Author: Maya Tiwari (now Swamini Mayatitananda)

Publisher: Healing Arts Press, USA

Paperback; 368 pages

Available from amazon.com

A comprehensive guide to ayurvedic nutrition and cooking by a pre-eminent female authority on Ayurveda. This book gives a clear introduction to the principles of Ayurveda, including the body types (doshas); and how to apply them in a way that promotes not only health but also spiritual wellbeing.

Maya Tiwari emphasises the practice of ritual (sadhana) as a path to holistic wellness; especially the rituals of preparing and eating food. Ritual is nothing more than action with awareness – the rhythmic hand-pounding of spices; the sensuous kneading of dough; the langourous stirring of ghee as it bubbles on a fire. This practice brings back meaning to these essential activities, in an age of “convenience” instant foods that are eaten on the run, or in front of the television.

Tiwari asserts that it is precisely this loss of meaning, this disconnection with the vital processes of nutrition, that have led to poor digestion, inappropriate eating and cravings, and emotional emptiness that eventually lead to serious disease. Awareness and meaning in daily activities, on the other hand, lead to greater satisfaction in life, and a growing sense of love for oneself and all beings.

Full lists of foods for each dosha are given, along with tasty and wholesome recipes.

Ayurveda: A Life of Balance is a passionate, humane and compelling approach to Ayurveda and ayurvedic cooking – a book to be reread and treasured for a long time.

Available from amazon.com