AYURVEDA
Ayurveda is the ancient medical system practiced in India for several thousand years. The name ayurveda translates as “knowledge of life”. A fundamental principle of ayurveda is that the mind and body are inseparable. Modern medical research has confirmed this ancient wisdom through numerous studies. Another principle of ayurveda is that each person is connected to and a part of his environment. The ayurvedic practitioner looks at the whole person and attempts to address all the areas out of balance.
Ayurveda recognizes 5 basic elements which comprise each person in varying combinations. These elements are air, space, fire, water and earth. Three forces, called doshas, are present that keep the 5 elements in balance. The doshas are called vata, pitta and kapha. The doshas are constantly interacting with the 5 elements and the entire environment around the person. Vata is composed of air and space elements and governs physical and psychological movement, circulation and activities of the nervous system. People who are predominantly vata tend to be thin, quick, light, changeable, unpredictable, enthusiastic and talkative. When vata is out of balance, nervous system diseases may occur, as well as digestive problems like gas and constipation, insomnia, and dry skin.
Pitta is composed of fire and water elements and governs metabolism, digestion, hormones and energy production. Pitta predominant people are fiery, intense, have penetrating eyes, have a red or flushed complexion, competitive, and may have a hot temper. Illnesses of inflammation such as ulcers, arthritis, rashes and anger are likely. Kapha is composed earth and water elements and governs structure, stability fluid balance and strength. Kapha types are solid, tend to be large, even tempered, calm and may gain excess weight. Imbalances can lead to respiratory disease, obesity, tumors, lethargy and a tendency to procrastinate.
The unique balance of elements and doshas that we each have is called our prakruti. This is our inherent and essential nature. If we are out of balance in our doshas, then disease and illness will follow. Ayurveda considers digestion to the foundation of good health because good digestion nourishes our body. Ayuveda has a broader viewpoint than Western science about digestion. It is not only the food we eat and our digestive organs that nourish us but also the other things that we take in daily. The geographic area and climate in which we live, our house, our workplace, our family, our friends, our hobbies and entertainment, our society all nourish us with healthy or unhealthy inputs.
An Ayurvedic practitioner will recommend a number of lifestyle practices that will promote health in general. In addition, specific foods, spices, breathing exercises, oil massage, purification practices, yoga, meditation and other ayurvedic practices will be recommended based on your specific needs. There are a limited number of trained Ayurvedic physicians in America. A variety of books are available for people who have an interest in learning more about this ancient healing practice.
Daniel Blodgett MD