Obesity
Obesity, or Sthaulya in Ayurveda, is linked to Kapha imbalance causing excess fat, weight gain, and slow digestion.
About Obesity
Obesity is a medical condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat, which can negatively impact health. It's diagnosed based on a metric called Body Mass Index (BMI),where a BMI of 30 or higher is classified as obese, but also considers factors like fat distribution. In Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medical system, obesity is understood as a condition called Sthaulya. It majorly involves the imbalance of Kapha Dosha which is associated with weight gain, water retention, and slow metabolism leading to excessive fat accumulation and sluggish digestion.
Types of Obesity:
- Class 1 Obesity: BMI of 30-34.9
- Class 2 Obesity: BMI of 35-39.9
- Class 3 Obesity (Severe or Morbid Obesity): BMI of 40 or higher
Common Causes
Causes of Obesity:
- Energy Imbalance: Consuming more calories than your body burns through daily activities and exercise.
- Unhealthy Diet: High intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
- Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to weight gain.
- Genetics: Certain genes may predispose some individuals to be more susceptible to obesity.
- Medical Conditions: Hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and certain medications can contribute to weight gain.
- Sleep Deprivation: Chronic lack of sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate appetite.
- Socioeconomic Factors: Limited access to healthy foods, safe spaces for exercise, and social determinants of health can all play a role.
Ayurvedic Perspective
Treatment and Management:
- Dietary modifications- Ayurveda emphasizes boosting your digestive fire (Agni) to improve metabolism and break down food efficiently. Consuming easily digestible foods like kitchari (a dish of rice and mung dal), vegetables (especially leafy greens and cooked root vegetables), and sweet, ripe fruits (in moderation) is recommended. Foods to Avoid: Spicy, oily, sour, and processed foods are believed to aggravate Kapha dosha (associated with weight gain) and may worsen symptoms.
- Herbal Remedies-
Langhana Herbs: These herbs help eliminate excess Kapha, potentially aiding weight loss. Examples include Guggul (resin) and Triphala (herbal blend).
Deepana Herbs: These herbs stimulate digestion (Agni). Examples include ginger and cumin.
Therapy:
Panchakarma treatment-
- Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation): This procedure uses herbal laxatives to eliminate toxins and excess Kapha dosha (associated with weight gain) from the digestive tract.
- Basti (Medicated Enemas): Herbal enemas can help cleanse the colon, improve digestion, and potentially reduce bloating. Specific Basti variations like Sneha Basti (oil enemas) may be used depending on your needs
- Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Full-body massage with warm herbal oils to stimulate circulation, reduce fat deposits, and promote relaxation
- Swedana (Herbal Steam Therapy): Induces sweating to help eliminate toxins from the body, reduce water retention, and improve metabolism.
- Udvartana (Herbal Powder Massage): A dry massage using herbal powders to stimulate the breakdown of fat and improve skin tone.
Naturopathy treatment-
- Hydrotherapy: Use of water treatments such as cold baths, steam baths, or contrast showers to stimulate metabolism and improve circulation.
- Mud therapy: Mud packs help draw out toxins from the body through the skin, promoting overall detoxification and improved metabolic function.
Yoga asanas-
- Surya Namaskar- it is a sequence of 12 powerful yoga poses. It provides a good cardiovascular workout, stretches, and tones the muscles while improving overall flexibility.
- Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
- Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog)
- Virabhadrasana I (Warrior I Pose)
- Virabhadrasana II (Warrior II Pose)
- Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)
- Naukasana (Boat Pose)
- Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)
- Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend)
Pranayama-
- Kapalbhati Pranayama - Rapid, forceful exhalations followed by passive inhalations. It helps in reducing abdominal fat and improving metabolic rate.
- Bhastrika Pranayam - Deep, forceful inhalations and exhalations. It boosts metabolism and improves overall energy levels.
- Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing)- Balances the body's energy, improves lung function, and reduces stress, which can contribute to weight loss.
Home Remedies:
- Food Journal: Keeping track of your food intake can help identify patterns and potential triggers.
- Cooking at Home: Preparing meals at home allows you to control ingredients and portion sizes.
- Cumin water: Add 1-2 teaspoons of cumin seeds to a glass of water and soak them overnight. Drink the water on an empty stomach every morning
- Chia seeds: Soak chia seeds in water or milk and add to breakfast cereals or smoothies.
- Cinnamon: Mix half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder with a tablespoon of honey in warm water and drink in the morning and before bed.
Common Symptoms
- Excessive weight gain
- Difficulty moving or performing daily activities
- Shortness of breath
- Sleep apnea
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
- Increased sweating
Recommended Treatments
Yoga Therapy
Gentle, evidence‑informed practices tailored to your body, breath, and life. Yoga Therapy at Atmabodh blends classical yogic wisdom with modern therapeutic insights. Each session is personalised focusing on breath, mindful movement, and relaxation to help you manage symptoms, build resilience, and restore ease. Why choose Yoga Therapy? Personalised: One‑to‑one care plans based on your goals, abilities, and health history. Whole‑person approach: Works on body, breath, mind, emotions, and daily routines. Safe & gradual: Gentle progressions with options for pain, fatigue, or limited mobility. Integrative: Complements medical treatment and physiotherapy; we coordinate when needed. Practical: Short home practices you can realistically maintain. Yoga Therapy supports your healing journey but does not replace medical care. Please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Who can benefit? Musculoskeletal: Back/neck pain, knee/shoulder issues, postural strain, arthritis. Stress & sleep: Anxiety, burnout, insomnia, overwhelm. Respiratory: Asthma, breathlessness, long‑COVID recovery (post‑medical clearance). Women’s health: Menstrual discomfort, perimenopause symptoms, prenatal/postnatal support. Digestive & metabolic: Indigestion, IBS, lifestyle support for diabetes and hypertension. Neurological & nervous system: Tension headaches, migraine, high reactivity/sensitivity. What happens in a session? Brief check‑in: Current symptoms, energy, mood, medications, red flags. Breath‑led movement: Gentle, pain‑free ranges to mobilise joints and release tension. Stability work: Core and postural support using slow, mindful strengthening. Nervous system down‑shift: Breathwork, guided relaxation, or Yoga Nidra. Mindfulness: Simple focus practices to build present‑moment awareness. Home plan: 10–20 minute routine with clear steps (video/handout provided). Typical session length: 60 minutes (first visit 75–90 minutes for assessment). How it works (in simple steps) Initial assessment – health history, movement screen, breathing patterns, goals. Personalised plan – curated postures, breath ratios, relaxation, daily habits.
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Panchakarma
Classical Ayurvedic cleansing and restoration physician‑supervised, personalised, and gentle. Panchakarma at Atmabodh is a carefully sequenced program that helps release accumulated ama (metabolic waste), calm aggravated doshas, and reset digestion (agni). Every plan is doctor‑led, adapted to your constitution and current state, and coordinated with your ongoing medical care when required. Panchakarma supports well‑being and lifestyle change. It does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Suitability is confirmed only after clinical assessment. Who is it for? Digestive & metabolic balance: heaviness, bloating, irregular appetite, sluggishness. Musculoskeletal comfort: stiffness, recurrent aches, postural tension. Skin & scalp support: dryness/roughness, oil imbalance, seasonal flares (as advised). Stress, sleep & mind: restlessness, fatigue, shallow sleep, overdrive. Respiratory ease: seasonal congestion, head–neck load; post‑illness convalescence (only with clearance). Women’s health routines: peri‑menopause transitions, cycle comfort (timed away from menstruation). Eligibility is case‑specific; some conditions are contraindicated (see Safety). What are the “Five Actions”? Vamana(therapeutic emesis) – selected kapha presentations. Virechana(purgation) – guided elimination for pitta‑dominant states. Basti(medicated enema) – anuvāsana (oil), niruha/kashāya (decoction), matra (micro‑dose). Nasya(nasal therapy) – for head–neck pathways, preceded by local prep. Raktamokshana(blood‑letting) – rarely indicated; specialist‑only, strict protocols. Not everyone receives all five; your physician selects the minimum effective pathway. How it works – the three phases Pūrva‑karma (Preparation) Snehana (Oleation): internal ghee/oil titration (if indicated) + external abhyanga. Swedana (Fomentation): steam/heat to soften tissues and mobilise doshas. Diet prep: light, warm, easy‑to‑digest meals; reduction of stimulants. Pradhāna‑karma (Main procedure) The chosen action (e.g., virechana, basti) performed on the medically optimal day. Close monitoring of vitals, comfort, and response. Paśchāt‑karma (Recovery & Rasāyana) Samsarjana‑krama: stepwise diet progression from thin gruels to normal meals. Gentle routine, rest, and targeted rejuvenation. Pre‑program preparation (what we do together) Clinical history, vitals, and relevant labs (as advised). Explain what to expect, precautions, and consent. Set a realistic schedule (typically 10–21+ days depending on goals and responses). Plan for lighter work/social load during intensive days. A typical day during Panchakarma (illustrative) Quiet morning start → vitals & doctor check‑in. Abhyanga (warm oil application) → Swedana (steam) as pre‑procedure. Main procedure on indicated days (e.g., virechana or basti); otherwise supportive care. Simple, warm meals at set times; hydration guidance. Rest, gentle walks, breath‑led relaxation; screen and stimulation kept low. Diet & recovery – Samsarjana‑Krama(post‑procedure) Stage 1: thin rice gruel (peya/kanji). Stage 2: thicker gruel (vilepi). Stage 3: soft rice + light lentils/vegetables (yavāgu/khichri‑style). Stage 4: gradual return to regular, warm, fresh meals. Spices, oils, and portions are adjusted case‑by‑case. No fasting or extremes unless prescribed. Safety, eligibility & contraindications Physician‑reviewed contraindications may include: pregnancy, active infection/fever, uncontrolled BP/diabetes, severe anemia, active ulcers, recent surgery, frailty, acute psychiatric crises. Medications are not stopped or altered without your treating doctor’s advice. Informed consent; hygienic protocols; vitals monitoring when indicated. We coordinate with your physician upon request. What you may notice over time Lighter digestion, clearer appetite cues, reduced abdominal discomfort. Ease and suppleness in joints and soft tissue. Calmer mind, steadier energy, improved sleep quality. Skin comfort and scalp balance. A renewed baseline for sustainable lifestyle change. Timelines vary. Many guests observe a shift within 2–4 weeks with adherence to guidance. Related Therapies Oleation & fomentation Abhyanga (whole‑body oiling) Snehapāna (measured internal oleation, if indicated) Swedana (steam/sudation) Head–neck & mind‑calming Shirodhara / Takradhara Shiroabhyanga (head–neck oiling) Nasya (also one of the five, used in specific plans) Localized applications Kati/Grīva/Jānu/Uro Basti (warm oil pooling) Pichu (oil‑soaked pad) Kizhi (Potli) (herbal bolus compress) Udvartana (herbal powder rub) Lepam (herbal paste packs) Recovery & rejuvenation Rasāyana guidance (diet, routine, sleep hygiene, gentle movement) Breath‑led relaxation / Yoga Nidra
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Naturopathy
Drug‑sparing, lifestyle‑centered care that helps your body’s innate healing—gentle, practical, and doctor‑supervised. Naturopathy at Atmabodh focuses on restoring balance through non‑invasive methods: therapeutic diet, water and heat applications, mud therapy, movement, rest, and routine. Plans are personalised to your constitution, goals, and current health status, and coordinated with your medical care when required. Naturopathy supports well‑being and lifestyle change. It does not replace medical diagnosis or emergency care. Please continue prescribed medicines and consult your physician for illnesses. Why choose Naturopathy at Atmabodh? Doctor‑informed, therapist‑delivered protocols with clear goals and safety checks. Personalised sequencing of diet, hydrotherapy, mud, rest, and gentle activity. Integrative options with Ayurveda, Yoga Therapy, Physiotherapy, and Acupuncture as needed. Measured & gentle—we prioritise comfort, pacing, and sustainable habits. Clear take‑home guidance so your results continue beyond the center. Who can benefit? Digestive balance: bloating, sluggish bowels, acidity tendency (non‑acute). Metabolic support: sustainable weight management habits and energy stability. Stress & sleep: overdrive, poor sleep quality, fatigue. Skin comfort: dryness/irritation support with routine, hydration, and diet simplicity. Musculoskeletal ease: stiffness, posture‑related aches (alongside physio/yoga as indicated). Cardio‑metabolic lifestyle care: BP/sugar rhythm support (doctor‑coordinated). Women’s health: menstrual comfort, perimenopause routines (timing‑aware). Suitability is individual; certain conditions are contraindicated (see Safety). What happens in your consult? Case‑taking: digestion/sleep/stress, appetite/bowels, work routine, medical history and labs. Assessment: hydration, temperature tolerance, skin and tissue feel, posture/movement basics. Plan design: diet framework, hydro/mud applications, rest schedule, gentle movement, breathwork. Education: why each element matters, pacing, and what to expect. Follow‑ups: refine frequency/intensity based on response. Therapies you may receive Hydrotherapy (water & temperature applications) Sitz bath (cool/warm/contrast) for pelvic/abdominal circulation. Spinal bath / spinal spray to soothe back and nervous system. Foot/arm baths for local circulation and calming. Jet/whirlpool (as available) for myofascial relaxation. Fomentation (hot packs/steam) and contrast applications for tissue ease. Packs & compresses Abdominal/chest/throat packs (warm or cool) for comfort and rhythm. Wet sheet/partial wraps for systemic calming (used selectively). Mud therapy Local mud packs (abdomen/eyes/joints) to cool, soothe, and draw heat. Full/partial mud application (as indicated) followed by gentle wash. Dietary & routine care Sattvik diet templates, hydration rhythms, meal timing, mindful eating. Rest & sleep hygiene, sunlight exposure (heliotherapy as suited). Movement & mind‑body Yoga Therapy (gentle mobility, breathwork), walking, relaxation practices. All therapies are customised to comfort, season, and safety. Not every modality suits every person. Daily flow (typical) Morning check‑in → vitals & plan review. Light movement/breath‑led warm‑up. Scheduled hydro/mud applications. Simple, warm meals at fixed times. Afternoon rest; short walk; relaxation. Early, light dinner; evening wind‑down. Diet & lifestyle pillars Regular meals: warm, fresh, minimally processed foods. Hydration: warm water/herbal infusions; avoid extremes. Gentle movement daily; avoid overexertion during intensive days. Screen & stimulant limits in the evening. Sunlight & fresh air exposure as suited. Safety & contraindications Physician‑reviewed contraindications may include: pregnancy (certain applications), uncontrolled BP/diabetes, acute infections/fever, severe anemia, recent surgery, active ulcers, frailty, significant cardiac/renal/hepatic disease. Temperature extremes and long fasting are not used without medical clearance. Medications are not changed by therapists; coordinate with your doctor. Hygiene, consent, and comfort checks are standard; vitals monitored when indicated. What you may notice over time Lighter digestion and steadier appetite cues. Improved sleep onset and morning freshness. Reduced soft‑tissue tension and easier movement. Calmer mood and better stress tolerance. A practical routine you can continue at home. Timelines vary. Many guests observe change within 3–7 days when plans are followed.
View Treatment →FAQs
Q: How does Ayurveda view obesity?
Ayurveda refers to obesity as “Sthaulya” or “Medoroga”, caused by an imbalance in the Kapha dosha, leading to excess accumulation of fat and reduced metabolic activity (low Agni).
Q: What are the main causes of obesity according to Ayurveda?
- Excessive intake of heavy, oily, and sweet foods
- Lack of physical activity
- Daytime sleeping
- Emotional stress
- Genetic factors
- Weak digestion (low digestive fire)
Q: How does Ayurvedic treatment help in obesity?
Ayurveda focuses on:
- Restoring dosha balance
- Improving digestion and metabolism
- Detoxifying the body (Shodhana therapy)
- Using natural herbs to burn excess fat (Medohara dravyas)
- Promoting healthy lifestyle habits
Q: What Ayurvedic therapies are used for weight reduction?
- Udwarthanam (herbal powder massage)
- Virechana (therapeutic purgation)
- Swedana (herbal steam therapy)
- Abhyanga (oil massage with slimming herbs)
- Basti (medicated enema)
Q: How long does it take to see results with Ayurvedic treatment?
It depends on the person’s body type, obesity level, lifestyle, and adherence to the treatment plan. Many see positive changes within 4–8 weeks of consistent therapy and diet control.
Q: Is Ayurvedic weight loss safe?
Yes. Ayurvedic weight loss focuses on natural, non-invasive methods that are personalized and generally free from harmful side effects.
Q: Does Ayurveda recommend exercise for obesity?
Yes. Yoga asanas, pranayama, and light to moderate physical activities are essential to maintain weight and improve metabolism.
Q: Can Ayurvedic treatment work along with modern medicine?
Yes, but it’s important to inform your doctor and Ayurvedic physician about your ongoing medications to avoid interactions.
Q: Will the weight return after stopping Ayurvedic treatment?
Not if you maintain a healthy lifestyle, follow dietary recommendations, and keep up with regular exercise.