Individuals who are benefiting from their Yoga mats might like to explore the practices of ayurveda, which is becoming increasingly popular with people who want to focus on relaxing at the end of a busy day.

Geeta Vara, practitioner of Geeta Vara Ayurveda, explained: "Ayurveda is the sister science of Yoga, so a lot of the principles and philosophies that people follow outside their physical Yoga practice is very much a part of what ayurveda is all about really. They’re both sister sciences and go hand-in-hand."

Ayurveda is a 5000-year-old system of complementary medicine that takes a holistic approach to treating all sorts of ailments, and Ms Vara said individuals are becoming much more willing to embrace alternative practices.

"There’s [been] a general shift now, with people looking for a more natural way of healing themselves or healing their illnesses or conditions. A lot of people have become more intelligent about what they’re putting in their body. There’s a big shift in what people are eating - a massive shift even in people taking more interest in cooking and food, in lifestyle. I think people are much more open now and less sceptical about hearing different ideas," she added.

Those who are interested in learning more about ayurveda could start by using some of the common ayurvedic herbs in their diet.

Turmeric, for example, is said to have numerous therapeutic effects, including helping to maintain healthy skin and preventing blood clots, treating cold symptoms and having anti-allergy properties. The spice can be taken as a capsule supplement or used in cooking deliciously spicy meals - perfect for warming you up on these cold winter nights.

It is also said to help those with conditions like eczema, psoriasis, asthma, arthritis, osteoarthritis and colitis, many of which can flare up and be painful in the colder, wetter months.

Posted by Matilda Jones