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3 Daily Rituals for Better Digestion

Simple, time-tested practices that support digestive health using traditional Jamu principles.

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John Walker
Founder, Temulawak LLC
Reading Time :
4 Minutes
September 10, 2025

Begin Your Day with Warm Lemon Water

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to support digestion is by drinking a glass of warm water with fresh lemon juice first thing in the morning.

Why it works:

  • Activates the digestive system: Warm water helps flush the digestive tract, while the citric acid in lemon stimulates gastric juices that prepare your body to digest food.
  • Supports liver detoxification: Lemon water encourages the production of bile, which is essential for breaking down fats.
  • Boosts hydration and metabolism: After hours of sleep, your body is dehydrated. Starting the day with water replenishes fluids and kickstarts metabolism.

Extra tip: For an even stronger digestive boost, add fresh slices of ginger or a small pinch of turmeric. Ginger warms the stomach and aids circulation, while turmeric reduces inflammation in the gut.

Practice the Art of Mindful Eating

In today’s fast-paced world, many of us eat on the go, at our desks, or while scrolling through our phones. This rushed style of eating often leads to overeating, bloating, or indigestion.

Why it works:

  • Chewing thoroughly: Digestion starts in the mouth. Enzymes in your saliva begin breaking down food, and proper chewing reduces the workload on your stomach.
  • Activates the parasympathetic nervous system: Eating slowly and calmly signals your body to move into a “rest and digest” state, allowing for smoother digestion.
  • Helps with portion control: When you eat mindfully, you recognize fullness cues and are less likely to overeat.

How to practice:

  • Set aside 20 minutes for each main meal.
  • Put away distractions like phones or laptops.
  • Focus on the textures, flavors, and aromas of your food.

Add a Daily Herbal Digestive Tonic

Herbal tonics have been used across cultures to keep the stomach strong. In Indonesia, the tradition of Jamu — an herbal wellness drink — is a prime example. A popular Jamu blend made with Temulawak (Java turmeric) and ginger is taken daily to strengthen the liver, improve bile flow, and enhance overall digestion.

Why it works:

  • Temulawak: Rich in curcumin and xanthorrhizol, it stimulates bile production, supports liver health, and eases indigestion.
  • Ginger: Known for its warming effect, ginger improves circulation, reduces nausea, and relaxes the intestines.
  • Peppermint & fennel: Other herbs like peppermint leaves or fennel seeds are excellent for reducing gas and bloating.

Simple tonic recipe at home:

  1. Boil 2–3 slices of fresh ginger with a small piece of turmeric root (or ½ teaspoon turmeric powder).
  2. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Add a teaspoon of honey and a squeeze of lemon before drinking.

This warm tonic not only soothes the stomach but also doubles as an immunity booster.

Final Thoughts

Healthy digestion doesn’t require complicated routines. With three simple daily rituals — starting your day with warm lemon water, slowing down for mindful meals, and sipping a herbal tonic — you can transform your digestive health naturally.

When practiced consistently, these rituals bring more than just physical benefits. They encourage you to slow down, be present, and reconnect with your body — creating a ripple effect of wellness that goes far beyond the digestive system.