AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON LIGHT
Lightness is identified by reduced weight.
Light & Many Meanings
In the body, lightness creates agility and swiftness. It is the opposite of heartiness. Lightness of mind is associated with clarity and alertness. Lightness is inspiring: it improves oxygen levels and creativity. Lightness of being can also mean frivolous behavior, a lack of appropriate seriousness. It is the opposite of heavy drama. Mental lightness can create spaciness, ungroundedness, and distraction. Pathological lightness creates emaciation and weakness. Discomfort and pain are very light.
Light, Cleansing, & Longevity
Foods that are light aid weight loss. Examples of light foods include popcorn (without butter and salt), salads, and black pepper. They also convince the body to scavenge for food, and this metabolizes residues in the blood, cleanses all fluids, and aids the healing of wounds. For this reason, Lightness is associated with purity. Light quality reduces viscosity of the blood.
Eating lightly, including gentle fasting and smaller portions, directly increases lifespan in laboratory studies. Fasting in general is an ancient cleansing practice to create lightness and lose weight, however it is often too harsh. Pathological lightness creates dryness and can aggravate Vata. Osteoporosis is lightness in the bones.
Treatments for Excess Lightness
Although the mind enjoys lightness, it can aggravate Vata to the point of emaciation if unchecked. The body prefers stability to freedom. Sleep, rest, routine, and reducing stress are the most important ways to gain weight and become grounded and centered.
Ojas building foods, such as a teaspoon of ghee with meals, helps nourish the body and bring heaviness.
Ashwagandha ghee is a medicated ghee that helps ground the nervous system while nourishing Vata.
Licorice root and salt help retain and rebuild fluids. Daily
oil massages soothe and nourish Vata.