Most men wish to have strong muscles and shapely bodies, and many look up to Arnold Schwarzenegger—the pumping iron icon. In the pursuit of this macho look, men often resort to unhealthy practices and food supplements, which can lead to long-term health issues.
The rise of artificial protein supplements has made people overlook natural, safer alternatives. But did you know that Ayurveda—the natural healing system of India—has much to offer when it comes to keeping the body fit and healthy?
Ayurveda and Body Building: A Natural Approach
‘Ayurveda for bodybuilding’ may not be a concept most people think about when seeking ways to improve muscle mass. However, it provides an effective and safe approach for achieving fitness goals naturally. Ayurveda emphasizes balance and harmony within the body and offers remedies that can build strength without harming health.
One significant advantage of following Ayurvedic principles in bodybuilding is the holistic approach to health. In Ayurveda, the focus is not just on muscle size but on overall wellness, which includes stamina, immunity, and mental well-being. This comprehensive perspective ensures that you build muscles sustainably and without the detrimental effects associated with synthetic supplements.
Benefits of Ayurveda
Ayurveda offers numerous benefits to bodybuilders:
- Ayurveda herbs possess magical properties that help develop strong muscles naturally.
- Following the Ayurvedic way relieves fatigue associated with an intense exercise regimen.
- It ensures a healthy and fit body in the long run, promoting long-term well-being.
- Ayurvedic health supplements are natural and free of side effects, unlike artificial protein supplements, whose side effects are still being studied.
- Ayurveda improves the body’s resistance, enhancing both physical and mental endurance.
Ayurvedic Herbs for Body Building
Ayurveda’s herbal wisdom is particularly beneficial for athletes and bodybuilders. Herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Guduchi are widely recognized for their ability to improve strength, stamina, and recovery. These herbs help balance the body’s doshas (energies) and reduce oxidative stress caused by intense workouts.
Studies have found that Ashwagandha, in particular, significantly improves muscle strength, size, and recovery time. According to a clinical trial published in the “Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition,” participants who took Ashwagandha showed higher muscle mass and fat loss compared to those who didn’t [Source].
Ayurvedic Dietary Recommendations for Bodybuilders
Food Category | Recommended Foods | Benefits |
---|---|---|
Proteins | Legumes, dairy products, nuts, seeds | Builds and repairs muscle tissues |
Carbohydrates | Whole grains (quinoa, brown rice), fruits, vegetables | Provides sustained energy |
Fats | Ghee, olive oil, avocados | Supports hormone production and energy |
Hydration | Herbal teas, coconut water | Maintains electrolyte balance |
Spices | Turmeric, ginger, cumin | Enhances digestion and metabolism |
Ayurveda and Exercise Regimen
Ayurveda views regular exercise as a means to create radiant health, vibrant body, and fitness. At the same time, it emphasizes that exercise should be balanced and limited. The duration and type of exercise vary according to individuals.
Researchers have found that over-exercise harms the body and can lead to chronic fatigue syndrome. It can create imbalances in the body, resulting in undesired outcomes such as weakened immunity, joint problems, and insomnia. Ayurveda prescribes that exercise should not burn more than 50% of your energy. The amount and intensity of exercise also depend on factors like age, gender, season, and body type.
Exercise Guidelines Based on Ayurveda
Ayurvedic practitioners recommend adjusting your workout based on the season and your body’s capacity. For instance, during the summer, the body has less energy for strenuous activity, while in winter and spring, the body is more resilient and can handle a higher exercise load.
- Exercise in the morning before 9 o’clock when the body’s energy is highest.
- Stop exercising if it causes pain—this is a signal from your body.
- Avoid over-exercising, as it leads to fatigue and imbalance.
- Avoid late evening or bedtime exercise, as it may disrupt your sleep patterns.
- Exercise on an empty stomach or at least 2 hours after meals to avoid digestive problems.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and prevent fatigue.
- Eat fruits or vegetables before exercising to provide quick energy.
- Take a bath after exercise to refresh and relax the muscles.
- Reduce exercise duration in the summer but increase it during winter and spring for better results.
- Consider a light oil massage to relieve fatigue and improve circulation after exercise.
- Take Ayurvedic health supplements if necessary, and avoid artificial protein supplements and steroids.
Ashwagandha—Ayurvedic Herb for Body Building
One of the most potent herbs for bodybuilding in Ayurveda is Ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng. This herb is known for its adaptogenic properties, meaning it helps the body adapt to stress and promotes stamina. Ashwagandha contains steroidal alkaloids and lactones that enhance endurance, energy, and recovery, making it an ideal supplement for bodybuilders.
- Enhances endurance and rejuvenates the body, helping muscles recover faster.
- Increases the body’s energy level, allowing for more productive workouts.
- Boosts immunity, reducing the chances of getting sick while maintaining a strenuous fitness regimen.
- Contains anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe sore muscles after workouts.
- Increases appetite, which is crucial for consuming the nutrients necessary for muscle growth.
In addition to Ashwagandha, other Ayurvedic herbs like Shatavari and Bala are also beneficial for those looking to build muscle. These herbs work synergistically with Ashwagandha to boost energy, reduce recovery time, and improve overall vitality.
Balancing Your Regimen with Ayurveda
Ayurveda teaches that balance is key. Over-exertion, especially in bodybuilding, can lead to imbalances that negatively affect the body. Instead of focusing solely on muscle gain, consider the long-term impacts of your regimen on your overall health. Ayurveda’s holistic approach ensures that you maintain a strong, balanced, and healthy body without the side effects of artificial supplements or extreme exercise routines.
Ayurvedic Daily Routine for Optimal Muscle Growth
Time | Activity | Purpose |
---|---|---|
6:00 AM | Wake up and perform light stretching | Prepares the body for the day |
6:30 AM | Practice yoga or meditation | Enhances mental focus and flexibility |
7:30 AM | Consume a balanced breakfast | Provides energy for morning activities |
10:00 AM | Mid-morning snack (e.g., fruits, nuts) | Keeps metabolism active |
12:30 PM | Lunch with a focus on proteins and carbohydrates | Supports muscle repair and energy |
3:00 PM | Afternoon herbal tea | Aids digestion and hydration |
5:00 PM | Strength training or exercise session | Builds muscle mass |
7:00 PM | Dinner with light, easily digestible foods | Prepares the body for rest |
9:00 PM | Evening relaxation (e.g., reading, meditation) | Promotes restful sleep |
10:00 PM | Bedtime | Ensures adequate rest and recovery |
Conclusion
Building muscles and staying fit does not have to come at the cost of your health. Ayurveda offers an excellent, natural alternative for bodybuilders that promotes muscle growth and overall wellness. With the help of Ayurvedic herbs and proper exercise routines, you can achieve the body you desire while safeguarding your long-term health. Remember to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized advice and always prioritize balance in your fitness journey.
24 Comments
i want to know more about ashwaghandha. The product. Its price. and availability where and when.
hi my name is prashant from mumbai,my age,23,height,6ft and weight is 60kg.i beleive i am underweight. i am a call center employee,i have started working out in my company gym.i want to gain weight.and build strong muscles.could you advice me some protien rich ayurvedic supplements for the same.and also a diet plan.it will be really helpful,
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It sounds like you’re creating problems yourself by trying to solve this issue instead of looking at why their is a problem in the first place
Thoughtful post and well written. Please write more on this if you have time.
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Thank you for your help!
Hi all,
I read the artical, its very good for healthy life. Please look for http://www.aayurherb.com, to get its manufacturer and exporter details.
please give the fulldetail aof this herb and fromwhere i can collect it in delhi?
regards
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Learning bodybuilding from the broscience is like learning about sex from pornos. You might get the basic idea, but you’ll miss a lot, and get some strange ideas. Better to talk to someone who’s done it, and done it well.
iam gowtham 178 cm ht&wt.57 how can increase my wt.plz.give the details about ashvagandha will it help to me
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pls can u tell me the price Ashwagandha and wher i get in mumbai pls repaly on my mail ASA
I am using this from long time and find its very effective .Please let me know any other power full Ayurvedic herb for body building
im going to gym since 6months but i havnt gained any considerable weight or built huge muscles yet.i would like to know about any ayurvedic supplements that help us to build muscles and gain mass quickly without any side effects.i dont want to use artificial steriods and protein supplements loaded with chemicals.please help me.
also tell me if i cn do anything about receding gums..its severe.
Don’t rely on the protein shakes to assist you build muscle – that comes via tough work inside the gym and smart nutrition.
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