Daily Routines & Seasonal Practices Flashcards

Which Ayurvedic practice involves gently massaging the gums and teeth with sesame oil or herbal powders each morning?

Answer: Danta dhavana

Danta dhavana is the Ayurvedic practice of cleaning teeth using herbal tooth powders or twigs from specific trees like neem.

In Ayurveda, what is the recommended time window for Brahma muhurta, the ideal time to wake up?

Answer: 3:00–4:30 AM

Brahma muhurta is approximately 1.5 hours before sunrise, typically falling between 3:00–4:30 AM, considered optimal for spiritual and mental activities.

Which season corresponds to Shishira Ritu in the traditional Ayurvedic six-season calendar used in India?

Answer: Late winter

Shishira Ritu corresponds to late winter (approximately January–February) and is characterized by cold, dry, and windy qualities.

During Vasanta Ritu (spring), why is Panchakarma—particularly Vamana (emesis)—especially recommended?

Answer: Accumulated Kapha liquefies and can be expelled

In spring, the Kapha that accumulated during winter becomes liquefied by the warming temperatures, making it the ideal time for Vamana to expel excess Kapha.

What is the Ayurvedic practice of 'Udgharshana'?

Answer: Dry powder massage to stimulate lymphatics

Udgharshana is a dry herbal powder massage (without oil) used to reduce Kapha, stimulate circulation, and remove excess body fat.

Which type of exercise intensity is most appropriate during Hemanta Ritu (early winter) according to Ayurvedic guidelines?

Answer: Full-capacity vigorous exercise

In Hemanta Ritu, Agni is strong and the body is robust, so full-capacity vigorous exercise is appropriate and even encouraged.

In Dinacharya, what is the purpose of 'Anjana' (collyrium application to the eyes)?

Answer: To cleanse and strengthen the eyes, removing excess Kapha

Anjana involves applying herbal collyrium to the inner eyelids to cleanse the eyes, remove Kapha accumulation, and maintain visual health.