Table of Contents
Introduction to Dinacharya
In our fast-paced, modern world, where the hustle and bustle often overwhelm us, the ancient practice of Dinacharya offers a beacon of tranquility and balance.
Rooted in the age-old science of Ayurveda, Dinacharya translates to “daily routine” and encompasses a holistic approach to living in harmony with natural rhythms.
This blog post delves into the essence of Dinacharya, its benefits, and practical ways to incorporate it into our fast-paced lives.
Wakeup Time According to Dinacharya
- In order to Protect the life and achieve long life Acharya have suggested to wake up in last Yama (1 yama – 3hrs) of night or early hours of dawn.
- That is approximately 96 minutes before Sunrise.
- It is called as Brahma Muhurta and it holds immense benefits.
Cleansing
- In dinacharya after waking up one has to relieve oneself from the natural urges.
A healthy person should eliminate natural urges facing Northern directionÂ
Suppressing the natural urges may lead to Vata prakopa (vitiation of vata) which in- turn causes many diseases
Cleaning teeth
Twigs were used to clean the teethÂ
They should have:
- Length of 12 inches.Â
- Circumference of one’s little finger.Â
- Should be straight and devoid of nodes.
- Should be collected from sacred and clean places
- Should possess pungent (katu), bitter (tikta) and astringent (kashaya) tastes
- Should not be too harsh on teeth and gums
Arka- Calotropis procera
Khadira – Acacea catachu
Karanja – Pongamia pinnata and etc.,
When to brush teeth according to Dinacharya?
Application of collyrium
After brushing teeth one must apply Collyrium for the protection of eyes.
Benifits:
- Eyes become lovely and clean
- Able to see even minute objects
- Eyelashes become smooth and firm
After the collyrium one should use Rasanjana with darvi (Berberis aristata) kvatha once every 7 days to keep eyes in perfect condition.
Abhyanga (oil massage)
Conducting body massage on a regular basis is very beneficial. According to Dinacharya,
- It delays aging, relieves fatigue and mitigates Vata
- It increases lifespan and relieves insomnia
- Bestows toughness as well as prettiness to skin and body becomes strong.
- If one can’t apply oil on the whole body atleast oil should be applied especially on the head, ears and foot. Â
- Oil should not be applied while one is suffering from indigestion and disorders related to Kapha.
Vyayama (Exercise)
Activities which produces tiredness to the body is known as vyayama.
Advantages are:
- Body becomes light
- Able to perform normal duties with enthusiasm
- Increases the power of digestion
- Reduces the fat and body parts become distinct and firm
Contraindications of doing exercise are:
- Patients suffering from Vata and Pitta disorders.
- Children
- Aged persons
- Indigestion
How to properly Exercise according to Dinacharya?
If a person is habituated to take unctuous foods like Ghee, Butter, oil etcÂ
- They should Exercise till half of their capacity in colder monthsÂ
- In other seasons (warmer seasons) one should do even less
- One must stop exercising once sweat starts dripping from forehead.
- Excessive exercises leads to destruction of body and leads to severe health conditions.
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Udvartana (Powder massage)
Massaging with Powder or Churna of different kinds is known as Udvartana.
Method:
The powder is taken in sufficient quantity.
It is then rubbed in the opposite direction of hair follicles.
The pressure should be moderate i.e. not too light or not too harsh.
The churna is taken according to ones own desire, For example, Triphala Churna for Fat Loss, Manjishta or Rakta Chandana Churna for good Complexion, etc.,
For best results it should be done right after abhyanga and should be done regularly
Benefits:
By regular conduction of Udvartana ,
- Kapha is Mitigated.
- Fat is liquefied in body
- Body parts become firm and the Skin becomes healthy.
Here are some scientific studies and review articles about Udvartana
2. Scientific study for weight loss through Udvartana
In Dinacharya Udvartana is taken usualy after doing light exercise followed by oil massage then Udvartana is done.
Utsadana is a type of udvartana, where those dry powders are made in paste form. It helps to increase complexion.
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Snana (Bathing)
Snana in Dinacharya is done after Abhyanga and Udvartana.
Advantages:
- Increases appetite.
- Increases the virility.
- Enhances the lifespan.
- Removes the itching, dirt, exertion, sweat, fatigue, thirst, burning sensation etc.Â
Contraindications while bathing:
Normal bath with hot water gives strength to the body.
It is highly contraindicated to put hot water on head, if hot water is put on head it leads to hair fall and all other associated problems like migraine, sinus etc and problems related to eyesight and ear problems.
Persons suffering from Facial paralysis, eye disorders, mouth disorders like ulcers, ear disorders, diarrhoea, abdominal distension, coryza, indigestion, immediately after food, SHOULD NOT take bath.
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Sadvritta (Regimen of right conduct)
To maintain Positive health and to increase the quality life, only being hygienic or just doing exercise or following dinacharya is just not sufficient
The number one thing to take care of is the regimen of right conduct.
To maintain positive health one must have Wholesome and limited food that too only after digestion of previous consumed meal.
All the activities of the human beings are meant for happiness only.
Such happiness should only happen within dharma
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Conclusion
Dinacharya is more than just a daily routine; it’s a way of living that fosters harmony between our internal and external worlds.
By embracing these ancient practices, we can cultivate a sense of balance, well-being, and longevity in our modern lives.
As we align our habits with the natural rhythms of the universe, we not only enhance our physical health but also nurture our mental and emotional well-being.
Start your journey towards holistic living today by integrating Dinacharya into your daily life, and experience the transformative power of this timeless wisdom.
Thank you!!!
My pleasure