The fear over swine flu has added to the tough times the world is reeling under. As the panic spreads, one has to have faith that nothing bad will happen and take precautions by improving one’s immune system. Ayurveda has many simple and effective ways to boost immunity and build resistance. Tea made from Laxmi taru (simarouba) leaves, tulsi, amla and amrut (giloy) act as immunity enhancers. Taking ginger and turmeric powder mixed with either lime juice or honey twice a day will also boost the immune system. Agnihotra and burning sambarani dhoop (loban stems) can counter airborne swine flu viruses as these are very potent atmospheric sterilsers.

Don’t panic and keep your mind centred. Whenever we panic and fear, our immunity level goes down. Practices such as pranayama, yoga, meditation and Sudarshan Kriya will help a lot. Also when the mind is calm, it’s much easier to face any situation.
When faced with difficult times, invoke the valour in you and tackle the challenge with confidence. Through history, we have seen that the world has gone through harder times and come out stronger.

Remember people faced harder times than the one you are facing now. When you realise this, your problems will appear small. Serve people who are in bigger problems. When you expand from ‘what about me?’ to ‘how can I help you?’ the pains of difficult times will disappear and you will start smiling.

Importantly, realise that you are not alone in these difficult times. There is always an unseen hand working for you. Don’t underestimate the power of prayer. Prayer is not a ritual as it is usually perceived; it’s feeling the helplessness and asking for God’s help. Chanting ancient Sanskrit slokas creates vibrant energy around you which can keep away depression – the most common pitfall of hard times.

Bad times will come and go. When you are faced with a problem, don’t generalise and eternalise it by thinking about it all the time. Become a part of the solution, not the problem!

-Sri Sri Ravi Shankar