Yogi Ashwini of the Dhyan foundation speaks on this issue at length. For the benefit of the readers we shall summarize his thoughts below. The ancient texts place Sanatan Kriya as being deep-rooted in the principle of Balance and Nature. It rids one of the imbalance and prevents negativity from entering a being. This balance as discussed in earlier posts herein has been the harbinger of good health and well-being. The ayurvedic explanation to weight gain is as follows. Of the seven dhatus which maintain equilibrium in the body, ‘Fat’ is required for a healthy existence. When kapha aggravates medas (Fat) dhatu, the balance of the body gets disturbed and a person gains excessive weight.

Yogi writes that indiscriminate dieting, consumption of steroids and adoption of customized diets aimed at bringing about a specific body shape (ultra thin, muscular) have drastic side effects in the long run. He states that these are the causes of serious ailments of the immune system and cause several psychological disorders.

As a suggestion, Ashwini lays the systematic and proper usage of natural products as a better alternative to restricting diets.

Lekhanas are the herbs prescribed to reduce fatty tissues. Their action causes burning up of the fatty tissues and consequently dries up of excessive weight. Generally, herbs which are bitter and pungent are effective in aiding weight loss. Cayenne pepper, black pepper, cumin and basil not only burn fat but also stimulate digestion and augment the digestive fire.

Bitter herbs like fenugreek are effective in detoxifying the body and purifying blood. The beneficial enzymes in fenugreek aid digestion of fat, carbohydrates, sugar and proteins. The most beneficial way to eat fenugreek is by eating its sprouts. The water in which seeds are soaked can also be consumed. Young leaves can also be eaten. Fenugreek is also effective in clearing mucous from the lungs. Fenugreek seed tea causes sweating, which releases toxins through the skin and is effective in bringing down fever as well.

Wish these lekhanas prescribed by the Yogi come in handy for our readers who might’ve laboured until now under restrictive diets.