Ayurveda

More than a system for the treatment of illness, Ayurveda is the science or knowledge of life (the word derives from two Sanskrit roots “Ayu” which means life and “Veda” which means knowledge or science). It is a holistic system of medicine which originated in India thousands of years ago.  Many think it is the oldest system of medicine. Practitioners offer advice on nutrition, lifestyle, Ayurvedic remedies and medicines and treatments for the treatment of disorders. Therapists also provide hands-on therapeutic treatments including Indian Head Massage.

Long before modern medicine began to recognize the mind-body-spirit connection, Ayurveda was the transmission of this cosmic understanding to ancient sages in India. It was eventually committed to writing around 5,000 years ago, in the form of Sanskrit verse or sloka in what are now known as the classical texts of Ayurveda. The oldest written codification of Ayurvedic principles begins with the Rig Veda followed by the major treatises including the texts of Charaka, Sushruta and Vaghbhat. There are numerous other works which include disciplines such as general medicine, paediatrics, surgery, toxicology, fertility and rejuvenation.

Main principles

The principles of Ayurveda are universally applicable. According to the fundamentals of Ayurveda, people are a combination of the three doshas, Vata, Pitta and Kapha. The three doshas are made up of the five elements – earth, fire, water, air and aether – of which all matter, including plants and animals, is composed. When the three doshas are in their natural proportions there is balance. To heal is to restore something to its natural state of balance. Ayurveda recognizes the competing and complementary nature of the elements in all things. It is the science of identifying an imbalance and using the appropriate opposite elements to counteract and restore balance to the body, mind and soul. Plants, animals and minerals are made up of the five elements and have their own dosha and are thus used to correct the imbalance. The environment, climate and all external stimuli can either contribute to, or restore imbalance.

Uses

Fundamentally, everyone can benefit from the health and well-being that Ayurveda promotes. Ultimately, the wisdom of Ayurveda is a vehicle towards greater awareness and the elevation of our consciousness.

Association

The two main categories of qualification are as an Ayurvedic Practitioner or an Ayurvedic Therapist.
www.ayurvedainstitute.co.uk    

These courses (above) are accredited by the CMA.