
The One and Only New Year Resolution You Will Ever Need
New beginnings inspire resolutions, a renewed promise to oneself to secure the happiness that seems to elude us day after day – perhaps it will come through losing a few pounds; quitting the caffeine addiction; allowing for (more) me-time; making time to help those less fortunate…. How come these heart-felt resolutions fail within the first few weeks of the new year? Why can’t the best and strongest of intentions withstand the whirlwind of daily life?
Today I want to give you a secret. I want to teach you a very simple yet central ayurvedic formula that will keep your New Year resolution(s) going strong through the year. In this sense, you will only need to heed this one ayurvedic principle, make it your one and only resolution, to stay on top of it all. So put your list aside and read this first.
Here it goes.
Ayurvedic science is comprised of “siddhanta”-s. A siddhanta is made up of:
A siddhanta is a saying that gives proven wisdom, and shows measurable practical results. A siddhanta is a formula that yields palpable results no matter when or where tested, it will always do what it says. In short: it’s science at its best. It holds true under any circumstance and for all. In Ayurveda, siddhanta-s are written in compact formulaic language. Many times you need an expert teacher or guide to get the meaning, otherwise you’ll miss it. I want to talk about one such siddhanta today.
This is a siddhanta from the Charak Samhita on the natural law of “more and/or less:”
sarvadaa: always
sarvabhavanam: under all circumstances
samanyam: equal
vrddhi: increase
karanam: the reason
hraas: reduce
hetur: etiological factor
visheshascha: specific
pritak: separating, taking away
kritam: the act of separating
This siddhanta-s is known as the “samanya and vishesh siddhanta:” the formula for “more or less.” The idea is: whenever you take something away – it could be a mental habit, a physical act, a material, anything at all really – you are creating separation and decrease – pritakkritam. This is the siddhanta. So what’s the big deal? Let’s think of it in SVA terms, that is: in terms of Soma, Agni, and Marut.
See whenever you take something away, or reduce something, you are creating vacuum. In ayurvedic terms, when you create vacuum, you bring in more Marut. Marut is made of the air and space elements. In the body, an excess of marut expresses itself as vata dosha imbalance. And we know from our ayurvedic studies that Vata dosha is the king of all doshas, when it goes off, Pitta and Kapha can’t be too far away. And this is the key. If you take away a habit that is harming you, without replacing it with a good habit, if you remove an ingredient, without filling its place with another, if you cut loose a toxic relationship, without finding TLC in another, you are doomed to fail your resolution and run to restore it, much to your distress. Let’s say this in practical terms.
How to KickYour Addiction(s)!
Staying away through sheer willpower is a proven formula for failure. Let’s say you are addicted to white sugar, and you know by now that white sugar is not good for you for so many reasons: it feeds cancerous cells; it creates inflammation; it tips off your hormonal balance by creating too much estrogen; it is highly addictive to your brain chemistry and desensitizes you to enjoy healthy sweets with long term use. But you can’t quit the habit. Why?
Why do we hold on to harmful habits in the first place? On some level, they address a want, a need.
In SVA terms, we know that any sweet taste contains Soma. Soma is the key to our life, to our health to our longevity, and our mental and emotional balance. Remember: it was the nectar that the gods and demons fought over; in Greek mythology it is known as “ambrosia.” In some situations, your body calls for extra Soma, for example, whenever your are experiencing mental or emotional stress, and due to that stress Marut and Agni have gone high in your body. To feed that Marut and Agni and cool things off, your body desires more Soma – or more sweet taste. If all you have available for you is white sugar, as a source of Soma, and if you don’t eat it and go cold-turkey in quitting white sugar then you are setting yourself up for a sure downfall. Witholding from eating that chocolate bar when all your stress markers are off the charts is torture! You will end up having several extra bars… Be smart about things with SVA. Spare yourself the unnecessary torture. Do not provoke your Pitta and Vata doshas further through deprivation. Pitta and Vata which govern your body will go high, then you lose your ability to handle mental and emotional stress, and you plummet through your dark tunnel of addiction with more despondency.
Although it is a good and wise thing to stop white sugar, it is even wiser to replace the white sugar wtih a healhty source of Soma (perhaps dehydrated whole sugar-cane juice; or sweet juicy fruits; or raw honey; etc). You can’t fight addiction with addiction! You can’t take on darkness without bringing in the light. And when you bring in the light, darkness subsides on its own, as a great guru once said…
If your life is such that you have to deal with an overload of mental pressure and emotional stress on a daily basis, you can take measures to further support your body by supplying healthy regular doses of Soma. This is where the pharmacopeia of Ayurveda comes in handy. The use of plants and herbs. Rose is the queen of flowers and carries such a vast array of balancing somagenic properties. I made my SVA Rose Petal Preserve not only with dehydrated sugarcane juice, encapsulated with natural fruit pectin, but with the best organic Rosa centifolia petals. Many note how my Rose Preserve carries a slightly sweet yet sour taste, unlike most or all rose preserves. That’s because I formulated it to pacify Sadhak Pitta and Prana Vata. Use it therapeutically, not as a jam. Take a teaspoon with warm water morning and evening or during the day, to help curb your sugar craving by pacifying your Vata and Pitta doshas.
If rose is not your thing, go for another best-selling sweet SVA item: my Sesame Crunch that comes in 6 different flavors is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The cane sugar in this treat, the Soma, is balanced by the Agni of the sesame seeds, and vice versa. While eating sugar on its own can aggravate your Kapha dosha, and eating sesame seeds can throw off your Pitta and Vata doshas through too much Agni, eating them together is pure balanced bliss! Plus you get the extra added benefits of sesame – it is high in calcium and nourishes your bone tissue.
The key is: when you take away something, give something in its stead.
Since food is the primary sub-pillar of health and happiness, and we are on the topic of food addictions, let’s take another example that SVA followers have a hard time with: onion and garlic. I always tell those who come to see me to reduce/eliminate the use of onion and garlic, if they want to have the friendly bacteria in their gut flourish and support their mental and overall health. But this is easier said than done. Not only our taste-buds, but our entire physiology gets addicted to the sharp sulphurous smell and taste of onion and garlic.
I have written extensively about this on my blog, but in a nutshell, onion and garlic contain a high content of sulfure molecules which kills the friendly bacteria. While they are considered “amrit” or life-bestowing in specific conditions, they are not meant for daily regular consumption. Only as medicinal additions to diet. The fact that the friendly bacteria cannot survive when you eat onion and garlic on a regular basis should be enough impetus for you to kick the habit. But again, it does not work that way. If your body has become chemically addicted to an item, there’s not much your mind can do about it. Here’s an alternative:
Number 1: adopt a drink of 80/20 ration of water to home-made yoghurt. Add Soma Salt to taste and a few pinches of Mom’s Masala. This is a delicious drink to help replenish your friendly bacteria of the gut. You will be able to think more clearly and stay resolute in your outlook and decision with a healthy gut – the latest discovery about friendly bacteria is they help produce neuro-transmitters that support brain functioning. The lassi, yoghurt and water drink is also famous for its known benefits for the overall digestive system.
Number 2: replace onion and garlic with cabbage and brussel sprouts! Slice/chop these very fine, fry in ghee and/or sesame oil, and add to your food. These vegetables also have sulphur molecules and will give you a similar flavor. However, if you need the heat and the “kick” out of the onion and garlic sharpness, use thin green thai chillies, and/or fresh ginger. These have countless benefits for health, with no side-effects (unless you have are prone to or already have pitta imbalance, then use with caution).
Early Bedtime for Even More Soma!
Still need more Soma? Did you know that going to bed early fully restores your depleted stocks of Soma and Ojas? Soma is the raw material for Ojas. More Soma more Ojas more health and longevity. You know you want to. Because you’ve heard the adage: “early to bed and early to rise make you healthy wealthy and wise!” So if you are addicted to going to bed late, despite your best intentions, and you have all kinds of distractions and justifications, first remember this: going to bed late has many dire consequences for your health, amongst them the most important – it burns your vital energy source, the Ojas in your body. And not just that: it disturbs your overall total metabolism. In Ayurveda it is called “agni vyapar” – metabolic transformations of agni through the body’s different organs and organ systems. This disturbance lowers the efficiency of your immune system.
But going to bed early is one of the hardest habits to cultivate in this day and age of electrical wonders. After a full day of interacting with all kinds of EMF/EMR machines and getting all stocked up on the buzz, and coming home to TV and electricity with bright jarring lights and loud music etc, even when you want to, and you lay your body down for an early night, many times you will not fall asleep, instead you will actually feel mentally and physically energized and get second wind.

The trick is to go slow. Try going to bed half an hour earlier every day or over the span of a few days. If you usually go to bed by 11:30pm, try to go to bed by 11pm instead. Don’t aim for 9pm all at once! Our bodies are very intelligent, but most of all they love habit. It is very hard to break a habit, specially the bad ones. So you have to strategize very wisely! Even as you try to slowly go to bed earlier, take measures to wind down your activities in the evening and adopt settling habits – light breathing and/or yoga; turning down the lights to send the right messages to your brain chemistry; turning off your wi-fi; earlier, lighter, but protein-rich and less spicy dinners; etc. And then you resort to SVA to do something for balancing your Prana vata and Vyana vata – they are responsible for keeping your mind alert and energized and not allowing you to fall asleep, or to suddenly wake up after falling asleep!
Ayurveda offers a wide array of calming plants and herbal synergies. I have made things easier by putting them into unique SVA formulations. My line is called Soma Nidra. The Soma Nidra formulas come in roll-on, essential oil, oral spray, and loose tea form. You can apply the Soma Nidra roll-on on the lower back and cervical spine as well as your wrists; or spray the Soma Nidra oral spray in your mouth; in major case scenarios where it is almost impossible for you to settle down into sleep earlier, you can apply Vata oil with Magnesium and Vit D on your knees, lower legs, and feet, and leave the oil on. This is a gentle Vata dosha calming massage before bedtime and it works wonders! This will pacify your Prana and Vyana subdoshas. Soma Nidra tea is if you are really really not getting sleep, and have fallen into a bad rut. Drink Soma Nidra tea ½ hour before bed. Boil 1 tsp in 4oz water for one person. steep for 5 minutes. strain and drink slowly.
In the big picture, in order to stay on top of any and all your New Year’s resolutions, don’t fight it. If you want to change something, bring in something to replace it. The new sprout naturally and innocently lets the old skin fall off even as it shoots up. To keep your core energies at their optimal, heed food and
sleep, and then you can’t make any errors in your actions. The sutra says:
Three subpillars of life support healthy happiness and longevity: food, sleep, and proper action. And in that order: first proper food (ahar) in a timely manner, and then sufficient timely sleep (7-8 hours a night), and this will support ALL your actions, actions that are worthy of powerful Brahma consciousness, rooted in peace, life-supporting and evolutionary, bringing you balance and bliss. You’d be surprised to see how – when you are well fed and well rested – your mind operates optimally and you can be the boss of your own life. Go to my blog to find recipes, tips and guidance in general.
Happy Holidays! Here’s to a fabulous 2017, filled with balance and bliss always!
Missed a gift? It’s not too late! Get an electronic SVA gift certificate!
Protect, Soothe, Refresh and Rejuvenate your Eyes
Netra Soma Eye Drops with Organic Rose
Chakchu, the eyes, are a predominantly “agneya” or fiery organ, characterized by transformational energy. Through the eyes, we not only see, but we also “cook” or transform what we see into information and experience. Our modern culture is also very much an agneya or fiery culture, driven by electric and electronic power, bombarding our eyes with information and radiation. Have you noticed how in the past decade, our day-to-day lives, and our health, have become so dependent on
EMF devices? Do you ever stop to wonder what that dependence is doing to our
bodies, how it is affecting it, for the better or the worse, and what that means for us in ayurvedic terms? Ayurveda is an ancient science, but its pertinence lies in its ability to address our most current problems and health issues. Overexposure to EMF devices and radiation is our most burning (pun intended!) issue in this day and age!
Ayurveda is as secular as it gets, because it knows that nothing under the sun is inherently good or bad, except that we make it so. It’s all about balance. In SVA terms it is about maintaing a happy marriage between soma, agni, and marut, so that the dosha-s in the body, the regulatory principles of functioning, also maintain a harmonious working relationship. This is the key.
What does this mean in terms of the health of our eyes in this EMF age? Exactly this: that all agneya aspects of our physiology, the organs that carry more agneya or transformative power (eyes, pancreas, liver, etc), receive even more agni nowadays, and are therefore at a risk of overdosing on agni, not getting the chance to cool off and cool down, and literally burning out!
You know what I am saying. We stare at our smart device to read the latest news online – who still reads paperbacks and newspapers? We log into our virtual cloud space to work online; pick up yet another device to communicate virtually; eat foods prepared or heated in micro-wave devices; further relax by watching online shows, or even work-out with online interactive devices! Hours on end staring and interacting with electronic screens and devices that emit heat, electricity, and electromagnetic waves. Our physical eyes are not equipped to see it, but all these devices operate by sending out EMF waves, that bombard our organic, flesh-and-blood bodies with electronic magnetic micro-waves. Our bodies, and the entire environment, for that matter, is getting an excess of electrical heat and waves. Things are wont to change, and not necessarily for the good.
What to do? We really have no other choice but to care for our eyes on a daily basis. EMF (electro-magnetic field) and EMR (electro-magnetic radiation) in particular give a lot of extra stress and strain on the physical eyes, especially on the optic nerves. Watching TV and being on the computer for even short stretches of time pollutes the nadis (vibrational channels) of the eyes. The EMF charge of these electronic devices disrupts the flow of pranic energy in our eyes. The corrupt synthetic vibrations of EMF/EMR first impact the vibrational channels of the eyes and then further impact the optic nerves and functioning of the eyes. In a nutshell, EMF ‘sucks’ the soma (cooling lunar vibrational energy) out of the eyes. Soma is the balancing factor for Agni (fire) and Marut (circulating energy). When the soma of the eyes gets reduced, you can experience redness, irritatation, and dryness. Less soma also means the roop (countenance) of the eyes becomes narrower and more constricted in appearance. When circulation is further impaired – the micro-circulatory channels dry up and shrink. If you are not following a particularly balanced diet, if you are delaying sleep, or over-exerting in general, then chances are your eyes will be more prone to losing their luster, look tired, and get puffy. To address all this, let’s look at my Netra Soma Eye Drops in more detail.
Netra Soma Eye Drops with Organic Rose
I am personally extremely pleased with my eyedrops. I call this formula Netra Soma Eye Drops with Organic Rose. I formulated it to cool and pacify alochaka pitta and instantly restore freshness to tired eyes. All new formulas are inspired by someone in need. I made these drops for a friend who was having constant dry eyes and eye sties. Nothing he did was working. He was desperate. I made it and gave him a bottle. It worked on his eyes like a charm. Then I sent it out to friends and colleagues and got nothing but positive feedback. They all urged me to make these drops available to all SVA followers. Here’s what I put in the formula.
The main ingredient in my eye drops is a seed called Chakchusya. Chakchu in Sanskrit means ‘eye’. Ayusha means ‘healthy life span’. Thus, chakchusya (chakchu + ayusha) means ‘which enhances the health and longevity of the eyes’.
My drops also contain distilled organic rose petals to support chakchusya. This synergy makes for an even more effective formula, because rose is the best ingredient to simultaneously pacify alochak pitta, vyana vata, sadhak pitta, and prana vata. Rose – The Queen of Flowers
What are the Ayurvedic Benefits of Netra Soma Eye Drops with Organic Rose?
• Cooling, nurturing, and lubricating for the eyes – immediate and long-term use
• Delivers soma (lunar vibrations) to the eyes to counterbalance EMF and EMR
• Immediately soothes and calms the eyes
• Helps the eyes flush out accumulated environmental physical and vibrational toxins
• Provides mental relaxation and inner bliss
Let us see what two lines from the Dhanvantari Nighanthu says about Chakchusya:
Cakṣuṣyā – ‘the seed’. Drk – ‘vision or sight’. Prasādā – ‘gives clarity to the vision or sight’.
Himā – ‘cooling’. Kaṣāyā – ‘astringent’. Viṣaṁ – ‘toxins.’ Sthāvarajaṁgamam – ‘environmental toxins’.
To summarize the verse, it says that: this seed (cakṣuṣyā) cools the eyes, helps remove inner and outer toxins, and gives clarity to the vision.
How to use it?
Directions: Place 1-2 drops of the liquid in each eye with the dropper. Keep the dropper away from the eyes. Do not touch to the eyes or any other surface. Repeat as needed one or more time during the day and once before going to sleep at night. (Do not use more than four times per day.) Keep in a cool dry place and avoid exposure to sunlight and extreme temperatures. It’s highly recommended to refrigerate after opening, as we do not using any synthetic preservative which would destroy the pranic energy of the formula. If you do not refrigerate it, make sure you keep it in a cool, dark place. For best results, use this product up to 90 days – maximum – after opening.
Ingredients: Total Netra Soma Eye-Drops (Vaidya Mishra’s proprietary blend) with Chakchusya and Organic Rose in a base of distilled water – all organically preserved with SVA Pranic Preservation Technology.
Caution: Do not use if you have an active infection in the eye, or any known medical condition. Check with your medical first. Do not use if/when wearing contact lenses. May use after removing lenses.
Children: do not use on children ages 11 and below.
I also have some other effective SVA remedies for your tired eyes. I have been addressing eye care through SVA for a long time in my practice. My first SVA product for relieving eye strain, especially caused by EMF/EMR and overwork, was my Herb-Rich Skin Clay. Afterwards I made three more products working on different aspects of eye health through distinct mediums: Triphala Ghee; ALA Cream (Aroma-free); and Ayurvedic Lalita’s Eye Liners. You can use all of them in addition to the Some Netra eye drops. Here’s each one, and what it can do for you.
Other Unique SVA Formulations for Total Eye Care
Herb-Rich Skin Clay: Using the computer for long periods of time drains out the soma or cooling energy of the eyes. When you stare at the computer screen, or any other electronic device (TV, cell-phone, tablet, etc.) for long periods of time, you are using up and burning the lunar energy, or soma, of your eyes, your eyes are now left depleted, and the agni of your eyes, further aggravated not only by soma depletion but by overexposure to electronic synthetic agni, gets further aggravated, creating the dark circles around your eyes. One great solution is to make a soothing eye mask with my Herb-Rich Skin Clay to deliver more soma to the eyes and soak up the buzzy EMF vibrations. Here’s how – Skin Clay Mask for the Eyes.
Triphala Ghee: The optic nerve and the eyelids are governed by vata dosha, while the overall lubrication of the inside of the eyelid, and the eyeball are governed by kapha dosha. Vyana vata governs the optic nerve and eyelids, and shleshak kapha lubricates the eyelids and eyeball. So whenever any formula for the eyes is put together, it should first be pitta pacifying, cooling. At the same time, it should not be too cold so as not to aggravate shleshaka kapha and vyana vata. SVA Triphala is cooling and lubricating, but unlike other fats, it is also agneya – it has enough agni or fire molecules which make it an ideal fat that does not freeze our channels like other fats. Triphala Ghee for Tired, Itchy Eyes
ALA Cream (Aroma-free): Sensitive areas like the eyes, run by alochak pitta, are by nature hot. When circulation to the eyes and nerve extremities in the eyes goes low, cooling but circulation enhancing products such as ALA are ideal. Triphala ghee can be applied on the temples and eye area at night to nourish and nurture. Then, in the day time, you may apply water-based ALA cream. This is a light soothing cream that will help improve circulation in the eye area, particularly helpful for those who work on computers for extended hours, or those who exert their eyes extensively otherwise on a daily basis. Learn more about ALA for the eyes and how to give complete marma care for your eyes: SVA Marma Eye Care.
Ayurvedic Lalita’s Eye Liners: The ayurvedic shastras are filled with different kinds of herbalized eyeliners, called anjan, to support
and/or enhance the health and activity of the eyes. Eyeliners are a great way to address the health of your eyes on a daily basis, since it is easy to use and apply. Lalita’s Ayurvedic Eyeliners nourish and moisturizes the eyes by pacifying and nurturing alochaka pita. Coming in three colors, these natural eyeliners will, of course, highlight and bring out the natural beauty of your eyes as well! Ayurvedic Lalita’s Eye Liners.
Read my other blog entries on eye care here: Eyes: Inner & Outer Vision.
Disclaimer: The products and statements herein have not been evaluated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and are not intended to be used to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. All of the information above is intended to be used for educational purposes only and may not be used to replace or compliment medical advice.
Age-less Beautiful Skin with Lalita’s Formulas – now with Collagen and Beta-Carotene
Have you heard of Aurora, ancient Greek goddess of dawn? She was in love with Tithonus, who was a mere mortal! In her efforts to preserve the life of her loved one, she went to Zeus and pleaded to grant him everlasting life; but, alas, she forgot to ask for eternal youth. Tithonus indeed became immortal, yet hopelessly wished for death to overcome him to free him from his eternal entrappment in an ever aging body.
Nowhere does age show more than in our skin, the largest organ of our bodies. The skin is not just a protective barrier, but fulfills many important functions, and I’ve written about this at lenght on my blog. Skin-care is an important aspect of overall health, and with Ayurveda, we can make the most of what we have. No matter what your age, you should be living out your own body’s utmost potential of health and beauty.
With SVA, you can discover a proven treasure trove of herbal knowledge and know-how. Years ago I put together my Lalita’s Age-Defying Skin Care Line – to deliver outstanding result for beautiful skin. These products work so well to address the three pillars of beauty: Rupam (outer beauty); Gunam (inner beauty); and Vayastag (lasting beauty). Learn more about the full meaning of total beauty by understanding our relationship to the world we live in, and the cosmos we are part of: Celestial Radiance Cream and the Planets
But there is always room for improvement. Recently, when I was conducting research for my new Cellulite Course – I realized and observed that especially in the case of older skin, certain nutritional materials need to be delivered to the skin in greater quantities. In Ayurvedic terms, I realized that adding certain ingredients – namely, collagen and Beta-carotene – to my facial creams would yield even greater benefits on the Rupam (physical) level. The power of auspicious transformation has always been a key factor in my facial creams. But sometimes, in some people, the physical materials, the physical proteins and other molecules to be transformed into the body’s molecular ‘bricks’ are in short supply.
Collagen, Keratin and Elasten
Two of these ‘bricks’ are keratin and collagen. There are three key ‘beauty’ proteins in the body, collagen, elastin and keratin. Collagen is a type of protein, and works with keratin to provide the skin strength, smoothness, elasticity and resilience. It is produced by the skin and other parts of the body. When you are young, you have an abundance of collagen in your body, which is why young children have such lovely shiny hair and smooth skin. It is referred to be the “cement” which holds everything together. As we age, our body’s production of collagen and other structural proteins starts to slow down, our skin starts to lose its elasticity and, sadly, we start to notice sagging skin, wrinkles, and lines forming around the eyes and mouth.
Furthermore, with time, reactive oxygen molecules, associated with many aspects of aging, lead to increased production of the enzyme collagenase, which breaks down collagen. It’s been found that certain diseases are related to either collagen deficiencies or the lack of its synthesis by the body. Such diseases most commonly arise from a combination of either genetic defects, poor intake of collagen-rich foods, nutritional deficiencies, or digestive problems affecting the production (synthesis) of collagen.
The key detail is that collagen is only found in animals and there is no plant source for collagen. It is the main structural protein in the extracellular space in the various connective tissues in animal bodies (including humans). As the main component of connective tissue, it is the most abundant protein in mammals. Collagen tissues may be rigid (bone), compliant (tendon), or have a gradient from rigid to compliant (cartilage).
Keratin is one of a family of fibrous structural proteins that occurs naturally in hair, nails and skin. Keratin is the protein that protects epithelial cells from damage or stress. It is the key structural material making up the outer layer of human skin. Depending on amino acid levels, it can be hard (as it is in nails) or soft (as it is in skin). No matter what form it’s in, keratin is designed for protection. In our skin, the outer layer (the epidermis) is made up of a layer of dead keratin cells, pushed to the surface by new keratin cells growing underneath. This outer layer provides waterproofing functions as well as strength and elasticity. The loss of strength and elasticity in older skin is due to losing keratin over the years. When the top level of keratin is compromised, the sensitive inner layers are exposed to damage through heat, chemicals, or friction. When skin keratin is damaged, it results in skin looking flaky and dry. Typically, the healthiest skin has the thickest layer of dead keratin protecting the cells underneath.
Keratinization is the process by which keratin hardens. Without the mesh-like outer layer formed by keratinization, the skin would easily break, resulting in frequent infection by foreign invaders like bacteria. Keratin hardens as keratinocytes, found in epithelial cells, produce more and more keratin. Keratin forms a tight mesh, making it impenetrable unless damaged. As these keratinized cells age on the skin, the body sloughs off the dead or damaged cells.
Collagen facial creams have been around for decades. But do any of them really work? Not really, because the collagen does not get absorbed, since collagen is quite a large molecule, and it does not penetrate the skin but stays idly on top of it, and gets washed off. Same applies to keratin. Certain creams containing keratin do seem to fair a little better in terms of results but many do not, especially those keratin products made with excessive heat which damages the proteins, changes the properties, and making them useless. The point here is the same as with supplementation. Once it is determined that there is a deficiency, we try to supplement things externally, because the body is not producing enough on its own. But most of the time the oral or transdermal supplementation is neither absorbed nor utilized by the body.
Coming back to my research on Cellulite I realized that I already had the answers in my existing Lalita’s Line. All the power of transformation to make collagen and use keratin was already there. I already use the most intelligent wild harvested Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola) in high quantities in my creams. My father, with whom I interned after graduating from college, called this herb ‘maha twaga’ rasayana – a great or the very best rasayana for the skin.
Modern science agrees:
• The centella asiatica (gotu kola) extract asiaticoside is well-known to promote skin connective tissue repair and wound healing.
• In a study assessing the exact biology of this action of asiaticoside on skin and connective tissue repair, it was found that asiaticoside affected the expression of 54 genes related to connective tissue function!
• Specifically, asiaticoside upregulated the expression of genes related to fibroblast “cell proliferation, cell-cycle progression and synthesis of the extracellular matrix”.
• This, in simple terms, means that collagen cells mature and multiply faster and produce more collagen and other connective tissue proteins.
• In the same study it was found that asiaticoside boosted the secretion of collagen type I (the hard collagen that gives firmness to skin and connective tissue) and collagen type III (the softer, “baby collagen”, which is produced before collagen type I and helps with connective tissue repair and regeneration).
There is no shortage of research on using this remarkable herb for collagen synthesis: Gotu Kola for the Skin – The Ancient Healing Herb for Anti-aging. Centella asiatica in Cosmetology
Beta-Carotene
Beta-carotene is the one other ingredient I felt was missing and could make my facial creams even more efficacious. Looking at beta-carotene we find that it is effective in conditions like dry skin, eczema and psoriasis. Vitamin A, being a powerful antioxidant, is involved in the growth and repair of body tissues and hence, protects the skin against damage. When applied externally, it helps in treating ulcers, impetigo, boils, carbuncles and open ulcers, and removes age spots. It also speeds up the healing of skin lesions, cuts and wounds. Beta-carotene helps premature skin ageing by acting as an antioxidant, a substance that reduces oxygen damage caused by UV light, pollutions and other environmental hazards like smoking. Adequate intake and transformation of beta carotene imparts luster, making the skin more attractive and beautiful. Last, but not least, beta-carotene can even help reduce sun sensitivity.
Confident in my research and understanding of the ancient shastras, all I needed now was to source the best collagen and beta-carotene and do samyog (skillful combination) into two select products from my existing line of facial creams. As mentioned, collagen is found only in animals. There are no plant sources of collagen. I use animal collagen sourced exclusively from organically-raised chickens. The beta-carotene is derived from organic carrots.
Now you can use two of your favorite Lalita’s Facial Cream enhanced with natural collagen & beta-carotene: I have incorporated the new ingredients into all the original Lalita’s Age Defying Cream (with aroma) and into the Pearl and Jasmine- Lalita’s Age Defying Cream
(Those who prefer not to have any animal products in their creams can still use the original versions of these two creams.)
The Lalita’s Age Defying Line of Facial Creams
• Lalita’s Age Defying Cream (with or without aroma)
• Abhrak & Jasmine Lalita’s Age Defying Cream
• Abhrak & Rose Lalita’s Age Defying Cream
• Abhrak Lalita’s Age Defying Cream (Aroma Free)
• Jasmine Navratna Celestial Radiance Facial Cream
• Rose Navratna – Celestial Radiance Facial Cream
• Navratna – Celestial Radiance Facial Cream (Aroma Free)
• Navratna Celestial Radiance Facial Cream
• Pearl and Jasmine- Lalita’s Age Defying Cream
• Pearl and Rose – Lalita’s Age Defying Cream
• Pearl Bhasma – Lalita’s Age Defying Cream (Aroma Free)
New! Lalita’s Age Defying Facial Creams Enhanced with Collagen & Beta-Carotene
• Lalita’s Age Defying Cream Enhanced with Collagen & Beta-Carotene
• Pearl and Jasmine- Lalita’s Age Defying Cream – Enhanced with Collagen & Beta-Carotene
Ingredient-wise Skin Care
No ingredient is gratuitous in any of my SVA formulations! Each herb, each spice, each aromatic flower, has its distinct function and purpose. These are the ingredients that go into all of my Lalita’s Skin Care line creams and why I uses them (please note that the Aroma Free alternatives do not contain the aromas listed below):
In the next section you will find a complete list of the ingredients in my facial creams. More than eighteen divine and precious herbs, flowers, and other ingredients go into my facial

creams. Of these, I particularly want to highlight the following:
1) Gotu Kola: We have already talked about this maha twaga rasayana. Any number of websites will give you a lot of research showing how it enhances collagen synthesis, preserves the skin’s elasticity and maintains its youthfulness
2) Saffron: This precious thread helps prevent the oxidation process in the body, whether caused from toxins inside of body or substances floating in the environment. Amavisha (reactive toxins) creates inflammation of the skin layers and between the layers, causing pre-mature aging of the skin. The ‘active ingredient’ of saffron – crocitin, or crocin – has high anti-oxidant value. Crocin – An Overview. Saffron and crocin are responsible for the beautiful, slightly yellow tint found in the Lalita’s creams.
3) Tree Turmeric (Daruharidra) & Turmeric: Modern science has discovered a lot of anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory benefits of these two plants. Turmeric (curcuma longa) is a potent anti-allergy and anti-inflammatory herb famous around the world. Daruharidra is also famous for its potent anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic powers. A major biomarker of daruharidra is an alkaloid called berberine. Every face has to face environmental toxins everyday as the facial skin is highly exposed to the environment. Both of these plants will help protect the skin from allergens floating in the air and from internal free radicals.
4) Sensitive Plant: delivers a strong firming action on the skin especially when combined with the natural collagen sources in my new facial creams, restoring the skin’s tactile intelligence and sensitivity and keeping it from sagging.
5) Sambac Jasmine: Jasmine is renowned for its sandhaniya (unifying) and purifying effect on the skin. As we age, due to the accumulation of toxins, internal and external stressors, the layers of our skin gradually lose integration, resulting in heavy, sagging, dull and flakey skin. Basically, aging skin separates due to free radicals and lack of collagen. Jasmine unifies all the layers of the skin and especially makes the facial skin more youthful.
Saffron (Crocus sativus): modern science confirms the extremely rejuvenating properties of the crocitin molecule, confirming Saffron to be an ancient super-anti-oxidant for the skin, potent in its action up to the 5th dermal layer; Flame of forest (Butea monosperma): supports the skin in its intelligence to shield itself against ultraviolet sunlight rays; Devil’s apple (Solanum Linnaeanum): bolsters the skin cells’ intelligence to actively detox by releasing amavisha and garvisha effectively; Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa): literally from the Sanskrit ‘punar+nava’ = again+new’ rejuvenates the skin by supporting integral detox of the skin by helping release toxins through sweat; Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia): a hypo-allergenic herb that pacifies the hyperactivity of the immune system by addressing amavisha; Turmeric (Curcuma longa): reputed anti-inflammatory that enhances dermal intelligence and protects against inflammation; Daruharidra, also known as Tree Turmeric (Berberis aristata): supports the skin to fight against inflammation, and is active up to the third layer; Gotu kola (Centella asiatica): enhances collagen synthesis, preserving the skin’s elasticity and maintaining its youthfulness; Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): enhances the connection and communication between prana vata, the sub-dosha that governs the mind, and vyana vata, the sub-dosha that governs the skin, a unique SVA approach to skin health through the pacification and balancing of psychological mental stress; Nutmeg (Myristica): enhances the complexion by clearing and balancing the micro-channel of the mind; Mucuna: lubricates and hydrates internally, modulates hormonal flow and lubrication; Green tea: a reputed anti-oxidant that defies psychological aging and supplies tone and elasticity; Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): supports mind/body coordination, nourishes the tactile nerves, thus supporting the skin’s resistance against internal and external stressors; Lemon (Citrus limon): enhances the skin’s resistance to sunlight and supporting its sensitivity; Indian sarsaparilla (Hemidesmus indicus): cleans the pores for an even healthy skin by purifying the sebum and sebaceous glands; Ashoka (Saraca asoca): for the Sanskrit a+shoka = no+ grief, supports the skin’s health by enhances bliss through its ability to pacifying the emotional heart, or the sadhaka pitta sub-dosha; Shirish bark (Albizia lebbeck): provides sustained deep skin layer detox with long term use; Sensitive plant (Mimosa pudica): nourishes and supports the regeneration of the tactile nerves, helping to maintain the sensitivity of the facial skin; Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): a thermogenic plant that enhances and supports overall circulation and communication between all layers of the skin; Neem (Azadiracta indica): supports the immune system of the skin; with: White grapefruit extract: a natural preservative; base of Organic coconut: a cooling firming, lubricating, and nourishing oil. Grapeseed oil: a natural preservative; Vegetable stearic acid: a lubricant; Organic aloe juice: a cooling and detoxifying plant that pacifies bhrajak pitta (pitta sub-dosha of the skin); Kosher vegetable glycerin base: a lubricant; Emulsifying wax (NF) a lubricant.
Directions for all creams:
Use as a daily moisturizing and replenishing cream by applying morning and evening, after cleaning and toning your skin (Lalita’s Facial Cleanser and Lalita’s Facial Toner). You may also use with your SVA Facial Marma protocol, by applying on the SVA marma points, gently massaging and then spreading all over the face.
This water-based hydrating cream is excellent for daily use, and is packed with the intelligence of 18 divine Ayurvedic herbs, naturally preserved in an organic chemical free base according to an ancient Shudh Ayurveda pranic technique. It can be used to hydrate, nourish, and combat biological and psychological aging.
This is a rich, nourishing, hydrating cream ideal for day or night, to be used only for those who have deep wrinkles, very dry skin, or live in an excessively cold weather place. It should only be used in these situations; otherwise the Age-Defying Cream should be used. This lipid-based formulation’s herbal intelligence and power of the essential oils will penetrate to the deepest layer of the skin to make the skin younger. This cream should not be used together with Lalita’s Probiotic Cream (unless it is only used on the facial marma points and not on the entire face), as the friendly bacterial will not survive in oil.
Ingredients: Same as Lalita’s Age Defying Cream except base: organic shea butter, jojoba oil and bee’s wax.
Lalita’s Age Defying Cream enhanced with Collagen & Beta-Carotene
Ingredients: Same as Lalita’s Age Defying Cream with added enhancement by natural sources of collagen and beta-carotene.
Pearl and Jasmine- Lalita’s Age Defying Cream – Enhanced with Collagen & Beta-Carotene
Ingredients: Same as Lalita’s Age Defying Cream except for the inclusion of pearl bhasma, extra Sambac Jasmine, and enhancement by natural sources of collagen and beta-carotene.
Lalita’s Custom Facial Creams: Pearl Bhasma, Abhrak Bhasma, and Celestial Radiance Navratna Creams with Rose Absolute, Sambac Jasmine
Vaidya’s Lalita’s Skin Care Line has been women’s best friend for more than 10 years. His recent Navratna Celestial Radiance Cream was a celebrated addition. But now you have even more choices to address the very specific needs of your skin. In the mood for Pearl Bhasma? How about the vibrational charge of planetary gems combined with Rose Absolute for added balancing and glow? You could also add traces of pure gold, silver, ‘thousand puti’ mineral ash? What do all these ayurvedic ingredients have in common besides being key for total radiant health? This: you can now order your own jar of facial cream with any – or all – of these ingredients, and we at SVA will make it from scratch, just for you, when you place your order! Every single ingredient that I add to my formulations have a distinct purpose. Even the aromatic flowers such as Rose or Jasmine have specific skin nourishing and glow enhancing properties. To address the growing needs of the SVA following, we now offer more creams to complement the existing family of Lalita’s Age-Defying Facial Creams.
All the custom-made creams have the ingredients and beautifying properties of the original formula. But now you can enjoy Lalita’s Age Defying Facial Cream or Navratna Celestial Radiance Facial Cream with either Rose Absolute or Sambac Jasmine. Rose and Jasmine carry distinct properties for the skin. Additional options are the Lalita’s Age-Defying Facial Cream with Natural Pearl Bhasma (nano particles of natural pearl). Or Lalita’s Age-Defying Cream infused with the transformational power of Abhrak Bhasma. These can also come with Rose or Jasmine – the choice is yours.
What is Abhrak Bhasma?
Abhrak Bhasma is an ayurvedic Maha Rasayana. A supremely rejuvenating substance that requires years to make through the controlled process of the repeated ‘burnings’ of mica – a shiny silicate mineral with a layered structure, found as minute scales in granite and other rocks, or as crystals. In Ayurveda, a very special type of mica is used to make the bhasma. It is black mica, called “krishnabhr.”
My Abhrak Facial Cream contains extremely high potency Abhrak – Sahasra Puti: burnt a 1000 times. Sahasra means one thousand. Made by one thousand steps of repeated incineration. The burning process is a massive purification process, as each time the mica gets burnt, it is processed with different herbs, and burnt over and over again one thousand times. In this process of making the ash, or the bhasma, the mica interacts with the rejuvenating herbs so this bhasma carries the intelligence of those herbs. The process of burning the substance again and again makes the molecules finer and finer. This process yields a powerful bhasma, or ash, that is known for its rejuvenating properties for the cellular system, nourishing the skin by directly enhancing the intelligence of the gaps (sandhis) that govern the transformational vibrational energy of all seven layers of the skin. By enhancing the ultimate vibrational energy flowing through gaps, the Abhrak Bhasma Facial Cream immediately increases the Prabha (glow of the aura) of the skin! You can choose between a cream that has Abhrak Bhasma and Rose or Abhrak Bhasma and Jasmine. Abhrak Bhasma is a rare item highly prized for its overall health supporting properties. It has never been used as an ingredient in a facial cream until now. With Vaidya’s unique SVA formulations, now you can enjoy the age-defying properties of Abhrak in your daily facial care protocol.
Abhrak Bhasma, on its own is a Maha Rasayana in Ayurveda, because it can travel up to the sixth level of the skin and rejuvenate all the layers, resetting their natural metabolic intelligence – the intelligence of transformation between the gaps of the skin. In addition, however, Abhrak Bhasma Sahastra Puti is also the fastest and most efficient yogavahi – a catalyst carrier. What does this mean? It means that it has the ability to carry along any herbs that accompany it, and make sure that the properties of those herbs are activated and put to use. So when Abhrak Bhasma is combined with the age-defying herbs, all the macromolecules of all the herbs in this cream get delivered faster and more effectively to all the 6, or 7 (depending on whether we follow the Charak Samhita or the Sushruta Samhita) layers of the skin resulting in immediate nourishment and cleansing.
Who should use Pearl Bhasma?
Three bio-chemical categories made up of the 5 elements of nature (fire, water, earth, air and space), known as “doshas” run our bodies, Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each individual carries a unique signature mixture of these three categories. And each individual’s skin is also unique based on their doshic make-up. Each of these has an additional 5 sub-categories.
The skin is governed by 3 sub-categories or sub-doshas: Pachak Pitta; Vyana Vata; and Shleshak Kapha. Individuals who are more Pitta by nature, who carry more fire in their biochemical constitution, tend to have a more active bhrajak pitta sub-dosha. In other terms, their skin tends to be more sensitive to developing rashes and imbalances due to heat, overexposure to sunshine, or it can also be triggered by spicy food, emotional challenges as well as mental stress. In addition, because Pitta skin tends to be more prone to acidity, and acidity induces inflammation and kills the friendly bacteria of the skin, Pitta individuals need specific skin care addressing their highly sensitive constitution. For this group of people who tend to have more sensitive skin, Ayurveda offers specific help with Pearl Bhasma.
Pearl bhasma is highly somagenic and cooling because when the macromolecules of pearl (bhasma) combine with the proper yogavahi (synergistic delivery enhancer) the soothing benefits of the pearl will penetrate up to the 4th layer of the skin. The herbal synergy of essential oils that I use in my creams act as intelligent yogvahis. In this situation, bhrajak pitta gets pacified up to the 4th layer, offering inside-out relief.
The micro-molecules of the pearl bhasma are highly alkalizing for the deeper levels of the skin. Long-term use of the Pearl bhasma cream helps create a good environment for the friendly bacteria of the skin, and helps to fight against inflammation created by any external or internal factors. In particular, pearl bhasma with rose is great for somebody going through emotional challenges or someone emotionally sensitive in general. Rose is known for its great property for sadhak pitta pacification, while Jasmine helps unify all the layers of the skin which get separated due to acid induced inflammatory situations.
My facial creams that contain Pearl Bhasma are specially formulated for high-pitta skin types that need deeper cooling and deeper nourishment for their skin. Pearl Bhasma is the best for such skin conditions, because it’s highly Somagenic – very rich in the cooling, nurturing, replenishing vibrational energy of the Moon. Pearl Bhasma is also firming for the skin. You can now choose between a facial cream that carries Natural Pearl Bhasma with Rose, or Natural Pearl Bhasma with Jasmine. Or, you can try them both!
Why Add Rose?
Do you know why emotional stress directly impacts the glow and health of your skin? When your emotions are on the rocks, your sadhak pitta and sadhak agni go off. This impacts all your other pitta sub-doshas, stripping your skin of its luster, and slowing down its healthy metabolism. If you are under constant emotional stress, and your skin looks dull and flaky, no external application will help unless it addresses the heart of the matter, your emotions. Unless, that is, you use a prana-infused cream that contains Rose! Transdermal Rose can uplift the emotions by balancing sadhak pitta and sadhak agni right away– the sub- doshas and the flame that govern the emotional heart. Rose strengthens the emotional heart so it can better handle emotional challenges. Not only does rose pacify sadhak pitta – even as it balances sadhak agni – it also carries a ‘somnasya jana’ or bliss-enhancing property. All sub-doshas are inter-connected. Any of my creams can be custom-ordered containing 100% pure and organic Rose Absolute. If you are experiencing emotional challenges right now, then you should go with the Rose Aroma.
But Rose also carries additional amazing properties confirming it as the Queen of flowers in the plant kingdom! Did you know that Rose is also known for its ‘vajikarna’ properties? It supports the hormones and is a wonderful additional to any romantic setting – now we understand why it’s a Valentine Day’s favorite! But rose is also beneficial for individuals who experience heat or burning sensations in their limbs or their body overall. Regular transdermal use of rose cleans the sweat inside-out, neutralizing its pH, so that when it is released through the skin, it does not cause irritation. Rose in your facial cream can be especially beneficial if you are a vata or pitta or a mixture of both in terms of your overall constitution and particularly in terms of your skin type.
How does Jasmine help the Skin?
Did you know that jasmine not only uplifts and inspires but supplies deep age-defying support to the seven layers of the skin? This fragrant little flower carries a very special property, as explained by the ayurvedic texts, that restores the youthful glow to our skin. In our youth, the 7 layers of our skin are naturally bio-chemically connected to one another. As we age, due to the accumulation of toxins, internal and external stressors, the layers of our skin gradually lose integration, resulting in heavy, sagging, dull and flakey skin. Jasmine is renowned for its sandhaniya (unifying) and purifying effect on the skin. In addition, the aroma and the transdermal absorption of Jasmine support mental bliss by re-establishing the connection between ‘dhi, dritti, and smritti’: the power of your brain to gather, store and recollect information. When these are working in full coordination, your mind feels clear, strong, and you are ready to undertake anything! Jasmine thus maintains the elasticity of your skin and your brain, supporting both together.
Navratna Celestial Radiance Facial Cream
This Ayurvedic facial cream contains nine precious gems, pure gold, and fine silver. Gold and silver nourish all seven layers of the skin for lasting beauty (vayastag); the synergy of 18 divine Ayurvedic herbs gives strength to all 3 pillars of beauty – outer (roopam), inner (gunam), and spiritual (vayastag). The nine precious gems correspond to the vibrational energy of nine planetary influences on our mind, to provide support for the nine transformational gaps between all the seven tissues of body, mind, and soul, and give a radiant confidence. Pure Sambac Jasmine, a famous sandhaniya (i.e., an herb that joins the healing and regenerative properties of the skin, and restores it from the effects of aging) which is known for its unifying effect in helping to tighten all the layers of the skin for the ultimate age-defying effect.
Ingredients: Same as Lalita’s Age Defying with colloidal gold, colloidal silver, and bhasmas (nano particles) of ruby, pearl, coral, emerald, blue sapphire, cat’s eye, yellow sapphire, and garnet.
Disclaimer
This product and statements have not been evaluated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and are not intended to be used to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. All of the information above is intended to be used for educational purposes only and may not be used to replace or compliment medical advice.
Healthy Conception and Pregnancy with SVA Protocols: A Testimonial
Namaste,
Its Thanksgiving and so we thought of taking this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to Vaidya Mishra Ji and his SVA family. I have been a patient and student of Vaidya Mishra ji. I had been struggling with health issues for several years before I got introduced to SVA tradition under Divya Alter and then Dr Teitelbaum in New York/New Jersey. Destiny brought us to California and dished out the opportunity to come in touch
with Vaidya ji. We met him in December 2015 and had a pulse assessment. Vaidya ji tries to keep things simple. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience. It was quite evident that he knows how to customize the treatment protocol on individual basis. Though an expert on prescribing herbs he focused on the various other aspects namely mental and emotional and dietary aspects that would be essential for any treatment to work in my case. In couple of months I got to know that I had conceived which was no close to a miracle considering we were childless for 8 years of married life. We went to meet Vaidya ji for a followup. We were touched by his genuine humility attributing the hand of Divine. He also suggested that I should not travel thereafter and take phone consultation. Having Vaidya ji and Dr Teitelbaum guiding me during pregnancy was a blessing. Due to my weak constitution it was a miracle that I conceived however if not for Vaidya ji and Dr T guidance it would have been tough times during pregnancy. Vaidya ji’s carefully guided me on simple home remedies, protocols avoiding overuse of any herbs that could adversely effect my pregnancy. I was not taking milk as I was prone to getting gestational diabetes. Vaidya suggested me to take Soma Cal for calcium supplement which really helped me. Also using products like Cold and Cough formulation ensured a flu free pregnancy without taking any immunizations. Later when the baby was detected with Growth restriction, Dr Teitelbaum’s suggestion of taking Wild Amla berry for protein synthesis and probiotics did wonders and baby grew an amazing 1.25 pounds in last month. Due to small size of the baby the doctors were skeptical of natural pains and birth. Again Vaidya ji’s divine guidance a week before my due date using massage protocol and prakrit transdermal cream did wonders and brought natural labor exactly on my due date. I was able to deliver a healthy baby boy at 2.5 Kg (5 lb and 11 oz).It is quite evident that Vaidya ji is blessed by Divine and his desire to spread SVA tradition to benefit others is bearing fruits in form of generating other qualified practitioners. Besides the quality of SVA products is remarkable. Thank you Vaidya ji and SVA Family. We are extremely grateful to the Divine for bringing us in touch with this bonafide Ayurvedic lineage in this age of hypocrisy .
With grateful heart,
Nidhi Asija, Karan Bajaj and Baby Gauranga






























