It is never too late to Feel Great
Sue Ellen Page. Age 64
What health issue/problem did you face?
Six years before beginning my work with Nadya and Ayurveda –
Except for an addiction to chocolate, for most of my adult life I’d lived what would be considered a ‘healthy non-couch potato lifestyle’, eating a minimum of ‘junk’, no soda, wine occasionally with dinner, and having never used tobacco or street drugs. But in April 2006, I was diagnosed with pernicious anemia, which means that my body will not process the essential vitamin B12. It was not until I was in my late 50’s when this was discovered, my thyroid had become depleted, and some neurological damage had occurred. With B12 injections, the exhaustion and ‘brain fog’ began to clear up.However, I’d developed full blown erosive gastritis a result of imbalances in the gut. Over the previous decade, I had experienced periodic cramping, bloating, poorly formed stool, i.e., significant stomach and bowel distress- it was acute and very difficult to live with. In addition, I had developed psoriasis on my fingers and elbows. To top it off, my blood sugar levels were soaring. With the erosive gastritis diagnosis, I was prescribed a heavy-duty medication. About the same time, I began acupuncture to try to relieve the psoriasis since numerous topical treatments, over the counter and prescription, had failed. The success of the acupuncture treatments on my skin led me to a more global decision: I was not going to live the rest of my life taking as many prescription meds as were required to continue my normal day to day activities. So I did some research on my own and decided to put myself on an elimination diet for six weeks. No gluten, no sweeteners and no dairy. A couple of weeks into the diet there was at least ten pounds in weight loss and a lessening in bloating. Encouraged, I decided to stop taking the prescription med for the gastritis. My bowel movements normalized. As I approached the six week mark, the mildly annoying chronic aches across my back were gone. Frequent headaches – gone. Aching joints – gone. The psoriasis? Even more improvement. And I’d lost another ten pounds.I gradually added back into my diet some foods with sugar, then a week or so later, some dairy. Armed with my discoveries, I decided to explore further my growing conviction of two basic truths: 1. the body wants to heal itself and 2. I have a lot of control over that. I needed a guide to steer my journey. That’s where Nadya came in.
How did it affect your personal and social life?
When the erosive gastritis was at its peak, I could never be far from a bathroom. I never knew when I’d need to drop everything and run. And even after the discovery of gluten intolerance, I struggled with embarrassing bloating and gas. I had not yet discovered how important food combining is to my well being. I had not yet discovered that certain foods I like, don’t like me so much.
What did you change in your way of eating/habits/lifestyle to create a positive change?
At our first session, Nadya’s gentle guidance and keen ability to listen provided me with several suggested tools that I immediately incorporated and continue to practice:
– pay attention to how I feel more than numbers on lab reports or weight;
– warm water with fresh lime juice to start my day;
– no caffeine on an empty stomach;
– add in more soft, warm and nourishing foods;
– turmeric – add it everywhere including turmeric lemonade;
– only one protein at a meal;
– eat fresh fruit only an empty stomach and at least thirty minutes before other foods.
Did ayurveda play a role? If so, in what way(s)?
I like simple. So much of our modern life is complex. Ayurveda, while the learning curve is high, fundamentally is the art of listening to one’s body, noticing subtle responses to food and food combinations, paying attention to the breath, and for me, establishing a routine which in turn, becomes an anchor. This framework of self-care expands naturally to include mood, response to stress, and even ‘crisis management’.
How do you feel now? What has changed?
Without hesitation, I have never felt better in my adult life. I am excited about increasing my knowledge and practice of self-care. The discoveries being made on this journey of self-awareness creates an energy that transfers to a desire to take the time to shop well, prepare well, cook well, and of course, eat well. The same impulse applies to mindful exercise and diligent care of my soul.
What lessons did you learn about yourself and human body during your healing journey?
If nothing else, I learned that I am still learning and always will be. My two theories are proving true: the body wants to heal itself, and I have everything to say about whether or not that will happen through the many daily choices I make. I anticipate my retirement years will be filled with great, creative cooking adventures, and fortified with the daily practices which anchor me: morning hygiene rituals, yoga, meditation and prayer.
I am learning to think of self-care not as a chore, or selfish use of time, but as a precious gift to myself which then becomes a gift to others. Whether or not my friends and loved ones come along on the Ayurvedic journey with me, they can’t help but see the positive results so evident in my energy, attitude and overall health.
What would you say to someone facing a challenging, chronic, or incurable by western standards disease?
Bodies, minds and souls are the same now as they were 5,000 years ago. Ayurveda, yoga, and meditation are powerful tools practiced by the ancients. They have stood the test of time. They are accessible to each person. They are a beautiful gift which, embraced faithfully, increase self-knowledge and self-awareness of every part of life’s journey. Ayurveda is a sign that the loving Creator who made you also made a way for you to move through every difficulty – including illnesses of the body, mind and spirit.
Heavy Burden Off to a Butterfly
Erin Age 45
What health issue/problem did you face?
I went 4 years of being overweight
How did it affect your personal and social life?
I felt like it wasn’t me anymore. I was ashamed and self-conscious. I hated being in photos. I started isolating myself from friends and family.
What did you change in your way of eating/habits/lifestyle to create a positive change?
I decided to see a dietitian and a personal trainer in 2010. Also, I saw an advertisement on the web page (of my insurance company) for bariatric weight loss. It was shocking to know that they would cover a surgery, but not visits to a dietitian! I did some investigation and ended up having a gastric sleeve done early 2011. Since then, I’ve gotten back down to my normal weight. I’ve participated in a marathon, I can run a mile in 7 min 30 seconds, I can do the Insanity workout, and I’m 45 years old. My eating habits changed in such a way that I can eat about 4 ounces of food in a sitting. I have to pay attention to my nutrition now and make sure that whatever I’m eating is rich with nutrients.
I also started doing yoga to help improve my flexibility while I was training for the marathon a few years ago. I continued it afterward because I enjoy it. I’ve learned a great deal about the connections between yoga-mind-spirit-body. Yoga helps me to maintain my “total balance”.
How do you feel now? What has changed?
I feel wonderful…better now than I did 20 years ago. I’m more confident. I take my health and well-being more seriously now.
What lessons did you learn about yourself and human body during your healing journey?
I learned that there are no shortcuts. A healing journey is a process, not a project. Sometimes there are setbacks when we process things, but we are still in a forward motion. It’s gradual and it’s ongoing, not like a project which usually has time frames.
What would you say to someone facing a challenging, chronic, or incurable by western standards disease?
I would advise them to start eating organic foods, a Mediterranean or Japanese diet, do yoga daily, listen to music, and spend time outdoors everyday.
Re-discovering Myself
Silvina Bowman Age 37
What health issue/problem did you face?
I started having gallbladder problems in 2008. Being a diabetic, while pregnant, my doctors advised a high protein diet. After these meat stunts, I was left with poor health and I had my gallbladder removed in 2008. From there on I decided to look for a healthier approach than pills and surgery. I found Andreas Moritz’s book The amazing liver and gallbladder flush and I started with the flushes right away. I bought a few more of his books and I often saw he talked about Ayurvedic medicine, so I dived in more research. I discovered I am a 98% Pitta with very little Kapha and no Vatta. I realized I have been eating the wrong things all my life, I ditched meat for good when I started with my flushes and after learning about my body type I followed the recipes in the Ayurvedic Cookbook by Amadea Morningstar. I loved it. I started doing yoga as well, which helped me cope with everyday life. I am finally free from my reflux I had for over 10 years, I have lost weight and I feel great. I feel light and since meat upsets Pittas, now even my temper has changed.
How did it affect your personal and social life?
My personal life was 180 degree turn. I feel so much better and I am able to cope with life, without the worry of feeling ill. My children have even adopted yoga and follow a somewhat Ayurvedic diet since that is what I cook. I love this lifestyle. Socially, my friends think I am extreme. Although, many seem interested in how I changed my life and my health.
What did you change in your way of eating/habits/lifestyle to create a positive change?
First, I eliminated meat and milk from my diet. I do vegan weeks since the flushes require it. I still eat little cheese and things that have eggs in them, although I do not eat eggs straight up. I also follow a sleep routine, advised by Ayurveda, it has helped my health greatly. Sleeping at the right time goes along with eating habits and the right exercise.
Did ayurveda play a role? If so, in what way(s)?
Ayurveda changed my life, everything makes so much sense (compared to western medicine). I am currently saving to go to an Ayurvedic resort in India, I can’t wait!
How do you feel now? What has changed?
Everything, I am typically a worry wart and Ayurveda has helped me get rid of that to a degree. Yoga and the right routines of sleep and diet have helped change habits I had since I remember. We do not realize that the habits we have are so wrong and are based on a fast paced, want it now lifestyle. Ayurveda helps me thrive.
What lessons did you learn about yourself and human body during your healing journey?
Many, I had no idea about how mind, body and soul were so connected. I have learned a great deal and the importance of taking care of our organs.
What would you say to someone facing a challenging, chronic, or incurable by western standards disease?
I say give it a try, it is so simple and easy, we do not realize it. People think big diseases mean big cures, but starting with the most common habits we can change a whole lot of things. I have lent my books to many people and some are taking the challenge. I am happy for them. I wish Ayurveda was more popular and people listened to their bodies more than they listen to a doctor.
Ayurveda to the Rescue
Gwen Nagano Age 46
What health issue/problem did you face?
When I began menstruating at the age of 14 my journey with migraines began. The journey was long and never properly addressed by Western molecular approach to health. I would experience several migraines a year , it was something I had grown to accept about my personal design. During college, I had studied Western nutrition but the education and programs that I had exposure to did not receive any respect or in depth study within our Western medical model, so I left this study to focus on business and technology. 12 years into my career as a financial technologist, I began to experience frequent and horrific migraines. I was with up to 1-2 times a week with a monthly visit to the ER for mind numbing pain. My migraines had evolved into cluster headaches behind my eye. I was seeing a Neurologist, Gynecologist, Internist, Acupuncturist, and Licensed Massage Practitioner. The massages would help release the tension that I constantly carried in my neck and shoulders, from the pain. The Acupuncture provided some relief from pain, while others gave me a plethora of pharmaceuticals that eventually led me to a terribly toxic liver. Two years into this dysfunctional state it was my massage practitioner who asked me why I had not gone to see the Ayurvedic Naturopathic physicians that were right near my home. I made the mistake of suffering with this head pain for another 6 months before I walked through the doors of the Ayurvedic physicians and my window to wellness opened.
Within 2 months of my dietary, lifestyle, mindstyle changes, which also included an herbal protocol, I was having only 1 migraine a month. I have not seen an emergency room since the day I started Ayurvedic practices. I have learned how to own my health and realize that I am the one ultimately responsible for my healing and wellness. The choices I make are what deliver my state of being.
How did it affect your personal and social life?
During my 2 years of frequent migraines I became completely anti-social. I was a mother of three and I had a very demanding corporate job and I did not have time for illness. I was functioning crippled and truly suffered trying to simply exist.
What did you change in your way of eating/habits/lifestyle to create a positive change?
My dietary changes were rather simple, as I was already a fairly healthy eater. What was key for my personal imbalance was to eat a large breakfast and lunch and never skip a meal. Yoga and breathing exercises were the next incredible improvement to my overall state of being. All of the other wonderful practices of oil pulling, tongue scraping, self oil massage, seasonal cleansing, to name just a few, are enhancements that bring longevity to the wellness.
Did ayurveda play a role? If so, in what way(s)?
Ayurveda was truly the solution. Learning what was unique about my personal chemistry and being able to apply this elemental thought to my daily routine were key to my success.
How do you feel now? What has changed?
I feel enlightened. Everything has changed. Nothing is the same. There is no turning back and I am so incredibly grateful.
What lessons did you learn about yourself and human body during your healing journey?
I learned to own it. That modern medicine with the one pill solution is not the answer. That my health, well being, state of mind, is completely up to me and if I want to be healthy and happy and enjoy this life, I need to stay engaged and make the decisions that take me to this elegant existence through Ayurvedic practices.
What would you say to someone facing a challenging, chronic, or incurable by western standards disease?
I have found that everyone has a different window for the science of Ayurveda. If someone is beginning to see the light, that Western emergency medicine is not providing them with the healing they desire, then I share the beginning resources for the journey of Ayurveda and owning your wellness. Hugs and empowerment to build that desire to change.
Awakening from a shift in perspective
Iva Tsvekleva Age 24
What health issue/problem did you face?
I had metabolism and digestion issues since I can remember myself. I was addicted to laxatives for the past 7 years, I was a chain-smoker for 8 years, had suffered from insomnia and in the past 4 years, along with being addicted to high dosages of caffeine. I was constantly trying out different diets and chasing the skinny, ‘perfect,’ image which I never actually did. My complete transformation didn’t begin until something terrible happened. My whole face and back broke out in large cystic acne, about 2 years ago. It was a nightmare for me, it was so not in alignment with that ‘perfect’ image I was chasing, so I ended up taking medication, get laser procedures and so on until eventually I realized that all of these methods were only short-term fixes. Throughout the process I became aware that if I wanted to see a real change in how I feel, in my appearance and my life altogether, I just needed to change my lifestyle. I am glad I realized this at such an early stage of my life. Now, I do not have that illusionary ‘perfect’ image, as advertised in the media, and which I was obsessing about for so long. However, what I have is a healthier body and a more loving and understanding mind-body relationship-which I work on everyday and is here for a lifetime. Now that’s a keeper!
How did it affect your personal and social life?
I used to go through periods of depression, unsuccessful relationships, internal self battles and I just became a ball of held up feelings of fear, anxiety, stress, frustrations, resentment and worry. Until one day, I just screamed out loud, rebelled and cried out for help. Up to that point I thought I knew it all and that I can do it all on my own. But the ball I was holding up inside bursted out. I felt a relief and suddenly, little by little, things started to come back into place in my life. Being honest with myself was a huge wake-up call on its own.
What did you change in your way of eating/habits/lifestyle to create a positive change?
This has all been a process and one change has eventually resulted and evolved into another. First, I cut out dairy, sugar and anything ‘white’ looking from my diet, which often is the cause of allergies and the production of cyctic acne. Eventually I eliminated gluten and now my lifestyle diet is pretty much vegan and I have fish from time to time. In very rare cases I would eat cheese but only if I am really craving it. Restricting myself, my body, when it really needs something is worse than actually having it. I try to enjoy what I eat and do because it gives me the mental freedom from worries and anxieties.
Did ayurveda play a role? If so, in what way(s)?
I have recently become more interested in ayurveda and started to learn more about it. I am a Pitta-Kapha dosha and looking at my health challenges up to this point, I realize my old habits were so self-sabotaging that no wonder a magic pill couldn’t do the healing trick. Now, I can see a very clear explanation and understanding of how my body processes and what it needs. I have recently began incorporating more spices in my diet. Now,I feel more grounded, confident and trusting of my body. It is a journey, a self-exploration adventure where I just need to stay mindful- it is pretty exciting to get to know myself on a deeper level day after day.
How do you feel now? What has changed?
I just completed my 10 day Neera detox cleanse and I feel great. Veganism has had such a great effect on me, including how I feel, my energy, my appearance and my relationships in my life as well. Cleansing of the body, is also cleansing of the mind for me. Along with all of my lifestyle diet changes, I also incorporate conscious cleanse methods to evolve from old negative beliefs, as well as exercise. I practice yoga regularly now and I feel better than I ever had before. I am very grateful for the wonderful advises Nadya has shared with me about digestion and happy belly. She has introduced me to new, profound ways to heal my body and create a strong and compassionate relationship between my mind and body.
What lessons did you learn about yourself and human body during your healing journey?
The key lesson I have learned is that every “problem’ we have is actually an opportunity for us, as long as we are able to open up our eyes and take advantage of that opportunity. I always envision myself being happy, healthy, in shape and living in a beautiful environment. As a paradox, all the things that I had been doing prior to my awakening, in a way seemed to contradict the vision I have of myself. In a way, my “problems” served me as a light bulb, alerting me that it is time for me to change what I was doing. It was time for me to learn to stop, sit down and breath- to get off that adrenaline high rollercoaster. Being myself and learning to love myself have been some of the greatest challenges I have ever faced.
What would you say to someone facing a challenging, chronic, or incurable by western standards disease?
First, I would advise you to ask yourself- Why is it incurable? Because doctors told you it is and do they also control every step of your life, they know your body better than you or do you? And wake up, realize that it is you that creates your life and has the power to change your situation, not Mr. doctor. Then, I invite you to take full responsibility for your own well being and begin making changes about your unhealthy beliefs and patterns. After that no one will have the control you have upon your own life. The strength and answers you need lay within you. You hold the power to your health.
To A More Balanced Life
Leeni Age 28
What health issue/problem did you face?
Malabsorption, stomach pain, bloating (digestive problems…), stress, insomnia.
How did it affect your personal and social life?
I tried not to make a big deal out of it but it just got worse. Eventually, my happiness and social life were restricted.
What did you change in your way of eating/habits/lifestyle to create a positive change?
I changed my diet completely. I eliminated sugar, gluten, dairy and yeast. I added more greens and started eating easy to digest food. A good a blender, which was an essential investment. I also discovered the secret of food combining.
I did gradual lifestyle changes too. Exercising smarter, doing yoga and meditation, focusing on positive things and positive energy, detoxing negativity, finding the secret of good quality breathing, stressing less and accepting imperfections.
To summarize: adding more quality both to my diet and lifestyle habits. Getting in tune with my body and mind.
Did ayurveda play a role? If so, in what way(s)?
On this journey I discovered ayurveda. I realized I’m a vata type and there it was imbalanced. Before I even knew anything about ayurveda, I noticed that “vata balancing lifestyle” made me feel better. It was a natural shift that I made just by listening my body. Nowadays, I enjoy reading about auyrveda but I’m not following it or any other specific lifestyle / diet orientation per se.
How do you feel now? What has changed?
I feel great! My digestive issues are gone, I handle stress, sleep well and enjoy life every single day. Of course there are days that are not so good but that’s life. I’m aware if I am getting stressed, have been eating something that doesn’t fit my body or becoming unbalanced in some area of my life. But now I know how to fix it and avoid suffering.
What lessons did you learn about yourself and human body during your healing journey?
Most of physical symptoms are based on mental imbalances. It’s also inevitable not just to cure the symptoms but discover the reasons behind them. Being happy is eventually very simple and is based on little everyday miracles: nourishing diet, natural workout, gratitude and joy.
What would you say to someone facing a challenging, chronic, or incurable by western standards disease?
Don’t give up and try to find a solution from balanced lifestyle and good quality food. Wellbeing and health are holistic entities and that must be taken into account when trying to cure any disease or imbalance in one’s life.
Cancer Free
Inge Scott Age 57
What health issue/problem did you face?
Stage Four Rectal Cancer
How did it affect your personal and social life?
I was correctly diagnosed December 2011, but suffered the effects at least a year before that. I had *accidents* throughout the day because I couldn’t control my bowels. I was afraid to drive on freeways or go out socially because I needed to be close to a bathroom. During treatment, I was sick from the cancer, chemotherapy and radiation. It took me the entire year of 2012 to get back to my *new normal*. My social life consisted of visits to my doctors.
What did you change in your way of eating/habits/lifestyle to create a positive change?
During my recovery I researched why I got this cancer and came up with…my diet. I ate mostly processed foods — even though I called myself a vegetarian. I learned to eat healthy, drink green smoothies, juicing– I am now vegan; I meditate and practice yoga, and give back to others going through cancer treatments. I volunteer at UCI Medical Center; Infusion Center.
Did ayurveda play a role? If so, in what way(s)?
Yes! I learned meditation and continue today. I practice yoga daily. I get massages to keep my circulation running smoothly. During treatment, I added turmeric to my smoothies and drank ginger teas to help with nausea. I still use turmeric because of its anti-oxidant properties. I always told my team of doctors what I was doing. They are part of a teaching hospital and are open to all methods that help patients feel better.
How do you feel now? What has changed?
I feel better than ever. I have more energy. My body processes foods better. I stopped worrying about things I have no control over. I live in the present more often. I am grateful for everyday — to be alive. I am cancer free since June 2012!
What lessons did you learn about yourself and human body during your healing journey?
My body needs nourishment from *living* foods. It talks to me all the time — whether its happy, tired, or stressed. I learned to not only listen to my body but also honor its requests before I get sick.
What would you say to someone facing a challenging, chronic, or incurable by western standards disease?
I tell the patients I visit to take one day at a time, focus on the positive, keep a gratitude journal. If they choose western medicine as their course of treatment, research complementary methods as well. Eat living foods. Research herbs that may help with symptoms. Be kind to themselves. Ask for help — those who help them get huge Karma points. If their disease is incurable, by all means see an alternative/holistic/ayurvedic practitioner. And Never give up!
Cleaning Out the Meds
Karen Kelly Age 54
What health issue/problem did you face?
After suffering for 2 years, with bloating and pain, I was finally diagnosed with diverticulitis and by then it was severe.
How did it affect your personal and social life?
I would be in chronic pain, and was put on meds, but never told to change my diet, the meds I was given were high doses because of the severity, and there seemed to be little or no relief, again another 2 years of torture.
What did you change in your way of eating/habits/lifestyle to create a positive change?
After 2 years of not feeling any better, went off my meds, changed my diet, and exercise to yoga and meditation, and started to feel better, my husband noticed the change. And I told my doctor that I felt I had had an allergy and adverse reaction to the meds. He ignored it.
Did ayurveda play a role? If so, in what way(s)?
I do a lot of juicing, and believe in it.
How do you feel now? What has changed?
Today I feel whole, no stress, bright future, and happy. I am a firm believer in the fact that you have to look after you. And now know that I will.
What lessons did you learn about yourself and human body during your healing journey?
Medication caused me to feel just as bad or worse than I had. I had always eaten healthy, but did not know my body. Today, I know my body and I am disappointed in the medical profession for putting me through what they did. When all I had to do was drink water to keep everything moving and eating lighter- not make my digestion work so hard.
What would you say to someone facing a challenging, chronic, or incurable by western standards disease?
Love yourself and do what makes you feel good, research your medications, and find a knowledgeable physician that you can rely on. Even though I am in the process of changing doctors. and very leary of whom I will get, I now am aware of how my body works and feels.
If you have the Will, you will Find the Way
Jasmine S. Glass Age 19
What health issue/problem did you face?
Sluggish digestion, I believe, has caused many issues for me. I was a premature baby, and could not handle dairy or meat. As I got older I consumed these foods, but I dealt with much constipation, while only producing a few bowel movements a week. When I did produce a bowel movement, they were hard to pass, and shaped like little pebbles; they were not satisfying at all! At age 16, I suffered from an impacted bowel. Since I couldn’t pass anything, I also could not eat. It took me months to recover, but I don’t think I have still recovered completely. I dropped weight drastically, while I experimented with different eating habits. Many conventional MD’s gave me the typical explanation of consuming more fiber, drinking more water and getting more exercise. These answers were very frustrating, as I was a very healthy athlete at the time. I ate many fruits and veggies, organic proteins, and healthy whole grains. I began taking fiber tablets, I drank 12 glasses of water a day. I felt terrible. I became vegetarian, went vegan, and then decided not to eat at all. I dropped weight drastically and felt terrible. I still struggle with some aspects of these eating problems I developed. Six months later, I developed the worst cystic acne of my life. Broke my patella while doing a cartwheel, and began having serious aches and pains all over my body. I became extremely irritable, fell into depression, and my overall personality changed.
How did it affect your personal and social life?
I didn’t want to go to prom. Or date, of hang out even with my closest friends. The thought of eating out gave me a tremendous amount of anxiety. I hated the thought of food and any situation or event that surrounded it. I was reluctant to apply for jobs, and I felt too inadequate to go away to school. So, I attended a community college close to home. I was afraid to put myself out in the world. I felt too ugly, I felt too weird and anxiety ridden. I closed myself off and made myself feel bad about it.
What did you change in your way of eating/habits/lifestyle to create a positive change?
I laid of behind-the-counter quick fixes, and bean to search for my answers in the produce section. I began to seriously research alternatives. One huge breakthrough I made was figuring out the reason all these issues were suddenly triggered in my healthy body. ANTIBIOTICS!!! Prior to my illness, I began taking DoxyCycline Hyclate to get rid of hormonal acne. One or two little cystic pimples I got as a result of my menstrual cycle. What I’ve learned about this antibiotic, is that it can wreak havoc on my digestive system and kill off all of my good digestive enzymes. AlI believe that since my digestive system was already sluggish, the antibiotics were the final straw. As I mentioned before, I became ill at 16, and I just came to this conclusion a few months ago, at the age of 19. It has been a long journey thus far, and I still have a long but exciting road ahead.
Did ayurveda play a role? If so, in what way(s)?
Ayurveda has played THE role. Once I began to find alternatives to meds that just treat the symptoms and not cure the problem, I found Ayurveda. Discovering Ayurveda felt as if I hit a jackpot. The mind-body connection spoke to me the most. Not only did I have obvious explanations about my physical ailments, but also reasons why my mental and emotional mentalities changed. The depression, the anxiety, the irritability was more than just a case of lack of confidence or low self-esteem. I found Meditation.
I learned about herbs, teas, and detoxification. Hot lemon water, burdock root, and dandelion all have taken the place of harsh chemicals for my skin ailments, or headaches. I learned about exfoliation and dry skin brushing. I’ve adopted many habits of checking my tongue, fingernails, and poop to monitor my health.
How do you feel now? What has changed?
Honestly, my biggest issue is consistency, cost, accessibility and time. Being a broke college student, there are times when my schedule changes and I forget to drink my hot lemon water in the morning, or take my probiotic after lunch, or I may not have a fridge in my dorm to keep my herbs cool. When I am consistent, I feel absolutely amazing. My skin is bright and glowy. It doesn’t feel hot or inflamed. My aches and pains are eradicated, and my poop is regular and satisfactory. I make much more effort and take much more initiative to be the healthiest I can be.
What lessons did you learn about yourself and human body during your healing journey?
The most wonderful thing I’ve learned about my body, is the fact that it has the complete ability to heal itself, if i give it the right resources. Healthy foods, antioxidants, healthy fats, sunlight, water, herbs, exercise, a positive attitude, an active spiritual life, healthy relationships etc. I have learned that everything about the human body is linked or connected. A pain in my back could be caused by a wheat sensitivity that has triggered inflammation in my body. Who knew that a sandwich could cause back pain?!!
What would you say to someone facing a challenging, chronic, or incurable by western standards disease?
Research, research, research. Experiment, fail. Experiment, fail again. Experiment, and progress. Experiment and find your answers. At the age of 19, I can say that Ayurveda has drastically saved my social life, helped me spiritually and emotionally, kept my physical body in shape and so on and so forth. However, I did not get to this point without using myself as a human guinea pig. Everyone’s body is different and the only way you will improve YOUR body is to do your OWN research and experiment with yourself. You have to do your own research and see for yourself. Do not become intimidated by “experts” because the only expert of your body is YOU. Do not quit, I have been on this journey for a very short 3 years, and I will continue on it until the day I die. Good health is not a destination, it is a journey.
Take a Moment to Look and Listen
Shweta Parmar; Age 37
What health issue/problem did you face?
Currently still have it. Karmic/ Genetic disease of Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD). In allopathy world, there is no cure for it. Thus, those affected are led to believe that you will end up on dialysis or end up with a kidney transplant.Cysts on kidneys (can also spread to liver, ovaries) basically start to crystallize and impair organs’ functionality.
How did it affect your personal and social life?
Its been an awakening that put me more on the path to Ayurveda and Yoga.Initially, I believed that I could never be in a relationship, be married, have kids,etc. Huge change in career. I used to be a social justice community organizer, fighting for immigrant rights and trying to save the world. I left that whole career behind, which also meant no friends!
A lot of this was also because I committed to self care for 3 months in India, which turned into 1.5 year journey, immersing myself in Ayurveda and yoga. Self healing journey began.
What did you change in your way of eating/habits/lifestyle to create a positive change?
Ayurvedic principles- eating on time daily and increased awareness on food combination.
Did ayurveda play a role? If so, in what way(s)?
Always – diet, lifestyle, emotional and mental healing. I LOVE Panchakarma! Led me to be a consultant, therapist and now AyurDoula.
How do you feel now? What has changed?
Due to the karmic nature of the imbalance, I cannot clinically say I am getting better.
I have been managing the disease with Ayurveda, energy healing, yoga, Shaminic ceremonies, etc.Compared to pre-PKD diagnosis:I am a completely different person. Of course, my essence to serve humanity remains but forms have changed. I feel much, much lighter in all my energy fields. I am more in touch with my intuition. Balanced weight! No excruciating menstrual cramps.
Greater awareness of thoughts, habits so I can continue to transform.
What lessons did you learn about yourself and human body during your healing journey?
I am THE Medicine. All the inner healing powers lay within me. With support from various healing modalities and community/satsang, I continue to shift, transform my vibration thus changing the vibration of my cells/cellular intelligence/ body. My body talks to me so best to Listen.
I am here to share my unique gifts with the world. In order for me to fulfill this dharma, giving mad love to the body (and mind) is critical. Pausing is so key!
What would you say to someone facing a challenging, chronic, or incurable by western standards disease?
What do you want for your life? Do you want to feel healthy and happy each day? Because if you do, it is SO possible! Allopathy, for sure, has its place in our world but it’s not the final decision maker! You, being aligned, with the laws of nature and living/ being according to who you are, are the prescription and miracle maker. If you really want to Live, just start to make some simple changes in your thoughts and life …. you will continue to see changes.. This I can promise you. Do the work sincerely but do not be attached to the results too much. The World needs you!
