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A Pukka Life
'A Pukka Life' is about living in a truly authentic way, guided by the wisdom of Ayurveda. Also known as 'the science of life', Ayurveda is a complete system of knowledge that deals with physical health, mental balance, spiritual wellbeing, social welfare, relationships, environmental issues, dietary and lifestyle habits and more.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2011
25 people are currently reading
276 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
October 1, 2017
This book was a bit of a mixed bag for me. In some ways I really enjoyed the process of reading it, because it was interesting to find out my constitution and how to eat and take care of myself to keep in line with that (as well as the seasonal routines). But in other ways, I found this book didn't present me with anything new, as well as peddling a particular kind of lifestyle as opposed to appealing for all. There will be some things I take away from this, and others that I'll forget. Worth a read if you're interested in Ayurveda, but steer clear if you're not.
February 2, 2012
This book was so good. This is the one book everyone should read. It is completely life changing while at the same time a compassionate and accepting dear friend. Sebastian Pole knows how to get through and the main message is that you can live a happy, healthy and fulfilling life with small and gradual changes. And the best part is that it is all about you and what makes you feel good.
Unless you are a saint or have an entourage of assistants, there is no way that you can follow them all every day. I certainly don't - life is just too busy. However, even just doing what you can will have a huge impact on your life. Introduce the routines slowly, and before you know it, your days will be filled with healing habits.
I had some previous knowledge about Ayurveda and have been practicing yoga for a while but I don't think that it is necessary for enjoying the book. However, there might be a lot to wrap your head around if you're new to everything. However, I cannot recommend this book enough for everyone. If you can read this with an open mind and be compassionate toward yourself I guarantee that this book can change your life.
One of the things I love about Ayurveda is that it is not concerned with what is good or bad. Following its practices does not involve denying yourself a treat or a drink (or whatever your preferences might be); it's about learning about who you are, what you need and being true to yourself. And, in my experience, this changes from moment to moment. This is your goal: to learn what is right for you, at any stage in time - no 'shoulds', just choices that serve you.
Unless you are a saint or have an entourage of assistants, there is no way that you can follow them all every day. I certainly don't - life is just too busy. However, even just doing what you can will have a huge impact on your life. Introduce the routines slowly, and before you know it, your days will be filled with healing habits.
I had some previous knowledge about Ayurveda and have been practicing yoga for a while but I don't think that it is necessary for enjoying the book. However, there might be a lot to wrap your head around if you're new to everything. However, I cannot recommend this book enough for everyone. If you can read this with an open mind and be compassionate toward yourself I guarantee that this book can change your life.
One of the things I love about Ayurveda is that it is not concerned with what is good or bad. Following its practices does not involve denying yourself a treat or a drink (or whatever your preferences might be); it's about learning about who you are, what you need and being true to yourself. And, in my experience, this changes from moment to moment. This is your goal: to learn what is right for you, at any stage in time - no 'shoulds', just choices that serve you.
March 12, 2014
A nice started for everyone who wish to learn more about Ayurveda. It has a Western touch with hidden marketing here and there. After a while it's less about the dosha's and more about how to stay balanced in your life with easy tricks such as meditation, writing and movement - nothing new for me. I believe there are books which goes much deeper but it's a beautiful book, nice layout and a smooth read. 3.5 stars.
March 9, 2021
3.5 stars
I think it's a good introduction to ayurveda. There is definitely enough information for the reader to explore it even more deeply from other sources.
But I find it annoying that a lot of the important/helpful herbs mentioned are primarily native in India.
1. it's not very easy to get a hold of
2. I believe it's more natural to get herbs with similar functions that are native to region/country you live in
I think it's a good introduction to ayurveda. There is definitely enough information for the reader to explore it even more deeply from other sources.
But I find it annoying that a lot of the important/helpful herbs mentioned are primarily native in India.
1. it's not very easy to get a hold of
2. I believe it's more natural to get herbs with similar functions that are native to region/country you live in
September 11, 2017
It is a beautiful book with colours, photos and borders on the side which I really like. The information is organized in an interesting and easy to read format. Though, some of the information is mixed with the author's beliefs on environmentalism and organic stuff, overall quote an enjoyable read.
December 28, 2025
Really interesting book, balancing who you are, what you eat, how you exercise and look after yourself to feel like the best possible version of you.
There is a lot of sense here, and I really enjoyed reading it. Whether I will put it into practice and follow it, is another matter, entirely!
There is a lot of sense here, and I really enjoyed reading it. Whether I will put it into practice and follow it, is another matter, entirely!
July 19, 2018
Excellent Ayurveda Book. I particularly liked how it takes your practice deeper with Seasonal Routines.
June 6, 2020
Good introductory book on ayurveda. Easy to read and nicely designed too.
December 3, 2021
Great bible for the good life... ongoing resource!!
May 16, 2015
Want an accessible introduction to Ayurveda then this book has it! Recently attended a seminar with Sebastian and there is no doubt he is passionate and committed to this life path. I will certainly be referring back to this book time and time again.
February 13, 2015
Not too sure about the science behind the claims, but everything said in the book made sense to me on a personal level. I really enjoyed this book.
April 13, 2015
Fantastic
April 19, 2015
Life altering :)
August 23, 2015
Started off well, with lots of useful information about Ayurveda. Started to waffle on a bit more towards the end.
December 15, 2015
Good beginners guide in Ayurveda.
October 13, 2012
Helpful basics with the little touch of Marketing :)
April 2, 2017
For this month's non-fiction read, I decided to educate myself about Ayurveda, which is something that I've been meaning to read up on for a while. Written by Sebastian Pole (co-founder of Pukka Herbs, one of my favourite herbal brands), A Pukka Life offers a beginner's guide to Ayurveda, based on its holistic principles of keeping everything in balance and living a kind, happy and considerate life.
It explains the basics of Ayurveda in an engaging and accessible tone, and covers a range of subjects including Consitution (finding out what 'dosha' you are), Nourishment (following a healthy diet that's good for your 'agni'), Cleansing, Rejuvenation (secrets to keeping young in mind and body), and Ecology to name a few. The books is laid out beautifully and is perfect to dip in and out of, or use for reference at a later date. If you're new to Ayurveda and need a book to start you off on your journey, pick this one up.
It explains the basics of Ayurveda in an engaging and accessible tone, and covers a range of subjects including Consitution (finding out what 'dosha' you are), Nourishment (following a healthy diet that's good for your 'agni'), Cleansing, Rejuvenation (secrets to keeping young in mind and body), and Ecology to name a few. The books is laid out beautifully and is perfect to dip in and out of, or use for reference at a later date. If you're new to Ayurveda and need a book to start you off on your journey, pick this one up.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews