Ayurveda is one of the oldest medical systems in the world. The word ayurveda is composed of two Sanskrit words “ayur” meaning life and “veda” meaning ‘knowledge of”. It is based on the holistic approach of balancing and integrating the body, mind and spirit. Ayurveda maintains that this balance can be upset by both internal and external factors. Maintenance of health is through keeping close attention to diet, balance in one’s life, right thinking and the use of herbs.
Ayurveda originated in India thousands of years ago and is the primary medicine approach there today. During the 1970’s teachers of Ayurveda travelled to North America and Europe and interest and knowledge in this new type of medicine and philosophy spread. In 2007 the AAPNA or Association of Ayurvedic Professionals of North America was formed and since then has grown in its links with other holistic practitioners.
It is based on several principles. Each person is born with a specific constitution or “prakriti” which is the unique combination of physical and psychological characteristics. There are 3 types of energy or life force which are called "doshas" that make up this basic constitution.
These doshas are named:
Each person has a unique combination of these 3 doshas and these are interconnected with bodily functions. The practitioner assesses the primary dosha, the balance of these doshas and the constitution of a client. The course of treatment will include eliminating impurities in the body, reducing symptoms, reducing anxiety, increasing harmony, and increasing the capability to resist disease.
A typical session lasts 45 minutes to 1 hour. The ayurvedic practitioner does an initial consultation with the client which includes a health questionnaire, and diagnostic and observation tools using pulse, eye, tongue and face.
There are a variety of techniques and products used in a treatment program depending on the client’s health state including:
Select a region to view to corresponding Ayurveda professionals operating there:
