When was the last time you sat down for a meal, no distractions, no devices? You touched your food, feel its warmth and texture before taking a bite? Eating becomes more than a necessity—it becomes an experience, a ritual of connection with your food. Long before the invention of cutlery, generations across the world practiced this simple, mindful act, eating with hands. Now, modern science is catching up with ancient wisdom, particularly Ayurveda, which reveals that eating with hands offers surprising health benefits far beyond tradition.

Throughout history, Egyptians, Mesopotamians, Greeks, and many indigenous cultures from Africa to South America have embraced the practice of eating with their hands. It was not merely about convenience—it reflected a profound understanding of how touch enhances the eating experience and primes the body for digestion.\

Celebrity nutritionist Kavita Devgan shares, "As a nutritionist, I also eat with my hands. It's not just about tradition. It's about tapping into your body's natural signals." The nutritionist took to Instagram to dispel myths and talk about why more and more celebrities are ditching cutlery and with their hands.

Davgan says, "Somewhere between the hustle, the diet charts, and the fancy plates…we forgot what it feels like to truly eat. I’ve found so much comfort in this small act. It brings me back to my roots — and back to myself"

In her post, she also shares how the process works for the human body and how simply eating with hands can impact the body positively. "When you touch your food with your hands it sends a signal to the brain. And your stomach starts prepping for digestion, your senses get activated even before the first bite".

Devgan adds, "Every time you bring your fingers + thumb together to eat, you unknowingly create a yogic mudra - one that promotes healing. Imagine doing that 3x a day without even realizing it."

She goes on to explain how eating with 'hands > spoons' when it comes to eating speed. Slower eating = better chewing, more saliva, and fewer sugar cravings later.

In India, this tradition has deep roots in Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, which emphasizes a holistic approach to well-being. Eating with hands is seen not only as a practical approach but also as a sacred act—one that nurtures both body and spirit.

Ayurveda’s Says: Your Fingers as Extensions of the Five Elements

According to Ayurvedic philosophy, the human hand is a representation of the five universal elements (Panchamahabhuta):

Thumb (Fire): Governs digestion and transformation.

Index Finger (Air): Controls movement and circulation.

Middle Finger (Space): Facilitates balance and expansion.

Ring Finger (Earth): Represents stability and structure.

Little Finger (Water): Supports digestion and fluid balance.

When you eat with your hands, you engage these elements, activating "prana" (life force energy) and preparing the digestive system for the task ahead. Ayurveda teaches that digestion begins well before the first bite—it starts with sight, smell, and crucially, touch. Feeling the food signals the stomach to release digestive juices, promoting better digestion and nutrient absorption.

Boost Your Gut Health Simply by Ditching the Cutlery

Modern studies reinforce what Ayurveda has long advocated: eating with hands taps into the gut-brain axis, a critical communication network between the gastrointestinal system and the brain.

When your fingertips touch food, sensory receptors send signals to the brain, prompting it to activate saliva production and release digestive enzymes. This gentle priming of the digestive system can reduce issues like bloating, indigestion, and slow gut motility.

Even more fascinating is the transfer of beneficial bacteria. Clean hands carry friendly microbes that, when introduced in small amounts during eating, can support gut microbiota diversity, bolster immune defenses, and promote gut health—a principle now being explored extensively in microbiome research.

Why Eating with Hands Is A Natural Way to Eat Mindfully

The health benefits of eating with hands are not limited to the body; they extend to mental well-being too.

Enhanced Sensory Satisfaction

Eating with hands engages multiple senses—touch, smell, sight, and taste—creating a multisensory experience. This deep engagement enhances satiety, meaning you feel fuller with less food. As a result, it helps prevent overeating, a major contributor to digestive discomfort and metabolic disorders.

Reduces Stress and Cortisol Levels

Mindful eating practices, like eating with hands, naturally slow down the eating process. Studies show that slowing down while eating reduces cortisol levels—the body's primary stress hormone. Since chronic stress impairs digestion, lowering stress levels through mindful eating can directly boost gut health.

Fosters Gratitude and Connection

The act of touching food creates a sense of gratitude and respect for nourishment, transforming meals into intentional rituals rather than mechanical acts. In Ayurveda, this connection is considered sacred, fostering emotional and psychological well-being alongside physical health.

How to Practice Eating With Hands Mindfully?

If you're new to this tradition, transitioning to eating with hands can be seamless and rewarding with a few simple practices:

Start with Clean Hands: Hygiene is non-negotiable. Thoroughly wash your hands before and after meals to ensure safety while preserving beneficial bacteria.

Use Fingertips, Not the Entire Palm: Contrary to common misconceptions, eating with hands involves using only the fingertips. This method keeps the process clean and controlled.

Feel and Mix the Food: Gently mixing food allows you to experience its texture and temperature, preparing your digestive system and enhancing taste.

Chew Slowly and Savor: Eating with hands naturally encourages smaller bites and slower eating, aiding digestion and increasing nutrient absorption.

End with Mindful Cleaning: Washing your hands mindfully after eating offers a sense of closure and reinforces the practice of gratitude.

Why Your Hands Might Be the Best Utensils You Own

Modern eating habits largely involve sight, smell, and taste, leaving out touch—the sense Ayurveda deems vital for holistic health. According to Ayurvedic philosophy, optimal health stems from a balanced "agni" (digestive fire). Protecting and nurturing this inner fire is key to treating illnesses and maintaining vitality.

Touch activates this process. When all senses—including touch—are engaged during a meal, the body’s agni stays strong, digestion improves, and the body achieves a balanced state, maintaining physical and emotional equilibrium.

In an age obsessed with speed and convenience, returning to age-old practices like eating with hands may seem radical. Yet, the wisdom behind this tradition is now increasingly validated by science. Devgan agrees and concludes, "With a spoon, we eat fast, distracted, and often too much. With hands? You notice the textures, temperature, and portion sizes. It's a simple trick to stop, overeating without calorie counting. This isn't just how grandma ate. It's science, mindfulness, culture, and gut health all in one simple habit. So try it. Your body's smarter than your fork."

Eating with your hands fosters mindfulness, primes digestion, supports gut health, and builds a deeper relationship with food—one filled with gratitude, respect, and awareness.

So, for your next meal, set aside your cutlery. Feel the food. Taste the connection. Experience the nourishment in its fullest form. It’s not just what you eat that shapes your health, it’s how you experience it.

Ayurveda, the ancient subject of medicine, is an important part of Indian history. The ancient medicinal techniques in ayurveda may seem unreliable to many; however, many studies and research have shown that the ayurvedic teachings from centuries ago are still relevant.

One such medicinal fruit that we learned about from Ayurveda is Anjeer.

Anjeer, commonly known as a fig, is a sweet and chewy fruit that grows on the Ficus tree. These trees lose their leaves seasonally and can grow quite tall, reaching about 7 to 10 meters (23 to 33 feet). Figs are believed to be one of the first plants ever grown by humans, and they are still a very important crop worldwide, eaten both fresh and dried. The edible part is the fleshy, hollow fruit itself.

Nutritional Powerhouse

Figs, both fresh and dried, are packed with good things for your body. They are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, healthy carbohydrates, natural sugars, and beneficial plant compounds called phenolics and polyphenols. In fact, figs contain more of these healthy phenolics than even red wine or tea! They are also high in fiber and are fat and cholesterol-free, containing many important amino acids.

Health Benefits of Anjeer

Figs and parts of the fig tree have been used in traditional medicine for a long time due to their many health benefits:

Diabetes Management

Anjeer may help control diabetes by increasing the body's natural insulin production. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are thought to contribute to this. However, if you're taking diabetes medication, it's best to talk to your doctor before adding Anjeer, especially the leaves, as they might lower blood sugar too much.

Digestion and Constipation

Figs are a great source of dietary fiber, which is excellent for digestion. In traditional practices, soaking 2-3 Anjeer fruits and eating them in the morning is recommended to relieve constipation by promoting bowel movements.

Skin Health

The antioxidants in Anjeer are good for your skin. Applying a paste of Anjeer mixed with honey to your face can help improve skin health and might even reduce dark spots.

Other Traditional Uses

Traditionally, various parts of the fig tree – the fruit, roots, and leaves – have been used to treat a wide range of issues. These include problems with the stomach and intestines (like indigestion, colic, or diarrhea), breathing issues (such as sore throats, coughs, and bronchitis), and even heart and blood vessel problems. Figs have also been used to reduce inflammation and muscle spasms.

Specific Uses

Fig fruit juice mixed with honey has been used for bleeding. In Indian medicine, figs are used to help with liver and spleen diseases, and they are known for being mild laxatives, helping with coughs, and increasing urine production.

Ways to Enjoy Anjeer

Figs can be eaten in various ways: fresh, dried, or even made into jams. Dried figs are also sold as a sweet snack due to their natural sugar content. A paste made from the fruit can also be applied to swellings, tumors, and inflamed areas to help reduce pain.

Shilajit, a sticky, tar-like mineral compound, is frequently marketed as a vitality booster for men. But does that mean it’s not suitable for women? Ayurveda practitioner Mr. Danny Kumar Meena, Founder & CEO at Girlyveda, says that while the marketing is gendered, the benefits are not.

“Shilajit is a Rasayan, which means it rejuvenates the body,” he says. “It supports strength, stamina, fertility, immunity, and hormonal balance—not just in men, but in women too.”

Hormonal Balance, Menstrual Health & Fertility

Shilajit can be particularly helpful for women facing hormonal imbalances, including conditions like PCOS or irregular menstrual cycles. “It helps balance Vata dosha, which plays a crucial role in regulating the endocrine system,” Mr. Meena explains. “When hormones are in check, menstrual regularity and fertility improve.”

It also enhances Shukra Dhatu, the reproductive tissue responsible for fertility in both men and women. For women, this means improved ovarian function and libido.

“People don’t talk enough about how well it works for female fertility and hormonal health,” Mr. Meena points out.

Menopause, Bone Health & Postpartum Recovery

Post-menopause, many women face a decline in bone density and vitality. Shilajit helps by supporting Asti Dhatu (bone tissue) and enhancing Ojas, the vital essence of the body that governs immunity and vitality.

“It replenishes the seven dhatus (tissues) of the body—blood, muscle, fat, bone, marrow, reproductive tissue, and plasma—making it valuable in postpartum recovery as well,” he says.

Mental Health & Cognitive Benefits

Shilajit has also been described in ancient Ayurvedic texts like Bhav Prakash as a Medhya Rasayan, which means it's beneficial for the brain.

“It helps improve memory, learning, and attention span,” says Mr. Meena. “In today's world of information overload, Shilajit can support focus and mental clarity. It also helps regulate stress by balancing hormone levels, especially cortisol.”

Energy, Digestion & Immunity

Chronic fatigue, low energy, or poor digestion? Shilajit could help. It enhances Bal (strength) and Vyayam Shakti (exercise capacity), and improves Dhatvagni—the refined stage of digestion that ensures nutrients are converted into healthy tissues.

It also boosts immunity by enhancing Ojas. “Shilajit strengthens the body from within,” Mr. Meena notes.

How Should Women Consume It?

Shilajit is hot in potency, so dosage and combinations—called Anupan in Ayurveda—matter greatly.

With cow’s milk: Promotes calm, enhances fertility and rejuvenation

With honey: Fights obesity, balances Kapha

With ghee: Builds immunity (Ojas)

With lukewarm water: Acts as a gentle detoxifier

“The time of day and season matter too. Morning is ideal, but avoid it during summer and autumn (Grishma and Sharad Ritu), when Pitta dosha is naturally high,” Mr. Meena advises.

Caution: Who Should Avoid Shilajit?

Despite its many benefits, Shilajit is not for everyone, especially if taken without supervision.

Avoid if:

• You experience heavy menstrual bleeding or frequent periods
• You are pregnant
• You have bleeding disorders
• You are on long-term medication without medical consultation

“Because of its hot potency, it can cause side effects like burning sensation, constipation, itching, or even nosebleeds—especially in summer,” Mr. Meena warns. “Women with high blood pressure or heart issues should be particularly cautious. While it may help in certain cardiac conditions, it could also worsen palpitations if not used properly.”

Shilajit can be extremely beneficial for women—but only when taken under medical supervision. Its adaptogenic properties, rejuvenative effects, and support for reproductive, mental, and immune health make it a powerful Ayurvedic supplement.

“Ayurveda isn’t about ‘one size fits all’. It’s about using nature mindfully to bring balance to the body. With the right dose, timing, and combination, Shilajit can be as good for women as it is for men,” Mr. Meena concludes.

Note: This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The content does not constitute a recommendation to use Shilajit or any other supplement. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, or supplement routine—especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are pregnant, nursing, or on medication.

Shilajit, the word rolls off the tongue like a sacred chant—ancient, mysterious, powerful. Just a few years ago, Shilajit was tucked away in apothecary cabinets or Ayurvedic scriptures, today it's repackaged in matte-black jars and glossy Instagram reels, with words like "clean energy," "mood booster," and "longevity hack", hashtagged #BiohackYourLife. It’s being stirred into protein shakes, dropped into morning lattes, and touted as a cure-all on TikTok. But here’s the thing: what happens when an ancient healing system rooted in deep personalisation is flattened into a trendy wellness fix?

Shilajit—a mineral-rich resin that oozes from the Himalayas, Altai, and Caucasus mountain ranges—has been used in Ayurveda for centuries. Packed with fulvic acid, humic compounds, and over 85 trace minerals, it’s traditionally been prescribed as a rasayana: a rejuvenator. But as Shilajit gets pulled into the glossy world of modern wellness, we have to ask: Are we distorting ancient healing systems in our rush to rebrand them as trending lifestyle hacks?

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Shilajit’s therapeutic effects are now being studied through a contemporary lens. Fulvic acid enhances mitochondrial energy production—crucial for stamina and recovery. Dibenzo-alpha-pyrones support nervous system health and offer antioxidant properties. It’s no surprise then that today’s nutraceutical brands are racing to bottle it for everything from testosterone enhancement to cognitive support. But here’s where the waters get murky.

Why Ayurveda Might Be Oversimplified?

Ayurveda isn’t just about ingredients. It’s a complex, deeply individualized system rooted in the balance of three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—which reflect a person’s constitution. The same herb can be healing for one dosha type and aggravating for another.

When brands market Shilajit as a one-size-fits-all solution, they erase this core nuance. There’s no mention of whether your Pitta might be too high or your Kapha sluggish. No consultation, no customization. Just glossy minimalism dressed in Sanskrit font.

What we’re seeing is a sanitization of Ayurveda. The ritual becomes a product. The lineage becomes a lifestyle brand. And the consumer becomes someone looking for quick fixes rather than holistic healing.

Shilajit isn’t alone. The same thing happened with turmeric (rebranded as "golden milk"), ashwagandha (now sold as "adaptogenic chill"), and ghee (marketed as keto butter). Platforms like TikTok and Instagram flatten the cultural context of these practices, turning them into 30-second aesthetic reels.

And here’s the thing: accessibility is great. The global interest in Ayurveda is exciting. But there’s a thin line between translation and appropriation. When these herbs and rituals are stripped of their philosophy, they become detached—just ingredients in the next wellness cocktail.

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Problem With Oversimplification

The Ayurvedic system is deeply personal. Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—these aren’t lifestyle labels; they’re diagnostic tools that determine treatment. The reduction of Ayurveda to a minimalist aesthetic—earth-toned product photography, abstract mandala designs, and simplified “natural = good” messaging—ignores the nuances. More dangerously, it can lead to misuse. Someone with high Pitta may actually worsen their inflammation by using an energetically heating herb like Shilajit.

What the Science Supports — and What It Doesn’t

Studies have backed Shilajit’s efficacy in specific areas:

Energy & Endurance: Fulvic acid supports ATP production, enhancing stamina.

Cognitive Support: Preliminary trials show potential in Alzheimer’s prevention due to its neuroprotective properties.

Reproductive Health: Some studies suggest improved sperm count and testosterone levels.

Skin & Anti-Aging: Antioxidants help with cellular repair and may reduce visible signs of aging.

However, long-term effects, contraindications with medications, and suitability across different populations remain under-researched.

Why Is Shilajit Becoming So Accessible?

In the global nutraceutical boom, Shilajit is suddenly the poster child for holistic vitality. It’s being added to everything from testosterone-boosting capsules to anti-aging skin serums. Brands highlight its power to fuel ATP production, detox the liver, balance hormones, and enhance cognitive clarity.

And look, there’s solid science behind some of it. Fulvic acid, the major bioactive in Shilajit, has been linked to better nutrient absorption and mitochondrial function. Studies suggest its neuroprotective properties may support brain health and reduce oxidative stress. It’s even shown potential in improving male fertility and testosterone levels.

Traditionally, Shilajit isn’t just something you take because it looks good on your supplement shelf. It’s prescribed with deep care—often with other herbs, after assessing the patient’s age, digestion, lifestyle, and mental state. It's also heat-sensitive and meant to be processed carefully, not just extracted and jarred.

Moreover, it’s not meant for everyone. People with excess Pitta, for example, might find Shilajit aggravating without balancing herbs. When we erase these layers, we risk reducing a rich, philosophical science to a commodity.

Can Modern Wellness and Ancient Wisdom Coexist?

Yes, but it requires effort. Integrative brands need to do more than just source clean ingredients; they must invest in education, respect Ayurvedic frameworks, and promote personalization. That means explaining dosha balance. That means stating who a product might not be for. And that means engaging Ayurvedic practitioners, not just influencers.

Shilajit has incredible potential. It can support immunity, brain function, stamina, and fertility. But when it’s marketed like an energy drink or mood booster, the deeper wisdom that shaped it gets lost.Can Modern Wellness and Ancient Wisdom Coexist?

Yes, but it requires effort. Integrative brands need to do more than just source clean ingredients; they must invest in education, respect Ayurvedic frameworks, and promote personalization. That means explaining dosha balance. That means stating who a product might not be for. And that means engaging Ayurvedic practitioners, not just influencers.

Shilajit has incredible potential. It can support immunity, brain function, stamina, and fertility. But when it’s marketed like an energy drink or mood booster, the deeper wisdom that shaped it gets lost. For those considering Shilajit, here’s what a balanced approach looks like:

• Consult a practitioner trained in Ayurveda or integrative medicine.
• Know your dosha. It’s not just a quiz—it's a roadmap.
• Start slow. Shilajit is potent and shouldn’t be overused.
• Check sourcing, adulteration is common, authentic Shilajit should be tested for heavy metals and purity.

Pair it with lifestyle. It’s not magic—it works in synergy with sleep, diet, and routine.