Rasayana

In German, the Ayurvedic discipline "Rasayana" is often translated as rejuvenation or anti-aging in Ayurveda. But does this discipline actually consist solely of rejuvenation measures?

In Ayurveda, the concept of rejuvenation has a far deeper meaning than wrinkle-free skin and beauty. It was about preventing the suffering that comes with aging, so that one could dedicate oneself more fully to spiritual self-realization in the second half of life. The term "Rasa," like many Sanskrit words, is multifaceted and holistic, making it difficult to translate directly into English. Ayurvedic literature uses terms such as bodily fluid, sensation, and plasma (Rasa tissue). Separately, the six tastes are also referred to as "Rasa."

The Rasayana discipline can be divided into two areas: Rasayana therapy for an optimal state of the nourishing tissue and behavioral Rasayana for psychological and mental purity.

Although Rasayana therapy includes not only the ingestion of medicinal plants (Vatapika) but also massages, detoxification procedures, and relaxation techniques, In modern Ayurveda, this usually refers to the ingestion of Rasayana plants (Vatapika). According to Ayurvedic texts, this group of plants has a tissue-regenerating effect.

Three examples of typical Rasayana preparations

• Amalaki fruit (Emblica officinalis)Amla fruit is most effective when boiled several times and then thickened. It is particularly ideal for athletes due to its muscle-building and fat-reducing properties, while simultaneously buffering acidity. Amla is available in tablet, capsule, or powder form.
• Triphala: A combination preparation consisting of three fruits: Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), and Bibhitaki (Terminalia belerica). This complementary blend contains one fruit each to balance Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. It supports metabolism and digestion, thereby strengthening all organs. Its liver-detoxifying effect can also help prevent age-related vision loss. Ayurveda recognizes a connection between the liver and the eyes. For preventative purposes, take daily before bedtime (dosage starting at 2 g per day). The cooling effect of the mixture can also help protect against excessive night sweats.
• Chyavanprash: Named after the holy sage Chyavan, this potentized, rich mixture of over 50 herbs (mainly Amalaki) is considered one of the most effective Rasayana for immune stimulation. It primarily promotes healthy cell regeneration and, according to Ayurveda, has an anti-allergic effect. Chyavanprash is available as a paste (Leham). As it is a restorative preparation, it is usually taken before meals. (Dosage from 1 teaspoon per day)

Contraindications for taking Triphala include excessively loose stools and Chyavanprash is not suitable for people with diabetes due to its sugar content. These Rasayanas can be used preventively to maintain inner balance. My Indian grandparents regularly took Triphala and Chyavanprash and were able to stay fit well into old age. Besides specific Ayurvedic Rasayana preparations, foods such as milk, ghee, garlic, etc. are also considered Rasayana substances.

In contrast, the Rasayana therapy of "Kutipravesha" is almost irrelevant in modern Ayurveda.Here, the patient performs mental exercises, fasts, takes Rasayana preparations, and is only served light food for an astrologically calculated period in a special house completely cut off from the outside world.

Behavioral Rasayana (Achara Rasayana)

To achieve lasting harmony between body, mind, and soul, a positive approach to behavior based on Ayurvedic principles is recommended. Behavioral Rasayana primarily encompasses ethical aspects such as love of truth, kindness towards others, devotion to love and compassion, tolerance, altruism, friendly speech, inner peace, self-control, cleanliness, and so on.

Negative feelings such as jealousy, envy, hatred, fear, arrogance, and doubt are harmful. The immune system is affected, and therefore negative feelings should not arise in the first place. These feelings are rooted in the ego (Ahamkara) and mind (Manas). By cultivating positivity, we can more easily let go of negative feelings and live from a higher state of consciousness. Consequently, the principles of behavioral Rasayana can manifest much more strongly within us.

To support the purity of the psyche, I recommend the following application techniques and behaviors in everyday life.

• Spontaneously and consciously perceive positive things (the beauty of nature, the sunrise, the wonders of the earth, pleasant fellow human beings, etc.)
• Visualization techniques to increase positivity z.B"I breathe in light and love and release all anger to the Earth's gravity."
• Contemplation techniques z.B. Concentrate on a candle flame with your eyes slightly open for about ten minutes and feel the power.
• Situational application of an affirmation in response to triggers of negative feelings: z.BIn cases of envy: "I am happy for my neighbor's success, etc." or in cases of hatred: "I forgive him/her and hope to be forgiven."
• Preference for energy-rich, fresh, nutritious food (milk, fresh vegetables, fresh fruit, unprocessed natural products... = sattvic foods)
• Moderate consumption of sensory overload such as television, computer, mobile phone, radio, especially when negative news reports are present in the media.
• Cultivate an open communication culture in partnerships and families

Letting go of burdensome emotions from the past is one of the most crucial elements in minimizing Ama (undigested material in body and mind). Unprocessed emotions are one of the main causes of Ama. According to Ayurveda, Ama provides fertile ground for disease.

The original goal in Ayurveda is the pursuit of true inner wellbeing. Values ​​are essential for ultimately achieving spiritual self-realization. Behavioral Rasayana is an integral part of Rasayana medicine and the Ayurvedic lifestyle.

Rasayana is a holistic construct within Ayurvedic health science (Swastha vritta) that is related to all other disciplines of Ayurveda.

Many thanks to our guest author for this article. David Batra (Master of Arts, University of Applied Sciences)

Ayurveda Batra

Holzmeisterstraße 6

A-5071 Wals-Siezenheim

Telephone: +43 680 12 16 478

E-mail: ayurveda@batra.at