Ayur or ayus translates from the Sanskrit term to mean “life”, and Veda is knowledge or science. Literally ‘The Science of Life’ Ayurveda comes from the same ancient tradition as hatha yoga and is considered to be the “Mother” of all holistic healing. The oldest of all medicinal practices, it is now emerging as one of the most important mind, body, spirit medicines in today’s modern world.

The texts on Ayurveda offer a unique system of treatment, explaining the inner intelligence the body has enabling it to heal itself when the right conditions exist. Ayurvedic practitioners offer lifestyle adjustments that include diet, herbal formulas, color therapy, massage, yoga and meditation. Our environment, our relationships, the food we eat, our work, our climate, our faith and how we function within our own small universe is of great importance for this will determine our state of physical, mental and spiritual happiness and fulfillment.

Energy and vibration are the basis of Ayurveda. The universe is made up of pulsating energies, or the five great elements; earth, water, fire, air and ether that are constantly changing and transforming.

The human body is composed of derivatives of these five elements, in the form of doshas, tissues and waste products. When ether and air combine it is known as Vata, when fire and water combine it is called Pitta and when earth and water combine it is called Kapha. The three doshas are present in every living cell, consequently, in Ayurveda it is understood that everything is interrelated.

The Three Humours or Tridosha are the main principles governing the physiological factors of the body. Vata regulates movement and is represented by the nervous system. Pitta is the cause of all metabolic processes in the body. Kapha is the principle of cohesion and functions through the body fluids. Together, these three doshas determine the physiologic constitution of an individual.

When we are healthy, they are in balance, when disease manifests, they are out of balance. These three doshas, not only affect us on a physical level, but also on a mental and emotional level as well. They influence all that we are and do. The choices we make and have made since the time we were born. In fact they make us who we are, unique individuals.