Vinay Sutaria's Blog

Ayurveda is ancient. More than (at least) 5,000 years old. You may be thinking how the ancient practices can be put to use in today’s modern world. Aren’t they outdated or irrelevant?

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I came across the concept of dinacharya (Ayurvedic daily routine) when I first read the Caraka Samhita (one of the foremost Ayurvedic source texts). Since I want to keep this post short, I won’t delve into detail about this, but in short, according to your own, individual constitution, Ayurveda recommends a specific daily routine (this is something I am writing about too in one of my projects). So, back to the point. When I first read about dinacharya, I realised that to even complete the basic ritual would take an hour or two a day!

So, that makes Ayurveda impractical, right? Ayurveda can in no way compete with our fast-paced modern lifestyle, right? It would be silly to think that we can use the rituals of Ayurveda and actually have them work for us, right?

The answer is (partly) yes, but in some ways it is also no. In the midst of our ever-evolving world, we often find ourselves drifting further from the intrinsic harmony we share with nature. Ayurveda serves as our compass, guiding us back to that vital connection – to the essence of who we truly are.

As the tides of time shape our bodies, minds, and perceptions, we mustn't forget the timeless wisdom embedded in Ayurvedic practices. Through embracing its lifestyle, nourishing diet, meditative rituals, and holistic wellness principles, we reclaim the power to enrich the tapestry of our lives in this modern era.

4 Simple Ways to Include Ayurveda in Your Busy Life

There are some small and easy changes you can incorporate in your daily life that are based in a traditional Ayurvedic routine. When you put them together, as a regular practice, then you are winning.

1. Wake Up Early

I know it’s hard. For me and for you, and the entire human race. But first thing’s first. Get out of bed early in the morning, ideally before sunrise. Which is a lot easier in the Western countries where the sun doesn’t rise till a little later.

Ayurvedic texts recommend that we wake up before the sun during vata time. Vata is the energy of movement, so waking up before the sun comes up means that we will have more energy for the day. You can test this for yourself. When you wake up earlier, though you may feel groggy at first, once you are refreshed, your mind is clear and you can get a lot done.

Of course, exceptions need to be made. For the sick, elderly, children, or those who are pregnant, a little more sleep may be needed.

2. Make Time For Yourself

Before you do anything else, take care of yourself first thing in the morning. Not your phone, not your kids, not even your coffee. You come first. It's up to you to start your day off right. If you're not feeling your best, you won't be able to be there for others or get things done well.

Here's the thing: most people ignore this! They check their phone, their emails, or tend to their kids first. Then they wonder why they feel stressed or grumpy.

It's because they didn't prioritise themselves. Trust me, this makes a big difference in life. I know you want to be your best self every day, so repeat after me: "Me first." Now that you've said it, remember to take care of yourself throughout the day.

If you're feeling stressed, you're not alone. Starting your day with self-care and using herbal adaptogens can really help! It’s helped me for sure.

3. Meditate or Pray

After bathing, take some time to sit quietly and meditate or pray for five to ten minutes. In the morning, our mind is ready for meditation. Start with short sessions and gradually increase the time if you can. Even if it's just five minutes, that's okay.

And make sure to keep at it every day, even if you're easily distracted (yes, I'm talking to you, busy bees), until forever.

That's it for now until evening! Enjoy the rest of your day with a smile and being helpful to others.

4. Sleep Early

Make sure to hit the hay early so you can rise and shine with the sun – because this sets the tone for your whole day.

Try to be in bed by 10 p.m. Many overlook this step too. After dinner, they dive back into their phone, emails, or the latest news. Then they wonder why they're stressed, worried about tomorrow, or feeling down.

But here's the deal: 10 p.m. marks the start of pitta time. Pitta is all about transformation, giving you a burst of energy to process thoughts, food, and emotions from the day. So, hit the sack before that kicks in!

If you struggle with sleep, check out Sandhya+ Capsules. Just take one 30 to 45 minutes before bedtime. It’s a natural complex made from the best herbs.

We’ll Pause Here…

If you follow these steps, you'll soon become a pro at fitting Ayurveda into your busy schedule.

Seriously, Try these four simple practices for two weeks straight, without skipping a day. Keep a journal and jot down how you feel different if you need to.

And don't think it's too tough. Instead, set yourself up to succeed and approach it with a super positive attitude, like, "Yes! I'm pumped to CHANGE MY LIFE, starting today!"

You're totally worth it, and everyone who cares about you would agree.

Do it for yourself. Do it for them. Do it to be your best for others.

Do it to fulfill your purpose on this planet. That's what Ayurveda is all about.

Stay connected and stay blessed.

Prayers + Love,

Vinay

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In a world often marred by religious conflicts and intolerance, there are luminous examples of harmony and coexistence that inspire hope and unity. One such radiant example is found in the age-old relationship between Hindus and Muslims, where a beautiful tapestry of tolerance and respect has been woven amidst diverse beliefs and traditions.

At the heart of Hinduism lies a profound reverence for diversity and inclusivity. With its vast array of gods and goddesses, rituals, and philosophies, Hinduism embraces the idea that there are many paths to the divine. This inherent pluralism fosters an environment where individuals are encouraged to explore their spiritual journey freely, respecting the paths chosen by others.

Hindu scriptures, such as the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Mahabharata and the Ramayana, contain timeless teachings that emphasise the values of compassion, respect for all beings, and the pursuit of spiritual truth. In the Bhagavad Gita, for example, Shri Krishna extols the virtues of selflessness and duty, teaching individuals to act with integrity and compassion towards all living beings.

Similarly, the teachings of Islam emphasise the importance of tolerance and compassion towards people of different faiths. The Quran teaches Muslims to "compete with one another in good deeds" (Quran 5:48), highlighting the universal values of kindness, justice, and respect for all humanity.

However, it's essential to acknowledge that, like any religious text, the Quran contains verses that have been interpreted in ways that promote subjugation and conversion. For instance, Quran 9:29 states, "Fight those who do not believe in Allah or in the Last Day and who do not consider unlawful what Allah and His Messenger have made unlawful and who do not adopt the religion of truth from those who were given the Scripture - [fight] until they give the jizyah willingly while they are humbled."

Despite such verses, it's crucial to recognise that Islam, like any faith, is subject to diverse interpretations. While some may interpret these verses as advocating for coercion or forced conversion, others interpret them within historical and contextual frameworks, emphasising the principles of self-defence and protection of religious freedoms.

Moreover, the historical relationship between Hindus and Muslims in the Indian subcontinent exemplifies a spirit of coexistence and mutual respect. Despite periods of tension and conflict, there are countless instances of cultural exchange and collaboration between the two communities. From architectural marvels like the Taj Mahal to the mystical poetry of Sufi saints, Hindu-Muslim interactions have enriched both traditions.

One contemporary manifestation of Hindu-Muslim harmony is the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This magnificent temple, inaugurated in February 2024, stands as a testament to the UAE's commitment to religious tolerance and diversity. The mandir's construction was made possible through the support and collaboration of the UAE government and the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, a Hindu organisation dedicated to spiritual and humanitarian activities.

The BAPS Hindu Mandir serves as a sacred space where Hindus from various backgrounds come together to worship and celebrate their faith. Its architectural grandeur and spiritual ambience attract visitors of all faiths, fostering dialogue and understanding among different communities. The mandir's presence in Abu Dhabi symbolises the UAE's embrace of religious pluralism and its dedication to promoting harmony among people of diverse beliefs.

Furthermore, a significant step towards fostering religious harmony was seen when the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi gifted the land for a Hindu Temple in the region. This gesture signifies a commitment to inclusivity and respect for all faiths, setting a precedent for tolerance and cooperation in a region known for cultural diversity.

In contemporary times, amidst the challenges of religious extremism and communal tensions, initiatives such as those carried out by BAPS exemplify the transformative power of religious tolerance and cooperation. By fostering a culture of mutual respect and understanding, communities can build bridges across religious divides and work towards a world where peace and unity prevail.

The global humanitarian efforts and services undertaken by BAPS serve as a benchmark for religious harmony, tolerance, and respect for all faiths. Through initiatives focused on education, healthcare, disaster relief, and environmental sustainability, BAPS demonstrates a commitment to serving humanity irrespective of religious affiliations. These efforts not only embody the teachings of Hinduism but also serve as a universal example of compassion and selfless service. Such endeavours highlight the transformative potential of religious organisations in fostering understanding and cooperation among diverse communities. Indeed, BAPS' endeavours underscore the notion that religious harmony and mutual respect are not only desirable but achievable goals for all religions and individuals to emulate.

It all begins with an individual thought – often by the enlightened…

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The word ‘Ayurveda’ itself translates to "science of life", and that is what it actually is. This post will give you an overview of the three doshas (bodily humours) or central energies in Ayurvedic philosophy.

The doshas circulate throughout the body (and the subtle body too). They govern the physical, mental and emotional characteristics of every individual. Every individual has a dominant dosha or at least a combination of two doshas. It is very rare (but still the case) that some individuals have a complete balance of the three doshas.

But you'll probably ask, what's my dosha? There are a number of online quizzes that you can take which will help you determine your unique constitution. I think it is best to seek the guidance of an Ayurvedic professional to gain an accurate idea of your constitution, but still, it is useful to begin with/

The three doshas are known as Vata, Pitta and Kapha. These doshas are a combined energy of the five elements: ether, air, fire, water and earth. Vata is constructed from ether and air, Pitta from fire and water, and Kapha is a combination of both water and earth. From the time of conception, from multiple factors (such as genetics, parent's health, environment, etc.), each of us develop our individual prakruti which is your unique genetic blueprint in how you experience your physical and mental body. Remember, we have all three doshas within us, but just in varying ratios. This can be seen in literally every area of your self, from how we digest food, to the colour of your eyes, and even your personality traits.

Some of us can be Vata-Pitta, or Pitta-Kapha, or even Vata-Pitta-Kapha in equal measure. When our natural balance is disrupted, a condition known as vikruti emerges, often due to various factors. Vikruti signifies the onset of disease, indicating an imbalance of doshas. Achieving optimal health and well-being entails recognizing your prakruti (natural constitution), assessing your vikruti (imbalance), and implementing informed, holistic approaches to restore dosha equilibrium. By addressing the root cause and rebalancing the doshas, long-term symptom alleviation is achieved, underscoring the fundamental Ayurvedic principle: understanding the origin is essential for treating any state of discomfort. Restoring dosha harmony eliminates illness, reinstating wellness.

Read the full blog on Keshav Ayurveda’s site here.

Vinay Sutaria's Newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

It’s been a lot of hardwork and sleepless night’s behing the scenes, but… finally, the day I’ve been waiting for is here!

On the auspicious day of Pushpadolotsav (Holi), I am pleased to share that we are now open for pre-orders on Keshav Ayurveda!

I thank you all for the love and support that each one of you have given to this project.

As a thank you to each one of you, any pre-orders made on the website before April will be eligible for a 15% discount! Just use the code KESH15 at checkout.

Check out our full product range by clicking here or below!

Any questions or queries, my team is here to answer them all.

Just drop us an email at hello@keshav-ayurveda.com.

My prayers and love always,

Vinay

Hey!

Last week I wrote a post about where I have been hiding all of this time. Again, today, I won’t keep you too long. I just want to share some more exciting news with you. Trust me, you’ll want to stay for this one! 😁

I’m excited to share with you that we’re almost there…
Keshav Ayurveda is coming (very) soon!

Click here and join us by subscribing to the site.

By subscribing, not only will you be one of the first to hear about the launch, but there are other benefits to signing up (which you will soon hear about). You have nothing to lose. Literally.

Visit: Keshav Ayurveda

That’s it for today. I told you I wouldn’t take much of your time.

I appreciate all your love and support, and that is more than I can ask for!

But… I’m going to remind you one last time anyway. Subscribe.

My prayers. Always,

Vinay

🌿 Keshav Ayurveda.
⏳ Coming Soon.
🫵🏼 Just For You.

Hey there,

Firstly, my apologies. An email after three months… a long time.

So where have I been?

I have been travelling and researching throughout India since November, and have just arrived back in the UK. I’m currently working on a couple of books simultaneously which will be published later this year and next year, and I can’t wait to share these with you.

As well as this, I have been working on something else…

Yes! I am soon to launch my Ayurvedic product line (fused with modern science) to provide personalised self-care rituals for you.

This has been a work in progress for over three years now, and I recently travelled to the valleys of Kashmir, the Himalayas, and various other regions throughout India to source some of the most precious and potent ingredients to be used in these products.

It’s coming soon, and of course, you will be one of the first to hear about it. But, in the meantime, I would like to ask you to spare a few minutes for me.

If you could take some time to fill in this interest form here, I would appreciate it so much! It’ll help me plan out potential pre-orders and learn more about what sort of products you may be interested in.

Stay tuned, and you can always reach me directly via email or social media.

My prayers for each one of you,

Vinay

Vinay Sutaria's Newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Hey,

I hope you are well! 😁

You may have already heard about my new documentary series, The Dark Side of Meat, which I have put together to showcase the reality surrounding the meat industry and farming. It reveals the truth about the treatment of animals across the world, often that which is hidden from the public eye. If you haven’t seen the first episode, you can watch it by clicking here.

Episode 2: Chickens and Eggs is also out now too! You can watch it here or below.

I do not ask for much in terms of support! As mentioned before, I am making this series to present the truth as it is. So, if you would like to support me and my work, I would greatly appreciate a like, subscribe and share.

The more people this series reaches, the more we can change the world.

That first step begins with us.

NOTE: VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED.

Thank you for your continued love, support and prayers.

Vinay Sutaria's Newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Hey there,

I hope you are well! 😁

So… There is something small that I’ve been working on creating on the side along with my writing project…

The Dark Side of Meat is a documentary series that I have put together showcasing the reality surrounding the meat industry and farming. It reveals the truth about the treatment of animals across the world, often that which is hidden from the public eye.

I do not ask for much in terms of support! I am making this series to present the truth as it is. Although, if you would like to support me and my work, I would greatly appreciate a like, subscribe and share.

The more people this series reaches, the more we can change the world.

That first step begins with us.

In the first episode, we look at how pigs are bred and raised for meat.

You can watch it now on my YouTube by clicking here or below.

NOTE: VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED.

Thank you for your continued love, support and prayers.

— Vinay

Vinay Sutaria's Newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Writing my new book has not only filled me with joy, but also with awe. Every day that I write, it reaffirms amazing facts and tips that I have come across. It also incorporates various aspectss of Ayurveda which have not only helped me, but have literally transformed the way that I live my life.

Here are 15 such Ayurvedic tips (from the original Ayurvedic texts) that’ll give you a sneak peek of what is to come in my next book…

Overindulgence in all areas should be avoided. Too much food, extraneous activity, hoarding of material objects, etc., all of which are unnecessary should be avoided where possible.

Food that has not been digested becomes toxic and will have a negative impact on your health. So, you should not have another meal until the previous one is properly digested.

When the mind is agitated or disturbed, many diseases will manifest.

Food should be chewed slowly, similar to how a goat chews on grass. The saliva is the best and first of al the digestives. Do not swallow or scoff down your food.

Taking a lukewarm shower doesn’t just help to cleanse the body, but lightens the mind and averts bad dreams.

Do not take a bath or shower immediately after consuming food. This will disturb the digestive process.

Always use fresh food. We can go on about this, but wait till the book is released.

After a meal, the stomach should be half filled with food, a quarter with water, and a quarter left empty.

Constant worry and stress leads to faster ageing.

It doesn’t matter how much work or tasks you have at hand, eat at the right times.

Most diseases are due to overindulgence of foods, incorrect indulgence of foods, or, lack of exercise.

If you have a fever, try fasting that day.

Never eat when you feel tired or when it is time to sleep, even if you feel hungry.

Practicing pranayama daily will promote good health.

Try to take some curd or buttermilk with every meal. It helps with digestion.

I’ll leave it at that. Something for you to ponder upon.

If you have any questions or want to know more, feel free to get in touch via email or my Instagram here.

Thank you for reading Vinay Sutaria's Newsletter. This post is public so feel free to share it.

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In the past three years, I have read over 300 books, written and published three books of my own, travelled around India four times, and balanced my work. How do I do this? How do I ensure I stay on top of everything? What is the art of productivity to getting things done?

Develop a Slow Morning Routine

How you get up in the morning really does determine how the rest of your day will go. Start by waking up early and allowing yourself time for a slow, fulfilling routine. Try not to schedule work too early into the morning either. You will dread it. You won’t do it. Your morning should be kept free. It should feel enjoyable. The morning routine should also consist of an activity you enjoy – reading, journalling, or meditating are just some examples. Do not work straight away. Wake up an hour earlier and do something you love.

Go For a Walk

It may seem like a chore or an unnecessary thing to do, but just go for a walk. You must reframe your mindset. You’re doing it for the feeling of accomplishment, success and health. Research has shown that exercise leads to spikes in productivity; it creates new mitochondria, meaning more energy, and that means you can work for longer periods without a drop in productivity. You also tackle stress this way too. Even a ten to fifteen minute walk can do magic. Try it and let me know how it goes for you.

Breakfast Matters

I’m not here to tell you whether you should have breakfast or not, or whether it is the most important meal of the day or not – those little details we will delve into in my next book. But one thing that really does matter is sugar. Many breakfast items that we have in the morning contain added sugar, and this is destroying our productivity.

Avoid foods high in added sugar because they will cause spikes in your blood sugar, causing you to creash later and to feel tired. Then, you won’t be able to work efficiently and you will feel lazy. Limit sugar intake in the morning. Caffeine is fine.

Create a System and Use Time Blocking

As much as you may think it is unnecessary or just a form of procrastination – use a calendar. I use Fantastical, but there are default options on your mobile devices and laptops that are equally as good.

Make a list of the tasks you need to complete in the day and block out time slots in your calendar. You do not have an infinite amount of time, so do not schedule a whole day for work, it won’t work. This will only breed procrastination and you won’t complete the tasks at hand. Instead of working 9am to 5pm, if you can, work in increments that suit you, but use time blocking.

Another effective technique that I use to maximise my productivity is the Pomodoro technique. This is a time management method where I work for 25 minutes at a time, I take a 10 minute break, and then another 25 minutes of work. This completes an hour, and allows for a break in between.

Create a schedule that works for you and also allow for flexibility. You do not have to be completely rigid. Play to your strengths and do not force yourself to do a task that you do not want to do.

Separation is Key

Separate tasks by spaces and stimuli. This is very important. Don’t ask why, just trust me on this one. If you’re eating, eat in the kitchen. If you’re working, you work at your desk. If you’re reading, you read on your sofa or in the library. If you sleep, sleep in your bed. When you force yourself to perform tasks in a set environment, you will be primed to act accordingly. Use priming to your advantage.

Switch On Relax Mode

Of course, how can we end without talking about rest? Rest is so important. We often think that rest is a sign of laziness, but it’s not. It’s okay to rest a day or an evening. Take a break. Your purpose and work is not tied to how productive you are or how much you get done in a day. Do not get burnt out, you will get worked out.

Make the the time in your daily schedule to bring comfort back into your life. Create rewards for yourself. If I complete all my tasks today, what can I do this evening or tomorrow morning? Reward myself with a Netflix show, coffee or lunch dates (solo coffee dates if you don’t have someone to go with are just as good), or just some simple leisure reading.

You can even journal at the end of the day, but this isn’t just for comfort or relaxing, it allows for accountability too. Your evening routine should be slow just like your morning routine. Wind down slowly but properly. Have a herbal tea or warm drink, watch something on Netflix, read a book, whatever it may be. Just make sure you’re well rested for the busy day to follow…

There’s so much more to say about productivity, but we will leave it at that. My 25 minutes of writing this blog are up. Now I’m taking a ten minute break and making myself a coffee, and then I am going to get back to my writing my book.

Prayers and Love,

Vinay

Vinay Sutaria's Newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.