Definition of Ayurveda

Ayurveda is a holistic system of healing which evolved among the Brahmin sages of ancient India some 3000-5000 years ago. There are several aspects of this system of medicine which distinguish it from other approaches to health care:

1. It focuses on establishing and maintaining balance of the life energies within us, rather than focusing on individual symptoms.

2. It recognizes the unique constitutional differences of all individuals and recommends different regimens for different types of people. Although two people may appear to have the same outward symptoms, their energetic constitutions may be very different and therefore call for very different remedies.

3. Ayurveda recognizes that all intelligence and wisdom flows from one Absolute source (Paramatman). Health is a result of the grace of the Absolute acting through the laws of Nature (Prakriti). Ayurveda promotes harmony between the individual and Nature by living a life of balance according to Nature's laws.

4. Ayurveda describes three fundamental energies that regulate all natural processes on both the macrocosmic and microcosmic levels.  The same energies that produce effects in the various galaxies and star systems are also operating in your own physiology. These three universal energies are known as the Tridosha.

5. Finally, the ancient Ayurvedic physicians realized the need for preserving the alliance of the mind and body.  Ayurveda seeks to heal the fragmentation and disorder of the mind-body complex and restore wholeness and harmony to all people.

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