What Is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is a Hindi word which means the science of life, is an ancient holistic modality of natural medicine. This healing system was developed in India thousands of years ago and refined over time. It combines physical, emotional and mind-body-spirit approaches in an approach to well-being that is as relevant to the industrial world as it was to the ancient world. Using supplements such as herbs, customized nutrition and cleansing and, above all, positive ways of living, Ayurveda treats not just the sickness but the entire human being and stressed prevention of illness to avoid the need for cures.

One of the paradigms in Ayurveda is that each person is made up of their individual mixture of the three elemental constitution types, or 'doshas'. Although we can't feel or see them, the three constitution types are responsible for all processes of the brain and physical body. They influence the physical blueprint and our emotional and intellectual qualities.

These underlying energies determine who we are, what we prefer to eat, how mcuh water we prefer to get, how much sleep we need, etc. They guide our reactions to how stressed out we get and our predisposition to sickness and diseas. The constitution types or 'doshas' even affect how well-mannered, at-ease, or social we are. Knowing a person's individual type of dosha is quite useful in determining what foods to choose to eat, herbs and lifestyle modifications will be most helpful for their well-being.

An example of this is someone who is thin and runs around extra harried and anxious about so many things gonig on in their life. In this person the 'vata' type is predominant. Balance can be brought with warming and calming modifications and foods. Restorative yoga and healing massage are ideal. For a, high strung, over-achiever or athletic person the 'pitta' type is the most over-aching constitution tpe. Balance can be brought with activities that are and foods that are calming. They should avoid things like eating food that is spicy everyday and jogging in the heat of hot July days.

Various doshas will dominate in the different times of year as well. It is helpful to have a general knowledge of them so you can manage your lifestyle such as what you eat and how much you exercse. For example, in fall vata increases. During this time of year it is best to minimize foods that have more vata in them such as uncooked vegetables, beans, uncooked foods or dry and rough food like crackers and pretzels, It is optimal to start to eat more foods that are richer and warmer such as cooked meals like soups and casseroles. In April, May, June and July the reverse is true for the most part.

There also exists within this Indian 'science of life' an entire science of longevity. This has to do with cleansing, nourishing balancing routines and mind and body routines. Various cleanses are ideal seasonally. Yoga and meditation are important not only for mind and body well-being and balance, but to connect with your spiritual inner guidance as well. These add up to calm, vitality and a longer life.

Principles from ayurveda can be easily brought into one's life to bring more wellness and balance.

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