clothing as medicine
ayurvastra
'ayur' in sanskrit translates to 'life, health &/or longevity' & vastra translates to 'clothing’. ayurvastra is clothing for life, health & longevity.
the modern fashion industry is one of the biggest polluters in the world. the mindful growth & use of natural organic fibres & dyes has the potential to revolutionise the lives of millions of garment workers & farmers. 80% of garment workers are women in developing nations.
using natural plants, colours & fibres turns clothing into medicine. ayurveda - the health system of india - defines medicine as anything that harmonizes us physically, mentally, emotionally & spiritually. this can include any of the senses: what we see, taste, hear, feel & touch, or smell.
through the sense of touch, skin absorbs toxins from fibres & dyes, but can also act as a conduit for the beneficial effects of fibres, plants & herbs. plant dyes like turmeric, indigo, & eucalyptus are naturally anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant & anti-bacterial. many plants like box mistletoe & loquat also activate & support the immune system.
synthetic fibres are ‘plastic’ fabric. they generally have low breathability, low water absorption & poor thermal regulation. acrylic fabrics are the main source of microplastic pollution in the world’s oceans. microplastics cause serious health problems for marine life, and humans. natural fibres have high breathability, superior durability, high water absorption & stay warm when wet. they are easily composted or recycled.
through the sense of sight, natural colour travels as wavelengths of light - to stimulate cells in the back of the eye. travelling as electrical impulses via nerves to the brain, natural colour creates an immediate effect: on the nervous system, cycles of rest & activity, circulation, breathing, hormonal & reproductive system & emotions. living colour can change our physical, mental, & emotional state
