Ksheerapaka, or ksheerakashaya, is a type of Ayurvedic preparation that literally means "cooked milk" or "milk decoction". Most decoctions are very astringent and drying but the addition of milk allows it to be more nourishing. It's better suited for those who have weaker digestion such as children, the elderly and people who are sick. This makes a terrific bedtime tonic or afternoon pick-me up depending on what herbs are employed.

Although native to China, this fungus can be found growing in many a wooded area in the United States and around the world. Chances are high that you've passed one by if you've ever gone for a walk in the woods and passed by a dead, decaying tree. It got its name from its resemblance to the plumage of a male turkey. In Japan it is know as "cloud mushroom".

Torpor can be a real killer. But not the kind of killer that shoots you in the face, comes after you with an axe or pushes you off a bridge. Rather it is death by 1,000 needles. One needle on it's own isn't going to do all that much and make not even be noticed. 10 needles won't be a good time but it's hardly something to go to the hospital about. We really would start to pay attention at 100. 1,000 is another story all together.

Confession... I don't do all of this everyday.

However, this is an ideal for me to follow and I feel like a million bucks when I set aside time to complete everything. As I mentioned in my earlier post on dinacharya, I'm a big proponent of customization and strongly encourage you to incorporate only what resonates with you.
 

"Habits are much easier to maintain than commitments" - Seth Godin

In Ayurveda, self care is of paramount importance. Enter the Ayurvedic concept of dinacharya. The Sanskrit word translates as "dina" meaning "day" and "charya" meaning routine or schedule.  This daily routine is meant to create a foundation for excellent physical, mental and emotional health. Maintaining a stable, regular self care routine creates balance and stability. It's important both when we are ill and when we are in good health.

When I studied Ayurveda in India I was presented with a step by step routine that was touted as the ideal. I felt that there was a lot of wisdom there but I am a big proponent of customization. Certain things felt important to me and certain things didn't. Some steps I do only when I am at home but are set aside whilst traveling.