During the previous week, I had the opportunity to visit a prominent pharmacy that offers a wide range of products, from medications to perfumes. My purpose for visiting was to find a specific product called Floradix for a client, so I headed straight to the supplement aisle.
To my surprise, I was astounded by the vast selection of digestive aids, nasal sprays, minerals and vitamins, weight loss supplements, hay fever tablets, erectile dysfunction creams/drugs, herbal capsules, aromatherapy oils, hay fever and allergy relief tablets, probiotics, homeopathic formulations, tinctures, menopause supports, sleeping and low mood capsules, and teas, just to name a few. The variety was truly remarkable, and I am grateful for the abundance of options available to us. However, at times, it can be overwhelming, similar to shopping for trousers. But if I know exactly what I need or want, the benefits of having such a wide range of choices are undeniable.
Reflecting on my experience with supplements, I couldn't help but recall a similar feeling when I visited a local health shop. Have you ever noticed the array of beneficial herbs, teas, spices, grains, oils, and herbal compounds they offer? It seems like every time I visit, there's a new and miraculous product being advertised.
This made me ponder: how do we know if the product we choose will truly benefit us? How do we select a supplement and determine if it's working for us? Is it a matter of trial and error? If ashwagandha and ginseng offer similar benefits, which one should we choose? Should we base our decision on marketing claims, personal research, or recommendations from friends?
In Ayurveda, the assessment of supplements primarily revolves around digestion. Not everyone digests the same foods or supplements in the same way. That's why two people can have the same meal, but one may experience bloating while the other does not.
So, how can we assess our digestion? Here are some tips: Do you have regular bowel movements and urination without discomfort or pain? How is your appetite? Do you genuinely feel hungry during meals, or do you eat out of obligation? Do you experience any discomfort such as bloating, heaviness, reflux, acidity, or indigestion after eating? How is your energy level? Do you have any cravings? How well do you sleep? Do you wake up feeling refreshed? And in terms of your mood, do you feel anxious, nervous, angry, or depressed
Our digestive power, known as Agni in Ayurveda, plays a crucial role in our overall well-being, both physically and emotionally. This principle aligns with the gut-brain connection, as expressed in neuroscience.
Therefore, it is essential to determine whether the product you have chosen truly helps you achieve this balance or if it merely masks the symptoms without addressing the underlying cause.
The Mind-Body Revolution offers a wealth of knowledge and possibilities. The key is to listen to your body, observe yourself, and seek guidance if needed. If you have any doubts, don't hesitate to consult an expert. Progress in life is unlikely without resolving doubts. Then, make an informed decision about what to try. Remember, natural does not always equate to safe, and everyone is unique. Practitioners in various fields can provide you with the tools to discover yourself, but ultimately, the power to decide what is best for you lies within you. It is better to be a mindful mind-body revolutionary with your eyes wide open.
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