ABOUT AYURVEDA
Ayurveda is one of the oldest holistic healing systems in the world focused on preventive care. It seeks to understand the root cause of disease, rather than addressing the symptoms. The term “Ayurveda” is derived from the Sanskrit terms ayur (life) and veda (knowledge), and is often translated as the “science of life.”
THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
The keystone of Ayurveda is balance. All human beings have a specific constitution, or prakriti, which is determined by three fundamental bodily energies. These energies, known as doshas, make up our physical, mental, and emotional selves. Although every individual typically has a dosha that dominates, ideally the three doshas exist in harmony. It is believed that when the doshas are out of balance, an illness can result. The goal of Ayurveda is to balance all three doshas to maintain a healthy mind and body.
THE DOSHAS
Vata (Wind)
The vata energy is formed from wind and is considered to be the most active and powerful dosha. It is linked to bodily movement, including breathing, blinking, and movement of muscles and tissues. When in balance, vata promotes creativity and flexibility, but if there is too much movement in the system, vata produces anxiety and fear.
Pitta (Fire)
The pitta energy is hot in nature like fire and is responsible for all the biochemical transformations in the body, such as digestion and body temperature. In a balanced nature, pitta promotes intelligence and understanding. When pitta is out of balance, it arouses anger and hatred.
Kapha (Earth)
The kapha energy is composed of Earth and water, and forms the structures of the body. It is responsible for muscle growth and control of the immune system. In a balanced state, kapha brings out expressions of love and calmness. However, when kapha is out of balance, insecurity and depression can result.
Ayurveda offers guidelines to keep the doshas in harmony with dietetic regimens and lifestyle modifications.
Make an appointment today with our Vaidya (Ayurvedic practitioner) to find out more about your constitution and receive a mind-body prescription for healthy living.