Introduction

Growth, aging, and eventual death are natural and unavoidable stages of life. Interestingly, the process of aging begins before birth and persists throughout life, with variations in pace among individuals, races, and even tissues within the body. Aging encompasses two contrasting processes - growth and degeneration - reflecting the structural and functional transformations an organism undergoes throughout its lifespan.^[1] In Ayurveda aging is divided into three stages-Baalavastha [childhood], Madhyavastha [youth], and Vriddhavastha [old age]. Vriddhavastha [old age] is the final stage of life, it begins around 60 to 70 years. Characterized by the dominance of Vata dosha, this stage brings degenerative changes in the Shareera and Manas^[2,4] The global population aged 60 and older is rapidly increasing, projected to grow from 900 million [12%] in 2015 to 2 billion [22%] by 2050.^[5]

Understanding Aging in Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, Jara or Vridhavasta [aging] is regarded as a natural process of decline, akin to hunger, thirst, or sleep, rather than a disease. It is explained through the theory of natural destruction [Swabhavoparamavada] by Charaka, which states that while there is a cause for the creation of life, its cessation, or death, occurs naturally. The concept of Jara includes four key aspects: Nityaga [the continuity of consciousness], Dhari [factors that slow the aging process], Jeevitam [sustaining life], and Anubandha [transmigration of the soul]. Factors influencing aging include physical [Shareera], emotional [Indriya], and psychological [Satwa] well-being, as well as metabolism [Agni] and immunity [Bala/Ojas]. Acharya Sharangdhara has described the gradual decline of bodily functions in a decade-wise manner. In the first decade, Balyavastha [infancy] comes to an end; the second decade sees a reduction in Vriddhi [growth]; the third decade marks the decline of Chhavi [complexion]; in the fourth decade, Medha [intellect] diminishes; the fifth decade shows deterioration of Twak [skin]; and the sixth decade is characterized by a decline in Drishti [vision]. These observations indicate ongoing catabolic processes in the body, primarily due to the gradual degradation of bodily elements [Paramanu Vibhaga]. Additionally, aging is shaped by cellular changes [Parinama],

Dinacharya Practices

In Ayurveda, Acharyas have provided ideal lifestyle regimen to promote healthy ageing is Dincharya [Daily routine], it plays a vital role in personal well-being. Adapting to daily routines is essential for sustaining health and promoting longevity. Dinacharya include, Brahma Muhurta: Waking up early aligns the body with natural rhythms, before waking up early in the morning; one should assess the digestion of the previous night's meal. Elderly individuals need at least six hours of sleep and should wake up during Brahma Muhurta, around 1 hour and 36 minutes before sunrise, as it is considered the ideal time to begin the day.^[15] Abhyanga: it involves applying warm oil to the whole body, from scalp to soles. Enhances circulation and balances Vata and Pitta Dosha.^[16] Dantadhavana^[17] For oral hygiene, a twig measuring 12 Angula in length and as thick as the tip of one’s little finger can be used for brushing. Suitable options include Arka [Calotropis procera], Vata [Ficus benghalensis], Khadira [Acacia catechu], Karanja [Pongamia pinnata], and Kakubha [Terminalia arjuna]. In old age, as teeth and gums become fragile, the twig should be gently crushed or chewed from the front to prevent injury. Alternatively, Dantashodhana Churna can be used instead of a twig to avoid potential harm. A formulation of Trikatu, Trijata, Tejovati, honey, Saindhava, and Tila Taila can serve as Dantaprasadana Churna^[18] to maintain oral health. Anjana: Regular application of Sowviranjana [Antimony]^[19] in old age helps maintain eye health by enhancing vision, ensuring clarity, and preventing disorders. However, it should be avoided in cases of fever, eye conditions such as Timira [cataracts], pain, or swelling. Nasya and Karna Purana^[20] Nourish sensory organs Vyayama^[21] Exercise is an effective strength promoter it promotes lightness and vitality Regular activities like Suksham Vyayama, Yogasana, and Pranayama help prevent age-related health issues. Cankramana [walking] enhances Ayu [lifespan], Bala [strength], Agni [digestion], and sensory perception.^[22] Kavala and Gandusha helps to maintain the oral health.^[23]

Sadvritta

Sadvritta, derived from “Sad” meaning good and “Vritta” meaning conduct, it is aimed at maintaining balanced state of Shareera [body] & Manas [mind].

Practicing Dinacharya aligns the body's biological rhythms with nature, promoting Dirghayu. Awakening during Brahma Muhurta harmonizes the body with natural cycles, enhances Ojas, Medha, and Bala, and fosters an invigorated lifestyle, aiding in the prevention of Akala Jara.^[29]

Danta Dhavana and Anjana are essential for maintaining Indriya Bala, ensuring the optimal functioning of sensory organs. Regular Abhyanga helps in pacifying Vata Dosha, improving Twak Sara, enhancing skin elasticity, and relieving Sankocha, thereby preventing degenerative disorders, Whereas Padabhyanga and Shiroabhyanga Promote relaxation and enhance sleep quality.^[30] Nasya Karma plays a vital role in Indriya Prasadana, and stimulating Budhi, making it effective in delaying the signs of aging^[31] Regular practice of Vyayama improves Anga Laghava, strengthens Mamsa Dhatu, ensuring Asthi Bala and overall musculoskeletal health.

Practicing selfless service can help in delaying premature aging by reducing stress, fostering a positive mindset, and promoting emotional well-being. When individuals engage in service without expectations, it minimizes mental strain and cultivates inner peace, which in turn supports hormonal balance and overall health. A longitudinal study found that individuals who practiced selfless service regularly lived longer than those who did not, highlighting its positive impact on overall health and longevity.^[32,34]

Shodhana Karmas helps in Tridosha Samya [doshic balance], improves metabolic efficiency, and delays degenerative processes, whereas Rasayana Chikitsa serves as a cornerstone of anti-aging by focusing on Dhatu Poshana [tissue nourishment], Agni Deepana [strengthening digestive fire], and enhancing Ojas [vital immunity], thereby delaying Jara Lakshanas [aging signs], restoring Bala [strength], and promoting Ayushya [longevity].

Conclusion

Ayurveda provides a holistic approach to managing Akalaja Jara by focusing on balancing Doshas, nourishing Dhatus, and enhancing Ojas through Dinacharya, Rasayana, and Shodhana therapies. Practices like Abhyanga, Vyayama, and Nasya support physical and mental health, while Basti ensures rejuvenation and longevity.