What is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is a system of self care that originated in India more than 5,000 years ago. It is an ancient, intricate and holistic system of healing and also the most complete. Historical evidence of Ayurveda can be seen in the ancient books of wisdom known as the “Vedas”. The Vedic word Ayurveda has two root words – Ayu and Veda. Literally and concisely, Ayurveda means “the science of life” which is more than just a medical system.

The individual is continuously and constantly connected to the universe. The knowledge of this inter-relationship is the fundamental philosophy of Ayurveda. Ayurveda helps to balance the body and mind, find health problems before they occur or arrest them before they do any real harm. It is a complete philosophical and spiritual system.

According to Ayurveda, most people are born in a state of equipoise but quickly loose it either through bad diet, irregular lifestyle or any other external influences most no-conducive to their natural constitution and temperament.

Ayurveda offers anyone the chance to discover for themselves what optimum conditions for them might be and to try to keep them balanced. It uses a variety of natural approaches to health care, including dietary advice, exercise, massage, daily and seasonal routines and meditation. The Ayurvedic principle is that each person is governed by 3 humours or forces called Doshas: Vata (Air), Pitta (Fire) and Kapha (Water). These 3 Doshas form the tripod of Ayurveda. If they are balanced there is harmony and the person is said to be healthy. When one of the 3 becomes out of balance then the person will have ailment.

Most individuals have a predominant Dosha, which determines body types and temperaments. The Dosha govern all the activities in the body and the aim of Ayurveda is to bring them as nearly as possible into balance – the more balanced they are, the healthier a person is. Ayurvedas logical approach to health and living is combined with philosophy, psychology and spiritual guidance.

This understanding that we are all unique individuals enables Ayurveda to address not only specific health concern but also offers an explanation as to why one person responds differently compared to another. We hope that you will continue to explore Ayurveda to enhance your health and to gain further insights into this miracle we call life.

by Deepthi Niranjan, Ayurveda Doctor at The Retreat in Reading, Email or Tel: 0118 958 8190



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