Ayurveda teaches us that the way to remain vibrant and healthy is to align our days and nights with natural rhythms to balance the Doshas and stay in alignment with our true nature. To do this, we must follow a daily schedule that is best for our unique constitution and the current season. (Contact an Ayurvedic practitioner with help in setting up the ideal schedule.)
Taking care of your hair is an important part of your daily routine. Here are some practical Ayurvedic tips for healthy hair.
1. Wash your hair less. This may seem counterintuitive, but it's true, depending on what type of hair you have. We all have varying degrees of normal, oily or dry hair, and you may not need to wash your hair as often as you think. The more frequently you wash your hair, the more oil gets produced, basically requiring it be washed more often. It turns into a vicious cycle! For many people, washing the hair 2–3 times per week is enough, especially if it's curly.
2. Massage your scalp while you wash your hair. Massage your scalp in an invigorating way to stimulate circulation to the hair follicles and promote hair growth. You can use either the tips of your fingers or a rubber scalp stimulator.
3. Avoid using hair products with chemicals. Just like anything that we apply on our skin from lotion to body soap, these chemicals are absorbed through the scalp/skin and enter the bloodstream. Choose natural products!
4. Apply oil to your hair and scalp 1 to 2 times per week. Massage your hair and scalp with herbal oils - it's an Ayurvedic practice that has been used for centuries to maintain thick, healthy hair. Using oil provides deep conditioning to the hair, calms the mind and encourages sleep. If you leave the oil in your hair overnight, place a towel over your pillow to protect them from stains. Most recommended oil: Durvadi Coconut Hair Oil.
5. Oil your hair before entering a pool or the ocean. Applying a moderate amount of oil to your hair before these activities protects it from getting damaged by chlorine or salt water.
6. Strengthen your bones. Hair, nails and bones are made from the same tissue, and Ayurveda considers this as well. When we nourish our bone tissue, the hair is also positively affected. Some foods to nourish the bones and hair are sesame seeds, almonds, leafy greens, broccoli, lentils, seaweed and whole grains. But it's best to have a consultation with an Ayurvedic practitioner to determine an optimum diet for your bone health.
7. Take herbs that support hair health. Narasimha Rasayanam supports overall rejuvenation and healthy hair growth. Triphala Ghritam is frequently used to combat hair loss.
8. Keep your stress levels in check. Stress can lead to hair loss and premature graying. Once the stress and underlying emotions you are experiencing is openly dealt with, hair can regain its strength. Daily stress management practices might include: meditation, walks in nature, Yoga, or any other activities that you enjoy and that bring you happiness.
Disclaimer
All views and information shared here is only for the sharing of Ayurvedic knowledge. Please do not try or prescribe or take any of the remedies and suggestions here without talking to your regular, qualified doctor. Kottakkal Ayurveda and no other person associated with Kottakkal is responsible for unwanted side-effects or contraindications in your health.