A solar eclipse, where the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, obscuring the sun’s light, has always fascinated and alarmed civilizations across the world. Traditionally, in Jyotish (Vedic astrology) and Ayurveda—ancient Indian systems of astrology and medicine—eclipses are seen as significant yet potentially disruptive cosmic events. This April’s solar eclipse provides a timely opportunity to explore these ancient interpretations alongside today’s scientific understanding.

According to Jyotish, an eclipse disrupts natural energies, as the sun, which represents the soul, health, and vitality, and the moon, which influences emotions and the mind, are obscured. This celestial event is seen as a time of misalignment and imbalance, impacting both the environment and individual well-being. Eclipses are believed to be caused by Rahu and Ketu, the north and south lunar nodes, considered shadow planets associated with karmic retribution. Their prominence during an eclipse is thought to amplify potential chaos and disturbances.

“Ayurveda also views eclipses as a time when the balance of bodily energies, or doshas, is susceptible to disruption. The irregular light and altered environmental conditions are said to affect digestive and mental health. “

As a result, activities such as eating and sleeping are discouraged during an eclipse to prevent health disturbances.

Moreover, the psychological effects of the unusual natural phenomenon—an ominous appearance and unsettling ambiance—contribute to a sense of unease. Both Jyotish and Ayurvedic traditions recommend engaging in purification rituals such as chanting mantras, meditating, fasting, and bathing in sacred rivers post-eclipse. These practices aim to restore the spiritual and physical balance disrupted by the eclipse.

The lack of proper eye protection in ancient times may also have contributed to the perception of eclipses as dangerous events. Direct observation without modern solar eclipse glasses could lead to retinal burns, reinforcing the idea of inherent risks. Today, however, with the advent of specially designed solar eclipse glasses that filter harmful rays, viewing these celestial events has become safe and educational. These glasses allow us to experience the awe of eclipses without the fear historically associated with them.

Their methodologies, involving detailed record-keeping, observation, and predictive analyses, demonstrate a structured approach to understanding human-environment interactions, which parallels scientific inquiry. However, it’s important to differentiate their metaphysical and spiritual interpretations from strictly empirical scientific disciplines. Their blend of empirical observation with spiritual and holistic wellness practices represents a unique intersection of science with traditional wisdom. This protective gear bridges the gap between intriguing ancient customs and modern scientific understanding. Both eras share a common thread—a deep respect and awe for the mysteries of the cosmos. Whether through ritual or science, the solar eclipse remains a profound symbol of human connection to the universe, illustrating how cultural interpretations can evolve alongside technological advancements. How did you spend your time on the day of the solar eclipse?

About the Author

Chahna Tailor Gupta, an Ayurvedic Practitioner and certified yoga teacher, has a background in occupational therapy and health science with a focus in public health. Chahna was yoga trained in Rishikesh,  India and had ayurvedic clinicals in Kannur, Kerala. Chahna provides yoga, pranayama, meditation, 200-hr yoga teacher training, and ayurvedic health counseling services through her company Namaskar To You. Chahna is a volunteer for Ekal Vidyalaya, American Association of Ayurvedic Professionals (AAAP), and Ayurveda Association of Florida (AAF). She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Ayurvedic Medicine while continuing her self-studies in yoga.

Growing up in South Florida, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the incredible impact of the Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation firsthand. From attending the annual events to volunteering and now serving as the President of the South Florida Chapter, my journey with Ekal has been deeply meaningful.

In today’s digital era, Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation is at the forefront of innovation, harnessing the power of technology to enhance education in rural and tribal communities. Recognizing the pivotal role of modern tools in education, Ekal has seamlessly integrated tablets, computer labs, and e-learning platforms into its curriculum. This forward-thinking approach is bridging the digital divide and equipping children in remote villages with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the 21st century.

Beyond academics, Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation is committed to addressing the holistic needs of the communities it serves. Established in 1989, the foundation has empowered 10 million girls and boys with literacy, currently enrolls 2.8 million children, and has vocationally trained 17,400 women. With a network of 80,000 schools and 20,000 youths who are digitally literate, Ekal is making a tangible difference. Additionally, 855,000 individuals have access to healthcare, and 90,000 youth and adults have gained skills training through the foundation’s initiatives.

Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation’s success lies in its collaborative approach and strategic partnerships with various stakeholders, including government bodies, NGOs, and local communities. Through these partnerships, Ekal has been able to expand its reach and implement impactful initiatives that address not only educational needs but also healthcare, skill development, and economic empowerment.

As we celebrate the transformative impact of Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation, let us reaffirm our commitment to supporting its mission and creating lasting change in the lives of those it serves.

Whether through volunteering, fundraising, or advocating for the cause, everyone can play a part in shaping a brighter and more inclusive future for India’s underserved communities. A contribution as modest as a dollar a day can make a profound difference, enriching countless lives and empowering communities to thrive and prosper.

Join us in this incredible journey towards education, empowerment, and holistic village development. Together, we can make a difference and build a more equitable and sustainable future for all. 

About the Author

Chahna Tailor Gupta, an Ayurvedic Practitioner and certified yoga teacher, has a background in occupational therapy and health science with a focus in public health. Chahna was yoga trained in Rishikesh, India and had ayurvedic clinicals in Kannur, Kerala. Chahna provides yoga, pranayama, meditation, 200-hr yoga teacher training, and ayurvedic health counseling services through her company Namaskar To You. Chahna is a volunteer for Ekal Vidyalaya, American Association of Ayurvedic Professionals (AAAP), and Ayurveda Association of Florida (AAF). She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Ayurvedic Medicine while continuing her self-studies in yoga.

Our skin, the largest organ of our body, is truly remarkable. It shields us from external threats, regulates our temperature, and safeguards our internal organs. While our skin acts as a protective barrier, it also has the ability to absorb what we apply to it. Unfortunately, many commercial skincare products contain harmful chemicals that can disrupt our skin’s natural balance. By making conscious choices, we can prioritize products that promote our skin’s health and overall well-being.

The Impact of Common Personal Care Products

Everyday products like deodorants, soaps, shampoos, conditioners, and perfumes may contain ingredients that can have detrimental effects on our bodies. For example, deodorants and antiperspirants with aluminum compounds and synthetic fragrances have been linked to breast cancer and hormone disruption. Soap and body washes with artificial fragrances can strip the skin of its natural oils, causing dryness and irritation. Shampoos and conditioners containing sulfates, parabens, and silicones can harm hair health and scalp balance. Perfumes, fragrances, and body lotions often contain phthalates, which are endocrine disruptors and pose potential risks to our health. Even inhaling these products to smell them can affect our respiratory system.

Making Informed Choices for Healthier Skin 

It’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with certain personal care products and make informed choices. Luckily, many companies are now offering cleaner alternatives to these conventional products. You can find cleaner options both in physical stores and online. Additionally, embracing Ayurveda provides a holistic approach to skincare. By harnessing the power of natural ingredients, Ayurvedic alternatives nurture our bodies while enhancing our connection with nature. Caring for our skin means caring for our overall well-being. By becoming more discerning about the products we use, we can reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and prioritize our skin’s health. It’s heartening to see the increasing availability of clean alternatives in the market, offering safer options for daily use. Alternatively, exploring Ayurvedic alternatives allows us to tap into the wisdom of nature and create our own personalized products. By making conscious choices, we can nurture our bodies, enhance our connection with nature, and achieve radiant skin and healthy hair naturally. Reach out to me at chahna@namaskartoyou.com for assistance in finding or creating your own natural skincare products. Let’s embark on this journey towards a healthier you and a healthier world!

About the Author

Chahna Tailor Gupta, an Ayurvedic Practitioner and certified yoga teacher, has a background in occupational therapy and health science with a focus  in public health. Chahna was yoga trained in Rishikesh, India and had ayurvedic clinicals in Kannur, Kerala. Chahna provides yoga, pranayama, meditation, 200-hr yoga teacher training, and ayurvedic health counseling services through her company Namaskar To You. Chahna is a volunteer for Ekal Vidyalaya, American Association of Ayurvedic Professionals (AAAP), and Ayurveda Association of Florida (AAF). She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Ayurvedic Medicine while continuing her self-studies in yoga.

As I became older, I started asking my parents and family members more questions about Hinduism. Thanks to Bala-Vihar at South Florida Hindu Temple with Swamini Divyananda and Swami Vijayananda, in addition to learning the meanings of certain mantras and slokas, I also learned the significance of certain pujas. I also took Hindi classes (as a Gujarati) which helped me familiarize myself with our national language (while also simultaneously helping me understand more of what my Bollywood husbands were saying on screen). Reading our Vedas and other scriptures of Sanatana Dharma, it was clear that we were surrounded by ignorance when it comes to vedic practices and also how incredibly rich it is. Unfortunately, I feel, much of our history has been construed, rewritten, or destroyed. As an example, look at how yoga is portrayed today – a stretch-based exercise to those looking from the outside.

By the time I had enrolled into an Ayurveda program, (thank you, Sampoorna College of Ayurveda), I was encouraged to learn Sanskrit (all made a little easier thanks to Hindi class!) and utilizing it for a deeper understanding of our Shastras. As I started reading different scriptures (even those translated in English), it was just astonishing how logical and useful they were – and how they could stand the test of time. The words from thousands of years ago still ring true today.

The thing about holistic medicine and lifestyle choices is that yoga and ayurveda are becoming more popular in the west. But, will they be practiced correctly? Will it be only temporary? A fad, perhaps? We are lucky that in our local community we have resources like Desh Videsh to continue to provide a platform for our culture. But, other communities may not be so lucky. This leads to the resounding question – if more of us do not keep stepping up to preserve Sanatana Dharma, will future generations be left with very little or diluted vedic knowledge at best?

As an effort to spread Ayurveda and correct Yoga in our local community, my company Namaskar To You, is hosting an event called Life Fest that will focus on Ayurveda (hint – ‘ayur’ means ‘life’!), as well as other alternative approaches. The event will take place at Huizenga Plaza in Fort Lauderdale on September 17, 2022. If you are interested in sharing your knowledge or be one of the sponsors, please feel free to reach out. At the end of the day, it’s about preserving our rich culture for future generations.

Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine from India, recognizes that different seasons of the year can have a significant impact on our health and well-being. According to Ayurveda, there are three doshas (vata, pitta, and kapha) that govern our physical and mental characteristics, and these doshas can become imbalanced during certain times of the year. In this article, we will explore the seasons in Ayurveda and which doshas are prominent during each season.

Winter (December to February)
In Ayurveda, winter is considered a time of increased vata dosha. Vata is responsible for movement and governs functions such as breathing, circulation, and digestion. During the winter, the cold and dry weather can aggravate vata dosha, leading to symptoms such as dry skin, constipation, and anxiety. To balance vata during the winter months, it is recommended to eat warm, nourishing foods, drink warm beverages, and practice self-care rituals such as oil massage (abhyanga) and steam therapy (swedana).

Spring (March to May)
Spring is considered a time of increased kapha dosha in Ayurveda. Kapha is responsible for stability and structure and governs functions such as immunity, digestion, and fluid balance. During the spring, the heavy and wet qualities of kapha can lead to symptoms such as congestion, allergies, and lethargy. To balance kapha during the spring months, it is recommended to eat light, dry foods, engage in regular exercise, and practice detoxification techniques
such as fasting or herbal cleansing.

Summer (June to August)
In Ayurveda, summer is considered a time of increased pitta dosha. Pitta is responsible for metabolism and governs functions such as digestion, hormone balance, and temperature regulation. During the summer, the hot and intense qualities of pitta can lead to symptoms such as inflammation, irritability, and skin rashes. To balance pitta during the
summer months, it is recommended to eat cooling, hydrating foods, practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, and avoid exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours.

Fall (September to November)
Fall is considered a time of transition in Ayurveda, as the weather begins to cool and the air becomes drier. During the fall, both vata and pitta doshas can become imbalanced, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, dry skin, and digestive disturbances. To balance vata and pitta during the fall months, it is recommended to eat warm, nourishing foods, engage in regular exercise, and practice self-care rituals such as oil massage (abhyanga) and steam therapy
(swedana).
The seasons in Ayurveda play a significant role in our health and well-being. By understanding which doshas are prominent during each season and taking appropriate steps to balance them, we can support our physical and mental health throughout the year. Whether it’s eating warm, nourishing foods during the winter or engaging in regular exercise during the spring, Ayurveda provides a holistic framework for staying healthy and balanced
throughout all seasons of the year.

Skin Care

•     Swedana, sweating, is great for opening up the pores and sweating out toxins. You can buy a facial steamer from Amazon, or boil some water in a pot, cover your head with a towel, and hang over the hot water (with the stove off!). The steam works just as well as a facial steamer!
•     Brides (and grooms) can use sugar to exfoliate the face. Honey and lemon can be used to even out the skin tone and to fade acne scarring. The inside of tomatoes can be used for the same purpose.
•     Mixing a pinch of turmeric with a scoop of besan (gram powder) and creating a paste with milk, cream, or water can help to clean and purify the skin.
•     For those that suffer from redness, inflammation, and acne, applying aloe vera can be cooling and can help balance some of those pitta symptoms. It also helps to hydrate the skin and even out the skin tone. You can also make a paste of tulsi leaves for your face – it’s great for those with oily skin since it is great for skin disorders and for acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
•     Drinking CCF (coriander, cumin, fennel) tea daily can help to clear toxins out of your digestive system, thus clearing your complexion. Refer back to my Preven-Tea-Tive article for an exact recipe of how to make it, plus some added benefits!
•     A daily abhyanga would be amazing for your overall skin as well as your mind. An abhyanga is an oil massage. Depending on your type of skin and your dosha, you can use a specific oil, but refined sesame oil works for anyone! Before a shower (or, if you are prone to dry skin, use after your shower), massage oil into your skin and leave on for a minimum of 15 minutes so that it can be well absorbed. It’s great for your body and you will feel more relaxed through giving yourself a massage.

Hair Care

There are two things that are super important for hair and scalp health.

•     The first thing for hair is to give yourself a daily head massage.
•     The second is to put oil on your scalp and hair. The best way? Do them both at the same time! Amla oil is amazing for the scalp and hair. Amla oil and hair massages are known for strengthening the scalp and hair. Amla is also used for reducing graying of the hair. A hair massage stimulates the hair follicles, and just like amla oil, can help increase hair growth. If you have a dry scalp and suffer from dandruff, oiling the scalp helps to rejuvenate the skin. Amla oil can easily be found at your local desi store, Amazon, or I can send you a recipe on how to make it at home yourself!

Mental Balance

•     Tulsi leaves are usually something that every family has at home. Take a few of these leaves and boil them to make a tea or eat them as they are. Tulsi is known for being a relaxant. In Ayurveda, tulsi is used as a way to regulate hormones which can regulate your mood, and help awaken the neurotransmitters that work to make this happen.You can eat a few tulsi leaves to freshen your breath and to relax. Mint tea can also be taken as a way to relax your nerves.
•     Some pranayama exercises can definitely help keep you balanced, such as anuloma viloma (alternate nostril breathing) and ujjayi pranayama (victorious breath). Anuloma viloma is practiced by using your right ring finger and thumb to block one nostril at a time. Start by blocking the right nostril and inhaling through the left, close the left nostril, open the right nostril and exhale through the right. Then, inhale through the right, close the right, open the left nostril, and exhale out the left. That is one cycle. Do this for 5-10 minutes and you will see a noticeable shift in your mood.
•     Doing a few yoga poses can also relax you. It may not be conducive to do adho mukha svanasana (downward facing dog) but just sitting in a meditative pose, vajrasana (thunderbolt/diamond pose), by kneeling and sitting on your heels can help bring peace.
•     If none of these are feasible, sitting in a chair and even standing with your eyes closed for a few minutes can help to bring relaxation.

I hope these suggestions help you. Remember, these tips and tricks are great for any time of the year. Just keep calm and have fun through the rest of the summer! When in doubt, give yourself a massage!

Skin Care

Swedana

sweating

Ayurvedic tips

milk

cream

coriander

cumin

fennel

A daily abhyanga

hair and scalp health

Mental Balance

pranayama exercises

yoga poses

adho mukha svanasana

vajrasana