"Health is a state of complete harmony of the body, mind and spirit. When one is free from physical disabilities and mental distractions, the gates of the soul open." -B.K.S. Iyengar
Ayurveda--a science that dates back more than 5,000 years, is a healing system rooted in the ancient Vedic culture of India. Ayurveda literally means the science of life, and is known as the science of longevity. Ayurveda utilizes many tools including yoga, diet, lifestyle, herbs, meditation and so much more to help reach your optimal and perfect state of health. Each individual is unique; no two people are created the same. Ayurveda uses this concept and takes it to a whole new level. Each person has a unique state of health. Ayurveda creates an entire routine with various aspects to help individuals create their own individualized path to a state of health and well-being.
How's this done? In Ayurveda, we use a simple understanding of the 5 elements--ether, air, fire, water, and earth--to see how they play together and create harmony in just about everything. We can see the elements in play in a rock or the ocean, all the way to the human body. We are a unique interplay of the 5 elements that came together to create the person we see everyday in front of the mirror.
The 5 elements come together to create 3 doshas, or energy principles, that govern who we are physically, mentally, and psychologically.
Ether + Air Vata
Fire + Water Pitta
Water + Earth Kapha
Each one of us has some combination of the 3 doshas. How they manifest will vary depending on how much of each dosha we have. Most of us however, will have at least one, sometimes 2 doshas predominant in us. Based on what doshas are manifesting how, Ayurveda will look at different methods to bring you back to your baseline state of health.
Various techniques are used to determine your constitution. One way is to take a quiz to determine what your prakruti, or constitution is. Here's one quiz from Banyan Botanicals that can help you. Another way to determine your prakruti is to see an Ayurvedic Practitioner. They can determine your constitution for you based on your overall physical body, as well as listening and feeling your pulse.
All of this is done to help you get back to your normal baseline state of health. So whether you are experiencing specific signs and symptoms that are uncomfortable, have been diagnosed with a certain pathology, or are just seeking to live a healthier life, Ayurveda can support you on your path to well-being.
For more information on determining your constitution and what techniques are best for you, please feel free to contact me!