Ayurvedic Anti-Strain

Due to the full and slightly sweet aroma with a hint of licorice, this blend is an ideal companion for anyone under stress. The refreshing and vitalizing energy of this blend will be truly loved by everyone who likes herbal teas.

Ingredients: cinnamon pieces, licorice roots, ginger pieces, fennel, orange peel, cardamom
Contains licorice : should not be consumed in cases of high blood pressure.

VATA: The Energy of Movement in Ayurveda

Vata is the principle of mobility that regulates all activity in the body —from how many thoughts one might have during a given period to how efficiently food moves through our intestines. Vata is in charge of functions such as the pulsation of the heart, respiration, circulation and elimination. It is responsible for joy, happiness, creativity and speech. Vata is also in charge of the vital life essence, or prana. Thus when vata (prana) leaves the body, life ceases.

The colon is the most important seat of vata dosha. Vata is also present in the nervous system as motor neuron impulses; in the ears; in the pelvic cavity, lower back, sacrum and thighs; and in the joints and skin. When vata is increased, there may be signs and symptoms connected to these locations.

Vata has the qualities or attributes of dry, light, cold, rough, subtle, mobile (erratic), and clear. These qualities translate into the makeup of the vata individual, as shown in the chart of vata attributes.

The VATA Individual

Physically, vata persons have light, flexible bodies and big, protruding teeth. They have small, recessed, dry eyes. With irregular appetite and thirst, they often experience digestive and malabsorption problems. Vata types tend to be delicate in health, so they may have few or no children.

In their behavior, vata individuals are easily excited. Indeed, they are alert and quick to act without much thinking. They may give a wrong answer but with great confidence. They have good imagination and enjoy daydreaming. Vata individuals are loving people but may love someone out of fear or loneliness. Fears of darkness, heights and enclosed spaces are not uncommon. Because of a tendency to change, vata people may often move furniture or residence to keep from feeling bored. They do not like sitting idle, and seek constant action. Due to their active nature, they make good money but spend it on trifles and have difficulty saving.

Any of the qualities of vata in excess can cause an imbalance. Frequent travel, especially by plane, loud noises, constant stimulation, drugs, sugar and alcohol derange vata, as does exposure to cold and cold liquids and foods. Vata people should go to bed by 10 p.m. since they need more rest than the other types. In general, people with excessive vata should dress warmly and eat warm, moist, slightly oily, heavy foods. Steam baths, humidifiers and moisture in general are beneficial. Daily oil massage before the shower or bath is also recommended.

General Guidliness for Balancing Vata Dosha:

• Keep warm

• Eat warm foods and spices

• Keep calm

• Keep a regular routine

• Get plenty of rest

• Avoid cold, frozen, or raw foods

• Avoid extreme cold