EXERCISE according to Ayurveda!

This week, I will be making a series of posts about the Ayurveda view of exercise in the winter season.

Firstly, what is vayama, or exercise?

Traditionally speaking, exercise is considered that which makes the body tired. It increases lightness of the body, brings endurance and the ability to withstand hard work, increases agni, reduces fat, and defines muscle tissue. Those with heavier, denser builds, those who consume rich foods regularly, and those who live in cold climates should exercise to half capacity, while those in warmer climates and of lighter build should be moderate.

I find this to be quite different from the western view of exercise! Exercise is thought of as something that brings energy, rather than makes the body tired. Due to the often sedentary lifestyle of the developed world (watching TV, desk jobs where 8 hours are spent sitting) and the availability of unlimited quantities of food, it makes sense that exercise feels energizing. Many bodies need it, real bad.

What are you feeling lately about your exercise (or lack of..?). No judgement!