Travelling The Ayurvedic Way

S Nithya Kamakshi outlines a few tips from the age old medicinal science which can help in keeping you healthy and stress free while on the move

As organisations become increasingly global and business trips become more frequent, the resultant increase in travel also ushers in higher levels of stress. Researchers have noted that business travel can take its toll on the employees. But we didn't need any research to tell us that, did we?

So, what is so stressful about this travel? There are three main factors that add to business travel stress: physical strain, inconvenience and barriers, and decreased productivity. While all frequent travellers are in search for succor, the current trend is to turn to Ayurveda for solutions.

Ayurveda, a traditional holistic health care system, has been practiced in India for more than 3000 years. It is recognised as an alternative medicine originating from the Vedic traditions of India. It is based on the idea that three doshas - vata, pitta and kapha - govern the body. It is believed that putting these in harmony, through herbal preparations, diet, lifestyle, yoga and meditation, helps to achieve perfect health by treating the underlying cause of illness, and not just the symptoms. Any imbalance in these synthesis results in physical ailments. The main advantage of Ayurveda is to cure oneself using natural ways; without having to suffer the side effects of chemicals.

Long delays and cancelled flights, traffic jams, inclement weather, crowds - all these factors and more can make travelling a nightmare. It is possible to travel stress-free, once you understand what imbalances are caused by travel. Thus you can take steps to protect yourself and prevent them from developing.

The elements that cause imbalance during travel:

Vata dosha (air) in general tends to get disturbed during travel. In particular, continuous sitting disturbs Apana Vata (air present in the intestine), which controls the downward movements of elimination and purification. Travelling in fast-moving vehicles and an unpredictable routine aggravates Prana Vata (air which you breath), which controls mental and emotional balance. Pachaka Pitta (digestive juices), responsible for digestion, can also get disrupted by irregular meals and sleep.

Ayurvedic experts suggest these practical tips to maintain your physical, mental and emotional equilibrium during travel and hectic times:

Before travel (for at least a week before departure)

Be meticulous about adhering to a regular routine. Taking pains to keep Vata in balance before you begin your journey as it will help you withstand stress, time pressure, multiple demands and unpredictability better. This means eating your meals at about the same time each day, with lunch being around noon and dinner about three hours before you go to bed. It means going to bed by 10:00 pm and getting sufficient sleep. It is also necessary to plan tasks in advance to avoid any last-minute rush. Sweet lassi is an excellent lunchtime beverage. Avoid extremely sour foods such as pickles and vinegar and very spicy foods such as cayenne or hot chilli peppers. Eat plenty of sweet juicy fruits, warm milk blended with Rose Petal Preserve.

During travel

Drink herbal teas that are specially formulated to pacify Vata-related imbalances. Avoid carbonated or ice-cold beverages, because they disrupt digestion. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Eat fresh fruits and light, easy-to-digest foods. These will help keep Vata and Pitta in balance. Avoid 'junk' food or heavy, hard-to-digest foods. If you feel nausea, eat some fresh ginger or add some fresh ginger to herbal tea and sip on it. Research has shown that ginger can help prevent motion sickness.

After Travel

Drink lots of warm water through the day to replenish moisture levels and assist in cleansing the channels of the body. Eat light yet nourishing food such as mung or bean soup for a few days to allow your digestion to adjust. Continue to drink herbal tea, two or three cups a day. A daily massage will enhance circulation and calm the mind and nervous system.

Following are some ayurvedic travel tips to help you feel fresh no matter how arduous your journey is:

Before You Leave

• Pamper yourself with a luxurious aromatherapy massage, especially if the journey is going to be long.
• Buy a comfortable travel pillow and fill it with healing herbs for a soothing experience. Choose your pillowcase with care; it should be washable and soft so your skin does not crease.
• Be sure to pack some destination-specific beauty items: sunscreen if you're headed for a beach, an uplifting essential oil like jasmine for an evening under the stars, or rose water to refresh hot skin on a summer day.

Flight Facts

• Pressurised cabin air sucks moisture from skin. Research shows that the dryness inside a plane matches that of a desert. That is why you should drink plenty of water during a flight. Experts advice infusing your water with spices like licorice, ginger, cardamom and cinnamon to help unclog channels and keep you calm during the journey. Splash face with mineral water from time to time; and when not wearing make-up, gently rub mineral water on your face with the tips of your fingers. This gives the double benefit of rehydration and massage.
• A long journey can cause the skin to puff up, that is why, 'palming' your cheeks at regular intervals by leaning forward in your seat and resting your face in your hands for a few minutes helps. This light pressure on skin tissue reduces puffiness. Breathe deep and easy from time to time. This increases oxygen flow in the body, bringing a glow to the cheeks.
• Flying can cause sinus pressure to build. But a few simple moves can keep it at bay. Press gently under the eyes from inside to outside, massage the base of the ears in slow circular motions, and use revolving pressure on the temples with fingertips.

Follow these simple tips and you are all set for a stress free travel for your body, mind and soul!