Ama and the Digestive Process
In Ayurveda, ama is what we call toxins. Ama is not a singular identifiable property in the body, but still, it exists and is produced. Like in Western research, we know that toxins are not good for us. Toxins wreak havoc not only in our physical bodies but on our mental state of mind, too.
So, How is Ama Produced?
Ama is produced as part of the digestion. Agni, or digestive fire, is the force that transforms the foods we eat into tissues that make up our bodies. When the digestive fire is at the perfect burn rate, the food we ingest will be transformed well enough that no ama is created. We can look at this in terms of a wood fireplace. It burns well only if it has enough wood, sufficient air, and the actual spark that lights the fire. And once all the firewood has burned, there is no residue/unburned wood or ama that remains. This analogy translates well to understand how digestion and ama are produced in our bodies.
How to Prevent Ama from being Produced
Ayurveda is all about leading a healthy lifestyle. Living according to our doshic constitution and maintaining a healthy mind and body so that we can focus our attention on our spiritual goals. And Ayurveda believes that all of this happens first in your digestive system. Anything that we ingest mentally or physically will transform our bodies and minds accordingly. If we ingest wholesome, supportive elements, we get a wholesome, supportive body and mind. Likewise, if we ingest unwholesome elements, our bodies and mind reflect that too. So the goal is to make sure that what we eat is digested well enough that no ama is produced during the digestive process.
To produce less or no ama, we first need to understand our doshic constitution and any underlying health issues. Using foods, herbs, and a healthy lifestyle all support your digestion. And this ultimately determines if you’re producing ama or not. An Ayurvedic practitioner can help you understand how well your digestive system is working for you. They can also pinpoint signs of ama by looking at your tongue, sweat, and breath. Reach out to CCA using our contact form to get in touch with an Ayurvedic practitioner today!
Tip – if you’re not using a tongue scraper yet, take a look at the benefits of using a tongue scraper and how that helps remove toxins from your body. Another easy addition to your routine is drinking healthy amounts of CCF tea to support your digestion. Since CCF tea is balancing to all doshas, it is a safe tea to add to your daily routine.
Conclusion
The food and state of our bodies play a huge role in whether we will produce ama or not. Most of us produce ama during our lifetimes. The goal is to prevent any ama from being produced so that it does not affect our bodies and minds. And living an Ayurvedic lifestyle that is all-encompassing will not only help your digestion but help you become a more selfless and sattvic being.
Shalini Wilfred is a student at the CCA, studying to become an Ayurvedic Health Counselor. She is also a holistic lifestyle and career blogger with the aim to help people become more aware of the mind and body connection. After working in the corporate world, Shalini focuses on bringing awareness of a healthier lifestyle through Ayurveda and Yogic practices. Connect with her with the links below.
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