Ayurvedic nutrition

What is ayurvedic nutrition?
In ayurveda, we all have a different constitution and different digestive capacity. This means that the foods that are best for one person's health and digestion may not be right for another's (e.g. wheat and dairy). To recommend the right diet, lifestyle and herbs for you, your constitution (or prakriti) has to be ascertained, along with the current imbalance (vikriti). This is done in an initial consultation, lasting 90 minutes. Ayurvedic nutrition, explained by Atreya Smith.  

What happens in a consultation?
You will be asked about what you eat, your daily routine, job, symptoms, digestion, bowel movements, sleep, energy, emotions and more. Observations will be made, e.g. the tongue and pulse, and the body's functioning assessed. You will then be given a treatment plan that includes foods to eat and avoid, lifestyle changes (e.g. yoga, exercise, sleep), breathing exercises and herbs and spices. Massage or other physical therapies may be part of your treatment. It is only with this all-round combination of treatments that physical, mental and emotional balance can be restored.

Will I have to give up all the foods I like?
You won't be asked to change all your foods at once or given a long list of banned foods. That's not realistic for most people to maintain, and can shock the body both physically and psychologically, further imbalancing the metabolism. You are given changes that are gradual and PRACTICAL for you and your life, to build long-term good habits.

Do I have to go vegetarian?
You don't have to go vegetarian if you don't want to! If you're eating a lot of meat (or other toxin-forming foods), we will talk about it and agree a plan that you are happy with. These foods can be reduced gradually and alternatives given so you don't feel deprived. Traditional ayurveda did in fact use meat sometimes.

What about alcohol and coffee?
If it is a challenge to cut down on coffee or alcohol, we will go step-by-step. Most clients, once they make other changes and start feeling healthier, naturally crave these things less and feel more motivated to reduce or eliminate them. But you can only do what you really want to do. 

How many times will I need to see you?
Everyone requires at least one follow-up appointment (45 minutes), three weeks after the first one. Your symptoms and progress are reviewed and further treatment given.
For straightforward digestive problems and common ailments, two visits often resolve the problem. After that you have email contact and come around three months later to re-assess your health and update your diet and lifestyle plan. This is needed as the doshas (and therefore our health) change all the time, especially seasonally.
For chronic conditions, complex digestive problems or people with several health issues, regular visits are needed (in fact are crucial for success). Also, herbal treatment can only be started once the digestion has improved and toxins reduced. The best option is a three-month treatment package which includes consultations, regular massage, ongoing adjustment of food and herbs, lifestyle coaching, relaxation and breathing techniques and ayurvedic cooking lessons if needed. Price on application (approx. £300-£400).

Ayurveda is a method of self-healing and only YOU can make the changes to your diet and lifestyle that are necessary for FULL AND LASTING health. Our aim is to help you clear your symptoms and rebalance the doshas, to support and encourage you, then give you the correct individual diet and routine to follow for long-term healthy living. We want to share our knowledge of ayurveda with you and empower YOU to take charge of your own wellbeing.