Ayurveda treatment can be defined as a system, that makes use of the inherent principles of nature. These principles maintain health by keeping the mind, spirit and body in perfect equilibrium in nature.
The origin of Ayurveda is regarded as the oldest form of health care in the whole world.
Ayurveda is a Sanskrit term, which is made up of “Ayus“ and “Veda“. Ayus means – Life and Veda means Science or Knowledge. Hence the term Ayurveda means the “Science of Life” or the “Knowledge of Life”. Ayurveda originated in India some thousands of years ago. The basics of ayurveda can be found in the ancient book of wisdom — The Rig Veda. The book was written over six thousand years ago. It contains some prescriptions of various human diseases.
The fundamental theme of the Ayurveda is “Balance”, derived from Hindu philosophy of balanced living. Any disease is the outcome of imbalance of the three energies. All treatments and medicines described in ayurveda try to create balance between three energies. The same philosophy has been extended to Yoga.
Basically, the aim of Ayurveda is to prevent the disease, heal and preserve life through –
“Swasthyas swasthya rakshanam” — To protect health and prolong life.
“Aturasya vikar prashamanamcha” — To eliminate disease and body dysfunctions.
Basic Principles of Ayurveda –
Ayurveda is based on the fact that the universe is composed of following 5 elements –
- Air
- Fire
- Water
- Earth
- Ether
These elements in humans are represented by 3 energies or “doshas”-
- Kapha (water & earth — “phlegm”) — This energy is responsible for protection and growth. Example — cerebral spinal fluid which protects the brain and spinal cord.
- Vata (air & space — “wind”) — This energy provides force and directs nerve impulses, respiration, elimination and circulation.
- Pitta (fire & water — “bile”) — This energy governs metabolism. Example — Food transformation into nutrients. The energy is also responsible for organ and tissue metabolism.
Humans’ well being depends on the balance of these doshas, also called “Tridoshas“. According to ayurveda, there are specific nutritional guidelines and lifestyle to reduce any of the excess dosha.
