AYURVEDA: A GEN-XER'S GUIDE TO ANCIENT HEALTH WISDOM

For a society used to doctor's prescriptions, embracing Ayurveda might feel like trying a new health trend. And if it means raising a mug of warm water in place of a pill, that's a toast I'll gladly make.

- RICARDO T. PAMINTUAN

Every so often, an ancient tradition resurfaces with such relevance that it feels designed for the modern times. This is Ayurveda—India's revered health philosophy, over 5,000 years old, which recently captivated Manila during the 9th Ayurveda Day celebration.

Hosted by the Indian Embassy and Shanti Ayurveda Philippines, the event showcased Ayurveda's holistic wellness approach and hinted at how this practice could thrive in the Philippines.

The event presented speakers who each envisioned Ayurveda's integration into Filipino culture, education, and healthcare. Ambassador Harsh Kumar Jain opened by emphasizing Ayurveda's commitment to "promoting health and preventing disease," a refreshing counter to today's quick-fix culture. I couldn't help but think, "If this practice could streamline my maintenance routine or reduce my pharmacy runs, I'm all ears."

Take Ayurvedic eating, for example. "Eating the right food at the right time" isn't just about calories or food groups but about consuming for your dosha—your unique body-mind type, whether it's Vata (light and mobile), Pitta (fiery and sharp), or Kapha (steady and calm). It's like a health horoscope. As a Pitta, I learned I should eat cooling foods, avoid spice, and basically steer clear of all the good things in life, like caffeine and fried delights—hardly enticing! But after over a year of IF (intermittent fasting) without complaint, perhaps I'm up for the challenge.