Origin of Ayurveda:
Ayurveda comprises of two words ‘Ayu’ meaning life and ‘Veda’ meaning science or knowledge, together meaning ‘the science of life or longevity’ is the traditional medicine and natural healing system ofIndia. Its foundation comes from the Vedic Era, believed to have come into existence about 5000 years ago inIndia.
It is appropriate to say that it is the Mother of all Healing Systems. Ayurveda is one of the most comprehensive healing systems in the world, dealing integrally with body, mind and spirit.
Philosophy of Ayurveda
The basic philosophy of Ayurveda is based on the panchamahabhoota (five elements) theory. This theory states that the universe as well as the human body is made up of five elements namely;
- Earth (Prithvi): Solid, dense and hard, Earth is the firm ground that holds all living creatures on the planet, giving them food and shelter.
- Water (Jala): Life sustaining, liquid, cool water maintains electrolyte balance and nourishes plants and animals.
- Fire (Agni): Fire governs digestion, absorption and assimilation, the flowering, ripening and decay of plants. The sun is the central source of heat energy.
- Air (vayu): The vital life force, or prana, essential for all life.
- Space (Akash): The common factor, or Home for all objects in the universe.
Uniqueness of Ayurveda
Its uniqueness lies in its treatment plan which is tailored to the body type and individual imbalances among the vata, pitta, and kapha.
The practice of Ayurveda is designed to educate people on how to take care of their health by themselves and increase their span of healthy life, promote human happiness, restore inner calm, balance mind, uplift spirit, rejuvenate body and enhance feeling of well being. It is the science of daily living. One can achieve these goals by;
- Proper Nutrition; improves the digestion with ayurvedic diet, herbs and spices.
- Lifestyle and Daily Routine
- Ayurvedic Massages; Helps to rejuvenate and balances the energies (three doshas)
- Ayurveda Detox Pancha Karma Therapy; Helps to remove build up Toxins and Impurities.
- Herbal steam bath
- Yoga Asanas
- Yogic Breathing
- Meditations