When we leave the doshas aside, Ayurveda has general guidelines for everyone. If you have a body, you qualify.
1. You are nature.
You are a Homo sapien, an advanced primate that evolved on this sacred life-giving planet. You're made of the same elements that are part of all the molecules in the cosmos. When you practice an objective, cosmo-centric relationship to your physiology and mind, you can better understand the nature of the Universe and your own Nature.
2. Go to bed early, wake up early.
As a primate, you have a diurnal, not nocturnal cycle. During the eons prior to electricity, our species consistently went to bed not long after the sun went down. The energy at this time of day is heavy, slow, and descending — all qualities excellent for sleep. Yet, past 10:00 pm, the energy shifts into an upward, stimulating flow — sometimes known as the second wind.
3. Breathe big when you wake up.
Chances are when you wake up, you're less flexible and alert than normal. This “tamasic” energy will influence your day and may create a barrier between you and your highest potential unless you clear it out. Many people use coffee or chai to do the trick, but these acidic substances don’t enhance your mind-body connection and when used to create alertness on a daily basis, they have deleterious side-effects.
4. Eat plants.
Perhaps you've noticed the more yoga you do, the fewer animals you eat. This is a natural progression of sourcing your energy and the fabric of your body from more conscious sources. Plants, especially those from your local ecosystem, create your outer ecosystem. When you primarily eat them, they become your inner ecosystem, transferring their natural immune and atmospheric intelligence.
