In Ayurveda, India’s 5,000-year old Science of Life, everything is connected, mind-body-spirit, therefore one aspect will affect all the others. Mental health is an important aspect of Ayurveda and there are certain techniques that are recommended to keep mentally fit and to function optimally.

The philosophy behind Ayurveda is based on the principle that we have the freedom to choose our mental state and that we can practice keeping our mind in good shape. Here are some tips to help achieve a balanced state of mind:

1. Meditation
Meditate regularly, every day, twice a day for 20 to 30 minutes each time. The idea is to “sandwich” your busy day with a state of calm. For tips on how to meditate and the various kinds of meditation, visit psmeditation.com

2. Cultivate a constructive mental attitude
Develop optimism, cheerfulness, and the habit of “possibility thinking.” Remember that challenges are temporary so don’t let them get you down. Start your day with a positive intention, look forward to your scheduled activities. End your day with gratitude. Look back on the events of the day and take note of the lessons learned.

3. Use your powers of intelligence
Pay attention to your intuition, and look for synchronistic events; there are no coincidences. Choose your words with the best of intention, and speak constructively. Act with purpose to support ordered thinking. Focus on what you want, and on what you want to attract to you. Whatever you put your attention on grows.

4. Keep memories in perspective
There is a difference between the information that we garner from memories and the emotions that are attached to those memories. We can access our memories without having to be influenced by feelings of anger, sadness, guilt or regret.

We can allow memories of success to remind us of the goodness of life. We can let memories motivate us to make better choices in the present moment. Live in the moment, and not in the memories. Remember that NOW is the only time there is.

5. Recognize that emotional states are transitory
Witness your emotional and mental states rather than becoming identified with them. When describing your emotions, avoid “I am” and instead use “I feel.” Remember that these states come and go, so focus on thinking rationally and being emotionally balanced and mature. When you feel your emotions are getting out of control, take a deep breath and turn within.

6. Live with purpose
Have intention behind your actions and learn to develop constructive habits. Focus on what is important and what is real. Live the knowledge that you have learned.

Lissa Coffey is an Ayurvedic expert, life coach and author of “What’s Your Dosha, Baby?” Discover the Vedic Way for Compatibility in Life and Love. Discover your dosha

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