Melinda Emily Thomas

I spent most of my 20’s beset with chronic fatigue, pain, and bouts of serious depression. For years I couldn’t walk more than a mile without needing to lie down. My yoga practice was a refuge. I learned to be gentle and rest. I spent a lot of time in bed. I saw Naturopaths and Acupuncturists. I studied Ayurveda. All of it helped.

When I got pregnant in my early 30’s I felt nourished. When I miscarried, yoga and Ayurveda helped me regain the strength to carry another pregnancy, and acupuncture managed the torrential morning sickness.

Now I’m in my 40’s and body and soul care are intertwined. As I age and grow I recognize that when I take care of my body through daily and seasonal rhythms that suit my constitution, I am also caring for my soul. When I meditate, pray, journal, write, see family and friends, I am also caring for my body. Today, wellness means holding space for all aspects of experience. Fatigue, depression, joy, vibrancy, loneliness, connection are all part of the tapestry of life.

Rhythms for Body and Soul Care

The daily rhythms below, or dinacharya, are inspired by my Ayurvedic studies and are the foundation of my body and soul care. I offer them as inspiration.

Soulful Start. Begin the day with movement, contemplation, and breathing. 5 minutes is better than no minutes.

Enjoy Hot Water. Drink hot water first thing in the morning, before any other food or beverage. It hydrates, soothes, and helps you poop.

Love Oil. Rub it on your body in the shower. Coconut, almond, or sesame work well. This softens skin and is said to improve lymphatic flow. Swish it between your teeth and your dentist may remark on the health of your gums.

Eat seasonally. I’m not as good at this as I used to be, but I try.

Quiet End. Turn off your screens 30 minutes before bed. Avoid e-mail and social media. Pause for a moment and breathe before sleep.

I’m not a doctor. None of the above is intended to diagnose or treat illness. These are simple practices and easy rhythms to nurture yourself.