Ayurveda

Ancient wisdom for modern times

A scientific health system that has been in existence for thousands of years, Ayurveda ia a truly holistic approach to health and well-being that is very much relevant today as the principles are timeless and universal.

Ayurveda sits on the philosophy that we are all an extension of nature and therefore we carry the same elements within us that we see around us. This also means that we can be influenced by things such as seasons, foods, thoughts and, even the time of day.

These five great elements are ether, air, fire, water and earth. They combine in various ways to give us three different energy types (dosha) - Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Everyone is born with a unique make-up of doshas (Prakirti).

The Vata dosha is the foundation of mobility. It is responsible for all movement and activity within the body and mind. It carries qualities that are subtle, light and cool.

Pitta dosha is the principle of all transformation. It carries the properties of fire and heat and is responsible for digesting not just what we eat but processing what we see, illuminating our mind with knowledge.

Kapha dosha gives us stability and immunity. With a dense but liquid property, it gives us physical strength and nourishes our body, giving us sustenance.

Each of these doshas have an important regulatory function in the mind and body. When they are either in excess or depleted due to lifestyle factors, we see imbalance and weakness in the body. This can be experienced as blocked channels, inflammation, pain and other symptoms.

The purpose of Ayurveda is to identify this imbalance (Vikirti) and to redirect the body to a healthy state using both diet and lifestyle changes (and sometimes herbal preparations too) that support and rejuvenate the body.

Understanding our Prakirti is useful to guide us in maintaining good health. However, if we are already experiencing symptoms of imbalance, what’s more useful to know is our Vikirti and this is best done with the support of a practitioner.