ayurvedahealthysexguide

© Copyright 2011 Dr. Helen M. Thomas

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Ayurvedic Healthy Sex Guide  Ayurveda Wisdom F or Sexual Healthiness Into Longevity Longevity

 by Dr. Helen Thomas

Caveat: The contents of this book are for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for   professional  professional health care advice, diagnosis or treatment .

© Copyright 2011 Dr. Helen M. Thomas

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Hi! I’m Dr. Helen Thomas. I’m happy to share with you the the ancient ancient Ayurvedic Ayurve dic secrets to to a healthy, terrific sex life. life. The information I share in this ebook is based on a 6,000 year old tradition of wellness that is still in active use today. This book is based on my 25-plus years of clinical clinical practice practice in Ayurveda. My resources are the Vaji Karana, the Ayurvedic Science Manual for sexual function and reproduction, along with the classical Ayurvedic texts, the Charaka Samhita and the Asthanga Hrydayam. In this ebook, you will find simple, easy-to-follow Ayurvedic instructions for a super healthy sex life that: • Nourishes Your Love Of Intimacy Intimacy • Creates Healthy Intimacy Patterns Which Will Flow Flow Into All Areas Of  Your Emotional Life • Brings Sexual Sexual Fulfillment Fulfillment and A Healthy Body • Is Completely Comp letely Natural • Requires No Dangerous Prescription Prescription Drugs The Kayachikitsa of Sex - or The Internal Medicine Of Sex

Ayurveda teaches us the way to vital healthy sexual attitudes and behaviors. This healthy lifestyle advice is for both men and women, whether or not they currently consider themselves to be sexually vital. It will prevent or cure any sexual  problems through a great internal and systemic restoration program that will keep the body ready and willing to experience a fresh, healthy, and varied sex life. I’m very happy and g rateful that that you’ve joined me and for allowing me to share this ancient wisdom and knowledge with you. Please read on!!

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Getting Started

Compare the following list of symptoms and see if any or all of them relate directly to you or your partner: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Low back pain Low testosterone Premature ejaculation Nervousness Erectile dysfunction Andropause (male menopause) Dry skin Poor quantity of semen Insomnia Anxiety Constant worrying Obsessiveness Lose weight easily Experience frequent fear  Mental agitation Have obsessive-compulsive disorder  Suffer from phobias Loss of libido

Particularly Female Symptom s

• • • • • • •

Lack of desire or loss of libido Difficulty reaching orgasm Burning sensations in cervix area Sexual anxiety Dryness in cervix passageway and external genitalia HPV (Human Papillary Virus) Recurrent urinary tract infections

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The General Ayurvedic Diagnosis for Male and Female Sexual Imbalances and Dysfunction:

The general diagnosis in A yurveda for both male and female sexual imbalances comes directly from Sanskrit: Apana vayu is blocked or made to malfunction by vyan vayu .  Lets translate that and m ake it simple. Apana Vayu is the area in the body between the belly button and the pubic bone, including the male and female reproductive organs. Sexual imbalance or  dysfunction occurs when the healthy functioning of A pana Vayu is blocked This means that the reflex that allows the organs and physiology to work in synchrony has been disturbed. Apana vayu, the area of the lumbar plexus, the  pelvic floor, the muscles of the lower body can become imbalanced causing an inability of natural reflexes and urges to become disturbed. The force between the  belly button and the anus is powerful downward force which allows the body to have an ejaculation, a baby, or a bowel movement. Apana vayu is the energy which is stored and located in the two testicles, the  bladder, the phallus, the umbilicus, the groin, anus, and colon. The functions of  apana vayu are the ejaculation of semen, the voiding of urine and stool, the elimination of menstrual blood, and the delivery of a baby. Vyan vayu , the electrical impulse of the heart, circulates electricity faster than the speed of light throughout the circulatory system. It provides electrical stimulation to the clitoris, testicles, phallus, and all the tissues that play a role in healthy sex. Male Sexual Disorders and Imbalances.

Male impotency, premature ejaculation, growths on sexual organs, and a variety of  genito-urinary disorders can occur as a result of this nerve overload. Women Sexual Disorders and Imbalances.

Apana vayu and vyan vayu blockage or malfunction can also cause havoc in woman by creating a host of reproductive problems, dryness of tissue and loss of  tone. This can be so severe as to cause a prolapsed bladder.

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What Happens W hen Vyan Vayu is Blocked?

When vyan vayu is blocked or made to malfunction it means the normal complete circulation of blood and electricity throughout the body is interrupted, suppressed, or more often, hyper stimulated in some way having an effect on the adrenal system and the central nervous system. In simple terms, the nerves are not firing  properly and the adrenals are not being properly fed due to excessive production of  constant stimulation, which leads to physical and sexual imbalances and disorders. It is akin to a nervous system being stuck in fight or flight. Often these stresses to the system are caused by today's fast paced lifestyle: too much work, not enough meaningful work, too much emotional stimulation, not enough mon ey, and so forth. In the modern world, a host of stress challenges assault us constantly every day. Symptoms of Ap ana/Vyan Vayu Imbalance Include

• prone to sudden reactions (startle easily) • get scared to point of flinching more than normal • twitching or winking of the eye, and similar other movements • muscle cramping - charley horse feelings in a muscle • skin feels rubbery or mushy • loss of normal healthy complexion • periods of intermittent, unexplained pain • premature ejaculation • erectile dysfunction The Five Reflexes of the Nervous System

This section contains very im portant Ayurvedic principles pertaining to sexuality. I  encourage you to read this section at least twice

The Ayurvedic (and sanskrit) term for the nervous system is V ayu or Vata. The Five Reflexes of Vayu or Vata correlate with the five sub doshas o f the ayurvedic system of physiology. (I’ll talk more about doshas later on) These are kn own as the 5 vayus which translate as the 5 parts of the body and their nerve tissue distribution: brain (prana), chest and lung (udana), seat of enzymes and digestive fires (samana), large intestines and reproductive organs (apana), and the electricity of the heart (vyana).

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 Here’s how they work: Reflex One: The brain signals the body to breathe in. This called Prana Vayu. This is the first respiratory reflex which tells the lungs to fill. Reflex Two: This is the second respiratory reflex, known as Udana Vayu. T he lungs and heart (and their nerves) cause a reflex action which pushes the breathed air up and ou t of the lungs into the outside air. Reflex Three : This reflex, known as Samana Vayu, stimulates the alimentary canal to move food and liquids which come into the body through the mouth all the way down and out of the body. Reflex Four: Known as Apana Vayu, this reflex is a forceful downward action from the belly button to the anus involving all functions in the lower back area and reproductive organs . Reflex Five: This reflex is called Vyana Vayu. It refers to the electrical activity of  the heart which triggers circulation of the blood and nerve transmission to the sexual organs and throughout the entire body.

When these reflexes are reduced or dampened by stress, environmental toxicity, emotional stress, financial stress, and other kinds of stress, the whole reflex system and the function of the organs in their respective system are disturbed causing many disorders in the body, especially sexual disorders. Great sex depends on a healthy nervous system !!

But it's more than that! Unlike western medicine which tends to treats isolated symptoms and looks at the body as a mechanism made up of separately functioning  parts, Ayurveda looks at the body as a whole and concentrates on the interaction  between the body’s parts and systems. Ayurveda’s goal is to bring every system in the body into a state of balance, rather than simply focusing on individual symptoms. In a minute we'll take a look at the role the digestive system plays in assuring a great sex life, and the interaction between the digestive system and the nervous system. Before we get there however we need to spend a few minutes getting to

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know a little bit about how Ayurveda defines and classifies what goes on in the  body. The Three Doshas (Governing Principles) of Ayurveda

Ayurveda recognizes five basic elements, or constituents, to be the smallest components to which anything can be reduced. They are air, space, fire, water, and earth. Everything in nature - including human beings - is composed of these five essential components. Air is the Ayurvedic term for the gaseous form o f matter. Space (sometimes called ether) is the expanse or area in which air is contained and through which it moves. Fire is the radiant form of matter and is needed for any process of transformation, or "digestion." Water is used to describe the liquid form of matter. Earth is the solid form of matter and is responsible for groundedness and solidity.

The five elements, in infinite combinations and proportions, are the basis of all life forms, with three forces to keep the elements in the right relationship with one another. The three forces, the doshas, govern all the functions of the body, mind, and universal consciousness. The three doshas each have their own set of  characteristics, which arise out of the elements from which they are made. This includes the physical and emotional characteristics and personality traits of people. Although all three doshas will be found in each person to varying degrees, usually one or two will dominate. The doshas are called Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Vata is composed of the elements of air and space. Air, the dominant element of  Vata, is contained within the spaces and channels of the body. Vata governs your   physical and psychological movement, flow, circulation, and the activities of the nervous system. People who are predominantly vata resemble air and space (or  wind as it is sometimes referred to). They tend to be thin, quick, light, changeable, unpredictable, enthusiastic, and talkative. When they are out of balance they experience diseases of the nervous system, scattered energy, intestinal gas and

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constipation, insomnia, dry and flaky skin, and anxiety. Vata governs the life force within us and thus leads the other two doshas. Pitta is composed of fire and water. Fire, the main element of Pitta, is contained within the protective waters of the body (such as digestive enzymes). It governs your metabolism - body processes involving heat, digestion, hormones, and  biochemical reactions such as those required to produce energy. When pitta  predominates, a person tends to be fiery and intense, with a sharp and creative mind, a penetrating look in the eyes, a reddish or easily flushed complexion, a competitive streak, and a hot temper. Pitta illnesses are related to inflammation, such as heartburn, ulcers, skin rashes, anger, and irritation. Kapha is composed of earth and water. Water, the main element of Kapha, is contained within the body's mass, or earth. It governs your body's structure and tissues and maintains stability, cohesion, fluid balance, and biological strength. Kapha types are solid and steady, even-tempered and clam, with impressive endurance and a large body size that tends to gain weight. Imbalances in kapha  predispose you to diseases of the respiratory system, sinus problems, obesity, tumors, mental and physical lethargy, and a tendency to procrastinate.

Your individual constitution - the unique proportion of the three doshas that you were born w ith - is called your prakruti. Your prakruti is your true, essential nature. But your doshas are always fluctuating through your interactions with the world. Stress, the foods you eat, pollution, the noise level around you, what you hear or see on the news, changes in the season, and a m yriad of other things all have an impact on your doshas. As a result, health is a dynamic process of  continually making small adjustments to compensate. Your current condition is called your vikruti. Although it reflects your ability to adjust to life's influences and is always changing, your vikruti should match your   prakruti, or inborn constitution, as closely as possible. If the current proportion of  your doshas differs significantly from your constitutional proportion, it indicates imbalances, which in turn can lead to illness.

© Copyright 2011 Dr. Helen M. Thomas

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Causes of Sexual Imbalance

Let’s take a look at the individual doshas and the sexual imbalances associated with each one: Vata Causes Of Sexual Imbalances:

In the person with a predominantly Vata constitution, the nervous system messages sent through the nervous system to the phallus, vagina, testicles, and clitoris  become short circuited for a host of reasons. The first and foremost reason is stress. Vata body types are prone to sexual disorders because they tend to have a sensitive or hyper-sensitive nervous system and are prone to n ervous system exhaustion. Vata type sexual imbalances in the male include premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, weak erection and uncontrolled ejaculation. Vata type sexual imbalances in the female include a tendency towards dryness, pain with intercourse and a loss of libido. The following lifestyle habits aggravate vata and thus create sexual imbalances: lack of sleep, a heavy workload, lack of rest and  being too busy. Just take a few minutes and think about what it is in your daily life that exhausts you.

Daily Lifestyle Practices to Balance Vata For Sexual R estoration

Daily oil massage (absolutely necessary) Going to bed by 10 pm and gettin. 8 hours sleep  No extreme exercise especially to extreme exertion. Follow a Vata Diet - vata types should emphasize sweet, bitter, sour, heavy, oily, and hot foods and herbs, especially during fall and winter, the vata time of the year. Vatas should drink warm teas and fluids, and avoid caffeine and alcohol. And, Vatas should treat themselves to the Ten Day Ginger Treatment :

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The Ten Day Ginger Treatment

Ginger has many uses in Ayurveda. In this traditional use it improves agni , or the digestive fire. Mix together 8 teaspoons each of grated fresh ginger, brown sugar, and melted ghee (Ghee is clarified butter and is available in “healthier” markets. I’ve included a simple recipe for making your own ghee below.) Store the mixture in the refrigerator, and each morning before breakfast take the amount listed below. This remedy is surprisingly delicious, and the gingery, buttery, sugary taste stays with you all day. (Note: Vegans may substitute grapeseed oil for ghee.) Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day

1: 2: 3: 4: 5: 6: 7: 8: 9: 10:

1/2 teaspoon 1 teaspoon 1 1/2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons 2 1/2 teaspoons 2 1/2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons 1 1/2 teaspoons 1 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon

© Copyright 2011 Dr. Helen M. Thomas

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Facts About Ghee

Ayurveda considers ghee, or clarified butter, to be the most important lubricant you can ingest. Like oil for  your car's engine, a small amount of ghee g oes a long way and is essential for the life of your body. Ghee helps improve sexual vitality, strengthen your nervous system, and build muscle. Ghee is used for cooking, particularly for sauteing vegetables; as a flavoring for vegetables or grains and cereals; and as an ingredient in herbal medicines that allow the herbs to penetrate deep into the tissues. To Make Ghee

Put one pound of unsalted organic butter in a stainless steel or heat-proof glass pan and place over medium heat. Allow to melt and come to a boil. Skim off the foam that forms on top. Lower the heat and simmer until the ghee turns deep golden brown, but do not burn it. Remove from heat, let cool, and strain into a storage jar. Store in your refrigerator, where it will keep indefinitely. Ghee will last up to two months without refrigeration.

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Diet plays an important role in the recovery from any imbalance. For all the doshas, I recommend the following normalizing recipe be eaten once per day,  preferably at the mid-day meal. Kitcharee

1/4 cup split mung dahl (yellow lentils) 1/2 cup basmati rice 2 tablespoons ghee (or sunflower oil) 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds 3 bay leaves 1 teaspoon coriander  1 teaspoon oregano 1/2 teaspoon tumeric 4 to 6 cups of water  1/2 teaspoon salt 1 stick kombu (available in any asian market or health food store) 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger  3 cups diced fresh v egetables such as carrots, zucchini and summer squash Wash the lentils and rice until the water runs clear. Warm the ghee (or sunflower  oil) in a medium saucepan. Add the cumin, bay leaves, coriander, and oregano. Saute briefly, just until their aroma is released. Stir in the turmeric, rice, and dahl (lentils). Add the water, salt, kombu, and ginger. Simmer, covered, over medium heat for about one hour, or until the lentils and rice are soft. Add the diced vegetables and simmer 10 to 15 minutes more, or until they are tender.  Enjoy.

Pitta Causes Of Sexual Imbalances

In the person with a predominantly Pitta constitution, a pitta disorder may result in a lack of digestive enzyme regulation, an acid base imbalance, or the presence of  an ulcer. As a result, these individuals may exhibit any or all of the following symptoms: anger, acid reflux, stomach bloating, heaviness in stomach or duodenal area, discomfort and gas in the stomach, weakened erection, uncontrolled emission at ejaculation, pain at the sides of the chest, or pain in the heart area. Female pitta

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disorders include rashes, urinary tract infections, red or itching genitalia, and an unsatiated sexual desire. Daily Lifestyle Practices to Balance Pitta For Sexual Restoration

To restore pitta to sexual health, the digestive enzyme balance (sama-agni)must be restored using an ayurveda healing food approach. Begin with a mild body detoxification using the Ten Day C oriander Treatment: The Ten Day Coriander Treatment

Coriander has many uses in Ayurveda. In this traditional use, it cools agni, or the digestive fire. Mix together 8 teaspoons each of coriander powder, brown sugar, and melted ghee (recipe above). Store the mixture in the refrigerator, and each morning before breakfast take the amount listed below. This remedy is surprisingly delicious, and the spicy, sugary taste stays with you all day. (Note: Vegans may substitute grapeseed oil for ghee.) Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day

1: 2: 3: 4: 5: 6: 7: 8: 9: 10:

1/2 teaspoon 1 teaspoon 1 1/2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons 2 1/2 teaspoons 2 1/2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons 1 1/2 teaspoons 1 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon

After the Ten Day Coriander Treatment is complete, repeat the ten day treatment with freshly ground ginger instead of coriander. Repeat the cycle every two mo nths until your symptoms improve. As you might imagine, diet plays a crucial role in recovery from any illness or  imbalance. Therefore, I also recommend that you have Kitcharee at least once daily. The recipe for Kitcharee is included above in this book.

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Other Pitta foods to include in your diet during this time: Eat and drink primarily foods that stabilize pitta: cool foods and drinks, and foods that taste predominantly sweet, bitter, and astringent. Reduce foods that increase your natural heat, such as foods that are predominantly pungent (spicy), sour, or  salty.

Kapha Causes of Sexual Imbalance

The primary sign of a Kapha sexual imbalance is excessive mucus production leading to a sluggish digestive system and the clogging of the fine blood vessels that feed the functionality of the testicles, the phallus, the vaginal walls and clitoral region. The other major contributor is the carrying of excessive weight. It means that the fat found in the blood stream and the bodily tissues is not being metabolized properly, and is backing up into even the finest channels including the seminal vessels and even the semen itself. Kapha Imbalance Symptoms:

Characterized by premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction, imbalanced Kaphas exhibit the following symptoms: •The chest is congested. • Hacking up m ucus in the morning, or having to clear your throat a lot during the day. • Excess vom iting without apparent reason. • Any kind of difficulty breathing in or out, or asthma-like symptoms. • High cholesterol • H ypertension • Diabetes or pre diabetic symptoms - the more severe side effects of which are medically known to contribute to sexual disorders. • Genital/urinary tract inflammations or infections. • Passing a semen like substance in urine. • Depressed libido • Less firm erection • Uncontrolled emmission of ejaculation

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Daily Lifestyle Practices to Balance Kap ha For S exual Restoration

If the sex drive, and/or organs are weakened due to the Kapha imbalance symptoms you need to do a cleanse to rid the body of accumulated mucus in the chest area, stomach, lungs and b ronchi. My recommendation is to do a simple upper body cleansing which will unclog the channels and help to restore sexual  potency and vitality. This can be accomplished with two common Ayurvedic herbs, Pipli (a mixture of peppers) and the fruit Haritaki. For most people , the typical dosage is two Pipli capsules or tablets in the morning and two Haritaki capsules or tablets at night. After a week or two of this mild body detox, take the herb Ashwgandha, two tablets a day for a month. Click here to go to the product page to purchase my recommended herbs.

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Dietary Considerations in Recovering from Sexual Disorders To balance the body to regain sexual normalcy All doshas should use and avoid the following foods as indicated below:

-VegetablesFavor:

Asparagus Pumpkin Cucumber  Broccoli Cauliflower  Avocado Celery Lettuce Zucchini Okra Green beans Mushrooms Alfalfa sprouts Cilantro Sunflower sprouts Brussel sprouts Cabbage Peas Adzuki beans Mung beans Lima beans Tofu Eat in moderation:

Bell peppers Parsley Squash Corn

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Carrots Onions, cooked Chard Spinach Beets Sweet potatoes Turnips Radishes Seaweed Watercress Split peas Soy beans Kidney beans Chickpeas Lentils -FruitsFavor:

Apples Cranberries Prunes Grapes Cherries Melons Coconut Pineapples Plums Mangoes Pears Pomegranates Reduce:

Raspberries Oranges Bananas Lemons

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Limes Persimmons Avoid:

Grapefruits -GrainsEmphasize:

Wheat Oats Barley White rice Couscous Quinoa Eat in Moderation :

Millet Brown rice Corn Rye Buckwheat -Nuts, Seeds, and O ilsEmphasize:

Sunflower seeds Coconut Ghee Butter  Coconut oil Eat in Moderation :

Pumpkin seeds

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Pine nuts Sesame seeds Peanuts Olive oil Soy oil Sunflower oil Safflower oil Corn oil Avoid:

Cashews Walnuts Almonds Pecans Filberts Sesame oil Almond oil Peanut oil - Animal Foods (Nonvegetarians) Emphasize:

Cream Milk  Cottage cheese Cheese Eat in Moderation:

Kefir  Chicken Turkey Egg white Fish

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Avoid:

Sour cream Yogurt Buttermilk  Ice cream Lamb Shellfish Pork  Beef  Egg yolks -SweetenersFavor:

Maple syrup Fructose Rice syrup Barley malt Raw unrefined sugar  Eat in Moderation:

Sucanat Molasses Honey Avoid:

White sugar 

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SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION IN MEN

“Healthy semen is the goal for every man who desires a long healthy sex life.  All the channels of movement in the body must be open but especially the genital  urinary system.” General Signs And Symptoms Of Impotency or Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

• • • • •

weak erection no erection ejaculation in a night dream uncontrolled ejaculation no ejaculation despite adequate erection

In a healthy relationship a man may spontaneously develop a weaker and w eaker  sexual firmness during coitus. Even while being conservative in sexual activity he may be subject to coughing spells, and/or perspire profusely. He may be unable to get or sustain an erection and/or ejaculate semen. Erectile dysfunction occurs for the following reasons: • • • • • • • •

diabetes high blood pressure kidney failure early heart disease prostate problems alcohol or narcotic use antihistamine use anti-depressant use

Poor sexual health occurs for the following four reasons: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Scant semen production Weakened phallic contraction ability, loosened erectile function. Geriatric impotency. Psychological derangement known as sex addiction. (Unwholesome sexual activity leading to an overall physical and psychological weakening and an inability to control the need for sexual intercourse.)

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Let’s look at the causes of the above one at a time. Causes of Scant Semen Production · · · · ·

· · · · ·

· · · ·

Intake of cold, dry food, nutritionally deficient food, modern day junk food. The drying out of the digestive system due to improper eating behavior  Eating before the last meal is properly digested. Grief, anger, fear and terror. (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Psychological strain caused by suspicion, jealousy, past instances of betrayal leading to negative emotions in sexual relationships. Drinking alcohol daily. Extreme financial worries. Anxiety. Feeling insecure about your loved ones, especially your significant other. Diet and/or life conditions leading to the dehydration of the plasma content, i.e., failure to nourish the blood supply, and polluting it so much that it clogs the finest tissues influencing sexual function in the body. Excessive fasting A psychological dislike of w omen or men. Projecting your inner pain on your sexual partner. Inadequate self love..

Causes of Loosened Erectile Function and W eakened Phallic Contraction ·

· ·

· ·

· · ·

· ·

Eating sour, sweet, and alkaline food combinations – a hamburger, fries and a shake, for example. Too much alcohol Sweet, rich foods, in combination with caffeinated products. (Think coffee and a croissant) Excessive water consumption.  Not eating breakfast, lunch and dinner on time and in a healthy environment of peace and serenity. Eating too much pastry and heavy food Eating too much yogurt. Unwholesome, infection prone sexual behaviors leading to physical trauma to phallus. Lack of proper phallic hygiene. Suppression of the urge for seminal ejaculation during sexual intercourse

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·

·

Physical disorders of the phallus such as swelling, pain and redness of the  penis, pustules, epidermal eruption, boils; a white, brown, or pink watery discharge; a circular and hard elevation below the glans penis; a bloody discharge; a mild swelling with a scanty yellow discharge from the testicles, glans penis, and the phallus. Red blood cell imbalances causing a bloody effect on seminal tissue.

Causes of G eriatric Impotency · · ·

· ·

Tissues in the body begin to d ry up and the body actually loses body m ass. Bad nutritional habits. The gradual loss of strength, energy, and the power of the senses, due to increasing age. Loss of desire to eat nutritiously. Mental and physical fatigue.

Causes of Sexual Add iction ·

·

· · ·

Psychological strain caused by suspicion, jealousy, past instances of betrayal leading to negative emotions in sexual relationships. Grief, anger, fear and terror. (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). A  psychological dislike of women or men. Projecting your inner pain on your sexual partner. Inadequate self love. Sexual Obsessions. SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION IN WOMEN

Women suffer from a variety of conditions which are either sexual dysfunctions themselves or conditions which can lead to sexual dysfunction. These include loss of libido, frigidity, fibroid tumors, cervical, uterine, ovarian, and breast cancers; vaginal dryness, vaginal inflammations, vaginal fatty lumps, yeast infections, urinary tract infections, excessive menstrual bleeding, irregular menstrual bleeding, and viral infections that can lead to cancer. Hormo nal shifts and imbalances also relate directly to sexual satisfaction and bliss throughout life. In fact, lack of  sexual satisfaction and lack of willingness or ability to respond to natural sexual urges is a leading cause of nervous disorders in women.

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Menstrual Disorders of Woman Leading to Sexual Disorders

• Vata: Women with a predominantly Vata body type tend to exhibit clots, insomnia, fear, anxiety, and pain before her flow begins. • Pitta: Women with a predominantly Pitta body type tend to exhibit hot flashes, bright red gushing flow, and pain during the flow. • Kapha : Women with a predominantly Kapha body type tend to exhibit  pale watery flow, water retention, swollen breasts, and a “swollen” pain before, during, and after her flow.

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HERBAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SEXUAL DISORDERS AND FOR IMPROVING YOUR SEXUAL LIFE  First, I must give you some words of caution which you must read before embarking on a  program of herbal rejuvenation. The information contained in this ebook is for information  purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice in your particular and individual case and circumstances. I mean only to point the way and not to give individualized instruction. Only  your doctor or health care provider, who knows your body, can do that.  If you are presently taking medications, or are und er medical treatment for a specific medical  condition, it is essential that you consult with your health professional before administering   Ayurvedic medicines. Some herbs should be avoided or used under the guidance of a  professional if you have a chronic illness or a diagnosed medical problem. For example, licorice contains plant hormones that may stimulate uterine bleeding and may also stimulate the  growth of breast and uterine tissue, which is of concern to women who have a history of  estrogen-sensitive cancers or who are at high risk for them.  Nor should you combine herbs with prescription or over-the-counter medications unless you are under professional supervision. Some herbs may contain similar substances and could result in an overdose. If you have any questions or doubts, contact a knowledgeable herbal specialist for  advice.  Remember to use caution when using herbs. In some people certain herbs may cause undesirable reactions. Begin with the lowest recommended dosage and gradually increase as needed. The most common symptoms of herbal intolerance are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or  allergic reaction. However, these are rare and extremely variable, depending on both the herb and the individual. If you notice any questionable reaction, discontinue the herb(s) at once. If   your reaction is severe, call your local Poison Control Center and go to the emergency room of  the nearest hospital.  Read the manufacturer’s recommendations carefully, and do not use any herbal product that  does not supply detailed information on appropriate dosages. There have been reports of mislabeling of herbs, and quality and potency can vary depending on harvesting, handling, and storage. Therefore be sure to buy herbs only from the most reputable  sources you can find. I realize that for some Westerners, the names of Ayurvedic herbs are unfamiliar and difficult to pronounce; it is doubl y confusing since many of these herbs are not  available in even th most sophisticated health food stores. Fortunately, all of them are av ailable online. I have attempted to take some of the guesswork out of this process for you by providing a  product page with links directly to only the highest quality herbs and herbal combinations. These  product providers have been in business for years and have established outstanding reputations  for providing preparations consisting of only the finest ingredients that meet the strictest of  quality control standards. I use them myself in my own clinic.

Click here to go to the product page to purchase my recommended herbs.

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What is a Rasayana? What is the Rasayana Effect?

Before embarking on a herbal regimen, let’s take a moment to understand how Ayurvedic herbs work and why we take them. Not like Western medicines and other foods, Ayurvedic herbs work in a special fashion, called the Rasayana Effect. If you read and learn much about Ayurveda, you will encounter the term “rasayana”. Some preparations will even be called a Rasayana. This refers to the action of the herbs in the body. As one text has it: “The word Rasayana means, essentially refers to the movement or circulation of  nutrition needed to provide nourishment to body tissues and tissue perfusion. Such a phenomenon is considered conducive to to the promotion of the qualities of  dhatus i.e., body tissues. The improved nutritional status and better qualities of  dhatus leading to the secondary attributes of Rasayana such as longevity, immunity against diseases improved mental and intellectual competence. Considering the ayurvedic concepts of physiology it may be presumed that a rasayan agent  promotes nutrition through one of the following three modes. 1. By the direst enrichment of nutritional quality of Rasa, that is the nutrient plasma 2. By promoting nutrition through improving digestion and metabolism. 3. By vitalizing metabolic action at the level of molecules in the tissues.” Dr. Helen’s Herbal Recommendations for Men

Unless you have the good fortune to consult an experienced Ayurvedic doctor, you should not attempt on your own to “dose” yourself. Rather, take the herbs in the dosages recommended by the manufacturer on their label. • Semen in urine: Use Chandraprahab tablets and Shatavari Churna. Follow  product recommendations for dosage. • Ejaculation during night dreams: Chandraprahab tablets. • Depressed Libido: Take Ashwaghanda • Reduced strength in erection: Ashwanghanda tablets • Uncontrolled ejaculations: Tulsi tea, Yasthimadhu tablets, Shilajit tablets • No ejaculation although erection is normal: Ashwaghanda tablets, Shatavari tablets.

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• Loss of normal pleasure sensation during sexu al act: Ashwaghanda tablets. Bala tablets • Persistent erection: Chandraprahab tablets. Avipatikar churna. • Premature ejaculation: Take Coriander tea once per day consisting of  1 teaspoon coriander seeds or powder, boil in 8 ounces of hot water. Coriander is a common herb found in most markets. • Enlarged prostate: Vidari tablets. Click here to go to the product page to purchase my recommended herbs.

Dr. Helen’s Herbal Recommendations for Women:

Unless you have the good fortune to consult an experienced Ayurvedic doctor, you should not attempt on your own to “dose” yourself. Rather, take the herbs in the dosages recommended by the manufacturer on their label. • Depressed libido: Bala, Shatavari, Ashwaganda, Ginger  • Hyposensitive Clitoral Response: Ashwaganda, Shatavari, V idari, Saraswati • Vaginal Dryness: Shatavari, Y astimadhu, (Female Strenghtener???) • Vaginal Inflammation: Shatavari, Amalaki, • Urinary Tract Infections: Chandraprahab,Guduchi, Avipattikar  • Yeast Infections: Triphala, Gokshura, Turmeric • Vaginal Fatty Lumps: Shatavari, Turmeric Click here to go to the product page to purchase my recommended herbs. General Ayurveda Herbs an d Practices for Maintaining Sexual Vitality Shatavari gulam  – A female toner. Take 1 tsp. two times a day. Haritaki - Taken to cleanse the small intestines. Take two tablets at lunch and dinner for 21 days. Shilajit – A female rejuvenator. Take two tablets two times a day for 45 days. Ashwagandha - medicated ghee – A nerve and hormonal tonic. Take 20 drops two times a day. Or add one teaspoon of Ashwaghanda powder to a small amount of warm w ater or milk, stir to dissolve, and drink.

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Gokshura  – A diuretic to cleanse the kidneys. Put one half teaspoon of the  powder into warm water, stir to dissolve, and drink. Coriander - cools the urinary tract tissue, cleans and restores Jatamansi - diuretic, relaxes blood vessels, decreases palpitations. Good for Vata and Pitta sexual health and disorders. Vidari - For w omen, nurtures the seven tissues of the body and the fetus. Purnavarna - Acts as a diuretic that diminishes crystal urea, improves renal function. Good for vata, pitta and kapha sexual disorders. Yoga - Yoga has been a part of A yurveda since the beginning. For a more complete description of yoga practices, click here. Daily oil massage - Daily self oil massage is a key to deep relaxation and a way to nurture and restore the nervous system necessary for healthy sexuality. Read more by clicking here. Meditation - A daily meditation practice is an integral part of an Ayurvedic lifestyle and a key to relaxing into your body. Click here for more information. Exercise - Exercise is important for healthy sexuality, both to keep the channels open and to stay fit. (not to mention feeling good about oneself!) Read more.

Click here to go to the product page to purchase my recommended herbs.

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PREVENTION

Whether you are male or female, the old adage holds true. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Once you have your sexual imbalances corrected, it  becomes a matter of maintaining that new state of sexual health.

The Allure of Charisma

According to Ayurveda, our fundamental purpose in life is to love. When you realize this and are able to achieve it, your inner love and radiance shines forth and attracts worthy people like honey. Sexual intimacy is but one sublime expression of this love, as well as a means to deepen it. Romantic/erotic love is one of the nine emotions that are natural to life and is a source of rejuvenation, vigor, and  beauty. Most people say they feel better – wonderful, even – after sex. Perhaps you, too, have noticed that the world seems brighter, your skin glows more radiantly, you have a spring in your step, you sleep better, are more relaxed (or more energized) after a night – or afternoon or m orning – of lovemaking. The Bonds of Love

Being radiant and attractive can actually be good for your health. Close relationships appear to improve immunity, reduce the risk of heart attack and cancer, an even prevent the common cold. Numerous studies show that a strong and diverse network of social contacts has a physiological effect on your body and your ability to withstand stress. Humans, so far as we know, are unique in our  sexual behavior. We use it not only for reproduction but also to form emotional  bonds, and to give and receive pleasure. Perhaps this is why a satisfying sex life seems to be a way to access your inner energetic source of youth and vitality. UNDERSTANDING YOUR SEXUALITY

It’s often observed that people who love themselves and who are at ease in their  own skins are those who are most likable and lovable. Ayurveda gives you the tools for this through determining and understanding your doshas, your strengths, and your limitations.Understanding who you are includes understanding how the different doshas express their true selves through their sexuality. There is a great

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deal of ancient lore on this subject. The guidelines to follow summarize the ways in which your doshas influence your sexual characteristics and suggest which doshas tend to make the best matches. See if this information rings true for you so that you can cultivate your sexual strengths and minimize your limitations. Then consider asking your partner to determine his or her dominant dosha to see if you two are a good match. Vata

If you are primarily vata you are: · · · · · · ·

Cool Subtle Ethereal A changeable presence. Quick to feel passion and become attached, but are reluctant to commit. May appear frigid, but blossom with the right partner. Feel love is more important than the actual act of love.

Best doshas for you to partner with: · · ·

Kapha-pitta Pitta-kapha Kapha-vata

Pitta

If you are primarily pitta, you are one hot number. You are: · · · · · · · · ·

Mesmerizing to others. Have strong desires and passions. You burn, but can get burned yourself. You can also burn yourself out. You are intense as a lover. Tend to jealousy. Impatient. Lacking in hum ility around the o bject of your desire. Tend to be overly focused on the sexual act.

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·

 Need to redirect your emotions away from your sexual organs and toward your heart to bring love and intimacy to a higher, lasting, more noble and caring, and sublime plane.

The best partner for you is one who shares your passion for natural beauty. Look  to the following to find a mate: · · ·

Pitta-kapha Kapha Kapha-pitta

Kapha

Kaphas are: · · · · ·

Calm Sweet Sensual Earthy Physically and emotionally voluptuous.

In love you are: · · · · · · · · · ·

Shy Cautious Wise Honest Steady Slow to fall in love, but when you do, you fall hard. Deeply committed Romantic Possessive Good lover – maternal/paternal yet erotic with great stamina.

Best partner for you is: ·

All types, as long as they are strong sexually and otherwise.

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BETTER SEX

According to Ayurveda, sex is one of our mo st divine and powerful natural needs and as long as you are in a state of balance, it should not be repressed. Rather, it should be fully expressed and enjoyed. If you have a partner, you can better use all your senses to enliven and enrich your sexual experiences. If emotional issues are  blocking your path – past experiences, cultural conditioning –   seek help in removing them . Dharma

Dharma refers to your inner knowledge of what is right and wrong. These are universal codes of behavior, much of which is common sense because they are conducive to your individual well being as well as the well-being of the society you live in. The primary dharmas are love, faith, purity, compassion , honesty, courage, and devotion. Everyone is born with the knowledge of these dharmas, but must continue to nurture them if they are to remain alive. When you live your life  – including your love life – guided by dharma, all your accomplishments and  possessions are infused with happiness and grace.

Making Sex a Total Sensory E xperience

All five senses are involved in lovemaking and in the sexual dance that precedes it. According to Ayurveda, your five senses – sight, taste, touch, smell and hearing –  are the doorw ays to your inner being. Your erotic, loving, sexual self is a core component of your inner being. Use your imagination and creativity to experiment with ways to specifically perk up your sex life using the five senses, keeping in mind that preferences for scent, sight, sound, touch and taste are extremely individualized. Here are some ideas to get you started:  Appreciate the Scent of Sex. Fragrance is a potent yet subtle love attractor. Your  natural scent may be the most potent of all. Pheromones, the natural scent signals we send o ut, include androsterone, which has a musky smell and drives libido in  both men and women. The highest concentrations of pheromones are in the underarm and genital area. Androsterone is also found in saliva. Use Aromatherapy. Use aromatic essential oils to enhance your sex appeal and attractiveness or to improve your libido or that of your partner. For your next

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romantic encounter, light the candles and  the aromatherapy diffuser. Oils of   patchouli, frankincense, musk, and sandalwood are reported to be aphrodisiacs. To overcome frigidity or impotence, try ylang-ylang. Vanilla is also said to increase sexual desire in men. Give a Fragrant Massage. Another way to take advantage of the pow er of scent is to add some sandalwood oil to massage oil and give each other a massage. It contains hormones similar to testosterone, the hormone that drives the libido in  both men and women.  Anoint Yourself. In India, the use of aromatic oils is a well-established tradition. To get ready for a night of love, a Hindu woman’s body is anointed with many different scents to arouse her partner. You can be similarly creative with essential oils. Place: · · · · · ·

Jasmine on her hands Patchouli on her cheek and neck  Amber on her nipples Saffron on her feet Sandalwood on her inner thighs Musk on her pubic area

Remember to dilute them first with a carrier oil before applying them to the skin. The most commonly used carrier oil in Ayurveda is sesame, which is particularly suited to vata types. Coconut oil is preferred for pitta types. Flaxseed or almond oil works best for kaphas. For a body or massage oil, the usual ratio is ten drops of  essential oil per four ounces of carrier oil. Condition Your Body. Exercise enhances sexual pleasure in many ways. In a study of sedentary men whose average age was forty-seven, the subjects exercised four times a week. They either took an easy sixty-minute walk or did a more strenuous aerobic workout. At the end of nine months, both groups said they enjoyed an increase in their sexual desire and pleasure and an enhanced ability to  be aroused and achieve orgasm. Those who did the more strenuous activity reported the greatest gains. Exercise improves blood flow throughout the entire  body, including the penis, and therefore may improve impotence in men. And the endorphins released by strenuous exercise are believed to make you more receptive to sex.

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 Practice Yoga. Among the many benefits of yoga is an improved sex life. Think  about it. Practicing yoga regularly makes all your joints more limber and eases  back stiffness and pain so you are able to engage in sex more comfortably and experiment with new positions. Yoga increases your strength and energy, improves your appearance, body shape, tone, and complexion. It is also relaxing and boosts self-confidence and self-esteem while allowing you to feel more at ease, more at home in your body. Many yoga positions are particularly effective for  relieving tensions and anxiety, to tone the reproductive organs, balance hormones, and strengthen and tone the pelvic muscles. Get Playful. There is a smorgasbord of sexual toys available to enhance your  sexual pleasure via all the senses – sweet honey dust, tickling feathers, lubricating creams, and so on. These are all in keeping with the philosophy of Ayurveda and are available discreetly through the mail, on the Internet, and in small shops in large cities. Stretching Your Boundaries: Is Tantra for You?

In the Hindu tradition, the esoteric practice of Tantra regards sexual energy as a  path to spiritual wisdom. For more than two thousand years India has produced a wealth of erotic literature and art, the most well known of which is the  Kama Sutra . Workshops and videotapes, books, and web sites on tantric sexuality are increasing daily, and are an avenue worth exploring if you are looking to vary your  technique and move toward a more spiritual form of lovemaking. The  Kama Sutra is the earliest surviving example of a Hindu “love manual.” A compendium of the social norms and love customs of Northern India during the time it was written, it places sex within the context of a refined, humane way of  living. Althoug h it is most famous for its detailed and graphic descriptions of  many love postures, the Kama Sutra also includes a discussion of dharma and Ayurvedic aphrodisiacs and potions to increase sexual power. The  Kama Sutra also contains some practices that have come to be called Tantra. Tantra, or sacred sex, is becoming an increasingly popular field of study for  couples and singles alike. The promise of Tantra is that of more conscious loving, a weaving together of sex and spirituality. According to its proponents, by  practicing certain techniques, lovers can intensify passion, prolong sexual encounters, deepen connectedness and intimacy, and reach a higher state of  consciousness while locked in sexual embrace. Not only is it presented as a

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