Ratricharya: Ending the Day on a Relaxing & Calming Note

Systematic routines have always been recommended in Ayurveda. They help maintain personal hygiene and balance the doshas. We all know of Dincharya that starts the day off on a positive note, but Ayurveda advises a set of activities before the day ends as well. These activities are collectively called ratricharya, and they contain guidelines that have been designed to reduce stress and internal imbalance. These routines are not rules but recommendations for a better living.

Here’s what you should do when you return home

Wear comfortable clothes.
Spend some time with your family. It reduces physical and mental stress and eases the pressure experienced during the day.
Eat dinner as early as possible, preferably before sunset but if not, no later than two hours before going to bed.
Dinner should consist of foods that are easily digestible. Avoid deep fried, cold foods, dairy products, sweets, rice, and yoghurt.
Salads, boiled or steamed vegetables, vegetable soup, and breads are considered perfect for evening meals.
A gentle head and body massage with an Ayurvedic oil helps improve the blood circulation.
This should be followed by a bath to relax your muscles before going to bed.
If working at night, sit on a chair that supports the back. Work under adequate light to reduce stress on your eyes.
Avoid reading, writing, using the computer for too long or watching television late at night.
Brushing your teeth and washing before going to bed is necessary.
The ideal time to go to bed is between 10-11 pm.

Practice these tips to end your day peacefully and release the body and mind of stress. To know more about healthy lifestyle practices recommended by Ayurveda, consult a Jiva doctor today. Dial 0129-4040404 or click on ‘Speak to a Doctor’ under the CONNECT tab in Jiva Health App.