Diabetes affects millions globally, making it a significant public health concern. Traditional allopathic approaches to diabetes management often focus on symptom control through medication, aiming to maintain blood sugar levels within a target range. However, these methods sometimes fall short in addressing the root causes of the disease and fail to provide a comprehensive solution for overall well-being. Medications can help control blood sugar, but they often come with side effects and do not tackle the lifestyle and environmental factors contributing to diabetes.
Holistic wellness approaches, on the other hand, offer a more integrative method to managing diabetes. By addressing the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of health, these approaches aim to create a balanced lifestyle that can lead to more sustainable long-term results. Through personalized care, lifestyle modifications, and natural therapies, holistic wellness provides a comprehensive path to managing diabetes, as illustrated by a compelling case study from Ananda in the Himalayas.
The Struggle
A woman in her late 40s had been battling diabetes for several years. She arrived at Ananda feeling exhausted, with uncontrollable high blood sugar levels, significant stress, and severe overweight issues. Her medical history included over 20 years of insulin resistance, more than 15 years of polycystic ovarian syndrome, and multiple miscarriages. Despite medication, her blood sugar remained high, and her weight continued to increase. After battling COVID-19 in 2021, she was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and recognized the need to address her condition to avoid further complications. In mid-2023, she sought refuge at Ananda to embark on a journey of healing and wellness.
Setting Wellness Goals
To tailor her treatment, Ananda identified her as kapha dominant pitta prakriti and designed a six-month wellness program. The initial 21-day phase focused on lifestyle modifications, physical activities, and a customized diet.
Managing diabetes involves symptom relief, improving quality of life, and controlling blood sugar to prevent immediate problems. It also includes managing other health issues like obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
Key aspects of managing diabetes without medication:
• Following a balanced diet and reducing calorie intake for overweight individuals.
• Engaging in daily physical activities, such as walking, for at least 150 minutes per week.
• Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol.
• Practicing stress management techniques.
• Receiving personalized nutrition guidance tailored to family eating habits.
The Ananda Approach
Upon reviewing her haematological report, sedentary lifestyle, and symptoms, her Ayurvedic physician at Ananda opted not to alter her prescribed medication. Instead, a customized program was created, incorporating fitness activities, aqua-based exercises, hatha yoga, meditation, and supporting detox massages. This regimen aimed to break down fats and mobilize cellulite. Additionally, a customized Kapha diet plan was provided.
Approximately 60-70% of the program involved activities, while the remaining 30-40% focused on therapies during the 21-day phase. Due to her high blood glucose levels and morbid obesity, intense detox therapies and high-intensity activities were avoided to prevent hypoglycaemia, and potential joint pain.
Progress and Adjustments
For the first five days, her blood sugar levels were closely monitored while she participated in various activities and therapies. Despite experiencing tiredness and trembling in her lower limbs, her blood sugar remained stable. From the sixth day, her diet was adjusted to match her activities, maintaining energy levels and blood sugar. By the 16th day, her diabetic parameters improved, allowing a reduction in her medication. Although she experienced back and knee pain with activity, she recovered with physiotherapy and relaxation therapies. In the last phase, Ayurvedic medicines were prescribed to support her recovery.
The Result
From the outset, she felt a shift, finding renewed energy and motivation through Ananda's therapies. With guidance, she aimed to lose 3 kilos but surpassed expectations, shedding 5 kilos in just 15 days. Emotionally, she found peace in yoga and meditation sessions. As she concluded her stay, she left with satisfaction and anticipation, ready to return for the next phase of her healing in a few months.
Although she improved her health markers through lifestyle modifications, physical and mental activities, and a customized diet during her stay, consistency was emphasized for maintaining her progress. To ensure continued success, health goals were set for her to achieve before her next visit to Ananda. Determined to uphold these guidelines at home, she committed to practicing them diligently. Before her departure, she underwent a thorough medical check-up to assess her overall health improvement. Additionally, she was advised to consult her physician regarding her elevated TSH levels, crucial in diabetes recovery.
Conclusion
For those seeking inspiration and support on their wellness journey, Ananda's programs offer valuable resources to guide and motivate you towards better health. Embracing a holistic approach to managing diabetes, as demonstrated in this case study, can lead to significant improvements in overall well-being and quality of life. By focusing on lifestyle changes, personalized care, and holistic therapies, individuals can achieve better control over their diabetes and enhance their overall health.