Practised for over 5,000 years, Ayurveda, one of the world’s oldest systems of medicine continues to gain global recognition for its holistic approach to health. Rather than offering quick fixes, Ayurveda views
healing as a mindful and sustainable return to balance, focusing on addressing root causes instead of merely managing symptoms.
“Sudden lifestyle modifications often disrupt the body’s natural equilibrium,” explains Dr Bindu M, BAMS, Senior Physician, Apollo Ayurvaid Hospitals. “Abrupt changes such as drastic dietary shifts, intense exercise routines, or rigid daily schedules can disturb the doshas, particularly vata, which governs movement, nervous system functions, and adaptability.”
According to Dr Bindu, such disruptions may manifest as anxiety, digestive disturbances, fatigue, or sleep irregularities. “These conditions usually develop gradually through prolonged imbalance,” she notes. “Healing, therefore, must also be gradual, paced, and methodical rather than rushed.”
Ayurveda recognises that agni (digestive strength) needs time to stabilise, dhatus (body tissues) require steady nourishment, and the mind needs reassurance not force. “Slow healing gives the body the space to recalibrate without stress,” says Dr Bindu. “This is why Ayurveda emphasises moderation and gradual substitution instead of rigid elimination.”
She further explains that practices such as dinacharya (daily routine) are introduced progressively, allowing the body’s biological clock to realign naturally. “Gentle movement like walking, yoga, and pranayama is recommended before engaging in strenuous exercise,” Dr Bindu adds. “Similarly, unhealthy food habits are eased out gradually and replaced with nourishing alternatives.”
Central to this philosophy is the concept of sathmya, or suitability. “Every individual has a unique constitution (prakruthi) and current imbalance (vikruthi),” explains Dr Bindu. “What benefits one person may not be appropriate for another, which is why even positive lifestyle changes must be approached with awareness and discernment.”
Healing that unfolds slowly, she concludes, is more resilient and sustainable. “When changes align with the body’s natural rhythms, they support long-term wellbeing rather than temporary results,” says Dr. Bindu. “In Ayurveda, slow is not passive, slow is healing.”
