Kama Ayurveda - Page 16 of 18

Body Areas You Need To Stop Neglecting This Winter

Neglect of certain body parts just because they’re not usually visible, or are insignificant according to you, is a tell-tale sign of lackadaisical personal grooming. And laziness in this department tends to be rather predominant during the winters because a lot gets hidden under oversized sweaters, 100 denier stockings; scarves, gloves, and caps. As the saying goes, beauty lies in the eye of the beholder. Sometimes, a glance at the dreary condition of some parts of your body can instantly turn that accidental glance into a very judgemental one. Here’s a reminder-list of the forgotten body parts, and what you can, and should do, to take care of them in the winters. Some of these, are actually right under your nose.

THE NECK AREA

Many people suffer from pigmentation and flaky skin in this area, which extends up to the ear-lobes. Pigmentation and chronic dryness, isn’t something you can fix overnight. However, you can do a little every day, and every week, to soften the impact of these issues. When applying a toner on your face, make sure you extend the sweeping motions to your entire neck. A body butter or lotion with deep-tissue hydrating ingredients should be used everyday. Gentle exfoliation twice or thrice a week, and a weekly, or bi-weekly massage with sweet almond oil will result in progressive, but significant improvement. Having said this, there’s no harm in a daily body massage either, if your daily schedule permits one.

THE WEBS BETWEEN YOUR FINGERS

It’s awfully embarrassing when someone’s gaze settles for a second too long on the white patches between your fingers instead of your perfect manicure. Keep a nourishing and restorative hand lotion or cream handy, especially if your lifestyle involves being on your toes all the time. Speaking of toes, this applies to the webs between them too and a deep nourishing foot cream can be your saviour here. It’s surprising how people tend to forget the toe-webs, when they pay such precise attention to their soles during winter.

ELBOWS, KNEES AND SHINS

Though it may not be evident immediately, it pays to scrub these areas with a pumice stone, or a natural-fibre loofah whilst bathing. Body creams with richly lubricating butters, like Cocoa, Chea, Kokum, Mango or nourishing oils like Coconut, Sesame and Olive are perfect to keep unsightly dark patches at bay.

BACK AND GLUTES

Out of sight, out of mind’ really holds true for these parts of the body. Besides temperature-induced dryness, wearing clothes and undergarments made in fabrics or fits that are unsuitable for your skin type can result in rashes and body acne breakouts. Soaps or body washes with potent anti-bacterial action combined with hydrating ingredients ensure that excessive dryness doesn’t intensify the issue further thus avoiding vicious circle. An exfoliating body cleanser should be used together to banish acne, as should a body oil specifically targeting breakouts and inflammation.

Destination Wedding Fixes For Her And Him

Preparing for a destination wedding can be quite stressful, time consuming and intimidating. It may well feel like you’ve crossed the first leg of challenging obstacle race, when you pack all your bags and eagerly make your way to the destination wedding location of your dreams. The last thing you need to dampen your mood, are nasty beauty surprises. Bloating and swelling, blotchy skin, sudden acne attacks, and frizzy, unmanageable hair can really cause your enthusiasm and self-confidence levels to plummet. As much as these can be blamed on external environmental factors, many of them result from personal carelessness, and an over-dependence on cosmetic camouflage. Often the solution to such issues lies in natural, pure, and simple ingredients. All these need from you, is as calm and relaxed a state of being as you can manage. The purer the ingredients, the more potent they are - and if you would leave your skin and hair for some time to the care of all-natural beauty therapies, you might actually see the results you’re hoping for.

ALOE AS AN IMMEDIATE EMERGENCY REMEDY

Aloe Vera is one of the most reliable natural beauty ingredients for beauty disasters. It has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and works really well on swelling, burns, rashes or cuts. Its astringent qualities make it a soothing, cooling toner, capable of inducing quite a spectacular radiance. Apply our Organic Aloe Vera Juice as a toner, or massage it into the affected areas like a lotion. Sleep it off, even if for 30-45 minutes. You’ll awaken to comparatively calmer, even subtly glowing skin, and this itself will do wonders to bring your skin confidence back on track.

BLACK CUMIN FOR QUICK-FIX CLEAN UPS

FOR HER:Rose Jasmine Face Cleanser with Black Cumin, Jojoba and Aloe Vera works well in tandem with Lavanya Natural Plant Mask to give a relatively rapid skin cleanse. Black Cumin lends the cleanser anti-bacterial, toning and conditioning properties. Liquorice and Lodhra extracts in the mask provide brisk exfoliation and brightening for a replenished sense of invigoration and a well-rested outward appearance.

FOR HIM: Himalayan Deodar Face Cleanser is created especially for men that also has Black Cumin, Jojoba and Aloe Vera, with the added sensual earthiness of pure Vetiver to compliment the refreshing goodness of the Deodar essential oil. Combined with Lavanya, this duo is effective is lifting away pollutants and impurities for visibly healthier skin.

HIBISCUS & SOYBEAN FOR SPECTACULAR WEDDING HAIR

FOR HER: The duo of Rose Jasmine Hair Cleanser and Conditioner with pure extracts of Hibiscus, Soybean and Aloe Vera provide restorative care for damaged hair. This regime is particularly well-suited for hair that’s habituated to regular colouring and styling.

FOR HIM: Himalayan Deodar Hair Cleanser and Conditioner carry over that intoxicating perfume of Deodar (Cedar Wood) from the face cleanser in the same range. The enriching extracts of Hibiscus, Soybean and Aloe Vera and Amla (Indian Gooseberry) provide lightweight body and glossy bounce to hair that matches the dapper outfits and accessories.

ON-THE-GO REFRESHMENT

A few spritzes of Kama’s Pure Lavender Water, or Vetiver Water will also work like magic. They both have a psychological impact on stress and anxiety. These cooling, steam-distilled waters are indispensable for sensitive, Rosacea-prone, and combination-skin types. If it’s just temporary dryness/flakiness that’s bothering you, you might want to give the Pure Rose or Mogra Water a go.

COUPLE’S THERAPY

Before you say ‘I Do,’ (and ideally, every day after!) add a few drops of our aphrodisiacal Pure Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil in your bath-water. Known to induce strong feelings of awareness, confidence and self-love, this is perfect for some private time-out from the world, the people in it, and all the problems they create for those in love.

What Kind Of Bride Are You?

Every bride is her own kind of beautiful, accentuated by her unapologetic, self-assured aura, and comfort in her own skin. And, for every kind of bride, the need to brand the preparatory run-up to the Big Day with her signature style, is instinctively essential. No matter what kind of modern bride you are, here are some significant additions to your beauty regime that could well become permanent on your beauty shelves.

THE CLEOPATRA BRIDE

The Remote Control bride wants premium quality beauty solutions but in a hurry. She doesn’t necessarily have the time and/or the inclination to enjoy slow-paced, long-term bridal pampering. She’s also likely to change her mind a fair few times in her search for the optimum crisp, ‘fast-action’ bridal beauty routine.

Red Sandalwood Ayurvedic Soap: The Red Sandalwood oil in this handmade soap makes for invigorating cleansing and significant improvement in the intensity of pimples, blemishes, acne marks and sun damage. The combined moisturising action from the virgin Coconut Oil and organic Beeswax protects your skin from dryness, keeping your skin soothed, cooled, and smooth.

Nimrah Anti-Acne Face Pack: Depend on this botanical blend for instant freshness, and brisk drying out of active pimples or acne scabs. This ancient prescription for purifying the skin lends a sense of all-round clarity and near-instantaneous glow.

Organic Neem Oil : For an obvious and effective reduction in persistent acne, breakouts, rashes and marks you’re tired of experimenting products on. Works extremely well on a flaky, irritated and dandruff-ridden scalp too.

**THE LAST-MINUTE BRIDE**

There aren’t enough hours in the day for this bride who is constantly on her toes and doesn’t have enough me-time. There can be however, a few beauty gems embellishing her personal beauty ritual that can guarantee long-term, enviable natural radiance.

Kumkumadi Brightening Ayurvedic Face Scrub: For a soothing home-spa exfoliating experience and immediate luminescence. Thanks to pure hand-picked Saffron and the nourishing therapeutic goodness of ground Almonds and Sweet Flag, this facial exfoliator is a gentle yet compelling formula to even skin tone and texture while leaving it softly hydrated. This face scrub is the epitome of at-home, everyday luxury.

Extra Virgin Organic Coconut Oil: A few drops of this light, nutty oil as a hair serum is ideal to protect your hair from frizz, breakage and dryness as a result of the constant hair-styling for the many wedding functions.

This isn’t a be-all-and-end-all list. Go for whatever holds intuitive appeal for you because beauty disasters or saviours are only as relevant as they are personally applicable to the one who’s applying and experimenting with them. Each bride sways to her own melody and the trick lies in finding the perfect bridal regime that suits your unique needs and lifestyle.

What You Should Know Before You Start Practising Yoga

संयोगो योग इत्युक्तो जीवात्मपरमात्मनोः॥
YOGA IS UNION OF THE INDIVIDUAL SELF (JIVĀTMA) WITH THE SUPREME SELF (PARAMĀTMA)

With Yoga gaining global acceptance, this ancient practice has found its way into the fitness routines of millions across the world. However, Yoga is far from just another fitness fad that builds flexibility and strengthens muscles. The ultimate purpose of Yoga is to help one attain a state of true consciousness and wellbeing. It is the pursuit of a state of mind when we are truly aware of our surroundings and are able to just be. The crowd-puller Yoga moves, popularly followed today, are more of preparatory steps that help us attain control of our body. To realize absolutely true benefits of Yoga, not just the body, but also one’s breathing, mind and inner self need to be in harmony. Understanding the philosophy and intrinsic values of the practice are essential to incorporating Yoga into our lives.

According to Vedic scriptures, the Yogic path to attaining a oneness with the universe consists of the following eight spiritual practices. And before we set on the path to even enroll ourselves for a Yoga session, its good to soak in this knowledge of wellness :

‘Yama’ - The first practice is of incorporating essential moral codes into our lives. The five moral codes that guide us to a true state of peaceful self-existence are ‘Ahimsa’ (Non-violence), ‘Satya’ (Truthfulness), ‘Asteya’ (Not stealing), ‘Brahmacharya’ (Celibacy) and ‘Aparagriha’ (Non-possessiveness). Practising these virtues is our first step towards detoxifying our lives and opening our minds to a higher truth. Because if we can control our behaviour and thinking, we can bring a healthy change in our lives through Yoga Asanas.

‘Niyama’ - This is a step where we start to discover ourselves and hence we awaken to our shortcomings. In fact, before we strive to achieve perfectness in our Surya Namaskar, this is what we need to master. The five codes to follow are ‘Sauca’ (Purity of mind), ‘Santosha’ (Contentment), ‘Tapas’ (Perseverance), ‘Svādhyāya’(Self-reflection) and ‘Ishvara-Pranidhana’ (Search for the Supreme Being).

‘Asana’ - Asana is explained as the perfect posture. It literally means seat and is explained as a seated position used for meditation. It is recommended that the Asanas we practice during Yoga, should always be firm but relaxed. Asana is as much the power to control your mind as it is the test of your physical strength. This is also where your journey to your deepest inner you starts. This is where you conquer your weaknesses and push yourself to the brim.

‘Pranayama’ - In Bhagwad Gita, Pranayama is literally translated to ‘Trance induced by stopping all breathing’. And that is the ultimate goal of controlling our breathing. In Sanskrit, Prana means breath or life force and Yama denotes control. This helps us both in filling our body with positive energy and forcing the negative energy out of our system and immediate environment. It is the Yogic way to happiness.

‘Pratyahara’ - This is where we learn to control our five senses. Essentially we learn to gain better control of the senses of touch, smell, sound, taste and sight. Through this we learn to conquer our senses and forbid them to send any signals to the brain for that moment or period. Hence laying the foundation of both ‘Dharana’ and ‘Samadh’.

‘Dharana’ - To fix the centre of our being on a single object externally or an imaginary dot in our minds is an act of sheer perseverance. And Dharana is all about elevating our inner consciousness.

‘Samadhi’ – This is the state where the mind becomes absolutely still. Samadhi is not just for sages but rather the moment of true peace and harmony within. Also considered to be when you truly become a Yogi after practicing Yoga in its true avatar.

Whether you are just starting out with Yoga or an active practitioner, the principles of Yoga hold great significance for not just our physical fitness, but also the state of our mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. As we inexorably march on towards progress, it is good to remember that by investing one’s time and patience in the practice of Yoga, the overall quality of life is much improved. All you need is a knowledgeable Yoga teacher and the intent to stay on this wonderfully fulfilling path.

Exfoliate And Clarify Your Skin With Mridul

These days when cleansing is again becoming a longer, more indulgent process, there’s a huge need a product that’s completely soap-free and natural. Our Mridul Soap-free Face Cleanser is powder cleanser that goes above and beyond the call of duty. Not only does it cleanse the skin, it also exfoliates, tones and treats the complexion with ingredients that are completely plant-based. Using an ancient ayurvedic recipe, this cleanser contains pounded green gram (to balance the oil on the skin), neem (to prevent breakouts), sandalwood (to clarify), turmeric (to heal), rose (to soothe), while ground almonds and fennel gently remove dead skin cells.

The great thing about this product is that it’s a cleanser, mask, and exfoliator rolled into one. If you have time you can mix the powder with rose water for oily skin, yogurt or milk for dry skin, and lavender water if your skin is sensitive. Make a paste and apply all over. Lie back and enjoy the cooling effects of the ingredients. When it’s partly dry gently rub the product into your face. The powder does not contain any sharp or large pieces of dried fruit that can accidentally tear the surface of your skin. Still, it’s always better to be gentle than harsh - treat your face like a petal and not a carpet.

If you’re running short on time this product can still be used. Just pull out a small amount into your palm, add water and then rub all over the face. Leave on till you clean the rest of your body and wash it off last. The product works very well as a cleanser in the morning, because it refines and ‘wakes up’ the complexion. Don’t just apply the product on your face only, rub Mridul on your neck, shoulders and decolletage, especially when you have that chance in the shower.

You can also use this as step two of double cleansing. Once you’re done with a creamy, balmy or oil based cleanser, apply this to mop up the excess product and oil. In fact most of our customers love Mridul because it is such an amazing multitasker. Also, unlike other products that can take weeks to show a difference, you can see the benefits within one use of Mridul. Your skin is immediately smoother and calmer. Over time, you’ll find that you get lesser blackheads and breakouts, and your skin is more radiant. Of course all these benefits come without toxins such as parabens, phthalates, sulphates and other nasties. Now that’s what we call a win-win situation.

On The Trail Of Ayurvedic Secrets: Lesser Known Ingredients For Health And Wholesome Beauty

Neem, (Margosa/Indian Lilac), Holy Basil, Aloe, Amla (Indian Gooseberry), Rose, Jasmine, Vetiver & Sandalwood: A few of the time-honoured Ayurvedic ingredients that are household names now. As genuine interest in Ayurvedic knowledge continues to increase exponentially amongst consumers, the once comparatively less familiar natural ingredients like Bhringraj & Ashwagandha have become ‘obvious’ wellness buzzwords.

Ayurveda and its bounty are like the vast oceans – just when you think you know a fair bit, something comes within your spectrum of awareness to remind you that you are only at the tip of the proverbial iceberg! What’s more overwhelming, is that some of these ingredients might be in your pantry or garden right now or you may have come across them on a recent holiday. What are the lesser known gems of beauty and wellness in Ayurveda? Here is a list, some of these can be found in Kama Ayurveda’s range of skin and hair care treatments too:

BANYAN (FICUS BENGHALENSIS) :

Banyan leaves are anti-inflammatory and antioxidant in nature, beneficial for curing stubborn acne breakouts, boils/rashes, patchiness and pigmentation. Find banyan in our Kumkumadi Miraculous Beauty Ayurvedic Night Serum.

BALLOON VINE (CARDIOSPERMUM HELICACABUM) :

Believed to be growing abundantly in Indian wilderness for centuries, balloon vine leaves are used in some culinary stir fries, batters and salads in the south of India. From a health and beauty perspective, locals have depended on balloon vine leaves to prevent premature graying and dandruff, restore scalp’s natural hydration and treat conditions like eczema and menstrual irregularities. Find balloon vine in our Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment Oil.

BEAUTY BERRY (CALLICARPA MACROPHYLLA) :

Known indigenously as priyangu, beauty berry is an Ayurvedic coolant and is often prescribed for high fevers and conditions like diarrhea. Its astringent quality makes it a popular choice for complexion correcting as it cleans, tightens skin pores and provides a smooth, blemish-free supple surface appearance.

BLACK CUMIN (NIGELLA SATIVA) :

Black Cumin is an indispensable culinary ingredient in Indian kitchens. However, not many know that the abundance of essential fatty acids, flavonoids, amino acids and crucial beauty vitamins A,B and C make black cumin a rich moisturizer, capable of arresting the appearance of fine lines/wrinkles,dark spots and the spread of badly clogged pores. Find black cumin in our Rose & Jasmine Face Cleanser.

CACTUS (FICUS INDICA):

The high vitamin E, linoleic acid and polyphenol concentration of Ficus Indica, have increased urgent whisperings in the beauty industry about in being the next anti- ageing savior. These ingredients that resemble the natural oil-constitution of human-skin provides ample moisturization; preventing early or rapid skin ageing and healing time consuming, disheartening scars. Find Ficus Indica in our Kumkumadi Brightening Ayurvedic Face Scrub.

CARAMBOLA (COROMANDEL GOOSBERRY/KAMRAKH):

It’s believed that the Portuguese adapted this name from the Sanskrit Karmaranga, meaning ‘food appetizer’. Fittingly, Ayurveda prescribes the extracts of this pretty, star-shaped fruit as a digestive tonic. Carambola is also a powerful blood purifier and antioxidant that controls sebaceous secretions and acne and gives the skin a beautiful and clean glow.

CORIANDER (CORIANDRUM SATIVUM):

The aromatic coriander seed is a powerful complexion booster, as its antioxidant nature cleanses and clarifies the skin, working on persistent pimples and blackheads. It’s anti-fungal, anti-microbial, and abundant in iron which keeps a healthy supply of flesh blood going, thereby preventing degeneration due to free-radical mechanisms, dullness and skin ageing. Find coriander in our Nimrah Anti Acne Face Pack.

INDIAN LOTUS (NELUMBO NUCIFERA):

This is yet another astringent and affective skin coolant, which works well to moderate internal body ‘heatiness’ and prevents skin stress due to burns, bleeding and inflammation.

SWEET FLAG (ACORUS CALAMUS/VACHA):

The citrusy oil of sweet flag has long been worshipped in Ayurveda for its deeply therapeutic and meditative quality. From an aromatherapy perspective, its psychological effects are beneficial in cases of anxiety/panic attacks or headaches/severe migraines. It also improves blood circulation and is believed to be an effective treatment for insomnia. Find Sweet Flag in our Lavanya Natural Plant Mask.

Post Festive Ayurvedic Deep Cleanse

Festivals in India are larger than life and extraordinary. While the extravagance of these festivities is a treat for the eyes, it also exhausts & taxes our body, mind and soul. Post festival rejuvenating and cleansing to restore the balance of our bodies is therefore imperative. At Kama Ayurveda, we bring you a mélange of exotic herbs and purest ingredients, delicately infused with the potency of Ayurveda to help you achieve this. Crafted with time tested traditional knowledge, each product at Kama Ayurveda makes for an exotic detoxification-diet for our Skin and Hair. These are the 6 products we recommend this season:

BRINGADI INTENSIVE HAIR TREATMENT OIL:

The pollutants in the air mixed with the change in weather have an adverse effect on our tresses, triggering hair breakage & fall, scalp infections as well as hair follicle inflammation. A rich earthy oil with potent Ayurvedic herbs infused in pure Sesame oil, Bringadi Hair Oil Treatment is a wonderful formulation that addresses major hair and scalp issues faced during the fall season. It is rich in Gooseberry, Balloon Vine, Liquorice and other nourishing ingredients that cleanse, charge & will add shine to your crowning glory. Importantly, this priceless Ayurvedic recipe’s anti-fungal and antibacterial properties ward off any signs of infection. This natural conditioner calms our senses and detoxifies us from within.

**SUGANDHADI REJUVENATING BODY TREATMENT OIL:**

The origins of this mint-fresh, rich and full-bodied oil treatment lie in the ancient book of Sahastrayogam. Its exotic ingredients like Jelly leaf and Winter Cherry smoothly drain the fatigue and aches & pains from our muscles. It revitalises our nervous system and rejuvenates our skin drop by drop. Naturally, it is what we should feed our body, to break free from all negative energies.

**UBTAN:**

Autumn is demanding on the skin and what it needs is deep cleansing without losing its moisture. Kama Ayurveda’s Ubtan, an Ayurvedic cleanser, gently cleanses and retextures our skin. Natural exfoliates in it like Oatmeal, Almonds, Green Gram, Neem, Turmeric and Fennel, thrown together with herbs, leave our skin smooth, firm and sheeny.

**LAVANYA PLANT MASK:**

This is a rejuvenating, retexturing and purifying mask that reverses any sign of environmental damage to our skin. It is highly recommended for sensitive skin type too, as it has the extract of Sweet Flag, Liquorice and Lodhra. Prescribed in Ayurveda for blood purifying and skin soothing properties, its ingredients make for the best detoxifying skin-diet.

**MRIDUL:**

This is an exotic cleanser with clarifying Green Gram, Neem, Sandalwood and Fennel that leave the skin nourished and beautifully supple. This Ayurvedic concoction exfoliates skin and removes dirt and oil gently without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Brightening Sandalwood, Turmeric and Rose add the sheen while Ground Almonds lend a silky smooth texture to the skin. It is the most beautiful skin cleansing experience one can gift in the fall season.

**PURE ROSE WATER:**

Kama’s Rose Water leaves a lingering freshness on the skin. This natural astringent made with exotic roses from Kannauj, restores and balances the skin’s PH levels and helps tighten the pores. Kama Ayurveda’s Rose Water is a sensitive and acne-prone skin favourite as it is an alcohol-free toner, gentle enough to be used any time of the day. And anytime of the year.

At Kama Ayurveda, stands for the science of life. We bring to you pure nature from plant to bottle. This authentic natural Ayurvedic experience should be your mantra to a good post festive, healthy natural cleanse.

A Glowing Diwali From Kashmir To Kanyakumari

Diwali is the festival of enlightenment. It urges us to light every corner of our mind and soul. Even the tradition of worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, together, teaches us that wealth without wisdom, money without intelligence and richness without prosperity is nugatory. Millions of people across India and the world celebrate this wisdom - some by lighting diyas, some by floating them in the waters of the Golden Temple and others by worshipping Goddess Kali and Lord Krishna. Yes, Diwali truly strings India together as flowers in a ‘bandanwar’ and here is a little glimpse into it.

KASHMIR:

The valley of flowers celebrates Diwali as Sukhsuptika, which literally means ‘sleep with happiness’. Celebrations that start from Ekadeshi last till Diwali, the night of amavasya, when Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped. Sweet puris are then offered to Lord Narayan, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and diyas are lit in temples, on roads, under trees and even the banks of rivers. The darkness is conquered with light of happiness and belief.

**PUNJAB:**

In 1577 the foundation stone of The Golden Temple in Amritsar was laid on Diwali. And then Diwali attained unmatched significance when the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib returned safely from the captivity of the Mughals. True to his teachings, he also managed the release of 52 Indian Kings with him. When he headed to The Golden Temple, sweets were distributed and multi-coloured lights were floated on the waters there. The tradition continues to this day. Every year Sikhs across the world celebrate Diwali with sweets, light and fireworks. It symbolises the victory of good over greed, ego and hatred.

**WEST BENGAL:**

Every year people of Bengal, Orissa and Assam worship goddess Kali on Diwali. This festival is famous as Kali Puja, Shyama Puja or Dipanwita Kali Puja. According to the Hindu calendar the Kali Puja may fall on the same day as Diwali or a day ahead on the new moon day. Legend has it that Goddess Durga turned into an angry Goddess Kali to end the terrorising rule of demons Shambhu and Nishambhu. Such was the power of her anger that Lord Shiva had to throw himself at her feet to stop her from destroying everything in her path. People celebrate this pious occasion by making merry, wearing new clothes & jewellery, decorating their houses with flowers & rangoli and light diyas. People celebrate the win over negativity and pray for happiness, wealth and wisdom.

**TAMIL NADU:**

In Tamil Nadu, Diwali is celebrated a day before Diwali in northern India. Interestingly they celebrate Diwali in honour of Lord Krishna and his wife Satyabama victory over the demonic King Narkasura. Houses are renovated, painted and adorned with flowers and rangoli. Uniquely, on the second day of celebrations, an elaborate bath ritual takes place. This ritual symbolises a bath in the holy river Ganges to purify mind, body and soul. The elaborate ritual where elders bless the youngsters by applying oil in their heads and bathe with exotic herbs. This is then followed by the consumption of ‘Deepavali Lehiyan’, before breakfast. This is an Ayurvedic concoction of herbal ingredients that are believed to detoxify the body. Feasts are cooked which include boondi, poli, omapudi and more. Crackers are burst and ‘kuthu vilaku’ or diyas are lit to spread the light of goodness and prosperity in everyone’s life.

Diwali is the ultimate detoxification for our souls. Families come together, neighbours meet, friends take out time from their busy lifestyles over parties and prayers. The sense of inclusiveness and revelry negates any negativity within and leaves us with a beautiful glow of happiness in our lives. We at Kama Ayurveda wish that every day of your life is lit with this glow. Shubh Deepawali.

Sharing A Piece Of #Mykindofdiwali

Regardless of regional variations, Diwali is a time for exuberant excitement for some and contemplative resolve and prayerfulness for others. Either way, it’s an opportune time to plan new beginnings.

The very act of embellishing one’s personal or professional spaces with strings of lights, or by patiently lighting earthen ‘diya’ after ‘diya’ is so poignant and so significant! Do you think of the past or the future when you do so?

A DIWALI TO WIPE THE SLATE CLEAN

The wealth of self-perpetuating beauty and vitality is priceless and an indispensable requirement for a fresh start. On Diwali, you may yearn for sanctity and strength to do so. Kama Ayurveda helps you imbibe and share these feelings with its ‘Shubh’ Diwali Gifting Box, inspired by the purifying elements of the customary rituals of the festival.

‘Shubh’ has a brightening, invigorating Turmeric (Haldi) soap, and a calming, clarifying Sandalwood (Chandan) soap. Keep the recovery and rejuvenation going with a nourishing, moisturising soap of Coconut (Nariyal), the Fruit of the Gods; and one of Holy Basil (Tulsi), the Queen of Herbs; for strength, balance, and ‘earthing’.

The work of a human hand is sacred for it gives shape and form to an enterprising spirit. All these pure soaps are handcrafted, as is the accompanying soap holder. The hallmarked stone-carved holder has been moulded by artisans of the All India Artisans & Craftworkers Welfare Association of India.

If keeping it real describes your kind of Diwali, this Box is for you.

**A DIWALI TO HARNESS MEMORIES**

For some new beginnings come from deep reflection and finding strength within. Past experiences & memories often reignite the very soul; food & fragrance can often do the trick. Kama Ayurveda offers an exclusive Diwali gift box that is inspired by the fabled rose from the Kannauj region. This is Kama’s signature aroma – the deeply sensual and heady Kannauj Rose, a hypnotic port key for buried treasures in the subconscious!

Enchant your loved ones with the everyday yet profoundly luxurious Kannauj Box . It features a handmade candle, with freshly handpicked Kannauj rose petals at its heart; and soy-wax, which spreads the sweet tranquility with minimal smoke or soot.

This exclusive elixir from the famed ancient Indian Itr ki Nagri, or ‘Perfume City’, Kannauj, is complimented by a ceramic diffuser, an example of meticulous and refined artisanry from the ‘Ceramic City’ of Khurja. Both the diffuser, the Kannauj Rose diffuser oil and incense cones will begin as a Diwali accessory in your home, and end up as a regular lifestyle addition. The Kannauj Rose sachet with dried roses and rose essential oil will remind you of your resolutions every time you open your cupboards.

If resurrecting the fragrance of long-gone memories, this box is for you.

**A DIWALI FOR SELF-LOVE**

Like Kannauj in North India, Kama Ayurveda venerates another perfumery haven in the South –Madurai town in the Tamil Nadu region of India. Mystical Madurai and its legendary Jasmine have been mentioned in ancient Hindu texts like the Mahabharata and the Kamasutra.

If you see Diwali as a time to reignite self-assured magnetism, you may like to begin with Kama’s Madurai Diwali Box . Jasmine is a famed aroma to refresh confidence, aesthetic vision and has an aphrodisiac appeal! The box features a handmade, soy-wax Madurai Jasmine candle with handpicked florets at its heart. Serious jasmine lovers would delight in the intoxicating fragrance of the diffuser oil and appreciate the exclusive brass incense plate. The incense sticks in the ‘Sambrani’ variant are revered for its ability to unlock the Third Eye when the two physical ones we have need some help. The incense stick holder in beaten brass, the ancient ‘salt-of-the-earth’ metal is a reminder that without surefooted grounding in Mother Earth any attempts at metaphysical a flight are perhaps futile.

If the need for discipline humility or meditation - all-pervasive self-assured aura describes your Kind of Diwali, this box is for you.

Kama Ayurveda wishes you perpetual purity of intent and inspiration, so you may celebrate your own very special Diwali this year and every year… #MyKindOfDiwali

Essential Oils – Choosing The Right Ones And Using Them Correctly

Essential oils couldn’t be more simply named, few things are as effortlessly self-explanatory. However, the underlying meaning is quite deep!

WHAT’S SO ESSENTIAL ABOUT ESSENTIAL OILS?

The term 'essential' in the phrase is taken from 'quintessential'. Matter is composed of air, water, earth, and fire and the mystical fifth element, or 'quintessence', is the life-force. Ancient Indian sciences and scripts called quintessence akash, or the all-pervasive spiritual energy beyond the realm of matter, in the astral world, from which the 'spark' of Creation stems. The term was adopted by Western traditions later, within which akash is also referred to as ether. Etheric or akashic records are also stored in human DNA. This 'genetic memory' stores every aspect of our experience, though we might not know this.

The comfort and therapy, the sense of ‘home’ we feel when we come in contact with certain essential oils, is our mind, body, and soul responding to that certain something in the essential oil, that ignites a sense of wellness, familiarity and of feeling whole.

POPULAR ESSENTIAL OILS FOR SOME POPULAR APPLICATIONS THIS IS MORE OF A GUIDING OR INDICATIVE LIST THAN AN EXHAUSTIVE ONE.

§ Air Freshening: Pine, Lavender, Lemongrass, Lemon, Lime, Grapefruit, Cinnamon.
§ Disinfectant + Insect Repellant: Clove, Citronella, Lemongrass, Tea-Tree, Orange.
§ Bad Throat: Eucalyptus, Lemon, Cinnamon, Clove.
§ Sprains: Peppermint, Rosemary, Cypress, Clove, Chamomile.
§ Headaches and Digestive or Respiratory Issues: Lavender, Lime, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Basil.
§ Anti-Anxiety: Bergamot, Cedarwood, Rose, Ylang-Ylang, Chamomile, Frankincense, Orange, Vetiver.
§ Skincare: Vetiver, Basil, Tea-Tree, Geranium, Rose, Cypress, Lavender, Cinnamon, Sandalwood, Jasmine.
§ Aphrodisiac: Sandalwood, Rose, Jasmine, Patchouli, Clary Sage, Neroli, Ylang-Ylang.

If you are earnest about incorporating essential oils into your lifestyle, you’ll progressively realise that you would have to match the true essence of these precious botanical elixirs. In order to understand, respect and use them properly, you’ll have to be as spiritual and intuitive as they are. It doesn’t take much. Listen to your mind and body – there will always be a reason why you’re attracted to one essential oil over another and why, perhaps after some time, the attraction fades away. It’s only spiritual communication, between the akash in you and the akash in Nature’s Bounty. The best way to learn the language is to revel in it!

EXTRACTING ESSENTIAL OILS
Scientifically, for an essential oil to be pure, absolute, or 'true', it has to be extracted from its botanical source physically. The various physical means adopted include:

§ Steam distillation
§ Water distillation
§ Cold pressing
§ Maceration

APPLICATIONS OF ESSENTIAL OILS People with hypersensitive skin may not take to skin contact with essential oils and inhalation might work better for them. For many, personal use extends to scenting linen cupboards, wardrobes, and lingerie drawers, or bath water and massage oil/body and face pack blends.

For others, essential oils serve a domestic/décor purpose. They are used in the form of scented candles, potpourris, or in oil diffusers, to perpetuate a favourite fragrance through the nooks and crannies of a home, religious alter, or an office. Some people depend on essential oils only for curative purposes, adding an oil of choice to warm/cold compresses and poultices, to steam inhalation bowls for colds or inflamed sinuses.

HOW TO USE PURE ESSENTIAL OILS The purity of these extractions makes them very potent. Their direct application, in some cases even in the most minuscule quantities, can cause burns, allergic reactions, and physical discomfort of varying degrees. Never overestimate the ability of your skin (or nose) to handle concentrated essential oil.

Therefore, it is recommended to always mix essential oils with a vegetable-origin base/carrier oil to dilute the intensity. Coconut, sesame, or olive oils work well, though almond, apricot kernel, sunflower, or jojoba oils are also suitable alternatives. For every two tablespoons or so of oil, 2 drops of essential oil may be used.

This ratio should be adjusted accordingly for elderly persons, young children, and those with extremely sensitive skin.

Before embarking on an aromatherapy course of any nature, it is best to consult your doctor or a seasoned aromatherapy expert to ensure you’re not likely to suffer any unforeseen reactions based on your medical history. Such a consultation is especially recommended for pregnant women or those suffering from heart or respiratory issues.

Ayurveda For Sensitive Skin:

Ayurveda is an approach of creating tried and true balanced prescriptions that can be used on even the most gentle & delicate skin. It focusses on keeping the human body connected with Nature. Not simply in cellular capacity, but at primordial levels which connect human life with the larger Universe, of which it’s a microcosmic representation.

"SENSITIVE SKIN'S SO UNPREDICTABLE. WHAT CAN AYURVEDA DO?"
Go over all the sensitive skin triggers you can think of immediately – pollutant exposure, hormonal imbalance, stress, grooming products, textiles and fabrics, cigarettes and alcohol, coffee or tea, radiators or room heaters in overdrive. Moderate their influence, anticipate the time and amount of exposure to them. You’ll automatically be able to predict, and manifest, better control of your sensitive skin.

"ALL THE DOSHA-TALK IS INTIMIDATING. DO THEY EVEN DO ANYTHING?"

Doshas are. They don’t have to ‘do’. This makes them powerful and necessary for existence, let alone for cures.

With specific reference to skin type, the doshas represent the predominant manifestation of Nature's elements in your constitution, and how their characteristics reflect on the quality of your skin. If you’re governed by Air, are 'flighty' and mobile, with cool, dry, fragile, or rough skin, you're a Vata. Governed by Fire, Pitta skin's susceptible to rashes, breakouts, and internal 'heatiness'. Kapha represents 'groundedness', anchored as it is in Water and Earth. Kapha skin tends to be pale, and thick, smooth, and radiant.

"I'M NOT A PITTA SO I'M SAFE FROM SENSITIVITY."

It's easy to come to this conclusion, because we associate sensitivity with redness, rashes, and inflammation. Vata and Pitta skins aren't immune to these symptoms.

Dry Vata skin, if not moisturised well, can cause clogging by dead, dry skin cells, in the same way that excessive sebum clogs oily skin. The clogging causes inflammation-driven sensitivity and breakouts. The oily nature of Kapha skin keeps it resilient to ageing that results from dehydration. But, the tendency to over-cleanse, so as to prevent excessive sebum accumulation/acne, makes it a victim like under-hydrated Vata skin!

"WHAT IF I'M A COMBINATION-DOSHA PERSON? HOW DOES AYURVEDA KNOW WHAT IT'S DOING?"

Say you're drawn to an Ayurvedic product, because it's loaded with your favourite vitamins, sourced from antioxidant spices. If you're a Pitta or Vata, you'd be wary of the ‘heat’ from such spices. There will, however, always be anti-inflammatory, hydrating ingredients to temper their effect. For example, Kama Ayurveda's Eladi day cream, and its Rose-Jasmine face cleanser both have spices – the former has cinnamon, cardamom and nutmeg, and the latter has black cumin. They both also have rose/jasmine essential oil; as well as cooling, soothing vetiver.

Similarly, an Ayurvedic massage blend may have both, coconut and sesame oils. Coconut works well for Kapha, for example, but not during a time of day when it's dominant, such as evening/night time. Any 'over-enthusiasm' resulting from the presence of cooling coconut, is balanced by the relative warmth of sesame.

Since the beginning of Time, Ayurveda has stood for the ability to do more than simply moisturize, protect or hydrate. It stands on the crucial premise of self-healing, and healthy perpetuation. It helps you achieve this by reiterating the importance of balance. Every Ayurvedic recommendation painstakingly represents this. Across the board.

How To Get A Smooth, Even-Textured Body With Jwalini

Most of us focus on the face and forget the body. Therefore, sometimes even if your face is clear and radiant, the skin on your body is another story - dry, patchy and prone to breakouts. So how do you get your body to match your face? The first thing would be to use a gentle soap or shower gel that doesn’t strip the skin of moisture. Then, the most important step is to add a replenishing body oil that works on multiple problems. Jwalini Retexturising Skin Treatment is one such oil that literally retextures the skin on both your face and body to make it even toned, moisturised and bump free.

The oil itself is made out of simmering Coconut Milk with Sesame Oil, Cardamom, Cinnamon, and Frankincense. Because Coconut Oil is rich in lauric acid, it provides immunity against microbial infections. This means that it works to help improve conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, which is usually caused by a fungus. Even in conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, it helps soothe and remove dry, dehydrated patches. Green Cardamom has potent antioxidant properties that protect the skin against free radical damage. But that’s not all. This fragrant spice also helps moisturise and nourish dry skin.

Frankincense has excellent uses for your complexion. It helps lift and tighten, reduce blemishes, pores, and wrinkles. However, the most important quality of this resin is that it also helps accelerates the healing of wounds. Therefore, if you have stretch marks, this oil is ideal to smooth and change their appearance. However, it is important to use this oil on fresh stretch marks that are slightly pink. This is when they have the best chance of being erased. Once they become dry and set, you may be able to reduce their appearance but not remove them altogether.

The best time to use Jwalini would be right after your shower, when your skin is still slightly damp. By massaging the oil into damp skin you are adding both moisture (via water) and lipids (via oils) - these are the two essential components that keep the skin looking moist and fresh. Another great way to enhance the properties of this oil would be to apply it right after dry body brushing. TO DO: take a body brush (made of natural bristles) and rub it all over a dry body in long upward strokes starting at your ankles all the way till your heart. This action stimulates lymphatic drainage, a process through which toxins are eliminated from the body. When you add Jwalini to the mix, you actually help re-texturise the skin even further, reducing cellulite and enhancing softness.

The Ayurvedic Guide To Eating Right

पृथिव्यां त्रीणि रत्नानि जलमन्नं सुभाषितम्

“WATER, FOOD, AND WORDS OF WISDOM ARE THE THREE JEWELS OF THIS EARTH”

The ancient science of Ayurveda teaches us that holistic well-being is based on the harmonious balance of meditation, physical activity, our environment and food. In Ayurveda, food is recognised as the source of energy for our body and is divided into three kinds of food groups – ‘Tamasic’, ‘Rajasic’ and ‘Sattvic’. Each of these groups has its unique value or ‘Guna’. Knowing one’s dominant ‘Dosha’ or Ayurvedic body type is an important step in identifying which diet is best for holistic well-being. Incorporating simple Ayurvedic principles into your everyday food habits, can heal and rejuvenate the body, mind and soul. The Ayurvedic principle of experiencing food with all our senses in order to derive true nutrition, also helps in gaining a deeper connection with food and develop an abiding respect for the bounty of nature that feeds us all.

SATTVIC FOOD

Sattvic derives from the Sanskrit word ‘Sattva’ which means purity. Following this diet can help in attaining a calm mind, active body and longevity. It also purifies the body and soul by flushing out toxins. A Sattvic diet emphasises on incorporating fresh food in our daily meals and typically includes fruits & vegetables, spices and even grains. Light, easily digestible food is preferred and that too at a normal or room temperature. These foods nourish our body and mind and unsurprisingly, most of the Sattvic food items top the all modern nutrition charts like nuts, fresh fruit juices, spices like Cinnamon, Asafoetida, Turmeric, fresh Coriander, whole grains like Rice & Barley, Apples, Oranges, Guavas, Lentils and Sprouts. Ayurveda also emphasises on eating more cooked food than raw, as that makes it easier to digest for the body. In a traditional Sattvic diet, the principle is to avoid eating anything before sunrise and after sunset. With the hectic lifestyles of our modern times, incorporating a few if not all of Sattvic principles in our regular food habits may prove to be a true calming and balancing mantra.

RAJASIC FOOD

Rajasic comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Rajas’ denoting passion and activity. Rajasic foods in Ayurveda are considered neither overtly positive nor negative and a blend of the pure and impure. Hot, salty, pungent foods that can boost one both emotionally and physically make for a Rajasic diet. Rajasic food is recommended by Ayurveda for those who need to accomplish physically challenging tasks like farming or sports and is also beneficial for anyone with a physically active lifestyle. Rajasic food typically includes stimulants like Tea & Coffee, spices like Chillies, Pepper and vegetables like Broccoli, Cauliflower and Spinach. However Ayurveda also warns us that while Rajasic foods are beneficial for physical strength and stamina, they can also create an imbalance in our constitution. Overindulgence in such foods can cause restlessness, dehydration and over-enthusiasm. Unfortunately a lot of our modern food habits include an overbearing amount of Rajasic foods, resulting in breakouts, brittle hair and anxiety. Reducing this imbalance and incorporating a greater proportion of Sattvic foods is key to correcting the modern diet.

TAMASIC FOOD

The word Tamasic comes from ‘Tamas’ which means darkness in Sanskrit. In Ayurveda, a Tamasic diet is considered unpalatable and detrimental to the well-being of our mind, body and soul. Tamasic food items are considered to drain one of essential energy and peace of mind. Such items are heavy on the digestive system and when eaten beyond balanced proportions, they strain the constitution and make one lethargic, sleepy and are even said to cause depression. Tamasic foods include anything that is aged, inclusive of alcohol or fermented. Meat, fish, eggs, Tobacco, Onions, Garlic, Cheese, Vinegar and wine are all Tamasic and said to have negative effects on the body. Ayurveda also propounds that eating food that is cooked or served with anger gives us no benefits and hence turns food toxic or Tamasic. The reality of the modern world is that such Tamasic items are occupying a large portion of regular food habits and leading to faster ageing, insomnia, digestive issues and a sense of restlessness.

The importance of food in our overall well-being is no secret. Yet our lifestyles today and our dependency on modern technology have made us addicted to fast or processed food. Opening a can, reheating the contents and drowning it down with a fizzy cola is the easiest meal. More often than not we eat in a hurry, while working on our presentations, unmindful of what we are feeding our bodies. Adapting simple and easy to follow Ayurveda principles into our everyday diet has far-reaching and positive effects on one’s physical, spiritual and psychological well-being. Start with small steps like reducing processed foods and eating earlier rather than later to discover how the ancient teachings of Ayurveda can help you balance your modern lifestyle.

4 Travel Must Haves For Your Next Holiday

Food, people, language, fragrance and the sheer beauty of the new destination is all that should accompany us back from any travel escapade. Beauty woes if any, should never make it to the stories of a globetrotter. But when you fly half way around the world or tick that road trip off your bucket list, the sun, the heat and humidity tag along too. With our effective and travel friendly products, protecting and caring for your skin is just a matter of packing your travel bag well. So here are our top four recommendations for beauty rituals on-the-go.

JWALINI RETEXTURISING SKIN TREATMENT OIL:

Everything about a new place can feel alien to your skin, including water and air. This could show up as dry and irritated skin or even sunburns. Jwalini is a herbaceous Ayurvedic oil treatment that soothes any itching and deeply moisturises the skin. Hand-picked herbs, processed in pure Coconut and Sesame oil make for an excellent after-sun remedy to soothe sunburnt skin. Revered in Ayurveda, for their ‘Varneekarana’ properties the Costus and Cardamom in this plush skin treatment enhance skin texture and effectively treat any irritation. The small travel size makes it easy to take it places with you so you can have soft, replenished skin on all your travels.

PURE LAVENDER WATER:

Travel schedules can be taxing, on the toughest of the skin-types. While air-travel could dry your skin out, road travel can pile up the grime. Sun could make you sweat and air conditioner could blow off the moisture. Our Pure Lavender Water, handpicked from the wilderness of the Himalayas is a light skin booster that can de-stress and refresh with every spray. Lavender is known to captivate the senses, relax the nerves and induce sleep. Its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial properties also help it double up as a wonderful coolant and cleanser on a hot and a humid journey. Make sure you keep it within reach for a refreshing spritz whenever your skin desires a burst of freshness.

HAND CREAM:

A good handshake is a great way to make friends when out exploring new places and terrains. But dry skin could take the softness out of it. Constantly washing your hands is unavoidable and that could lead to the loss of natural emollients from your skin. Our ultra-rich Hand Cream nourishes and rejuvenates hands and cuticles effectively. Cold pressed Sweet Almond and Coconut Oils, together with Shea, Cocoa and Kokum butters moisturise and deeply nourish the skin. And the pure essential oils of Tuberose, Vetiver and Cardamom leave a lingering, sophisticated fragrance that lasts all day. The non-greasy texture helps it keep your hands soft without discomfort and help you enjoy your travels to the fullest.

LIP BALM:

A good trip always reflects in the curves of your lips. Dry and chapped lips can be the most common grouse on a vacation as our lips tend to react first to any change in climate and altitude. Our natural Lip Balms replenish lips and lock the moisture inside, gently. These are a rich blend of essential oils and butters from natural ingredients that keep your lips soft and nourished naturally. Choose from the hydrating Almond and Coconut Lip Balm, the ultra moisturising Vanilla Lip Balm, the brightening Mint Lip Balm or the indulgent Rose Lip Balm and forget your lip care woes on your next trip.

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” said Ibn Battuta. With our knowledge of the natural sciences and ever evolving beauty needs, we ensure that you are the most beautiful storyteller ever. So let your wanderlust carry you off to newer places and let us take care of your travel beauty needs.

4 Incredible Things The World Learned From Ayurveda

BRAHME MUHURTE HYUTTISHHEJJIRNA NIRUPAYAN RAKSHARTHA MAYUSAH SWASTHO |

BRAHME MUHURTE BUDHYET SWASTHO RAKSHARTHMAYUSAH |

TO ENJOY A LONG, HEALTHY LIFE, WAKE UP EARLY IN A POSITIVE FRAME OF MIND AND EAT A LIGHT NOURISHING MEAL AT NIGHT TIME.

Engraved in our vedas, this Sanskrit shloka was written some 5000yrs ago. But the potent truth of this philosophy rings true today, more than ever before. Today, our new-age fitness gurus, celebrities and influencers are waking up to Surya namaskars and ending the day with small nutritious meals that provide nourishment to both the body and skin. The age-old, science of Ayurveda has become a key influence for a new generation that is conscious of a need for balance and a harmonious existence with nature. Quite literally, Ayurveda is the knowledge (ved) of life (ayus). In the first ever documented scriptures in history, we find the knowledge of Kaumara Bhritya or paediatrics, Aganda Tantra or Toxicology and even Rasayana or science of anti-ageing. Much before the modern day gurus, doctors and fitness mentors, the true art of healthy living was taught by Ayurveda. Here are four beauty and wellness trends that come straight from Ayurveda and are finding new relevance in modern times.

THE GOLDEN LATTE:

Our very own ‘Haldi Doodh’ (Turmeric Milk) now has a fancy name courtesy its global appeal and loyal cult following. Cold-pressed Haldi or Turmeric juice is mixed with Milk or Coconut Milk and sprinkled liberally with Cinnamon. Touted as a health-elixir, it is fast replacing caffeinated drinks, especially as a morning pick-me up. Everything that our Vedas taught us about the power of Turmeric is being lapped up by the insta-generation, one sip at a time. Turmeric is revered in Ayuveda as an immunity booster that is also known to induce good sleep and relax the muscles. Owing to its high anti-oxidant properties Turmeric Milk is very skin-friendly and regular intake lends a healthy glow of radiance from within.

EDIBLE FACE MASKS:

Anything that is not edible should never be applied on the skin. Might seem like the philosophy of the millennial generation, but it really is one of the many rich teachings of Ayurveda. The most luxuriant beauty masks made with pure, natural ingredients can be traced back to the Vedic times. Saffron, Turmeric & Gram flour masks for exfoliation. Rose Petals, Honey & Milk Cream for soft and supple skin. Each combination is a gentle yet potent means to fight dull skin, dead cells and early signs of ageing. Little wonder then that the world today is embracing the power and potency of Ayurveda inspired face masks for day to day skin concerns.

DRINKING WATER FROM COPPER VESSELS:

Copper is no more a metal associated with olden times and ancient homesteads. Today, it is fast replacing the fancy crockery on our dining tables and for all the right reasons. In Ayurveda, Copper was used for its innate healing and strength-giving properties. It was also known to boost the immune system and also balance the doshas in one’s constitution. As such it was the metal of choice for household utensils for both every day and special occasions. Today, many are reverting to storing water in a Copper vessel overnight for a naturally mineral enriched water as well using Copper bottles and glasses for drinking water.

RAW FOOD :

We have now rediscovered what Ayurveda has been prescribing since centuries. Growing fresh and eating raw is a successful mantra for rejuvenating and repairing our bodies. Sprouts are detoxifying cleansers, Citrus fruits the best vitamin-enhancers and vegetables like Papaya and Carrots hydrate the skin and fight ageing. Much before we looked into vegetarian, vegan and other diets, Ayurveda’s teachings on all-natural and balanced nourishment provided a strong foundation for a balanced dietary routine. Retaining the natural properties of food by keeping it raw or using light modes of cooking such as steaming and cooking on low heat were propagated by Ayurveda many ages ago, and are now finding their way into how we eat in today’s times.

As the challenges of the fast paced modern world and contemporary lifestyles catch up with us, the search for a balanced and holistic way of living is often derived from the ancient Ayurvedic principles. Its principles of remaining true to nature, strengthening the body and mind from within as well as mindful living are now being rediscovered across the world and entering the lives in small yet significant ways.

Our 5 Must Haves For This Monsoon!

The Monsoon may not look as beautiful on your hair and skin as it does in poetry. From untameable hair to extraordinarily oily skin, the humidity in the air can have some extreme side-effects. Not to forget the surprise breakouts that show up just as the rains come in. At Kama Ayurveda, we have matchless Monsoon protection for your skin and hair. From our iconic Bringadi hair treatment to award-winning Nimrah face pack - we use the purest ingredients sourced from nature to help fight any signs of damage caused by the rainy season.

BRINGADI INTENSIVE HAIR TREATMENT:

The excessive humidity and sweating have adverse effect on your crowning glory, including hair breakage and fall, scalp infections as well as hair follicle inflammation. A rich earthy oil with potent Ayurvedic herbs infused in pure Sesame oil, this is a wonderful formulation that addresses most major hair and scalp issues faced during the rainy season. Gooseberry, Balloon Vine, Licorice and other nourishing ingredients that nurture healthy hair growth and shine. Importantly this priceless Ayurvedic recipe keeps scalp healthy and its anti-fungal and antibacterial properties wards off any signs of infection. This natural conditioner calms our senses while leaving our mane enviably lustrous.

HIMALAYAN DEODAR HAIR CLEANSER:

Grimy hair and scalp is one of the key reasons for hair breakage during the Monsoon. An efficacious way of avoiding hair breakage is to keep the scalp cleansed and clarified during the monsoons. Our all natural Himalayan Deodar Hair Cleanserdoes the same without stripping the hair of its natural oils and softness. This gentle cleanser with pure essential oils of Himalayan Deodar rebuilds & rehydrates dry and frizzy hair and keeps the scalp clean and soothed. Organic Aloe Vera Juice and Hibiscus extract promote hair growth and add that extra sheen.

NIMRAH:

The rainy season tends to set your oil secreting glands into an overdrive. Oily skin in-turn attracts dust, dirt and other pollutants that irritate your skin and promote breakouts. Nimrah pack effectively fights off any signs of acne, pimples, inflammation or swelling of skin. This 100% natural, Ayurvedic face pack is a blend of potent Vetiver, Ashwagandha, Coriander, Lodhra and Liquorice. Exotic Red Sandalwood in it brightens the complexion and helps reduce scars and hyper-pigmentation. A gentle, soothing yet effective formulation that addresses seasonal breakouts and clarifies the skin's texture with regular use.

ORGANIC NEEM OIL:

Moist and damp skin & hair can be attract bacteria and germs and lead to many skin and hair irritations. Our Neem Oil , the ‘Sarva Roga Nivarini’ or 'curer of all ailments', helps keep all infections at bay. This 100% pure and cold-pressed oil from the farms of Tamil Naidu is rich in antioxidants and the best partner for the tresses in the rainy season.

NATURAL INSECT DETERRENT SPRAY:

This light body spray is ideal companion for Monsoon season. It keeps away mosquitoes and other insects, is gentle enough for daily use and free of toxic insect-repelling chemicals. A 100% natural formulation that provides the safest natural protection against mosquito and other insect bites. Infused with essential oils of Lemongrass, Citronella, Geranium, Vetiver, Neem and Peppermint, its lovely citrusy scent leaves you feeling uplifted and joyful.

In Ayurveda, there are natural remedies to every change each season brings in. Enjoy the beauties of this revered season and take your pick from our Monsoons must haves to keep your skin and hair healthy and beautiful.

Celebrate The Bond That Sets You Free

The thread that still holds the knot of your childhood secrets together. The string that has your precious memories weaved in. The companion that was always there for you but never in your way. The friend that walked holding your finger, but never held you back. The unbreakable bond that ties a brother and a sister together is priceless. Make it even more beautiful with our Rakshabandhan specials.

RAKHI GIFTS FOR YOUR BELOVED BROTHER :

SHAVING REGIME

The face that always makes you smile, deserves to retain its handsomeness. So choose our natural Shaving Regime to add that dash of effortless care to your brother’s shaving ritual. This regime has three of our unparalleled grooming essentials for men.

Shaving Foam : It’s packed with the natural goodness of protecting botanicals for a smooth and ultra-soft shaving experience.

Pure Vetiver Water : A refreshing floral toner that rehydrates the skin and keeps it cool for a long long time.

Hydrating Ayurvedic Face cream for Men : An Ayurvedic concoction that nourishes skin and fights any signs of ageing.

Skin Brightening Night Cream For Men : This special skin-treat is for the person who never allowed a single dull moment in your childhood. The finest Saffron from Kashmir fights damage caused by the sun rays and pollution. Majestic Indian Madder & healing Aloe Vera combat signs of ageing. Soothing Vetiver & Lotus pamper the skin overnight for a youthful radiance.

RAKSHABANDHAN GIFTS FOR SISTER:

HAIR CARE REGIME

The one who nursed your ego when you were down and out, deserves nothing less than healing and nourishing hair care herself. So choose to gift her a complete Oil, Cleanse and Condition ritual with our exclusive products.

Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment : This is rich, earthy Ayurvedic oil is a hair wonder that repairs signs of stress in hair and scalp. It also rejuvenates the scalp and restores a heathy shine and softness to hair.

Rose and Jasmine Hair Cleanser : Pure Essential oils of Rose and Jasmine cleanse and restore natural shine & hair health. This cleanser also helps repair the effects of colouring, heat styling and chemical hair treatments.

Rose and Jasmine Hair Conditioner : : This is a hydrating and moisturising conditioner that visibly improves hair health. The pure Essential oils of Rose and Jasmine help fight any adverse effects of chemical hair-treatments and styling.

ROSE JASMINE HAND LOTION

The hand you could always reach out to, should never lose its soft touch. Gift her this rich hydrating lotion with an exquisitely floral fragrance that lasts through the entire day. Enriched with the goodness of Olive, Rosemary, Basil and Tea Tree Oil, it gently hydrates and pampers for soft and smooth hands.

Your presence is the most meaningful gift for your sibling on Rakshabandhan. The reliving of the childhood moments. The sharing of your favourite sweets. The posing for those perfect clicks. And the giggles and hugs that follow, are unmatchable. Add to this wonderful experience with a heartfelt gift of natural care by Kama Ayurveda.

Happy Rakshabandhan!

Rakhi Special – For The Beautiful Side Of The Sibling, That Only You Know

Only you saw. His dream to scale the cradle walls before eyeing the corner office. Her will to take the first baby step before standing up for her ambitions. His first argument for an extra piece of chocolate. Her fighting spirit that earned her captaincy of the boy’s cricket team. His fear of the darkness before he stepped into limelight. Her fight with the demons before she became the goddess of her own destiny. You know the beautiful side of your sibling like no one else. And at Kama Ayurveda, we are celebrating this Raksha Bandhan, with beauty essentials like no other.

RAKHI GIFT BOX FOR YOUR PRECIOUS SISTER: Only you know that the girl with the little ribbons has turned into the quintessential diva. She let’s her hair wild but talks sharp. She dresses up her eyes but never looses focus. She faces the sun but it never eclipses her shine. Match her panache with our limited-edition, handmade gift-box with our flagship hair & body range.

A melange of pure Ayurvedic ingredients, this collection contains :

Rose Jasmine Body Cleanser : A mild cleanser with a medley of sweet Jasmine and exquisite Rose for dew-fresh skin.

Rose Jasmine Body Moisturiser : A moisturiser withessential oils of Rose and Jasmine essence that rehydrates & restores the skin.

Rose Jasmine Hair Cleanser : A restoring and balancing cleanser that improves hair strength & reverses damage especially caused by colouring, heat styling and chemical treatments.
Rose Jasmine Hair Conditioner : A soft hair conditioner that protects and fights hair damage caused by coloring, heat styling and chemical treatments.

Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment : A miraculous hair strengthening treatment that nurtures, protects and delays premature greying of the tresses.

RAKHI GIFT BOX FOR YOUR TREASURED BROTHER :Only you know that the little boy who climbed trees, now knows when to dress down for an occasion. He experiments with his hairstyles but stays rooted in traditions. He grooms himself impeccably but loves the thrill of raw adventure. Add to his confidence with our limited-edition, handmade gift box with our iconic hair & body range.

A medley of pure Ayurvedic ingredients, this collection contains :

Himalayan Deodar Body Cleanser : Infused with the healing properties of Himalayan Deodar it leaves the skin happy and refreshed.

Himalayan Deodar Body Moisturiser : An intense moisturiser that leaves the skin supple and baby-soft.

Himalayan Deodar Hair Cleanser : A purifying and scalp toning cleanser that keeps the mane strong. It fights any signs of hair-damage and promotes hair growth.

Himalayan Deodar Hair Conditioner : A purifying and softening hair conditioner that promotes healthy hair growth and adds lustre to it.

Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment : This is the most desirable and effective hair treatment to regain healthy hair. It fights signs of premature greying and other visible hair-damage & restores its glory.

In the past, she might have missed your birthday sometimes, and then made up with a movie treat. He might have messed up your dream-date & then helped you with your deadlines. Those precious moments make your Rakhi special today. The giggles you shared lend colour to it and the secrets you still hold, adorn it as gems. And at Kama Ayurveda, we wish that your bond of pure love remains forever strong. Happy Rakshabandhan!