Ayurveda: The science of life and wellness
Ayurveda is the ancient system of Indian Medicine that is being practiced for more than 5000 years. It focuses on living a healthy life balancing the body, mind and soul. In this article, we will understand the basics of Ayurveda and how it will help to lead a healthy and happier life.
What is Ayurveda?
The term Ayurveda is derived from the Sanskrit words “Ayur” (life) and “Veda” (science/knowledge) and hence defined as “The Science of Life”. Ayurveda believes in the complete balance of body, mind and soul for the maintenance of health in an individual and emphasizes on the importance of proper diet, exercises and lifestyle modifications towards achieving the complete state of physical, mental, social and spiritual wellbeing.
The Tri-Doshas
Ayurveda mentions three vital forces namely Vatha, Pitha, Kapha also known as Tri-Doshas which are responsible for governing all the bodily functions. The healthy state in an individual is defined by the balance of these doshas/forces, and a deviation from this equilibrium gives way to diseases.
The tridoshas are also inherent in different proportions from birth till death, which influences the physical, physiological and psychological factors giving rise to different Prakruthi/body types in each individual
Vatha Dosha
Vatha is responsible for all the voluntary and involuntary movements, as well as emotions like stress, anxiety and pain. Predominance of Vatha makes one multi-tasking and creative but also restless and unstable. They can be managed by exercises to calm body and mind, following regular lifestyle practices and warm foods
Pitha Dosha
Pitha regulates all the energy transformations in body and is responsible for the metabolic activities including digestion, absorption, etc. People with predominance of Pitha seems to be intelligent and energetic but also gets aggressive. They are prone to skin conditions and hormone fluctuations. They can be managed by practices like Yoga and Meditation and cooling diet along with proper daily regimen.
Kapha Dosha
Kapha is responsible for the maintenance of physical structure, stability and nourishment. It also provides immunity and memory in a man. People with predominance of Kapha are well built and strong, however can easily gain weight as well as tend to be on the lazier side. They can be managed by regular and strict physical exercises that can be stimulating along with consuming light, warm food.
Ayurveda Diet
The concept of diet in Ayurveda is not merely eating healthy, but also focused on the type of food, time of eating, quantity consumed, way of eating and most importantly eating food that is relevant to the individual’s body type and which helps to correct any imbalance. Ayurveda diet is more personalized rather than a generalized one, hence is more result oriented.
Ayurveda lifestyle practices
Ayurveda also encourages few daily regimen that can be followed regularly in a preventive and curative aspect. It is beneficial in bringing a rhythm to the life of each individual that will create a better wellbeing. Yoga, Meditation, Physical exercises along with these regimen will enrich the body, mind and soul to bring the best in each individual.
Conclusion
Ayurveda is a complete system of health that identifies the unique needs of each person and focuses on the overall wellness. Whether one is looking to address a specific issue or to maintain the healthy state, Ayurveda provides holistic approach that will guide in achieving your goals. Incorporate the principles of Ayurveda and live a healthier and happier life.
