Coming Back to Your Senses: An Ayurvedic Approach to Sensory Awareness
Dear Beloved One,
It’s easy to become disconnected from the deeper, more subtle aspects of ourselves. One of the most profound ways to reconnect to our true nature is through the senses. Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, teaches us that we are deeply interconnected with the world around us — and much of this connection happens through our senses. We are what we consume, not just through our food, but through everything we see, hear, smell, touch, and taste. Our senses are our gateways to the world, and they play a pivotal role in shaping our physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
In Ayurveda, it is said that indriyas (the senses) are the means through which we interact with our environment, and how we process and digest this information impacts our state of balance. To truly "come back to our senses" means to fully awaken and attune ourselves to the present moment — to slow down, to savor life, and to consciously choose what we allow through our senses. By nurturing and cleansing our senses, we restore harmony to our mind and body.
In this blog, we will explore each of the five senses from an Ayurvedic perspective, and how being mindful of what we allow ourselves to consume through these channels can support our overall well-being.
1. Sight: What We See and How It Affects Us
The eyes are often considered the windows to the soul, and in Ayurveda, the sense of sight is deeply connected to both our emotional and physical well-being. The eyes not only help us perceive the world but also influence our mental state. When we flood our vision with harsh, overstimulating, or negative images — whether from excessive screen time, distressing news, or harsh artificial lighting — it disrupts our inner peace and can agitate our mind, especially for those who tend toward Vata imbalances.
To come back to your senses through sight, Ayurveda recommends being mindful of what you choose to gaze upon. Surround yourself with beauty, serenity, and positive images. This could include spending time in nature, placing uplifting or calming images in your living space, or limiting exposure to media that feels jarring or negative. Consider practicing a simple eye exercise like palming or gently massaging the eye area to release tension and relax the eyes.
Practical Tip: Spend time daily in natural surroundings — even a few minutes in a park or by a tree can help you reconnect with the natural world. For those with a Vata constitution, it is especially grounding to connect with the earthy, stabilizing energy of trees and landscapes.
2. Sound: What We Hear and How It Shapes Our Mood
Sound has a profound impact on our emotional state. In Ayurveda, sound is considered an integral part of healing — through sacred vibrations (mantras), music, and the natural sounds of our environment. Disruptive sounds can disturb our peace of mind, while harmonious sounds help us feel grounded, uplifted, and centered.
When we listen to high-stress, chaotic, or dissonant sounds (such as constant noise pollution or negative media), it can lead to agitation in the mind and body, often aggravating Pitta or Vata. Conversely, soothing sounds like gentle music, nature sounds, or chanting can create a sense of calm and well-being.
To return to your senses through sound, consider incorporating healing sounds into your daily routine. This could mean listening to relaxing music, engaging in mantra chanting, or simply spending time in nature where you can hear the wind, birds, and rustling leaves. These sounds help to ground your energy and soothe the nervous system.
Practical Tip: Start your day with a few minutes of chanting, or simply listen to calming music or nature sounds. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or stressed, use sound as a tool to return to balance.
3. Taste: What We Consume and How It Nourishes Us
Taste is the most directly related to nourishment in Ayurveda. What we eat not only affects our physical body but also influences our mind and emotions. The six tastes in Ayurveda — sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent — have distinct effects on our doshas, and consuming too much of one taste can create imbalances.
For example, sweet foods (think sugars and heavy dairy) may pacify Vata but increase Kapha and Pitta. Salty foods can be grounding for Vata but aggravating for Pitta. It is essential to eat in alignment with your constitution and current state of health to maintain balance.
Coming back to your senses through taste involves making conscious food choices and tuning in to how the food you consume makes you feel. Ayurveda encourages mindful eating, where you take time to savor each bite and truly enjoy your meal. Eating slowly, chewing thoroughly, and savoring the flavors not only aids digestion but also nurtures a deeper connection to your body’s needs.
Practical Tip: Try to eat in a calm and peaceful environment, free from distractions. Focus on the flavors, textures, and aromas of your food, and aim for balance in your meals. Include a variety of tastes to nourish your doshas, and avoid overeating.
4. Smell: The Power of Scent to Influence Our State of Being
In Ayurveda, the sense of smell is seen as directly connected to the Prana (life force) and our emotional state. Certain scents have the ability to uplift, relax, or balance us. For example, lavender and sandalwood are calming and grounding, while citrus and peppermint can invigorate and refresh.
The olfactory system is incredibly powerful — smells can trigger memories, emotions, and even physical responses. In the context of Ayurveda, we are advised to use aromas that align with our constitution. A person with a dominant Pitta dosha, for example, may benefit from cooling, calming scents like jasmine or rose, while a Vata type may prefer warm and grounding aromas like cinnamon or sandalwood.
To reconnect with your sense of smell, Ayurveda encourages the use of essential oils, incense, and floral waters. You can also create your own aromatherapy rituals to support specific needs in your body and mind.
Practical Tip: Create a ritual around scent. Whether through diffusing essential oils, applying anointing oils to pulse points, or simply inhaling the scent of flowers or herbs, take a moment to engage with the healing power of smell.
5. Touch: Grounding, Healing, and Connecting with Our Bodies
Touch is one of the most intimate and grounding senses. In Ayurveda, it’s closely tied to our physical well-being and our connection to the earth. The sense of touch can be incredibly healing, as it helps to stimulate circulation, relax the muscles, and calm the nervous system.
To come back to your senses through touch, Ayurveda encourages practices like Abhyanga (self-massage with warm oils), which not only nourishes the skin but also soothes the nervous system, especially for those with Vata imbalances. The act of massaging your body with warm oil helps to reconnect you with your physical form and encourages a sense of grounding and self-care.
Practical Tip: Take a few moments each day to practice Abhyanga or simply give yourself a gentle hand or foot massage. The warmth of the oil and the soothing touch will help balance your energy and deepen your connection to your body.
In Ayurveda, it is said that we "digest" not only our food but everything that we experience through our senses. Whether it’s the sights we behold, the sounds we hear, the food we consume, the scents we breathe, or the touch we experience, all of these impressions create a deep imprint on our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
To "come back to our senses" is to return to a place of mindfulness, where we consciously choose what we allow to enter our experience. By engaging with our senses in a more intentional, aware way, we can restore balance to our doshas, nourish our minds, and cultivate a deeper connection to ourselves.
Take a moment each day to pause and attune to your senses. Whether it’s through a moment of quiet reflection, mindful eating, or a simple sensory ritual, remember that you are always in the process of digesting the world around you — so choose wisely, and allow your senses to lead you back to balance and harmony.
All of my love,
Mystic
Understanding Vikruti: How to Recognize and Restore Balance to Your Life
Dear Beloved One,
In the Ayurvedic tradition, there is a beautiful concept called Prakruti — your natural, unchanging constitution that defines your physical, mental, and emotional tendencies. But as we journey through life, we often find ourselves straying from this original balance. Life's challenges, stress, changing seasons, and even our choices can create what Ayurveda calls Vikruti, or our current state of imbalance.
Vikruti represents the deviations from our Prakruti, the unique blueprint we were born with. While Prakruti is constant, Vikruti shifts throughout our lives. This imbalance can be subtle or pronounced, and it is the result of factors like lifestyle choices, stress, diet, environmental changes, and even emotional or spiritual challenges. Recognizing your Vikruti and understanding how it manifests is essential to returning to a place of harmony and well-being.
In this blog, we will explore Vikruti — how imbalances develop, how they show up in our lives, and most importantly, how we can use holistic Ayurvedic practices to return to our Prakruti and restore balance.
What is Vikruti?
In Ayurveda, Vikruti is your current state of imbalance or the manifestation of doshas that have moved out of harmony. While your Prakruti (birth constitution) represents your ideal state of health and balance, Vikruti reflects the imbalances that have developed over time due to various factors.
Vikruti is dynamic — it’s not static like Prakruti. It fluctuates based on what’s happening in your life, such as stress, seasonal changes, diet, and even emotional upheaval. The beauty of understanding Vikruti is that it offers you insight into what needs to be addressed to restore balance.
When your doshas are in balance, your mind, body, and spirit align with your Prakruti. But when one or more doshas are out of balance, they create Vikruti, leading to physical symptoms (like digestive issues, sleep disturbances, or skin problems) as well as mental and emotional challenges (such as stress, anxiety, irritability, or lethargy).
How Imbalances Occur
Imbalances can occur for many reasons, including:
Lifestyle Choices: Our daily habits have a profound impact on our doshas. Overexertion, lack of sleep, unhealthy eating patterns, or excessive screen time can push the doshas out of balance. For example, staying up late and eating erratically may aggravate Vata dosha, leading to anxiety or digestive issues.
Seasonal Changes: The change in seasons can affect our internal environment. For instance, the cool, dry winter months may aggravate Vata, leading to feelings of isolation or physical discomfort. Similarly, the hot and humid summer can elevate Pitta, causing irritability, skin breakouts, or digestive problems.
Stress and Emotions: Emotional stress can create significant imbalances. Pitta individuals, who tend to be fiery and passionate, may become irritable and angry when stressed. Vata types may experience anxiety or nervousness. Kapha types may retreat into themselves, feeling lethargic or stuck.
Dietary Habits: Certain foods can aggravate particular doshas. For example, dry and cold foods might exacerbate Vata imbalances, while spicy or greasy foods can trigger Pitta-related issues, such as acidity or inflammation.
Environmental Factors: Environmental changes, such as working in a high-stress environment or moving to a new place, can also contribute to Vikruti. If the environment doesn’t align with your constitution, it can disrupt your doshas, creating imbalance.
Signs of Vikruti
Recognizing the signs of Vikruti is an essential first step in restoring balance. Here are some common signs that indicate you may be experiencing an imbalance:
Vata Imbalance: You may experience dryness, bloating, anxiety, restlessness, constipation, insomnia, or a feeling of being scattered or unfocused.
Pitta Imbalance: You may notice symptoms like irritability, anger, heartburn, skin rashes, inflammation, or feelings of frustration or overwhelm.
Kapha Imbalance: You may feel sluggish, lethargic, emotionally attached, or prone to depression. Physical symptoms can include weight gain, excess mucus, or a feeling of heaviness.
These imbalances can also show up on a more subtle level. You may find yourself disconnected from your inner peace, feeling emotionally drained, or lacking enthusiasm for life. The key is to listen to your body and recognize when things feel off-balance.
How to Restore Balance and Return to Your Prakruti
The good news is that Ayurveda offers practical and effective tools to help restore balance and bring you back to your Prakruti. Here are some practices you can incorporate into your life to address your Vikruti and return to harmony:
Nourishing Diet: Ayurveda believes that the food we eat directly impacts our doshas. Eating in alignment with your dosha helps nourish and balance your body. For example, if you’re experiencing a Vata imbalance (dryness, anxiety), warm, grounding foods like soups, stews, and cooked vegetables can be helpful. If your Pitta is out of balance (irritability, inflammation), cooling foods like cucumbers, leafy greens, and dairy can help soothe the fiery energy.
Daily Routine (Dinacharya): One of the most powerful ways to return to balance is by establishing a consistent daily routine. Ayurveda places great emphasis on routine (known as Dinacharya) to support the natural flow of energy in the body. This includes waking up early, hydrating with warm water, practicing yoga or meditation, and eating meals at regular times.
Mindful Movement: Yoga therapy and mindful movement practices are powerful tools to recalibrate the doshas. For example, if you’re dealing with a Vata imbalance, gentle, grounding yoga poses such as Child’s Pose or Warrior I can help stabilize and calm the nervous system. If Pitta is aggravated, cooling and restorative practices such as Yin or Restorative Yoga can help ease tension. Kapha imbalances benefit from more dynamic movement to stimulate circulation, like Sun Salutations or aerobic exercise.
Breathwork (Pranayama): Pranayama, or breath control, is a potent tool for balancing the doshas. For Vata imbalances, practices like Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) can calm the nervous system. For Pitta imbalances, Sitali Pranayama (cooling breath) can reduce heat and irritation. For Kapha, Kapalbhati (breath of fire) can stimulate energy and clear sluggishness.
Herbal Support: Ayurveda offers a wide range of herbs that can help restore balance. For example:
Ashwagandha can soothe Vata imbalances (anxiety, fatigue).
Shatavari helps calm Pitta (inflammation, digestive issues).
Triphala supports Kapha and can aid digestion and detoxification.
Meditation and Mindfulness: Meditation is a powerful practice for rebalancing your mental and emotional state. Regular mindfulness or meditation practice can help you release stress, improve focus, and bring clarity to your thoughts and emotions.
Seasonal and Environmental Adjustments: Adjust your lifestyle based on the seasons and your environment. For example, in the hot summer months, you may need to focus on cooling practices and foods to balance Pitta. In the winter, grounding and warming practices may help soothe an aggravated Vata.
Vikruti is a natural part of the human experience. Life, with all its challenges, joys, and changes, will often pull us away from our original state of harmony. But by recognizing the imbalances within us and practicing mindfulness, we can gently steer ourselves back to balance and reconnect with our Prakruti — our true nature.
By honoring our doshas and practicing the tools of Ayurveda, yoga therapy, and mindful living, we can restore harmony within ourselves, address the root causes of our imbalances, and cultivate a life of peace, vitality, and wholeness.
Remember: imbalance is not something to fear. It’s simply a signal from your body and mind, a reminder to come back to your center, to remember who you are, and to align with the natural rhythms of your being.
Warmest regards,
Mystic
Understanding Your Prakruti: Discovering Your Ayurvedic Birth Constitution
Dear Beloved One,
In a world where we’re often told that one-size-fits-all solutions are the answer, Ayurveda invites us to honor the uniqueness of each individual. It teaches us that we are all born with a unique blueprint, a combination of energies that shapes who we are on a physical, mental, and emotional level. This blueprint is known as our Prakruti, or our Ayurvedic birth constitution.
Understanding your Prakruti is like unlocking the map to your health and well-being. It provides insight into how your body and mind interact with the world, what nurtures you, and what can throw you off balance. It allows you to understand why certain foods, activities, and lifestyles make you feel vibrant, while others leave you drained or out of sync.
In this blog, we’ll explore what Prakruti is, how it relates to the three doshas, and how you can discover yours to live a life that’s in harmony with your natural rhythms.
What is Prakruti?
In Ayurveda, Prakruti refers to your birth constitution — the unique combination of elements and energies you are born with. It is determined at the moment of conception and remains relatively stable throughout your life. Prakruti is your natural state of balance, and it represents the true, unchanging qualities of your mind and body.
Your Prakruti takes into account the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether) and how they manifest as the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
These doshas are essentially the forces that govern all aspects of your life, from digestion to thoughts, emotions, and even your interactions with the world. Understanding your Prakruti helps you identify your primary dosha (or doshas), and how they influence your tendencies, health, and behaviors.
The Three Doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha
In Ayurveda, the three doshas represent the dynamic energies that exist within everyone. Each dosha is a combination of two of the five elements, and they each govern different aspects of the body and mind:
Vata (Air + Ether): Vata is the energy of movement, change, and creativity. It governs the nervous system, circulation, and the movement of breath and thoughts. Vata types are typically energetic, creative, and quick-thinking but can become scattered, anxious, and prone to dryness (both physically and emotionally) when out of balance.
Pitta (Fire + Water): Pitta is the energy of transformation, digestion, and metabolism. It governs all processes of digestion and assimilation, both physically and mentally. Pitta types are usually determined, focused, and intellectually sharp, but they can become irritable, overly critical, and prone to inflammation or digestive issues when imbalanced.
Kapha (Earth + Water): Kapha is the energy of stability, nourishment, and growth. It governs the structure of the body, lubrication of the joints, and the immune system. Kapha types tend to be calm, loving, and grounded, but they may become lethargic, possessive, or resistant to change when their energy is not flowing freely.
Each person has all three doshas within them, but one or two doshas usually predominate in your Prakruti. Your Prakruti, then, is determined by the dominant dosha or doshas you were born with. Knowing this is key to understanding your natural strengths, weaknesses, and the lifestyle choices that will best support your overall health.
Why is It Important to Know Your Prakruti?
Understanding your Prakruti is a powerful tool for living a balanced, harmonious life. Here’s why:
Personalized Health Recommendations: Ayurveda teaches that the same foods, activities, and habits won’t work for everyone. What nourishes one dosha may imbalance another. When you know your Prakruti, you can make lifestyle and dietary choices that support your natural state of balance. For example, a Vata person may need to focus on grounding, warm, and oily foods to balance their dry, airy nature, while a Pitta person may need cooling and calming foods to balance their fiery temperament.
Emotional and Mental Clarity: Your Prakruti also affects your mental and emotional tendencies. Understanding how your doshas influence your thought patterns and emotional responses can give you a deeper sense of self-awareness. For instance, Vata types may be prone to anxiety and overthinking, while Pitta types may experience frustration or impatience. Knowing this allows you to practice emotional self-care in ways that honor your true nature.
Prevention of Imbalances: Ayurveda also teaches that when the doshas are in imbalance, disease and discomfort arise. By understanding your Prakruti, you can anticipate potential imbalances before they manifest and take preventive measures. For example, Kapha individuals may be more prone to gaining weight or feeling sluggish, while Pitta types may struggle with digestive issues or skin problems if they are out of balance.
How to Discover Your Prakruti
So, how can you discover your Prakruti? Here are a few simple ways to get started:
Observe Your Physical Traits: Each dosha has distinctive physical characteristics:
Vata types are often thin, with dry skin, cold hands and feet, and variable digestion.
Pitta types tend to have a medium build, warm body temperature, and oily skin. They often have sharp features and a strong appetite.
Kapha types are typically sturdy or broad, with smooth, cool skin, thick hair, and slow digestion.
Notice Your Mental and Emotional Patterns: Your dosha also shapes your mental and emotional world:
Vata individuals may have a creative, lively, but scattered mind, and may be prone to worry, fear, and anxiety.
Pitta individuals tend to be focused, intelligent, and goal-oriented but can become impatient, angry, or overly competitive.
Kapha individuals are grounded, calm, and nurturing but may struggle with inertia, attachment, or depression.
Look at Your Daily Habits: Your habits and preferences can also point to your dosha:
Vata types may enjoy novelty and change, but dislike routine.
Pitta types are often ambitious, disciplined, and need a sense of control.
Kapha types value stability and consistency and may prefer rest and relaxation.
Consult an Ayurvedic Practitioner: If you’re unsure about your Prakruti, working with a knowledgeable Ayurvedic practitioner can provide clarity. They can help you assess your doshas through a detailed consultation, where they’ll consider your physical appearance, digestion, energy levels, emotional tendencies, and more.
Once you understand your Prakruti, the beauty of Ayurveda is that it empowers you to live in alignment with your true nature. It’s not about changing who you are, but rather nurturing your natural constitution so you can thrive. By balancing your doshas with the right food, lifestyle, and practices, you can maintain harmony and vitality in your body, mind, and spirit.
So, take the time to discover your Prakruti — honor it, nurture it, and remember that the key to health and happiness lies in living in a way that supports your natural blueprint.
Your Prakruti is your gift. Embrace it and let it guide you toward greater balance, peace, and joy.
Warmest regards,
Mystic
The Power of Mantra: A Sacred Sound, A Timeless Prayer
Dear Beloved One,
In a world full of noise, there is a kind of sound that doesn’t just pass through your ears — it moves through your soul. A sound that doesn’t add to the chaos, but quiets it. A sound that holds within it something ancient, alive, and deeply loving.
That sound is mantra.
More than just words or phrases, mantras are sacred vibrations — vessels of energy passed down through generations, holding intention, wisdom, and healing in every syllable. They are living prayers, encoded with frequencies that have been chanted for thousands of years by sages, seekers, healers, and hearts like yours.
Mantras Are Time Capsules
When we chant a mantra, we are not doing it alone. We’re stepping into a sacred river that has been flowing long before us and will continue long after. Every repetition is a thread connecting us to the great web of consciousness — to the gurus, the lineages, the communities, the ancestors — all who have spoken these sounds with devotion and purpose.
Think of mantras as time capsules.
Inside each one is the condensed energy of thousands of voices, thousands of hearts, thousands of intentions.
Each time you chant, you unlock that capsule. You receive the blessing. You amplify the current.
Whether whispered softly in your morning practice or chanted aloud in a group, you are tuning yourself to a field that is far greater than your own voice — you are supported by the collective. By the love, clarity, and presence of all who have walked this path before you.
In that way, you’re never chanting alone.
Embodying the Energy of the Mantra
Mantras are not meant to be understood only with the mind — they are meant to be felt, lived, and embodied.
Each sacred sound carries a specific vibration that resonates with different parts of the body, different states of consciousness, and different aspects of the divine. Some mantras bring grounding and safety. Others bring awakening or expansion. Some help clear emotional blockages or bring focus to the heart or the third eye.
And as we repeat the mantra — over days, weeks, and months — it begins to reshape us.
The sound settles into the nervous system.
The words soften the grip of the ego.
The energy begins to re-pattern our thoughts, emotions, and even our behavior.
We start to embody what we are chanting.
If you’re chanting a mantra for peace (shanti), peace begins to take root in you.
If you’re chanting a mantra for courage, you begin to feel your strength rise.
If you’re chanting a mantra to honor the divine feminine, you start to feel her presence within you.
The mantra meets you where you are — and helps move you into where you’re meant to be.
Choosing and Working with a Mantra
You don’t need to chant for hours or be fluent in Sanskrit to receive the benefits of mantra. What matters most is your intention — your willingness to show up, to listen, to feel.
Here are a few ways to begin:
Choose one mantra to start with. It could be a traditional Sanskrit mantra like Om Mani Padme Hum, So Hum, Om Shanti, or something more personal like a word or phrase that grounds you.
Repeat it consistently. It can be as simple as chanting it aloud 3, 11, or 108 times, or silently repeating it during meditation or throughout your day.
Let it live in you. Feel the vibration. Trust the resonance. Allow the energy of the mantra to ripple through your body, your breath, and your thoughts.
Make it sacred. Light a candle. Sit with your breath. Bring your hands to your heart. This is your time to connect — to yourself and to something greater.
At its heart, mantra is a practice of remembrance. It reminds us who we are beneath the surface. It reawakens the parts of us that are wise, clear, and steady. It gently guides us back to the rhythm of our soul.
You don’t need to chant perfectly. You don’t need to understand every translation. The mantra knows the way.
Every time you return to it, it returns to you.
Every time you speak it with love, it speaks back.
And every time you forget, it will help you remember.
Because within the mantra lies not just sacred sound — but sacred support. A lineage of love, a circle of voices, a thread of devotion that holds you every time you sit to chant.
So the next time you bring your hands together and offer your voice to the quiet… know this:
You are not chanting to be heard.
You are chanting to remember.
And all the ones who’ve chanted before you —
they’re right there, singing with you.
Remember that first there was the sound and through sound you can set yourself free.
All of my love,
Mystic
Journaling as a Sacred Practice: Finding Clarity, Release, and the Voice Within
Dear Beloved One,
In a world that moves fast and asks so much of us, it can be easy to lose track of how we’re really doing. Our minds fill with thoughts, to-do lists, worries, and dreams — often all at once. Emotions get layered beneath distractions. And sometimes, we don't even know what we're feeling until we pause long enough to ask.
This is where the practice of journaling becomes a powerful companion.
Journaling isn’t just for writers or introspective types — it’s for anyone who wants to feel more clear, grounded, and connected. Whether you’re looking for emotional release, a way to sort through life’s decisions, or simply a few quiet moments to check in with yourself, putting pen to paper can be a deeply supportive and sacred act.
Writing to Clear the Clutter
Sometimes, the mind just needs a place to unload.
One of the most basic yet powerful ways to journal is simply to let it all out — no structure, no judgment, no editing. Just open your journal and begin writing whatever is on your heart or mind. Even if it feels messy, repetitive, or nonsensical at first, keep going.
You might begin with:
“I don’t know what to write, but…”
“Today I feel…”
“What I’m carrying right now is…”
Give yourself space to be honest. You don’t need to make sense — you just need to show up.
Very often, something beautiful happens within a few paragraphs or pages: your higher self begins to step in. The voice of wisdom that lives beneath the chatter begins to rise. You might notice the tone of your writing shift from anxious to calm, from chaotic to clear, from overwhelmed to empowered.
It’s almost as if, once we let the mind speak its piece, the heart says, Okay. My turn now.
Journaling with Intention
While free-writing has its place, there’s also power in writing with a clear intention.
This might look like journaling with a specific prompt or focus, such as:
What am I currently navigating, and what do I need to feel supported?
What is one belief I’m ready to release, and what would I like to replace it with?
What does my inner voice want me to hear today?
Setting an intention before you write can help guide the energy of the practice. Light a candle, take a few breaths, say a short prayer or affirmation — and begin. You may be surprised by what comes forward when you write with your soul, not just from your mind.
Gratitude as a Daily Anchor
Journaling can also become a daily anchor through the practice of gratitude. Especially in times of stress, anxiety, or transition, gratitude helps recalibrate our nervous system and remind us of the beauty and abundance still present.
You don’t need a long list — just a few genuine reflections will do. Each day, you might write:
Three things you’re grateful for
One moment that brought you peace or joy
A small success or act of kindness you experienced or witnessed
This practice doesn’t ask you to deny your challenges. It simply invites you to hold both — the pain and the beauty — in your awareness, side by side.
Gratitude creates space for light to enter, even on the heavy days.
The Wisdom Is in You All Along
Journaling can start as a mental dump, a habit, a simple morning ritual — and still, it has the potential to become something much more profound. With consistency, the page becomes a mirror, a sanctuary, and a teacher.
What many people discover — often unexpectedly — is that they already hold the answers they’ve been seeking. Within a few minutes of writing about a difficult situation, clarity begins to emerge. Solutions arise. Patterns are revealed. The fear softens.
It’s not magic. It’s you. Your deeper self, your inner knowing, your innate wisdom — all waiting patiently beneath the surface, ready to guide you the moment you make space to listen.
This is why journaling is not just a practice — it’s a form of devotion. To your truth. To your healing. To your evolution.
You don’t need a special journal, a perfect pen, or a quiet cabin in the woods. You just need a few moments and a willingness to be with yourself.
Some days your writing may flow. Other days, it may feel awkward or forced. That’s okay. There’s no right way to journal — only your way.
Just begin.
And keep showing up. Because over time, the page becomes a place of return — to your clarity, your calm, your inner compass.
Because all the answers truly do lie within.
You just need to make enough space for them to speak.
Warmest regards,
Mystic
What Is Holistic Life Coaching? A Path to Balance Through Ayurveda, Yoga Therapy, and Herbalism
Dear Beloved One,
In today’s fast-paced, often disjointed world, many of us are yearning for a deeper sense of connection — to our bodies, to nature, to purpose, and to the present moment. The truth is, healing isn’t just about symptom relief or checking goals off a list. It’s about returning to alignment. And sometimes, we need guidance in finding our way back.
This is where holistic life coaching comes in — not as a fix, but as a partnership. It’s a space where your whole self is welcomed: mind, body, spirit, and everything in between.
When rooted in ancient wisdom systems like Ayurveda, yoga therapy, and herbalism, holistic coaching becomes more than a series of sessions — it becomes a path to remembering who you are and reclaiming how you live.
What Makes Holistic Life Coaching Different?
Unlike traditional coaching models that focus mainly on mindset and productivity, holistic coaching sees you as a whole person living within a larger web — of nature, relationships, seasonal rhythms, and spiritual cycles.
Rather than focusing only on goals, we explore the deeper patterns shaping your inner and outer world. We ask:
How is your body speaking to you right now?
What are you being asked to release, restore, or realign with?
How can you move through life in a way that honors your unique constitution and life season?
With this approach, you’re not just working toward change — you’re cultivating a relationship with yourself that is rooted in trust, wisdom, and deep self-compassion.
The Pillars: Ayurveda, Yoga Therapy & Herbalism
Ayurveda
Known as “the science of life,” Ayurveda teaches us that we each have a unique constitution, or dosha — Vata, Pitta, or Kapha — which shapes how we think, feel, digest, and move through the world.
Through Ayurvedic coaching, we explore your constitution and current imbalances, using lifestyle shifts, nutrition, daily rituals (dinacharya), and seasonal attunement to bring you back into harmony with nature and yourself.
This isn't about rigid diets or routines. It’s about rhythm — living in a way that feels sustainable, supportive, and true to who you are.
Yoga Therapy
Yoga therapy brings the philosophy and physical practices of yoga into a personalized healing journey. Unlike group classes, therapeutic yoga is tailored to your body, nervous system, and emotional needs.
In sessions, we might work with gentle movement (asana), breathwork (pranayama), meditation, or somatic practices to support regulation, resilience, and deeper embodiment. We move away from performance and into presence — learning to listen, soften, and trust the wisdom of the body.
This work is especially powerful for those moving through stress, trauma, chronic pain, or transitions. It offers tools to reconnect, ground, and feel safe within yourself again.
Herbalism
Plants have been our allies and teachers for thousands of years. Herbalism is a bridge between Earth and body — a way of supporting physical, emotional, and energetic healing through the intelligence of nature.
As part of holistic coaching, we might explore plant allies to support digestion, anxiety, sleep, or immune health, using teas, tinctures, oils, and rituals that help you root and restore. Working with herbs is more than supplementing — it’s a relationship. One that asks us to slow down and trust the medicine of the natural world.
How This Approach Can Support You
Holistic coaching, supported by these ancient systems, meets you exactly where you are. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, depleted, or simply ready to deepen your connection to yourself, this work offers:
Personalized support tailored to your constitution, lifestyle, and intentions
Tools for self-regulation through breath, movement, and grounding practices
Rituals for healing that reconnect you to your body and the natural world
Greater clarity around your path, purpose, and values
A safe space to be seen and supported — not rushed, not judged, but held
This is not a one-size-fits-all model. It’s a relationship — between you and your coach, but more importantly, between you and your own inner wisdom.
At its heart, holistic coaching isn’t about becoming someone else. It’s about becoming more of who you already are. It’s about creating space — in your body, your breath, your schedule, and your soul — to live in a way that feels deeply aligned, nourishing, and true.
If you’re craving more balance, more purpose, or simply a more authentic connection to yourself and your life, this path is here to support you.
You are not broken. You are becoming.
And you don’t have to walk this path alone.
Warmest regards,
Mystic
The 24 Gunas in Ayurveda: The Fundamental Qualities of Life
The 24 Gunas in Ayurveda: The Fundamental Qualities of Life
Dear One,
Ayurveda teaches us that everything in the universe is made up of qualities, or Gunas, which shape the way we experience the world—physically, mentally, and emotionally. These 24 Gunas are the building blocks of the five elements (Pancha Mahabhutas) and the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha).
Just as a painter mixes different colors to create a masterpiece, nature combines these qualities to form the diversity of life. Understanding these Gunas allows us to recognize imbalances within ourselves and restore harmony through conscious choices in food, lifestyle, and environment.
Let’s explore these 24 Gunas—how they relate to the elements and how they manifest within the doshas.
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The 24 Gunas: The Qualities That Shape Everything
Each Guna has an opposite quality that balances it. When one quality is excessive, we can restore balance by introducing its opposite.
Guna (Quality) Opposite Quality
1. Heavy (Guru) -vs- Light (Laghu)
2. Slow/Dull (Manda) -vs- Sharp (Tikshna)
3. Cold (Shita) -vs- Hot (Ushna)
4. Oily (Snigdha) -vs- Dry (Ruksha)
5. Smooth (Slakshna) -vs- Rough (Khara)
6. Dense (Sandra) -vs- Subtle (Sukshma)
7. Soft (Mridu) -vs- Hard (Kathina)
8. Stable (Sthira) -vs- Mobile (Chala)
9. Gross (Sthula) -vs- Minute (Sukshma)
10. Cloudy (Avila) -vs- Clear (Vishada)
11. Sticky (Pichila) -vs- Non-Sticky (Vishada)
12. Fluid (Drava) -vs- Solid (Sthira)
These 12 primary Gunas combine in different ways, forming an additional 12 Gunas that further refine the nature of things. Together, they make up the 24 Gunas, which influence everything from digestion to emotions.
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Each element has a unique combination of these qualities:
• Ether (Akasha) → Subtle, Light, Soft, Clear, Mobile
• Air (Vayu) → Dry, Light, Rough, Mobile, Cold
• Fire (Agni) → Hot, Sharp, Light, Subtle, Dry
• Water (Jala) → Cold, Liquid, Soft, Oily, Dense
• Earth (Prithvi) → Heavy, Dense, Stable, Solid, Gross
These elemental qualities determine how things feel, behave, and interact with us. For example, a fiery personality tends to be sharp and intense, while an earthy personality is grounded and steady.
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How the Gunas Manifest in the Doshas
The three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—are made up of specific elements and their associated Gunas. Understanding their qualities helps us recognize imbalances and make adjustments to restore equilibrium.
1. Vata Dosha (Air + Ether)
• Gunas: Light, Dry, Cold, Mobile, Rough, Subtle
• Manifestation in the Body & Mind:
• Quick movement, restless thoughts, dry skin, sensitivity to cold
• Creativity, enthusiasm, but also anxiety when imbalanced
• Balancing Opposites:
• Warm, oily, grounding foods (soups, ghee, cooked grains)
• Slow, steady routines and calming practices like meditation
2. Pitta Dosha (Fire + Water)
• Gunas: Hot, Sharp, Light, Oily, Mobile, Liquid
• Manifestation in the Body & Mind:
• Strong digestion, sharp intellect, warm body temperature
• Passionate, determined, but prone to anger and burnout
• Balancing Opposites:
• Cooling foods (coconut, cucumber, mint)
• Relaxing activities, spending time in nature, cooling breathwork
3. Kapha Dosha (Earth + Water)
• Gunas: Heavy, Cold, Oily, Stable, Dense, Soft
• Manifestation in the Body & Mind:
• Solid body structure, steady energy, strong immunity
• Loving, compassionate, but prone to lethargy and attachment
• Balancing Opposites:
• Light, warm, stimulating foods (spices, bitter greens)
• Movement, breathwork, and energizing activities
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When we tune into these qualities, we can understand why we feel the way we do—whether physically, mentally, or emotionally.
• Feeling cold, anxious, and dry? You may have excess Vata qualities and need warmth, moisture, and grounding.
• Feeling hot, irritable, or inflamed? Pitta is high—cool down with soothing foods and relaxation.
• Feeling heavy, sluggish, or unmotivated? Kapha needs balance—stimulate the body with movement and light foods.
By consciously adjusting our diet, lifestyle, and environment to harmonize the Gunas, we bring our doshas into balance, allowing us to restore vitality, clarity, and well-being.
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Pause for a moment and reflect:
• Which qualities do you feel dominant in your body and mind right now?
• Which opposite qualities might help bring you back to balance?
• How can you weave this awareness into your daily life—through the foods you eat, the activities you choose, and the energy you surround yourself with?
When we align with nature’s wisdom, we come back to our true essence—harmonious, radiant, and deeply connected to the rhythm of life.
With love,
Mystic
As a holistic life coach, I believe in your innate wisdom and strength. Together, we can unlock your true potential, creating space for growth, joy, and balance. This is not about fixing what’s broken, but about supporting you in flourishing and stepping confidently into the life you were meant to live.
If you’re ready to reconnect with your purpose, rediscover your peace, and move forward with a sense of ease and clarity, I’d be honored to support you. Let’s walk this path together, knowing that every step brings you closer to the abundant, vibrant life you deserve.
Your healing journey starts now. Whether you’re seeking emotional release, physical balance, or spiritual growth, I’m here to guide you with personalized yoga therapy, Ayurvedic coaching, and creative healing practices. Don’t wait to experience the transformation you deserve. Book your session today and begin your path to deeper wellness and inner peace.
Astrology: A Celestial Map to the Soul
Astrology: A Celestial Map to the Soul
My loves,
Have you ever looked up at the night sky and felt something stir deep within you—a knowing, a remembrance, a feeling that the stars are speaking to you? That is the ancient language of astrology, whispering its wisdom through the cosmic dance of planets and constellations.
Astrology is far more than horoscopes or personality traits. It is a sacred tool, a map of the heavens woven into the fabric of our lives. It reveals the rhythms of the Universe and how they reflect within us, showing us our soul’s lessons, karmic patterns, and highest potential.
For thousands of years, civilizations have looked to the stars for guidance. Astrology is the bridge between the celestial and the earthly, reminding us that we are not separate from the cosmos but an expression of its infinite wisdom.
The Two Paths of Astrology: Tropical and Vedic
There are two primary systems of astrology that interpret the heavens in different ways—Tropical (Western) Astrology and Vedic (Jyotish) Astrology. Both are deeply insightful, yet they follow different cosmic measurements and philosophies. Neither is “more accurate” than the other; they are simply two perspectives, like different windows looking out at the same vast sky.
Tropical Astrology: The Western Lens
Western astrology, also called Tropical Astrology, is based on the seasons and the relationship between the Sun and Earth. It follows the equinoxes and solstices, anchoring the zodiac in the cycle of light and darkness throughout the year.
In this system, Aries always begins the zodiac wheel at the Spring Equinox, followed by the other signs in their familiar order. Tropical astrology is widely practiced in the West and focuses on psychological archetypes, personal growth, and self-discovery.
The Western zodiac you are likely familiar with—Aries, Taurus, Gemini, and so on—is based on this seasonal framework rather than the actual position of the stars today. Due to the Earth’s axial shift (a slow wobble called precession), the constellations have moved over time, but tropical astrology remains tied to the rhythm of Earth’s solar year.
Tropical astrology asks:
• Who are you becoming in this lifetime?
• What lessons is your soul here to integrate?
• How can you harness the energy of the cosmos to align with your personal growth?
This system is deeply attuned to inner transformation, free will, and the evolving self—a dance between destiny and choice.
Vedic Astrology: The Eastern Lens
Vedic astrology, or Jyotish (meaning “science of light”), is the ancient astrological system from India. It is based on the sidereal zodiac, which calculates planetary positions according to the actual constellations in the sky. Because of precession, Vedic astrology placements are often about 23 degrees behind their Western counterparts—so if you’re a Leo in tropical astrology, you may be a Cancer in Vedic!
Unlike Western astrology, which is focused on psychological archetypes, Vedic astrology is deeply karmic. It views your birth chart as a reflection of your past life actions and the dharmic lessons you are meant to embody in this life.
Vedic astrology uses a rich and complex system that includes:
• Nakshatras (Lunar Mansions): 27 constellations that offer deeper insight into personality and fate.
• Dasha System: A timeline of planetary cycles revealing the unfolding of karma over a lifetime.
• Remedies: Mantras, gemstones, rituals, and spiritual practices to balance challenging planetary influences.
Vedic astrology asks:
• What karmic patterns have you carried into this lifetime?
• How can you align with your dharma (soul’s purpose)?
• What planetary energies are influencing your journey right now?
Jyotish is often used as a spiritual science, offering guidance on life direction, relationships, health, and even timing for important events. It is deeply connected to Ayurveda and yogic philosophy, emphasizing alignment with cosmic energies rather than controlling them.
Which Astrology System Should You Follow?
The beauty of astrology is that you don’t have to choose one system over the other—both hold profound truths. Think of them as different languages describing the same cosmic story.
• If you resonate with self-discovery, psychology, and free will, you may feel drawn to Western astrology.
• If you feel a deep connection to karma, destiny, and spiritual alignment, Vedic astrology may offer the guidance you seek.
• You can also integrate both—Tropical astrology for personal evolution and Vedic astrology for karmic wisdom.
Beloved, astrology is not here to dictate your fate but to illuminate your path. It is a mirror reflecting both your soul’s journey and your divine potential. Whether you look through the lens of Western or Vedic astrology, the message remains the same—you are a cosmic being, intricately woven into the great mystery of existence.
The stars do not control you; they guide you. You are not bound by your chart, but empowered by it. So look up, listen deeply, and remember—you are stardust, and the Universe is always speaking to you.
With love and cosmic wisdom,
Mystic
As a holistic life coach, I believe in your innate wisdom and strength. Together, we can unlock your true potential, creating space for growth, joy, and balance. This is not about fixing what’s broken, but about supporting you in flourishing and stepping confidently into the life you were meant to live.
If you’re ready to reconnect with your purpose, rediscover your peace, and move forward with a sense of ease and clarity, I’d be honored to support you. Let’s walk this path together, knowing that every step brings you closer to the abundant, vibrant life you deserve.
Your healing journey starts now. Whether you’re seeking emotional release, physical balance, or spiritual growth, I’m here to guide you with personalized yoga therapy, Ayurvedic coaching, and creative healing practices. Don’t wait to experience the transformation you deserve. Book your session today and begin your path to deeper wellness and inner peace.
What Does It Mean to Live Holistically? A Path to Wholeness
What Does It Mean to Live Holistically? A Path to Wholeness
What Does It Mean to Live Holistically? A Path to Wholeness
Beloved one,
In a world that often pulls us in many directions, where we are asked to compartmentalize our lives—work in one box, health in another, emotions tucked away somewhere else—the call to live holistically is a call to return to wholeness.
To be holistic is to recognize that everything is connected—our bodies, minds, emotions, relationships, food, the earth, the cosmos. There is no separation, only an intricate web of energy, each part influencing the whole. When we honor this interconnectedness, we find deeper healing, alignment, and a sense of coming home to ourselves.
Let us explore together what it means to live holistically and how we can weave this wisdom into every aspect of our lives.
Holistic Living: A Life in Harmony
To live holistically means to live in harmony with yourself, others, and the world around you. It means seeing your body not as a collection of separate parts, but as a beautifully interwoven system where physical health, mental well-being, emotional balance, and spiritual depth all dance together.
It is waking up and asking:
How do I nourish my body today?
How do I care for my emotions with love and gentleness?
How do I move my body in a way that honors its rhythm?
How do I deepen my connection to the earth, to the people in my life, to the divine?
Holistic living is about choosing wholeness in every small moment—in the food we eat, the way we breathe, the thoughts we think, the way we love.
Holistic Eating: Nourishing the Body & Soul
Food is not just fuel. It is energy, it is medicine, it is sacred. Every bite we take carries a vibration—it can heal, energize, and balance us, or it can deplete, inflame, and disconnect us.
To eat holistically is to:
Choose whole, unprocessed foods as often as possible—fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds, and herbs in their most natural forms.
Eat seasonally and locally, aligning with nature’s rhythm.
Bless your food and eat with presence, knowing that food is more than nutrients—it is life force.
Use herbs and spices as medicine, from ginger for digestion to turmeric for inflammation.
When we respect food as sacred, we are not just nourishing the body—we are nurturing the soul.
Holistic medicine does not ask, “What symptom do we need to suppress?” but rather, “What is the root cause of this imbalance?”
It understands that physical symptoms are often messages from deeper layers of our being. A headache may be more than just a headache—it could be stress, dehydration, poor digestion, or even emotional energy trapped in the body.
Holistic medicine includes:
Ayurveda – Balancing the body through diet, herbs, and daily routines that align with your unique constitution.
Traditional Chinese Medicine – Using acupuncture, herbs, and Qi energy flow to restore harmony.
Breathwork & Meditation – Tapping into the body’s innate ability to heal through the breath.
Energy Healing – Reiki, sound healing, and chakra balancing to realign our energetic field.
True healing happens when we look at the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—and address the deeper layers of imbalance.
To be holistic is not just about what we eat or how we heal—it is a way of moving through life with presence, love, and connection.
Here are ways to cultivate wholeness in your daily life:
Breathe with awareness – Every inhale is a gift. Breathe slowly, deeply, consciously. Let it anchor you to the present.
Honor your emotions – Feel them fully. Emotions are energy; when we acknowledge them, they move through us instead of becoming stuck.
Move with intention – Whether it’s yoga, walking, or dance, move in a way that brings joy and flow to your body.
Connect with nature – Put your feet on the earth, watch the sunrise, swim in the ocean. Nature recalibrates us back to our truest selves.
Nurture relationships that nourish you – Surround yourself with people who uplift, honor, and support your journey.
Live in rhythm with nature – Wake with the sun, rest when your body asks, honor the cycles of the moon, the seasons, and your own inner tides.
Trust your intuition – The body, the heart, the soul—they always know. Listen.
When we approach life this way, we become a living prayer, a walking meditation, a vessel of love and balance.
Holistic living is not about perfection—it is about connection. It is about choosing, in every moment, to honor your body, your soul, and the sacred web of life that holds us all.
You are not separate from nature.
You are not separate from the universe.
You are not separate from love.
You are the universe in motion. You are the breath of the divine. You are whole.
Come home to yourself, beloved one.
In each choice, in each breath, in each moment—choose wholeness.
Your healing journey starts now. Whether you’re seeking emotional release, physical balance, or spiritual growth, I’m here to guide you with personalized yoga therapy, Ayurvedic coaching, and creative healing practices. Don’t wait to experience the transformation you deserve. Book your session today and begin your path to deeper wellness and inner peace.
With love,
Mystic
The Rise of Ayurveda in Charleston
The Rise of Ayurveda in Charleston
The Rise of Ayurveda in Charleston
Beloved One,
My name is Mystic and today, I am going to de-mystify the buzzword that we’ve all been hearing around Charleston over the last year. As an Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach and aspiring Ayurvedic Practitioner, I couldn’t be more excited to see the genuine curiosity our community has been raising around this ancient science. In a bustling world filled with endless to-do lists and constant stimulation, finding balance and inner harmony can often feel like an elusive dream. Yet, nestled within the ancient traditions of India lies a timeless wisdom that offers a pathway to holistic health and well-being—Ayurveda. Translated as the “science of life”; Ayurveda is more than just a system of medicine; it is a profound philosophy that teaches us to live in harmony with ourselves and the natural world around us. We can imagine Ayurveda as a blue print or personalized roadmap to our own unique health and happiness. Unlike modern medicine’s one-size-fits-all approach, Ayurveda recognizes that each individual is born with a specific balance of energies, known as doshas, which govern our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual characteristics. These doshas are known as Vata, Pitta and Kapha.
Vata embodies the qualities of movement and change. It is associated with the elements air and ether. governs functions like circulation, breathing, and creativity. When in balance, Vata individuals are lively, imaginative, and adaptable. However, excess Vata can lead to anxiety, dryness, and restlessness.
Pitta represents the elements of fire and water, governing digestion, metabolism, and intellect. Pitta types tend to be driven, focused, and passionate. When balanced, they exhibit strong digestion and a sharp intellect, but imbalanced Pitta may manifest as irritability, inflammation, or digestive issues.
Kapha embodies stability and structure, governed by earth and water elements. Kaphaindividuals are typically calm, nurturing, and grounded. They have strong immunity and endurance when in balance but can experience sluggishness, weight gain, or attachment when Kapha is excessive.
Now while this may be familiar to some of you who have done their research, I would like to explain the importance of understanding the difference between your Prakruti and your Vikruti. It’s natural to think you understand your dosha after taking your first “dosha quiz” once first diving into the fundamentals of Ayurveda, however I see too often people take the quiz and think that the results are what they are instead of realizing that this is the dosha presenting itself as what needs balance. While our Prakruti is the doshic combination that we are born with, our Vikruti is the dosha or doshas that need to be regulated. Only when we know our Prakruti can we truly balance out our Vikruti because we want to restore our own unique balance instead of simply trying to balance the doshas a whole. When we understand this, we must next understand the “Law of Attraction”. The Law of Attraction states that “like attracts like”, thus in order to restore balance we must invite or use the opposite qualities, diet, exercise, lifestyle, etc to pacify our Vikruti.
Incorporating Ayurvedic principles into your daily life doesn't have to be daunting. Simple practices like eating mindfully, staying hydrated and establishing a regular sleep schedule can profoundly impact your well-being. Ayurveda encourages us to listen to our bodies, cultivate self-awareness, and make conscious choices that promote harmony on all levels—physical, mental, and spiritual. As you embark on your journey with Ayurveda, remember that it is not just a set of rules but a philosophy of living in tune with your true nature. By honoring your unique constitution, embracing seasonal changes, and understanding the interplay between Prakriti and Vikruti, you empower yourself to live a life of balance, vitality, and profound well-being. Let Ayurveda be your guide to discovering the timeless wisdom that resides within you and the natural world.
For more help on all things Ayurveda, please do not hesitate to follow me on social media:
@mystic.healing.arts
Your healing journey starts now. Whether you’re seeking emotional release, physical balance, or spiritual growth, I’m here to guide you with personalized yoga therapy, Ayurvedic coaching, and creative healing practices. Don’t wait to experience the transformation you deserve. Book your session today and begin your path to deeper wellness and inner peace.
With Love,
Mystic