AYURVEDA & YOGA FOR MINDFULNESS | Rituals for wellbeing
We spoke to London based, Indian yoga teacher, meditation and mindfulness instructor, Angie Tiwari
about how the importance of yoga for mindfulness, Ayurvedic yoga therapy and essential oils for relaxation.
Raised with many Ayurvedic rituals and practices, the basics of yoga and its true essence
was taught to her by her parents. Her yoga classes focus on bringing awareness back to yoga's roots,
respecting the ancient sacred Vedic practice, and ensuring people know that yoga
is not about flexibility alone. She teaches a range from a strong vinyasa flow,
to more restorative practices highlighting the importance of embracing the sacred spiritual rituals
of yoga, as well as the physical.
How do you use essential oils in your yoga and mindfulness practice?
My essential oil aromatherapy diffuser plays a part in helping me get more in the zone when I practice. Lighting a candle, using oils or incorporating room sprays are all great ways to help you feel more calm, so that you are in a good head space to connect with your breath, your intentions, and the present moment.
Which scents do you find compliment certain practices you teach, be that Ayurveda, Yoga or Meditation?
Lavender is incredibly calming and allows you to create a space to have your very own therapy session. I’m also a big fan of Epoch London’s Sandalwood and Patchouli candle. Patchouli especially, with its earthy sweetness brings a great sense of serenity and peace. Scents complement these practices by bringing your mind to the now, allowing a greater sense of awareness, a chance to tap into your thoughts rather than letting them run on a continuous loop.
Which are some of your favourite Ayurvedic rituals?
I pick rituals that benefit me and my dosha, which is vata-pitta. My morning routine is my favourite time to ground down instead of rushing around straight away. I spend some time focussing on:
- Pranayama: deep breathing.
- Yogic eye movements: rolling my eyes in different directions to improve vision, and reduce strain on the eye muscles.
- Intention setting: start the day with positive thoughts, aspirations, reminding myself of yoga's namas and niyamas as I get ready for the day ahead.
- Jihwa Prakshalana: tongue scraping without fail to remove ama (toxins) which improves digestion
- Garshana: dry skin brushing, for my dosha I do this 3 times a week. This is your own lymphatic drainage and cleaning practice, enhancing circulation and naturally detoxifies the body.
- Oils: using oils is a great way to balance your doshas. This includes oiling my hair, my ears and my body to maintain general good health.
How do you incorporate yoga and mindfulness into your everyday life?
I find writing a great stress reliever, whether that’s writing gratitude lists or calling forwards what I’d like to manifest in my life. Writing with a candle burning always makes the experience feel that little bit cosier! Before bedtime, I use Epoch London’s Calm & Restore pulse point roller, take a deep breath in once applied, and tuck myself up ready for sleep time!
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