Department of English, Kathua Campus (JU)Organises Expert Lecture on “Lifestyle Disorders and Ayurveda” under IKS-NEP 2020

Kathua: The Department of English at Kathua Campus, University of Jammusuccessfully hosted an expert lecture on "Lifestyle Disorders and Ayurveda” by Dr. Deepak Sharma,MD (Ayurveda), Senior Medical Officer, GMC AYUSH Unit Kathua. This event was organised by the Department under the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) initiative of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, promoting the integration of traditional wisdom into contemporary education while supporting multidisciplinary learning and holistic student development.

In his comprehensive presentation, Dr. Deepak Sharma delved into the root causes of prevalent lifestyle disorders, including diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and mental health challenges like anxiety and insomnia, often exacerbated by sedentary habits, processed diets, and chronic stress. He highlighted Ayurveda’s personalised approach through the Tridosha theory (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), offering a range of practical solutions. These included Dinacharya (daily routines), which emphasises early rising, oil massage (abhyanga), and balanced meal timings to regulate circadian rhythms. He also discussed herbal interventions, including the use of turmeric (haridra) for reducing inflammation, ‘ashwagandha’ for enhancing stress resilience, and ‘triphala’ for detoxification. Furthermore, he elaborated on the role of yoga and pranayama, incorporating specific ‘asanas’ such as Surya Namaskar and breathing techniques like ‘AnulomVilom’ to improve vitality and immunity. In addition, he outlined dietary guidelines that promote the consumption of ‘sattvic’ foods, seasonal eating habits, and the avoidance of incompatible food combinations (viruddhaahara) to ensure optimal digestion. Dr. Sharma supported his insights with clinical case studies and scientific correlations to modern research, demonstrating Ayurveda's efficacy as a complementary system. The interactive session engaged students, faculty, and staff, who posed questions on integrating these practices into urban lifestyles.

Prof. ArvindJasrotia, Rector, Kathua Campus (JU) remarked,"We are delighted to support such initiatives that bridge timeless Ayurvedic principles with everyday wellness. In today's fast-paced world, these lectures equip students with practical tools to combat lifestyle disorders, fostering healthier lives and mindful living. Events like this embody NEP 2020's vision for inclusive, value-based education." 

The lecture was attended by students and faculty members of the UIET and Kathua Campus. The welcome address was delivered by Dr.NomitaSharma, and the formal vote of thanks was proposed by Dr.Meenakshi Thakur, both faculty members of the Department of English.”