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On the 29th of September 2023, in celebration of World Heart Day, iKeva, a pioneering name in custom-designed managed office spaces, and NatureFit, a wellness and natural health advocate, joined hands to host an interactive webinar. This event, titled “Natural Way of Healing and Keeping Your Heart Healthy,” featured the esteemed Dr. Sachin Nandedkar, a highly respected doctor specializing in alternative medicine. The insights shared during this event offered attendees a valuable perspective on heart health.

As we are all too aware, CVD (cardiovascular diseases) currently stands as the leading cause of concern among both men and women, at any age. As professionals, our heart requires utmost attention and care. Our webinar delved into the Ayurvedic approach to promoting heart health amongst professionals who battle stress and lack of self-care.

While we discussed the Ayurvedic viewpoint on conventional preventive measures like diet and exercise, our interaction extended to shedding light on a wide array of physical and energetic factors influencing the heart. The webinar encouraged our members and associates to consider the realms of the mind and consciousness to explore a holistic and integrated method for heart care.

The heart, as we discovered during the webinar, is not merely a physical organ; it is an intersection of physical and emotional health. We learned how Ayurveda offers a comprehensive understanding of heart health, emphasizing the importance of balance, food, and holistic well-being. This webinar provided valuable insights and a fresh perspective on caring for the heart and in exploring Ayurveda’s wisdom to enhance the quality of life and well-being for all.

The renowned American author and activist, Helen Keller, once beautifully articulated, “The best and the most beautiful things cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.” Dr. Sachin Nandedkar, a BAMS Ayurvedacharya, SPVA and DYA, alongside Ms. Avneet Bhatia of NatureFit, took our members and associates on an inward journey to explore the subject of heart health.

Dr. Sachin Nandedkar’s professional expertise and extensive experience further bolstered the credibility of the webinar. He has been practising Ayurveda for over 25 years and is well-versed in Ayurvedic traditions and practices. With a degree in Ayurvedacharya from Pune University, he has gained recognition globally, even being interviewed by National Geographic Channel and US MTV for his work in leech therapy. His cancer research has been credited by Harvard University in the United States. Dr. Nandedkar currently serves as the medical director at the Ayurvedamitra clinic in Pune, making him a beacon of knowledge in the world of alternative medicine.

The webinar covered a plethora of essential aspects related to heart health and well-being. Here are some key takeaways:

Fundamentals of Heart Health by Ayurveda:

Sadya Pranahar Marma, Ojas Sthan Vital Organ, Akal Mrutyu Kar: Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of protecting the heart, as it is considered a vital organ with the potential for immediate life-threatening situations.

Manas Sthan: Acknowledging the connection between mental health and heart health, the mind plays a crucial role in overall well-being.

Rasavaha Srotas: Understanding the role of channels and pathways (srotas) for transporting nutrients and energy in the body.

Chintanam ati chintanat: The impact of excessive worry and anxiety on the heart.

Bhay Shokad Vayu, Krodhat Pittam: The influence of emotions such as fear, grief, and anger on heart health. Cultivating a personality marked by optimism and positivity is encouraged.

Exercises for a Healthy Heart:

Yoga: Dr. Nandedkar recommended various yoga postures including standing, sitting, and lying on the abdomen and back. The practice of Surya Namaskar (sun salutations) was highlighted for its holistic benefits.

Pranayama: Breathing exercises like Anulom Vilom, Dirdh Shvasan, Kapalbhati, Bhastrika, and Omkar were discussed for their calming and heart-strengthening effects.

Shavasan: The significance of this relaxation pose for reducing stress and improving heart health was emphasized.

Importance of Quality Sleep for Heart Health:

Quality sleep plays a pivotal role in maintaining heart health. During sleep, blood pressure naturally decreases, allowing the heart to recover and recharge. Sleep problems can lead to prolonged periods of elevated blood pressure, thus increasing the risk of heart issues.

Dietary Choices for Heart Health:

Ghee: Contrary to misconceptions, ghee is not harmful to individuals with heart conditions and can be a part of a heart-healthy diet. It is advisable to include ghee in our daily diet regularly.

Avoid Processed Foods: Foods such as those high in salt, fried items, stale food, products using excessive quantities of refined flour and sugar, and viruddhahara (incompatible food combinations) are toxic for the heart and should be consumed in moderation. Consumption of processed and fried foods should be minimized as they are detrimental to heart health.

Healthy Foods: On the other hand, foods like moong dal, gold water, pumpkin, buttermilk, pomegranate, lemon, orange, mosambi, saindhav (rock salt), soaked almonds, raisins, and cow’s milk are encouraged for maintaining a healthy heart.

Factors Contributing to CVD:

Strenuous Exercises: Vigorous workouts can lead to rupturing of arteries due to high blood pressure, posing a risk to the heart.

Undiagnosed Blockages and Malfunctions: Ignoring or overlooking heart conditions can have fatal consequences.

Stressful Work Environments: High-stress work environments can lead to mental stress, which in turn can have adverse effects on the heart.

Imbalanced BMI: Maintaining a balanced Body Mass Index (BMI) is crucial in preventing cardiovascular diseases at a young age.

Unhealthy Diet: Regular consumption of unhealthy, processed foods can contribute to heart problems.

Genetic Factors: A family history of cardiovascular diseases can be a hereditary risk factor.

In conclusion:

In summary, the iKeva and NatureFit webinar conducted on World Heart Day 2023 with the insights provided by Dr. Sachin Nandedkar and Avneet Bhatia was a treasure trove of knowledge for individuals looking to improve their heart health. It underscored the importance of a holistic approach, encompassing mental well-being, physical activity, sleep, and dietary choices. By taking proactive steps towards a healthier heart, individuals can look forward to a longer, more vibrant life. The wisdom shared during this event serves as a valuable guide on this journey to a healthier heart, proving that sometimes, the best things are indeed felt with the heart.