AHAR AND VIHAR: AN AYURVEDIC APPROACH FOR THE PREVENTION OF LIFESTYLE DISORDERS

Abstract

In today’s world, the modern way of living raises the incidence of lifestyle disorders such as Obesity, Diabetes, Cardiovascular disease, and Hypertensio-n, among others. These disorders are neither environmental nor interpersonally transmitted, but rather are typically brought on by unhealthy habits like poor diet, lack of physical activity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. According to the estimate, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for almost 56.4% of India’s overall disease burden. For management of lifestyle disorders, the treatment in Ayurveda is based on an individual’s body constitution (Prakriti) depending upon their medical history, both past and present, to get a satisfactory outcome. The outcome can be attained through Aahar (an Ayurvedic dietary approach) and Vihar (an Ayurvedic lifestyle approach) guided by the principles of balanced diet and daily routine in accordance with one’s constitution, seasonal variation and environment that emphasizes mindful nutrition and the holistic balance of the body, mind, and spirit. It also offers extensive physical, mental, and social well-being that can help gain better control over lifestyle disorders and reduce a substantial proportion of diseases, all of which contribute significantly in enhancing the quality of life. Ayurveda, with its Aahar and Vihar discipline aims to fulfil a critical gap by offering a comprehensive perspective on lifestyle disorders and supporting a preventive health-care regimen.

Keywords: Lifestyle Disorders, Aahar, Vihar.