream Date Balls
Rice Khir

Saffron Asparagus Kitchari

Urad Dal

References
1. Chyawanprash. Wikipedia. Online. Retrieved 24 Apr. 2012. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chyawanprash
2. Lad, Vasant. Ayurvedic Cooking for Self-Healing. The Ayurvedic Press, 2006. 73, 236.
3. Lad, Vasant. Textbook of Ayurveda, Volume 3: General Principles of Management and Treatment. The Ayurvedic
Press, 2012. 407-409, 418.
4. Morningstar, Amadea. The Ayurvedic Cookbook. Lotus Press, 1990. 236, 245, 256.
5. Pole, Sebastian. Ayurvedic Medicine: The Principles of Traditional Practice. Churchill Livingston Elsevier, 2006.
296-297.

Spring Rejuvenation for

Pitta-Kapha

Customer Service Rep, Elizabeth (Pitta-Kapha), getting ready for a rejuvenating run on her lunch break.

Rejuvenation: A Constitution Specific Guide

for Spring
By its very nature, spring is wet, fertile, nutritive, and revitalizing. Everywhere around us, the natural world is reemerging to embrace the sense of renewal that the spring season has to offer. Given this context, now is truly a
perfect time of year to invite deep nourishment, love, and abundance into our lives. Ayurvedic rejuvenation is
aimed at doing just that, and the process helps our bodies repair and revitalize on a very deep level body, mind,
and spirit. As a pitta-kapha or kapha-pitta type, the spring and summer months are a particularly wonderful time for
you to consider a rejuvenation program because of the transition from kapha season to pitta season. Rejuvenation
offers a great opportunity to reset kapha to fully recover from any winter and spring challenges that may have
arisen and helps to optimize your health moving forward.
For those of you who recently completed (or intend to complete) a cleanse, rejuvenation is the final component of
the cleanse itself. After working so hard to purify and reset your physiology, you are prepared for deep
nourishment on all levels. And even if you did not do a spring cleanse, rejuvenation alone can strengthen and tone
your physical, mental, and emotional spheres.

Whats An Appropriate Period of Time?

As with many things in Ayurveda, the length of an appropriate rejuvenation program varies from one person to the
next. Rejuvenation therapies are typically implemented for a set period of time usually at least one month and up
to three months. While this may strike you as a long time, keep in mind that rejuvenation should feel nourishing
and enjoyable to you. And, it can really be as simple as adding one practice or one herb to your daily routine.

If you completed a full seven-day cleanse, your body will benefit from a longer period of rejuvenation (about three
months), starting as soon after you complete your cleanse as possible. If that timeframe feels overwhelming to you,
commit to at least one month of rejuvenation.
If you completed a shorter cleanse, be sure to do at least one month of rejuvenation. Or, if you like, you too can
rejuvenate for up to 3 months.
Even if you did not complete a cleanse at all, pitta-kapha-types normally benefit from a longer period of
rejuvenation about three months. However, there may be some instances where this would not be appropriate.
If you have a known kapha imbalance (especially if it is of greater concern than anypitta imbalances you may
have), youll want to go easy on rejuvenation so as not to further aggravate kapha.
Similarly, if you have a lot of toxicity in your system, which can be identified by a thick coating on the tongue,
youll want to keep your rejuvenation routine very simple so that you dont inadvertently nourish the toxins.
In either case, a simple rejuvenation program (of 1-3 therapies) for about a month is probably sufficient and it
might be helpful to think about choosing therapies because they are seasonally appropriate and kapha-pacifying
rather than focusing on their rejuvenative properties. You could also favor kapha-type rejuvenatives, which are
lighter and less likely to aggravate either of the above conditions.

Pathways Toward Rejuvenation

What follows is a list of many possible rejuvenative therapies. Please dont feel overwhelmed. The idea is not to
do all of these things, but to pick and choose those recipes and practices that most resonate with you. As you
consider each therapy, remember that your rejuvenation process needs to feel beneficial. It should not add stress to
your life but should instead add a sense of vitality, groundedness, contentment, and joy. If several possibilities peak

your interest, consider starting with 1-3 therapies and then gradually expand your repertoire of rejuvenatives only if
and when it feels appropriate.

Dietary Rejuvenatives
At the most fundamental level, a healthy, balanced diet supports deep rejuvenation. All of your tissues, organs, and
systems draw directly from the nourishment contained within the food you eat every day. A diet primarily
composed of freshly cooked, whole foods is quite rejuvenative. On the other hand, processed foods and old, stale
foods have little life-force, are difficult to digest, and often contain toxins. As a pitta-kapha or kapha-pitta
preparing to transition from kapha season into pitta season, focus on eating a healthy and balanced kapha-pacifying
diet. You can compliment these broad strokes with some especially rejuvenative foods:

Almonds, Soaked and Peeled

Soaked almonds are very grounding, nourishing, and energizing. Soaking and peeling them makes them more
digestible and more beneficial to the body. As such, almonds are a highly revered rejuvenative in Ayurveda.
Soaked Cashews
Cashews which are oily, nutritive, and building can also be used in a rejuvenation program. They actually share
many qualities with soaked almonds, including the fact that soaking them makes them more digestible.
Dark Grapes, Plums, and Peaches
These fruits are especially rejuvenative for kapha and will be a good addition to your rejuvenation program,
especially if youre particularly prone to kapha imbalances.
Rejuvenative Almond Milk
This very restorative drink provides another delicious way to ingest soaked and peeled almonds. You can cook
with it or drink it plain. It is especially useful in fall and winter, or after a period of major exertion.
Dr. Lads Date & Almond Shake
This shake is a warm, nourishing, and deliciously sweet breakfast or snack. It is very nutritious, grounding, and the
dates, soaked almonds, and milk make it an excellent rejuvenative.
Alakananda Mas Non-Dairy Ojas Drink
This restorative almond drink is lighter and more subtle than the date and almond shake and is a nice spring and
summer rejuvenative. Ingredients like soaked almonds, rose petals, ghee, and saffron make it a potent
rejuvenative.
Rice Khir
This delicious rice pudding is especially rejuvenative for pitta, so this might be a good choice if you feel like the
heat got the better of you this past summer.
Saffron Asparagus Kitchari
This light and subtle tridoshic dish is filled with nourishing ingredients that are perfect for spring and summer
periods of rejuvenation. Originally designed to tonify both the female and male reproductive systems, it is
especially useful for promoting fertility, potency and menstrual health.
Urad Dal
This legume soup detoxifies the system and nourishes the muscle, bone, and reproductive fluids while energizing
the whole body.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Rejuvenative Herbs
There are many different types of rejuvenating herbs each with a distinct purpose. The most widely used
Ayurvedic rejuvenatives work simultaneously on all of the bodys tissues. Below are several herbal rejuvenatives
well suited for your constitution and for the fall and winter seasons. Taking these herbs and formulas with a
catalytic agent such as ghee, honey, or ginger tea helps to deliver the benefits deep into the tissues, increasing the
potency and efficacy of the herbs. Instructions for using each of these specifically as a rejuvenative are provided,
but if you prefer to take your herbs in water or without ghee and honey, they will still be beneficial.

Triphala With Ghee and Honey Triphala is a tridoshic formula that naturally rejuvenates all of the tissues in
the body (while encouraging the elimination of toxins). It is an especially potent rejuvenative when taken with ghee
and honey usually first thing in the morning. Mix teaspoon of powdered triphala with teaspoon of ghee and
teaspoon of raw honey. Or, if powdered herbs arent your thing, take one triphala herbal tablet, followed by a
mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw honey.
Choose One: Healthy Kapha or Healthy Pitta Tablets
Healthy Kapha Tablets This warming and astringent formula is designed to restore and maintain balanced
kapha, without aggravating vata or pitta. In particular, Healthy Kapha supports a clear respiratory system, a robust
immune system, and helps support the maintenance of a healthy weight. Healthy Kapha is an excellent formula for
the winter and spring seasons, when the cool, wet weather tends to disturb kapha. If you are doing a longer
rejuvenation program, you might consider switching from Healthy Kapha to Healthy Pitta in the late spring or
summer whenever the weather heats up enough to make balancing pitta a higher priority. Take 1-2 Healthy
Kapha Tablets, once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Healthy Pitta Tablets Even though it is kapha season now, pitta season is right around the corner. If the heat of
summer tends to disturb your system, or if you struggle with pitta imbalances and are less disturbed by kapha
imbalances, Healthy Pitta may be more appropriate for you. This cooling rejuvenative formula is designed to

restore and maintain balanced pitta, without aggravating vata or kapha. In particular, Healthy Pitta supports a calm
mind, soothes fiery emotions, and promotes a cooler, more balanced temperament. Take 1-2 Healthy Pitta Tablets,
once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Chyavanprash Chyavanprash is a delicious nutritive jam .It is an ancient herbal formula that includes ghee and
honey both of which help to deliver the herbs to the tissues. Chyavanprash can be taken alone, it can be stirred
into milk or water, or it can be spread on toast, bread, or crackers like any other jam. Taking chyavanprash in
warm milk (or almond milk, if dairy is not appropriate) helps to carry its tonifying and rejuvenating qualities deep
into the tissues. As a rejuvenative, chyavanprash is typically taken in the morning, or sometimes in both the
morning and the evening. Take 1-2 teaspoons once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Ashwagandha Ashwagandha is a highly esteemed herbthat promotes strength, energy, and vitality. It supports
ones ability to handle stress, bolsters physical strength, rejuvenates the tissues (especially the muscles, bones,
joints, and the nervous system), and it supports sound sleep at night. A typical rejuvenative dose would be
teaspoon powdered ashwagandha in the morning, in teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw honey. Or, if you would
prefer a tablet, take one ashwagandha herbal tablet, followed by a mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw
honey.
Bibhitaki Bibhitaki is one of three ingredients in the famous Ayurvedic formula, triphala, but it is particularly
calming to kapha. If your primary imbalance relates to kapha, you could use bibhitaki in place of triphala, but in a
similar manner taking teaspoon of powdered bibhitaki with teaspoon ghee and teaspoon honey in the
morning.
Amalaki - Amalaki is another one of the three ingredients in the famous Ayurvedic formula, triphala, but it is
particularly calming to pitta. If your primary imbalance relates to pitta, you could use amalaki in place of triphala,
but in a similar manner. Either take teaspoon of powdered amalaki with teaspoon ghee and teaspoon honey
in the morning, or take 1 amalaki herbal tablet followed by a mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon honey.
Choose One: Kapha Digest or Pitta Digest
Kapha Digest This formula is designed to kindle a strong digestive fire while burning away fat and natural
toxins. And since proper digestion is essential to effective rejuvenation, these tablets can truly enhance your
rejuvenation experience. This formula simultaneously rejuvenates the lungs and supports clear and healthy
respiratory channels. Take 1-2 Kapha Digest tablets, once or twice daily, or as directed by your healthcare
practitioner.
Pitta Digest - This formula is designed to cool and soothe the digestive tract and to promote healthy digestion in
those who tend toward pitta-type digestive issues. And since proper digestion is essential to effective rejuvenation,
these tablets can truly enhance your rejuvenation experience. Take 1-2 Pitta Digest tablets, once or twice daily, or
as directed by your healthcare practitioner.

Rejuvenating Practices
Not surprisingly, your lifestyle has a profound impact on your bodys ability to repair, regenerate, and revitalize
itself. When we fill our days particularly our mornings with calming, nurturing practices that set a tone of
health, relaxation, and self-love, our bodies are much better able to nurture the rejuvenation process.

Simple Lifestyle Adjustments To Support Rejuvenation

Minimize stress
Maintain positive relationships
Avoid melancholic or depressing situations
Be mindful of reducing any tendency toward judgment, criticism, or a need to be in control
Cultivate creativity and flexibility in your life, letting go of your attachment to perfection
Practice forgiveness toward your self and others
Undertake a period of celibacy to preserve your vital life energy

In addition to any of the above commitments that appeal to you, you can incorporate some more formal practices to
invite rejuvenation on a very deep level.

Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Oil Massage) Each morning, before a shower or bath, massage about cup warm Kapha
Massage Oil or Pitta Massage Oil into the skin. This practice calms, lubricates and rejuvenates the tissues in
particular, the nervous system. For further instructions on this rejuvenating technique, click here.
Oil the Soles of Your Feet Before Sleep Before bed, apply some warm Kapha Massage Oil, Pitta Massage Oil,
or Organic Sesame Oil to the soles of your feet. This practice grounds the energy, soothes the nervous system,
reduces stress, and quiets the mind all of which support sound sleep. Remember that sleep is one of the bodys
most essential avenues of rejuvenation get enough of it to soothe pitta without overindulging kapha.
Nasya Each morning (or at least several times per week) apply 3-5 drops of Nasya Oil into each nostril. This
practice helps to soothe the nasal passages while promoting unobstructed breathing, relieving accumulated stress,
supporting mental clarity and fostering the unfolding of awareness.
Yoga Kapha Pacifying Yoga, which is active and invigorating is the best rejuvenative practice for kapha-types,
especially as you move deeper into the winter and spring. However, incorporating restorative postures such as legs
up the wall and corpse pose with a bolster opening the chest will be equally beneficial this fall and winter.
Meditation, Pranayama, Quiet Time, and/or Reflective Time Any quiet, contemplative practice even if it is
only 5-15 minutes in duration is incredibly rejuvenative to the mind and physiology. Practicing in the early
morning hours, especially before and around dawn, is powerfully supportive of rejuvenation.

Rejuvenative Products to Consider

Powdered Triphala or Triphala Herbal Tablets

Healthy Kapha or Healthy Pitta Tablets
Kapha Digest or Pitta Digest Tablets
Chyavanprash
Powdered Ashwagandha or Ashwagandha Herbal Tablets
Powdered Amalaki or Amalaki Herbal Tablets
Powdered Bibhitaki
Organic Ghee
Kapha Massage Oil, Pitta Massage Oil, and Organic Sesame Oil
Nasya Oil

Recipes

Rejuvenative Almond Milk

Dr. Vasant Lads Date & Almond Shake
Urad Dal

References
1. Chyawanprash. Wikipedia. Online. Retrieved 24 Apr. 2012. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chyawanprash
2. Lad, Vasant. Ayurvedic Cooking for Self-Healing. The Ayurvedic Press, 2006. 73, 236.

3. Lad, Vasant. Textbook of Ayurveda, Volume 3: General Principles of Management and Treatment. The Ayurvedic
Press, 2012. 407-409, 418.
4. Morningstar, Amadea. The Ayurvedic Cookbook. Lotus Press, 1990. 236, 245, 256.
5. Pole, Sebastian. Ayurvedic Medicine: The Principles of Traditional Practice. Churchill Livingston Elsevier, 2006.
296-297.

Spring Rejuvenation for

Vata-Kapha

Community Director, Erin (Vata-Kapha), watching the sun set with her buddy, Buddy.

Rejuvenation: A Constitution Specific Guide

for Spring
By its very nature, spring is wet, fertile, nutritive, and revitalizing. Everywhere around us, the natural world is reemerging to embrace the sense of renewal that the spring season has to offer. Given this context, now is truly a
perfect time of year to invite deep nourishment, love, and abundance into our lives. Ayurvedic rejuvenation is
aimed at doing just that, and the process helps our bodies repair and revitalize on a very deep level body, mind,
and spirit. As a vata-kapha or kapha-vata type, the spring and summer months are a particularly wonderful time for
you to consider a rejuvenation program because it can help to restore and revitalize both of your primary doshas
just as the vata and kapha seasons draw to a close.
For those of you who recently completed (or intend to complete) a cleanse, rejuvenation is the final component of
the cleanse itself. After working so hard to purify and reset your physiology, you are prepared for deep
nourishment on all levels. And even if you did not do a spring cleanse, rejuvenation alone can strengthen and tone
your physical, mental, and emotional spheres.

Whats An Appropriate Period of Time?

As with many things in Ayurveda, the length of an appropriate rejuvenation program varies from one person to the
next. Rejuvenation therapies are typically implemented for as set period of time usually at least one month and up
to three months. While this may strike you as a long time, keep in mind that rejuvenation should feel nourishing
and enjoyable to you. And, it can really be as simple as adding one practice or one herb to your daily routine.

If you completed a full seven-day cleanse, your body will benefit from a longer period of rejuvenation (about three
months), starting as soon after you complete your cleanse as possible. If that timeframe feels overwhelming to you,
commit to at least one month of rejuvenation.
If you completed a shorter cleanse, be sure to do at least one month of rejuvenation. Or, if you like, you too can
rejuvenate for up to 3 months.
Even if you did not complete a cleanse at all, vata-types normally benefit from a longer period of rejuvenation
about three months. However, there may be some instances where this would not be appropriate.
If you have a known kapha imbalance (especially if it is of greater concern than any vata imbalances you may
have), youll want to go easy on rejuvenation so as not to further aggravate kapha.
Similarly, if you have a lot of toxicity in your system, which can be identified by a thick coating on the tongue,
youll want to keep your rejuvenation routine very simple so that you dont inadvertently nourish the toxins.
In either case, a simple rejuvenation program (of 1-3 therapies) for about a month is probably sufficient and it
might be helpful to think about choosing therapies because they are seasonally appropriate and vata-pacifying
rather than focusing on their rejuvenative properties. You could also favor kapha-type rejuvenatives, which are
lighter and less likely to aggravate either of the above conditions.

Pathways Toward Rejuvenation

What follows is a list of many possible rejuvenative therapies. Please dont feel overwhelmed. The idea is not to
do all of these things, but to pick and choose those recipes and practices that most resonate with you. As you
consider each therapy, remember that your rejuvenation process needs to feel beneficial. It should not add stress to
your life but should instead add a sense of vitality, groundedness, contentment, and joy. If several possibilities peak

your interest, consider starting with 1-3 therapies and then gradually expand your repertoire of rejuvenatives only if
and when it feels appropriate.

Dietary Rejuvenatives
At the most fundamental level, a healthy, balanced diet supports deep rejuvenation. All of your tissues, organs, and
systems draw directly from the nourishment contained within the food you eat every day. A diet primarily
composed of freshly cooked, whole foods is quite rejuvenative. On the other hand, processed foods and old, stale
foods have little life-force, are difficult to digest, and often contain toxins. As a vata-kapha or kapha-vata type in
the midst of kapha-season, focus on eating a healthy and balanced kapha-pacifying diet, being careful not to
aggravate vata in the process. Eating cooked foods over raw choices can be very helpful in this respect. You can
compliment these broad strokes with some especially rejuvenative foods:

Almonds, Soaked and Peeled

Soaked almonds are very grounding, nourishing, and energizing. Soaking and peeling them makes them more
digestible and more beneficial to the body. As such, almonds are a highly revered rejuvenative in Ayurveda.
Soaked Cashews
Cashews which are oily, nutritive, and building can also be used in a rejuvenation program. They actually
share many qualities with soaked almonds, including the fact that soaking them makes them more digestible.
Dark Grapes, Plums, and Peaches
These fruits are especially rejuvenative for kapha and will be a good addition to your rejuvenation program,
especially if youre particularly prone to kapha imbalances.
Rejuvenative Almond Milk
This very restorative drink provides another delicious way to ingest soaked and peeled almonds. You can cook
with it or drink it plain. It is especially useful in fall and winter, or after a period of major exertion.
Dr. Lads Date & Almond Shake
This shake is a warm, nourishing, and deliciously sweet breakfast or snack. It is very nutritious, grounding, and the
dates, soaked almonds, and milk make it an excellent rejuvenative.
Alakananda Mas Non-Dairy Ojas Drink
This restorative almond drink is lighter and more subtle than the date and almond shake and is a nice spring and
summer rejuvenative. Ingredients like soaked almonds, rose petals, ghee, and saffron make it a potent
rejuvenative.
Dream Date Balls
A very good and sumptuous rejuvenative. In ancient India, these would have been considered an aphrodisiac of
sorts. Very yummy.
Saffron Asparagus Kitchari
This light and subtle tridoshic dish is filled with nourishing ingredients that are perfect for spring and summer
periods of rejuvenation. Originally designed to tonify both the female and male reproductive systems, it is
especially useful for promoting fertility, potency and menstrual health.
Urad Dal
This legume soup detoxifies the system and nourishes the muscle, bone, and reproductive fluids while energizing
the whole body.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Rejuvenative Herbs
There are many different types of rejuvenating herbs each with a distinct purpose. The most widely used
Ayurvedic rejuvenatives work simultaneously on all of the bodys tissues. Below are several herbal rejuvenatives
well suited for your constitution and for the fall and winter seasons. Taking these herbs and formulas with a
catalytic agent such as ghee, honey, or ginger tea helps to deliver the benefits deep into the tissues, increasing the
potency and efficacy of the herbs. Instructions for using each of these specifically as a rejuvenative are provided,
but if you prefer to take your herbs in water or without ghee and honey, they will still be beneficial.

Triphala With Ghee and Honey Triphala is a tridoshic formula that naturally rejuvenates all of the tissues in
the body (while encouraging the elimination of toxins). It is an especially potent rejuvenative when taken with ghee
and honey usually first thing in the morning. Mix teaspoon of powdered triphala with teaspoon of ghee and
teaspoon of raw honey. Or, if powdered herbs arent your thing, take one triphala herbal tablet, followed by a
mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw honey.
Choose One: Healthy Kapha or Healthy Pitta Tablets
Healthy Kapha Tablets This warming and astringent formula is designed to restore and maintain balanced
kapha, without aggravating vata or pitta. In particular, Healthy Kapha supports a clear respiratory system, a robust
immune system, and helps support the maintenance of a healthy weight. Healthy Kapha is an excellent formula for
the winter and spring seasons, when the cool, wet weather tends to disturb kapha. If you are doing a longer
rejuvenation program, you might consider switching from Healthy Kapha to Healthy Pitta in the late spring or
summer whenever the weather heats up enough to make balancing pitta a higher priority. Take 1-2 Healthy
Kapha Tablets, once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Healthy Pitta Tablets Even though it is kapha season now, pitta season is right around the corner. If the heat of
summer tends to disturb your system, or if you struggle with pitta imbalances and are less disturbed by kapha
imbalances, Healthy Pitta may be more appropriate for you. This cooling rejuvenative formula is designed to

restore and maintain balanced pitta, without aggravating vata or kapha. In particular, Healthy Pitta supports a calm
mind, soothes fiery emotions, and promotes a cooler, more balanced temperament. Take 1-2 Healthy Pitta Tablets,
once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Chyavanprash Chyavanprash is a delicious nutritive jam .It is an ancient herbal formula that includes ghee and
honey both of which help to deliver the herbs to the tissues. Chyavanprash can be taken alone, it can be stirred
into milk or water, or it can be spread on toast, bread, or crackers like any other jam. Taking chyavanprash in
warm milk (or almond milk, if dairy is not appropriate) helps to carry its tonifying and rejuvenating qualities deep
into the tissues. As a rejuvenative, chyavanprash is typically taken in the morning, or sometimes in both the
morning and the evening. Take 1-2 teaspoons once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Ashwagandha Ashwagandha is a highly esteemed herbthat promotes strength, energy, and vitality. It supports
ones ability to handle stress, bolsters physical strength, rejuvenates the tissues (especially the muscles, bones,
joints, and the nervous system), and it supports sound sleep at night. A typical rejuvenative dose would be
teaspoon powdered ashwagandha in the morning, in teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw honey. Or, if you would
prefer a tablet, take one ashwagandha herbal tablet, followed by a mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw
honey.
Bibhitaki Bibhitaki is one of three ingredients in the famous Ayurvedic formula, triphala, but it is particularly
calming to kapha. If your primary imbalance relates to kapha, you could use bibhitaki in place of triphala, but in a
similar manner taking teaspoon of powdered bibhitaki with teaspoon ghee and teaspoon honey in the
morning.
Amalaki - Amalaki is another one of the three ingredients in the famous Ayurvedic formula, triphala, but it is
particularly calming to pitta. If your primary imbalance relates to pitta, you could use amalaki in place of triphala,
but in a similar manner. Either take teaspoon of powdered amalaki with teaspoon ghee and teaspoon honey
in the morning, or take 1 amalaki herbal tablet followed by a mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon honey.
Choose One: Kapha Digest or Pitta Digest
Kapha Digest This formula is designed to kindle a strong digestive fire while burning away fat and natural
toxins. And since proper digestion is essential to effective rejuvenation, these tablets can truly enhance your
rejuvenation experience. This formula simultaneously rejuvenates the lungs and supports clear and healthy
respiratory channels. Take 1-2 Kapha Digest tablets, once or twice daily, or as directed by your healthcare
practitioner.
Pitta Digest - This formula is designed to cool and soothe the digestive tract and to promote healthy digestion in
those who tend toward pitta-type digestive issues. And since proper digestion is essential to effective rejuvenation,
these tablets can truly enhance your rejuvenation experience. Take 1-2 Pitta Digest tablets, once or twice daily, or
as directed by your healthcare practitioner.

Rejuvenating Practices
Not surprisingly, your lifestyle has a profound impact on your bodys ability to repair, regenerate, and revitalize
itself. When we fill our days particularly our mornings with calming, nurturing practices that set a tone of
health, relaxation, and self-love, our bodies are much better able to nurture the rejuvenation process.

Simple Lifestyle Adjustments To Support Rejuvenation

Minimize stress
Maintain positive relationships
Avoid melancholic or depressing situations
Be mindful of reducing any tendency toward judgment, criticism, or a need to be in control
Cultivate creativity and flexibility in your life, letting go of your attachment to perfection
Practice forgiveness toward your self and others
Undertake a period of celibacy to preserve your vital life energy

In addition to any of the above commitments that appeal to you, you can incorporate some more formal practices to
invite rejuvenation on a very deep level.

Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Oil Massage) Each morning, before a shower or bath, massage about cup warm Kapha
Massage Oil or Pitta Massage Oil into the skin. This practice calms, lubricates and rejuvenates the tissues in
particular, the nervous system. For further instructions on this rejuvenating technique, click here.
Oil the Soles of Your Feet Before Sleep Before bed, apply some warm Kapha Massage Oil, Pitta Massage Oil,
or Organic Sesame Oil to the soles of your feet. This practice grounds the energy, soothes the nervous system,
reduces stress, and quiets the mind all of which support sound sleep. Remember that sleep is one of the bodys
most essential avenues of rejuvenation get enough of it to soothe pitta without overindulging kapha.
Nasya Each morning (or at least several times per week) apply 3-5 drops of Nasya Oil into each nostril. This
practice helps to soothe the nasal passages while promoting unobstructed breathing, relieving accumulated stress,
supporting mental clarity and fostering the unfolding of awareness.
Yoga Kapha Pacifying Yoga, which is active and invigorating is the best rejuvenative practice for kapha-types,
especially as you move deeper into the winter and spring. However, incorporating restorative postures such as legs
up the wall and corpse pose with a bolster opening the chest will be equally beneficial this fall and winter.
Meditation, Pranayama, Quiet Time, and/or Reflective Time Any quiet, contemplative practice even if it is
only 5-15 minutes in duration is incredibly rejuvenative to the mind and physiology. Practicing in the early
morning hours, especially before and around dawn, is powerfully supportive of rejuvenation.

Rejuvenative Products to Consider

Powdered Triphala or Triphala Herbal Tablets

Healthy Kapha or Healthy Pitta Tablets
Kapha Digest or Pitta Digest Tablets
Chyavanprash
Powdered Ashwagandha or Ashwagandha Herbal Tablets
Powdered Amalaki or Amalaki Herbal Tablets
Powdered Bibhitaki
Organic Ghee
Kapha Massage Oil, Pitta Massage Oil, and Organic Sesame Oil
Nasya Oil

Recipes

Rejuvenative Almond Milk

Dr. Vasant Lads Date & Almond Shake
Urad Dal

References
1. Chyawanprash. Wikipedia. Online. Retrieved 24 Apr. 2012. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chyawanprash
2. Lad, Vasant. Ayurvedic Cooking for Self-Healing. The Ayurvedic Press, 2006. 73, 236.

3. Lad, Vasant. Textbook of Ayurveda, Volume 3: General Principles of Management and Treatment. The Ayurvedic
Press, 2012. 407-409, 418.
4. Morningstar, Amadea. The Ayurvedic Cookbook. Lotus Press, 1990. 236, 245, 256.
5. Pole, Sebastian. Ayurvedic Medicine: The Principles of Traditional Practice. Churchill Livingston Elsevier, 2006.
296-297.

Spring Rejuvenation for

Vata-Pitta-Kapha

Banyan Ambassador, Nadya (Vata-Pitta-Kapha), takes a gentle jog in nature.

Rejuvenation: A Constitution Specific Guide

for Spring
By its very nature, spring is wet, fertile, nutritive, and revitalizing. Everywhere around us, the natural world is reemerging to embrace the sense of renewal that the spring season has to offer. Given this context, now is truly a
perfect time of year to invite deep nourishment, love, and abundance into our lives. Ayurvedic rejuvenation is
aimed at doing just that, and the process helps our bodies repair and revitalize on a very deep level body, mind,
and spirit. As a tridoshic type, the spring and summer months are a particularly wonderful time for you to consider
a rejuvenation program because the spring is a transitional season that is deeply aligned with rebirth and
rejuvenation.
For those of you who recently completed (or intend to complete) a cleanse, rejuvenation is the final component of
the cleanse itself. After working so hard to purify and reset your physiology, you are prepared for deep
nourishment on all levels. And even if you did not do a spring cleanse, rejuvenation alone can strengthen and tone
your physical, mental, and emotional spheres.

Whats An Appropriate Period of Time?

As with many things in Ayurveda, the length of an appropriate rejuvenation program varies from one person to the
next. Rejuvenation therapies are typically implemented for a set period of time usually at least one month and up
to three months. While this may strike you as a long time, keep in mind that rejuvenation should feel nourishing
and enjoyable to you. And, it can really be as simple as adding one practice or one herb to your daily routine.

If you completed a full seven-day cleanse, your body will benefit from a longer period of rejuvenation (about three
months), starting as soon after you complete your cleanse as possible. If that timeframe feels overwhelming to you,
commit to at least one month of rejuvenation.
If you completed a shorter cleanse, be sure to do at least one month of rejuvenation. Or, if you like, you too can
rejuvenate for up to 3 months.
Even if you did not complete a cleanse at all, anyone with a strong vata or pitta component in their constitution
normally benefits from a longer period of rejuvenation about three months. However, there may be some
instances where this would not be appropriate.
If you have a known kapha imbalance (especially if it is of greater concern than any vata imbalances or pitta
imbalances you may have), youll want to go easy on rejuvenation so as not to further aggravate kapha.
Similarly, if you have a lot of toxicity in your system, which can be identified by a thick coating on the tongue,
youll want to keep your rejuvenation routine very simple so that you dont inadvertently nourish the toxins.
In either case, a simple rejuvenation program (of 1-3 therapies) for about a month is probably sufficient and it
might be helpful to think about choosing therapies because they are seasonally appropriate and kapha-pacifying
rather than focusing on their rejuvenative properties. You could also favor kapha-type rejuvenatives, which are
lighter and less likely to aggravate either of the above conditions.

Pathways Toward Rejuvenation

What follows is a list of many possible rejuvenative therapies. Please dont feel overwhelmed. The idea is not to
do all of these things, but to pick and choose those recipes and practices that most resonate with you. As you
consider each therapy, remember that your rejuvenation process needs to feel beneficial. It should not add stress to
your life but should instead add a sense of vitality, groundedness, contentment, and joy. If several possibilities peak

your interest, consider starting with 1-3 therapies and then gradually expand your repertoire of rejuvenatives only if
and when it feels appropriate.

Dietary Rejuvenatives
At the most fundamental level, a healthy, balanced diet supports deep rejuvenation. All of your tissues, organs, and
systems draw directly from the nourishment contained within the food you eat every day. A diet primarily
composed of freshly cooked, whole foods is quite rejuvenative. On the other hand, processed foods and old, stale
foods have little life-force, are difficult to digest, and often contain toxins. As a tridoshic type preparing to
transition from kapha season into pitta season, focus on eating a healthy and balanced kapha-pacifying diet, being
careful not to aggravate pitta. Moderating the amount of heat in your diet can be very helpful in this respect. You
can compliment these broad strokes with some especially rejuvenative foods:

Almonds, Soaked and Peeled

Soaked almonds are very grounding, nourishing, and energizing. Soaking and peeling them makes them more
digestible and more beneficial to the body. As such, almonds are a highly revered rejuvenative in Ayurveda.
Soaked Cashews
Cashews which are oily, nutritive, and building can also be used in a rejuvenation program. They actually
share many qualities with soaked almonds, including the fact that soaking them makes them more digestible.
Rejuvenative Almond Milk
This very restorative drink provides another delicious way to ingest soaked and peeled almonds. You can cook
with it or drink it plain. It is especially useful in fall and winter, or after a period of major exertion.
Dr. Lads Date & Almond Shake
This shake is a warm, nourishing, and deliciously sweet breakfast or snack. It is very nutritious, grounding, and the
dates, soaked almonds, and milk make it an excellent rejuvenative.
Alakananda Mas Non-Dairy Ojas Drink
This restorative almond drink is lighter and more subtle than the date and almond shake and is a nice spring and
summer rejuvenative. Ingredients like soaked almonds, rose petals, ghee, and saffron make it a potent
rejuvenative.
Dream Date Balls
A very good and sumptuous rejuvenative. In ancient India, these would have been considered an aphrodisiac of
sorts. Very yummy.
Saffron Asparagus Kitchari
This light and subtle tridoshic dish is filled with nourishing ingredients that are perfect for spring and summer
periods of rejuvenation. Originally designed to tonify both the female and male reproductive systems, it is
especially useful for promoting fertility, potency and menstrual health.
Urad Dal
This legume soup detoxifies the system and nourishes the muscle, bone, and reproductive fluids while energizing
the whole body.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Rejuvenative Herbs
There are many different types of rejuvenating herbs each with a distinct purpose. The most widely used
Ayurvedic rejuvenatives work simultaneously on all of the bodys tissues. Below are several herbal rejuvenatives
well suited for your constitution and for the spring and summer seasons. Taking these herbs and formulas with a
catalytic agent such as ghee, honey, or ginger tea helps to deliver the benefits deep into the tissues, increasing the
potency and efficacy of the herbs. Instructions for using each of these specifically as a rejuvenative are provided,
but if you prefer to take your herbs in water or without ghee and honey, they will still be beneficial.

Triphala With Ghee and Honey - Triphala is a tridoshic formula that naturally rejuvenates all of the tissues in the
body (while encouraging the elimination of toxins). It is an especially potent rejuvenative when taken with ghee
and honey usually first thing in the morning. Mix teaspoon of powdered triphala with teaspoon of ghee and
teaspoon of raw honey. Or, if powdered herbs arent your thing, take one triphala herbal tablet, followed by a
mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw honey.
Healthy Kapha Tablets This warming and astringent formula is designed to restore and maintain balanced
kapha, without aggravating vata or pitta. In particular, Healthy Kapha supports a clear respiratory system, a robust
immune system, and helps support the maintenance of a healthy weight. Healthy Kapha is an excellent formula for
the winter and spring seasons, when the cool, wet weather tends to disturb kapha. If you are doing a longer
rejuvenation program, you might consider switching from Healthy Kapha to Healthy Pitta in the late spring or
summer whenever the weather heats up enough to make balancing pitta a higher priority. Take 1-2 Healthy
Kapha Tablets, once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Chyavanprash - Chyavanprash is a delicious nutritive jam. It is an ancient herbal formula containing both ghee
and honey both of which help to deliver the herbs to the tissues. Chyavanprash can be taken alone, it can be
stirred into milk or water, or it can be spread on toast, bread, or crackers like any other jam. Taking chyavanprash
in warm milk (or almond milk, if dairy is not appropriate) helps to carry its tonifying and rejuvenating qualities

deep into the tissues. As a rejuvenative, chyavanprash is typically taken in the morning, or sometimes in both the
morning and the evening. Take 1-2 teaspoons once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
Ashwagandha - Ashwagandha is a highly esteemed herb aimed at improving strength, energy, and vitality. It
improves ones ability to handle stress, promotes physical strength, rejuvenates the tissues (especially the muscles,
bones, joints, and the nervous system), and it supports sound sleep at night. A typical rejuvenative dose would be
teaspoon powdered ashwagandha in the morning, in teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw honey. Or, if you would
prefer a tablet, take one ashwagandha herbal tablet, followed by a mixture of teaspoon ghee and teaspoon raw
honey.
Bibhitaki Bibhitaki is one of three ingredients in the famous Ayurvedic formula, triphala, but it is particularly
calming to kapha. If your primary imbalance relates to kapha, you could use bibhitaki in place of triphala, but in a
similar manner taking teaspoon of powdered bibhitaki with teaspoon ghee and teaspoon honey in the
morning.
Kapha Digest This formula is designed to kindle a strong digestive fire while burning away fat and natural
toxins. It is particularly useful for those who tend toward kapha-type digestive issues. This formula simultaneously
rejuvenates the lungs and supports clear and healthy respiratory channels. Take 1-2 Kapha Digest tablets, once or
twice daily, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner.

Rejuvenating Practices
Not surprisingly, your lifestyle has a profound impact on your bodys ability to repair, regenerate, and revitalize
itself. When we fill our days particularly our mornings with calming, nurturing practices that set a tone of
health, relaxation, and self-love, our bodies are much better able to nurture the rejuvenation process.

Simple Lifestyle Adjustments To Support Rejuvenation

Minimize stress
Minimize travel
Maintain positive relationships
Avoid unfamiliar places or situations that might incite anxiety, fear, or loneliness
Wear enough clothes to avoid getting chilled, especially when the weather is cool and breezy
Undertake a period of celibacy to preserve your vital life energy

In addition to any of the above commitments that appeal to you, you can incorporate some more formal practices to
invite rejuvenation on a very deep level.

Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Oil Massage) Each morning, before a shower or bath, massage about cup warm Kapha
Massage Oil into the skin. This practice calms, lubricates and rejuvenates the tissues in particular, the nervous
system. For further instructions on this rejuvenating technique, click here.
Oil Your Scalp & Feet Before Sleep Before bed, apply some warm Kapha Massage Oil or Sesame Oil to your
scalp and to the soles of your feet. This practice grounds the energy, soothes the nervous system, reduces stress,
and quiets the mind all of which support sound sleep. Remember that sleep is one of the bodys most essential
avenues of rejuvenation.
Nasya Each morning (or at least several times per week) apply 3-5 drops of Nasya Oil into each nostril. This
practice helps to soothe the nasal passages while promoting unobstructed breathing, relieving accumulated stress,
supporting mental clarity and fostering the unfolding of awareness.
Yoga - Vata Pacifying Yoga, which is very gentle, grounding, and nourishing, is the best practice for you this
season, especially if you are undertaking a period of rejuvenation. Restorative postures such as legs up the wall,
and corpse pose are particularly beneficial when it comes to rejuvenation.

Meditation, Pranayama, Quiet Time, and/or Reflective Time Any quiet, contemplative practice even if it is
only 5-15 minutes in duration is incredibly rejuvenative to the mind and physiology. Practicing in the early
morning hours, especially before and around dawn, is powerfully supportive of rejuvenation.

Rejuvenative Products to Consider

Powdered Triphala or Triphala Herbal Tablets

Healthy Kapha
Kapha Digest Tablets
Chyavanprash
Powdered Ashwagandha or Ashwagandha Herbal Tablets
Powdered Bibhitaki
Organic Ghee
Vata Massage Oil or Organic Sesame Massage Oil
Nasya Oil

Recipes

Rejuvenative Almond Milk

Dr. Vasant Lads Date & Almond Shake
Alakananda Mas Non-Dairy Ojas Drink
Dream Date Balls
Saffron Asparagus Kitchari
Urad Dal

References
1. Chyawanprash. Wikipedia. Online. Retrieved 24 Apr. 2012. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chyawanprash
2. Lad, Vasant. Ayurvedic Cooking for Self-Healing. The Ayurvedic Press, 2006. 73, 236.
3. Lad, Vasant. Textbook of Ayurveda, Volume 3: General Principles of Management and Treatment. The
Ayurvedic Press, 2012. 407-409, 418.
4. Morningstar, Amadea. The Ayurvedic Cookbook. Lotus Press, 1990. 236, 245, 256.
5. Pole, Sebastian. Ayurvedic Medicine: The Principles of Traditional Practice. Churchill Livingston Elsevier,
2006. 296-297.