What happens with too much exercise?

As with all things Ayurveda, the question remains, for who is exercise beneficial, and in what amount, at what time of day and year? How much is too much, and who should avoid it altogether? The “more is better” mentality applied to exercise can get you in a pickle. Understanding the “right amount” and how that amount might change at times can be a great tool for energy management in both body and mind.

Exercise is generally recommended until breath becomes fast, the mouth becomes dry, or sweat begins to form on the forehead, nose, and spine. Then it’s time to cool down. The idea is not to wring out the body, but just to get the circulation moving, warm things up a bit, and call it good. A nicely moderate daily routine for longevity might include walking, swimming, easy jogging, tai chi, or yoga.

In the case of excess fat tissue, more exercise is ok, according to individual capacity. That’s not to say if you are a lover of bodybuilding or marathon running that you are on the wrong track, but know that vigorous exercise, going beyond the half-capacity recommended, is a hobby that needs to be balanced by adequate rest, recovery time (perhaps an oil massage?), and nourishing diet. When we push too hard, the body can dry out, the dhatus undergo depletion, doshas can become aggravated, and we burn up our Ojas.