Life has a way of teaching us lessons through unexpected events. Just today, I learned that a dear friend of mine—a passionate naturalist who has always embraced a natural lifestyle—underwent surgery for kidney stones. While I was relieved to know the surgery was successful, I felt deeply saddened. It wasn’t just about the surgery itself but the realization that natural, simple, and inexpensive home remedies could have potentially prevented this outcome.
If my friend had shared their problem just a week earlier, I could have suggested natural home remedies to dissolve the stones. Ingredients like coriander, which acts as a gentle diuretic, or also treatment of Epsom salt, olive oil, and citrus fruits, are known to naturally aid in cleansing and expelling kidney stones. These remedies, rooted in nature’s wisdom, could have been a non-invasive solution.
This incident served as a reminder of why it’s so important to foster trust and communication around natural therapies, particularly among those who are inclined toward a holistic way of living.
The Importance of Timing and Openness
As someone trained in psychotherapy and counselling, one of the first principles I was taught is: “Never give unsolicited advice.” No matter how good or well-intentioned the guidance may be, it is meaningful only when the person is ready to hear it. Offering suggestions uninvited can lead to misunderstandings or even strain relationships.
A Marathi proverb perfectly captures this wisdom: ‘Paltya ghadyawar pani’ (पळत्या घड्यावर पाणी)—pouring water on an overturned pot is futile.
I’ve experienced this firsthand. When my father was diagnosed with heart blockages, doctors strongly recommended bypass surgery. Knowing the benefits of natural therapies, I tried to suggest alternatives. However, my advice, though well-meant, was not welcomed, and I was kept out of the decision-making process.
That moment came not from a place of indifference or lack of love, but the opposite—I wanted to help because my parents have always loved and supported me, just as I have for them. We share a strong, close-knit bond built on love and trust, even if we sometimes differ in our approaches or beliefs. As a family, we have learned to agree to disagree, and despite taking different paths, our relationship remains rooted in mutual understanding and affection.
The strong connection we share gave me the courage to offer uninvited advice because I wanted the best for my father. Ultimately, he underwent bypass surgery, and I respected his choice, just as he respects mine when it comes to my views on natural therapies.
This experience reinforced a valuable lesson: every individual has their own journey. While I wholeheartedly believe in natural therapies, I’ve learned to share my knowledge only when it’s invited. Respecting others’ decisions is as important as advocating for what I believe in.
Why Natural Living and Therapies Matter
Natural living is not just about curing illnesses—it’s a way of aligning with nature to maintain balance and prevent disease. The ancient science of Ayurveda emphasizes this holistic approach, aiming to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit.
As the Charaka Samhita (चरक संहिता) teaches us:
"स्वस्थस्य स्वास्थ्य रक्षणं, आतुरस्य विकार प्रशमनं च"
"Swasthasya swasthya rakshanam, aaturasya vikara prashamanam cha."
(Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana 30:26)
Meaning: The purpose of Ayurveda is to maintain the health of the healthy and to cure the illness of the diseased.
Modern lifestyles often disrupt this natural balance with unhealthy diets, stress, and reliance on synthetic drugs. Natural therapies, on the other hand, address the root cause of ailments, helping the body heal itself rather than just masking symptoms.
When it comes to kidney stones, for example, the natural remedies I mentioned earlier—coriander, Epsom salt, olive oil, and citrus fruits—can support the body’s detoxification and healing processes. These remedies are not just effective; they are also gentle, accessible, and affordable, embodying the core principles of natural living.
The Wisdom of Ayurveda
Ayurveda reminds us that true health is about balance and prevention. Here are a few shlokas that highlight the timeless relevance of this ancient science:
1. "युक्ताहारविहारस्य युक्तचेष्टस्य कर्मसु।
युक्तस्वप्नावबोधस्य योगो भवति दुःखहा।"
"Yuktahara viharasya yukta cheshtasya karmasu,
Yukta swapnavabodhasya yogo bhavati dukhaha."
(Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 6:17)
Meaning: Moderation in eating, recreation, work, and sleep leads to a life free of suffering.
2. "धातुसाम्यम् क्रियते यत्र रोगा: तत्र न जायन्ते।"
"Dhatusamyam kriyate yatra roga: tatra na jayante."
(Sushruta Samhita, Sutrasthana 15:41)
Meaning: Where balance in bodily tissues is maintained, diseases do not arise.
These verses remind us that health is not just the absence of disease—it is a state of harmony achieved through mindful living.
A Call to Like-Minded Souls
For those of you who resonate with natural living and seek holistic solutions for your health concerns, I encourage you to reach out and explore the wisdom of nature. At ME Holistic Centre, we are here to support you on this journey. Whether it’s kidney stones or any other health issue, our approach is grounded in understanding, care, and the timeless principles of natural healing.
You can connect with us through the chat box at meholisticcentre.com. Let’s work together to find solutions that honor your body’s innate ability to heal.
In Conclusion
To my readers, this is a heartfelt appeal to embrace the beauty and effectiveness of natural therapies. To my father and friend, if you’re reading this: I love and respect your choices, and I thank you for teaching me lessons that have deepened my understanding and compassion.
Natural living is not about imposing solutions—it’s about creating awareness and building trust. When the time is right, I hope more people will be open to discovering the incredible healing potential of nature.
As the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda teaches us, prevention and balance are the cornerstones of health. Let us honor this wisdom and make choices that nurture our well-being and align us with the rhythms of nature.
- Manjushree Rathi
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