What is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is a 5000 year-old system of natural healing that has its origins in the Vedic culture of India. In fact, Traditional Chinese medicine (seen commonly practiced in the U.S. as acupuncture) and other ancient medical practices find their roots in Ayurveda. More than a system of treating illness, Ayurveda is a science of life (Ayur = life, Veda = science or knowledge).

Providing guidelines on ideal daily and seasonal routines (including diet, meditation and yoga) Ayurveda teaches us that health is the manifestation of balance between our environment, body, mind and spirit. It is not just the absence of disease that defines “health.” Rather, ayurveda views vibrant health as your birthright.

Understanding the Dosha's

Ayurveda views all of nature (including human beings) as a combination of three main types: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each of us has a unique proportion of these types in our basic nature. Environmental factors, such as stress, diet, exercise, and daily routine can affect the balance of our natural constitution. When imbalance is present, toxicity (or ama in Sanskrit) may build in our tissues, compromising whole-health and well being.

In balance, one’s prevailing dosha will manifest in these characteristics:

• Vata: light, thin frame; energetic, joyous, quick thinking and strong communicator
• Pitta: medium build, light hair and eyes; passionate, intelligent, and courageous
• Kapha: heavy set, thick, oily skin; steady, motherly, methodical and thoughtful

Out of balance, a dosha may manifest as:

• Vata: anxiety, gas/bloating/constipation, forgetfulness and restlessness
• Pitta: irritability or anger, rashes, diarrhea, being critical and controlling
• Kapha: depression, weight gain, mucous build-up, difficulty waking, complacency

You can learn about your dosha by taking the “dosha quiz” at the Chopra Centers web site.

Ayurvedic Massage Therapy

At the Ayurvedic Bodywork Center, we use ayurvedic massage to treat imbalance and help restore vibrant health. The ayurvedic massage experience is meditative, rejuvenating, and luxurious. When a specific health concern is present, we may recommend a consultation with an ayurvedic physician or consultant who can help you design a treatment plan. Your therapist will gladly assist you with any questions you may have about ayurveda, treatment goals, and lifestyle modifications.