Ayurveda is a Sanskrit word that means the “Science of Life.” It is an ancient Indian, holistic, medical system of total body rejuvenation, based on achieving physical, mental and emotional harmony within oneself, relationships and nature.
An applied Ayurvedic approach frees the vital energy (Prana) by purifying and deeply nurturing the body, mind and psyche with specific body treatments (Marma Abhyanga , Shiro Dhara and Pancha Karma), herbs, diet, yoga, vital breathing exercises and meditation. These treatments are meant to bring about healing, rejuvenation, and more important to prevent disease and increase vitality, health, wellbeing, clarity and longevity.
Ayurveda states that bodily regeneration and degeneration is considered to be a byproduct of two main cellular processes: Growth (anabolic) and Decay (catabolic). To achieve optimum health, we need to bring these two processes into balance. In this process, the regenerative energies within are awakened, creating a vibrant, magnetic and peaceful state of wellbeing, which will help one to gain clarity and live their life purpose. Incorporating just a few of these principals can bring about radical change in one’s life.
Since Ayurveda is a complete holistic living system, it looks at the whole person and their environment and not just the symptoms. It looks at the root of the disease, and when that is removed or balanced, health is restored.
Ayurveda states that everything in the Universe, including human beings, are composed of the 5 Elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Space. These 5 Elements combine with each other to give rise to 3 bio-physical forces called Doshas. These are VATA (air + space), PITTA (fire + water) and KAPHA (water + earth).
Vibrant health and clarity is, achieving the perfect balance of the Doshas for one’s physical, mental and emotional constitution, which is especially important in today’s modern, urban “hussel-bussel” lifestyle.
Ayurveda is recognized by the World Health Organization. In the State of California, its practice was formally legalized under the passage of Senate Bill 577 in January 2003.
Body Types (Dosha)
VATA types are typically very tall, or very short, on the thinner side with bony limbs, and dry skin. Their hands and feet are usually cold and they experience dry and cracked skin. Their appetite is variable and they crave salty, sweet and sour foods and love warm or hot drinks. They are very enthusiastic, active, alert, restless and creative.
PITTA types typically have a moderate physique with a muscular, well toned body and warm skin. They have a strong metabolism, good appetite and digestion. They crave cold drinks, sweet and bitter foods. They are very determined, ambitious, intelligent, sharp and focused.
KAPHA types typically have well developed bodies with broad shoulders, and softoily skin with a light complexion. Their appetite is regular, but with a relatively slow digestion, and they prefer warm drinks. They are very stable, loyal, patient, caring and supportive.