I have just returned from an extended trip overseas. I went to an Ayurvedic ashram in the tiny village of Hariharapura. Unlike western allopathic medicine systems it depends on time for the treatments and consistent application of herbs, medicated water and physical treatments.

In classical Sanskrit literature, Ayurveda was called “the science of eight components” (Sanskrit aṣṭāṅga अष्टांग)

I went to treat a general inflammatory process inhabiting my body.

Ayurveda stresses the use of plant-based medicines and treatments. Hundreds of plant-based medicines are used. Some animal products may also be used, for example milk. I experience the use of milk heated and suffused with herbs that was systematically poured over my body, creating a nourishing effect on my skin and relaxing every nerve.

I went to experience Panchakarma which is a therapeutic way of eliminating toxic elements from your body. I was saturated with medicines that removed the toxins from my very cells and steam cleaned, cleansed and nurtured. I deliberately limited my use of the internet and daily practiced yoga nidra, and yoga. After 6 weeks, yes 6 weeks, I felt gentler, relaxed and unable to respond impulsively to anything. I felt empty and had a feeling that I was being guided, nurtured and that feeling lingers even as I subject myself to the Western radiant field of noxious electric bur-ha-ha.

I have started to teach yoga again in Sydney, quietly to small groups and I focus on earthing asanas and relaxation.

My favourite God in the Indian Trinity is Shiva, yes the cobra king himself. Though he rules destruction and death, it refers to the death of your ego. I crossed a river wading through the water thigh high in front of a Shiva shrine and slipped catching myself in a graceful turn that righted my hip, aligned my spine and exposed me to the Tandavar the Dance of Shiva, for a moment that is eternal I was dancing as a god. Heavens above you gotta love that, I did.

When you practice yoga dance to the rhythm of your breath and slow your strong legs to support your graceful arms while your spine decompresses and all your senses open.