MICHELLE CADE
Some tips that have really helped me feel more vibrant and energetic: Regular massage and movement; paying attention to our breath and making sure we are breathing properly; taking time out to listen to soothing or uplifting music; being kind to ourselves... essentially treating ourselves as we would our best friends. All these things improve our wellbeing - if we feel better, we can do more and in fact want to do more, we bring quality to our existence rather than the feeling of "getting through the day".
Mind Like Water Founder Michelle Cade is a certified Ayurvedic Yoga Massage therapist, Ayurvedic Abhyanga Massage therapist, NLP practitioner and music composer.
Fascinated with sound therapy, healing frequencies, personal transformation and optimal wellbeing; she uses a blend of sound, scents, lighting and natural beauty as part of her holistic approach to create the ultimate relaxing experience.
Mind Like Water Music and Wellbeing offers Ayurvedic Yoga Massage and traditional Ayurvedic Abhyanga massage, music inspired by meditation, sound healing and yoga as well as being an inspiration hub with tips and tools for personal transformation and development.
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"HEALTH IS EVERYTHING AND BY MAKING A COMMITMENT TO CHANGING YOUR MINDSET AND BELIEVING IT’S POSSIBLE... YOU’LL BE AMAZED WHAT HAPPENS!"
What does Ayurveda mean to you?
It's a holistic, connected approach to life and being more in tune with my body and nature’s natural rhythms.
When did you discover it? 3 years ago
What drew you to Ayurveda ?
Initially, I was drawn to Ayurvedic Yoga Massage. I was given a massage voucher for my birthday and thought the Ayurvedic Yoga massage looked unique and dynamic… something different I had never tried before. I have always loved yoga, dance and gymnastics so it spoke to me. I enjoyed the treatment so much, I decided to train as an Ayurvedic therapist. There is such an art to it, like a dance. I trained in Bali with AYM Institute and also started training with Dr Anil Alexandra, an Ayurvedic Doctor from Kerala based in London, and that’s when I really started getting into it.
How long have you been practising it?
I began making gradual changes at the beginning of 2016.
Anything major it’s helped with?
As someone who has struggled with low mood, low energy and digestion issues, I started looking for alternative and natural ways to heal and made some changes to my lifestyle which transformed the way I feel. Realising the connection between digestion, diet & mood has really astounded me. It makes me wonder, how many of us struggling to find answers and cures for various different ailments and disorders, could be found in our food choices.
Is it part of everyday life or merely part of your medicine cabinet/fall back routine?
It's part of my every day life! The better I feel, the more motivated I am to delve further into it.
Ayurveda is such a broad subject and can seem overwhelming at first, at least it did to me. I began by taking small steps and learning what works for my body… I’m still figuring it out as I go.
Top 3 Ayurveda tips that have worked for you?
Listen to your body, it’s always talking to you! What’s right for someone else may not be right for you.
Light meals in the evening or soup/vegetable juices – I have so much more energy in the morning!
No fruit after meals – eat it separately or before your meal.
What surprised you most about Ayurveda?
The theory of the five great elements (Panchamahabhuta) which says the same dynamics that orchestrate the processes within the body also orchestrate life everywhere in the universe.
Did you integrate it gradually or overnight for any particular reason?
Gradually. I thinking making lifestyle changes sustainable and being gentle with ourselves is key. I don’t think we need to make drastic changes to see benefits straight away.
Favourite Ayurvedic recipe or go to ingredient?
Ginger and turmeric tea. I make fresh ginger and turmeric chai almost every day … make sure to add black pepper to help with absorption.
What do you wish was more accessible in our society to make an Ayurvedic lifestyle more simple?
Healthy snacks on the go without refined sugar or low sugar.
How does Ayurveda support your lifestyle?
I don’t feel tired like I used to, my digestion has improved and my skin is so much healthier. I also have more energy and a clear mind to keep up with my busy schedule. All those things contribute to a sense of vitality and elevate my mood.
Do people around you/in your circle of friends know about it?
Some do but they generally know it relates to yoga and not much about the diet and lifestyle.
What’s the one thing you would encourage everyone to try/do you think would benefit the majority of people’s health for the better?
Stay away from refined sugar as much as possible if you want to feel your best! It really does affect your mood. For me it’s usually only a day or 2 after the fact…it’s not fun!