Ayurveda, “ayur” life, “veda” knowledge: meaning the knowledge or science of life. It is the science of how your mind, body and Spirit work. Ayurveda is an ancient Vedic system of healing, originating 5-6,000 years ago. It is one of the oldest and most comprehensive medical sciences in existence and is based upon the laws and relationship we have with nature. Ayurveda states that the relationship between human being + Universe is intrinsic and can not be separated. This cohesive relationship plays a substantial role in our physical + mental health.
Ayurvedic medicine utilizes a holistic, multi-modality approach to create balance within the body. The goal of this approach is to enliven the body’s inner intelligence, understood in Vedic medicine to be the basis of all physiological self-repair, or healing mechanisms. Vedic medicine emphasizes host factors- particularly mental and physical imbalances that result in disruption of homeostatic or immune mechanisms, as the primary factor in the etiology of disease.
Ayurveda also acknowledges that the same elements that make up our Universe (air, fire, water, earth and ether) are the same building blocks for our bodies. These elements combined, create what is called the doshas. The doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) govern every aspect of how our body and its’ systems work. Our unique nature is constantly being bombarded by changes in season, emotional setbacks, environmental differences, fluctuations in diet and so forth. These negative shifts can bring irregularity within our doshas, creating imbalance within the body or mind.
Ayurveda holds a high emphasis on prevention of disease, but also has a unique therapeutic value including panchakarma (detoxification program), Rasayana (rejuvenation) and dinacharya (diet and lifestyle program). The unique modalities used in Ayurveda encourages longevity and quality of life throughout its various cycles and stages, as well as promoting a life and body that has balance and peace.
Ayurveda is a consciousness-based approach to health and well being that brings balance to all areas of your life. When the body, mind and its bodily systems are in balance, one has optimal health.