What is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is an ancient system of healing that takes into account the whole person – body, mind, and soul. It says that each person expresses the five elements of nature (earth, water, fire, air, and ether) in his or her own unique way. Perfect healing for each of us will come as we correct the imbalances in our basic energies. Ayurveda works from within the individual; as it corrects energy imbalances, it helps energy to flow more freely and abundantly in the body, bringing true healing and transformation.

There are three basic manifestations of life force (or doshas) in people: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha expresses the five elements of nature (mentioned above) in particular ways. Each person will be a blend of Vata, Pitta, and/or Kapha, with one or two of the doshas being dominant. When our doshas are in balance, they express their strengths, and those strengths are reflected in our overall wellness. When they are out of balance, health challenges arise.

For example, problems such as headaches, anxiety, insomnia, and joint pain are symptoms of a Vata imbalance. Hot flashes, anger, and inflammation are some symptoms of Pitta imbalance. Weight gain, congestion, depression, and lethargy can be Kapha imbalances. As the doshas come into balance, they bring true healing – from the inside out – to a variety of illnesses and conditions.

Preparing the treatment oils

Ayurveda gives you the do’s and the don’ts for the health of your particular body. Treatments begin with an examination of the individual (including a pulse reading and an in-depth personal interview). Therapies unique to the individual are prescribed: massages, cleansing treatments, healing herbs, diet suggestions, yoga postures, breathing and meditation techniques, and lifestyle changes.

During your stay in Kerala, you will decide with the doctor which of two treatment options, Rejuvenation or Purification, you should do. Both are designed to give you greater vitality, radiant health, peace, and calmness. Both will help you:

• Regenerate and restore body cells, tissues, and organs
• Increase your digestive power
• Increase your metabolic process at tissue level
• Remove waste products
• Improve the functional capacity of your brain
• Enhance mental peace and calmness
• Increase strength and immunity of the body
• Give longevity

References

If you want to read more about Ayurveda, here are some good resource books:

• Ayurveda: The Science of Self-Healing by Dr. Vasant Lad
• The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies by Dr.Vasant Lad
• Yoga and Ayurveda by Dr. David Frawley
• Ayurvedic Healing by Dr. David Frawley
• Perfect Health by Deepak Chopra, M.D.

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