Everything You Need To Know About Ayurveda

You are one of a kind.  Ayurveda celebrates that. Ayurveda strives to appreciate all the intricacies that make you unique. 
​If you’re ready for a natural and holistic approach to health that’s stood the test of time, read on.

What is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is the traditional medicine of India. It’s a sister science of yoga and believed by many to be the oldest system of healing in the world. They say that Ayurveda is as old as life itself. It’s folks medicine at its core - meant to be understood and practiced by everyday folks. The word "Ayurveda" is a Sanskrit word derived from "Ayuh" meaning life and "Veda" meaning knowledge or science. So, Ayurveda means the "science of life."

The Basics of Ayurvedic Medicine

 Here’s a brief introduction to the foundational Ayurvedic principles:

• Five Elements: The five elements form the basis of Ayurveda —ether, air, fire, water and earth. These elements combine in different proportions to form three fundamental energies known as doshas. The three doshas are Vata (ether and air), Pitta (fire and water) and Kapha (water and earth).

• Three Doshas: Vata (ether and air), Pitta (fire and water) and Kapha (water and earth) are the doshas. The doshas are responsible for all structure and function in your body. They represent the energies or forces that govern your physical and mental processes. We all have all three doshas operating within us. All three doshas are essential for sustaining life. You have a unique combination of these doshas, known as your Prakriti (we sometimes refer to this as “body type”). Usually one or two of the doshas are predominant. ​Maintaining your unique balance of the doshas is essential for optimal health.

• Holistic Approach: Ayurveda takes a holistic and natural approach to health. It recognizes the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit. Ayurveda treatment aims to maintain or restore balance in all aspects of life. Diet and lifestyle changes generally form the basis for Ayurvedic therapy.

• Assessment: Ayurvedic assessment involves determining an individual's constitution (Prakriti) and identifying any imbalances. We do this through observing, questioning and examining physical features like the tongue, body frame and eyes. Next, your Ayurvedic practitioner will assess the nature of your health issues. We do this using descriptors such as cold vs. hot, heavy vs. light, oily vs. dry or slow vs. fast.

• Treatment: Ayurveda treatment focuses on restoring balance to the doshas. We use the premise that like increases like and opposites balance. Your Ayurvedic specialist may use various approaches in your Ayurveda program such as:
  • Diet
  • Lifestyle
  • Herbs
  • Ayurvedic detox procedures (known as Panchakarma)
  • Yoga
  • Breathing exercises
  • Meditation

• Personalized Approach: Ayurveda recognizes that you are unique. Therefore, Ayurveda treatment is customized to your specific needs. What works for someone else may not work for you. We delve deep to get a read on your body type and the root causes of your imbalances. We then come up with an Ayurveda program that's realistic for you.

• Preventive Care: Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of preventive care. It provides guidelines for each of the following:
  • Maintaining a balanced Ayurvedic lifestyle
  • Daily self-care practices to promote well-being
  • The subtleties of Ayurvedic cooking (which doesn’t require eating only Indian food)
  • Seasonal routines

• Mind-Body Connection: Ayurvedic psychology recognizes the strong connection between the mind and body. Mental and emotional balance are essential components of good health. We use techniques like breath work, daily routine and specific herbs to support mental well-being.

• Dietary Recommendations: Ayurveda places great emphasis on diet and nutrition. Ayurvedic cooking classifies foods based on:
  • Taste
  • Qualities
  • Effects on the doshas

We tailor your dietary recommendations so that they fit you just right.

• Integrative Approach: You don’t have to choose between Ayurveda and modern medicine. Ayurveda integrates well with other medical systems. Many people use it alongside conventional medicine. Consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner. Inform your primary healthcare provider about any Ayurveda treatment you are undergoing.

Ayurveda is a complex system with a vast body of knowledge. It requires years of study and practice to become an Ayurvedic practitioner. If you're interested in pursuing Ayurvedic therapy, find someone who meets these standards. 

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Understanding the Three Doshas

Everyone has all three doshas. You have your own proportions of each. Most people have one or two that are predominant in their original body type. Take my free quiz to discover yours. Based on the way you live your life, one or more of the doshas can be in excess. Usually when that happens, you start to feel off. This the time to take action! Things are generally pretty easy to fix in the beginning. Adopt an Ayurvedic diet and lifestyle to bring yourself back into balance. ​
Let’s look at each of the three doshas more closely...

Vata Dosha

Vata dosha is the most influential of the three doshas because it's very reactive. Vata is the dosha that most easily goes out of balance. It is also the dosha that is most easily brought back into balance. Vata governs all movement and communication in the body.
The nature of Vata dosha is:

• Dry
• Light
• Cold
• Rough
• Subtle
• Mobile
• Erratic

This is similar in nature to the ether and air elements of which it is primarily composed.
Vata is responsible for all movement in the body. This includes:

• The flow of nerve impulses
• Circulation
• Respiration
• Elimination

It also influences creativity, enthusiasm, and mental agility.
When in balance, Vata promotes:

• Creativity
• Vitality
• Flexibility
• A sense of well-being

Vata dosha tends to be lively, creative, and quick-thinking.
When Vata becomes imbalanced, it can lead to a variety of physical and mental imbalances such as:

• Dry skin
• Constipation
• Bloating
• Gas
• Weight loss
• Cold hands and feet
• Restlessness
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Fear
• Excessive worry
• Forgetfulness
• Difficulty focusing

To restore balance to Vata dosha, Ayurvedic therapy recommends an Ayurvedic lifestyle including:

• Follow a Vata-pacifying Ayurvedic diet
  • Eat warm, moist and nourishing foods such as soups and stews.
  • Avoid cold and raw foods.
• Establish a routine
  • Maintain a regular daily routine - eat, wake and sleep at the same time.
• Keep warm and hydrated
  • Vata tends to be cold and dry, so warmth and hydration generally support balance.
• Engage in calming activities
  • Practice gentle exercise like yoga and tai chi.
  • Relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing and oil massages can also be beneficial.
• Create a peaceful environment
  • Vata benefits from a calm and nurturing environment. Surround yourself with soothing colors, pleasant aromas, and a tidy space.​

The approach to balancing Vata may vary depending on the person. Consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner to get a personalized Ayurveda program for managing Vata dosha.

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Pitta Dosha

Pitta dosha is primarily responsible for transformation, digestion, metabolism and energy production.
The nature of Pitta dosha is:

• Hot
• Sharp
• Oily
• Light
• Spreading
• Liquid

This is similar in nature to the fire and water elements that compose it.
Pitta governs the following physiological functions:

• Digestion
• Metabolism
• Hormone production
• Body temperature regulation

It is also associated with qualities like intelligence, courage, and ambition.
When in balance, Pitta dosha promotes:

• Strong digestion
• A sharp intellect
• A balanced emotional state

If you are predominantly Pitta dosha, you may tend to have a medium build, good digestion and a focused mind. You are likely passionate, assertive and have strong leadership qualities.
When Pitta becomes imbalanced, it can lead to a variety of physical and mental imbalances such as:

• Excessive body heat
• Inflammation
• Acid reflux
• Ulcers
• Rashes
• Acne
• Diarrhea
• Strong body odor
• Irritability
• Anger
• Impatience
• Judgmental behavior
• Perfectionism

To restore balance to Pitta dosha, Ayurveda treatment recommends an Ayurvedic lifestyle, including:

• Following a Pitta-pacifying Ayurvedic diet - see below
  • Eat cooling, hydrating, and soothing foods such as sweet fruits, leafy green vegetables and whole grains.
  • Avoid spicy, oily, and fried foods.

• Stay cool
  • Avoid excessive heat and sun exposure.
  • Opt for cool environments
  • Wear breathable fabrics
  • Enjoy cooling activities like swimming

• Engage in moderate exercise
  • Pitta benefits from moderate and calming forms of exercise like swimming, walking, and yoga.
  • Avoid competitive or intense activities.

• Manage stress
  • Try relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and gentle stretching.

• Create a peaceful environment
  • Surround yourself with calming colors, gentle music, and pleasant aromas.​

The approach to balancing Pitta dosha varies from person to person. Consult with an Ayurvedic specialist to get a customized Ayurveda program.

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Kapha Dosha

Kapha dosha is responsible for structure, stability, lubrication and nourishment in the body.
Kapha dosha is primarily composed of the earth and water elements. The nature of Kapha is:

• Heavy
• Slow
• Cool
• Oily
• Smooth
• Dense
• Static

Kapha maintains the body's structure. Kapha provides moisture to the tissues, supporting immune function and regulating emotions.
In balance, Kapha promotes:

• Strength
• Stability
• Calmness

If you are predominantly Kapha dosha, you likely have a sturdy build and good endurance. You are generally calm and compassionate by nature. You may be patient, loyal and nurturing.
Imbalanced Kapha can lead to various physical and mental imbalances such as:

• Weight gain
• Sluggish digestion
• Congestion
• Excessive mucus production
• Lethargy
• Water retention
• Dull complexion
• Lethargy
• Depression
• Attachment
• Resistance to change

To balance Kapha dosha, Ayurvedic coaching recommends an Ayurvedic lifestyle, including:

• Follow a Kapha-pacifying Ayurvedic diet
  • Eat light - avoid overeating and only eat when hungry.
  • Spice your food generously.
  • Avoid sweets.

• Move your body
  • Kapha benefits from regular exercise to stimulate metabolism and promote energy flow.
  • Engage in activities that are dynamic, vigorous, and challenging.

• Incorporate stimulating and energizing practices
  • Dry brush.
  • Practice stimulating breathing exercises like kapalabhati.

• Stimulate your mind
  • Try new things.
  • Spark your creativity often.

Get Ayurvedic coaching to come up with an Ayurveda program for managing Kapha that's right for you.
Remember that we all have all three doshas - just in different proportions. While your original constitution doesn't change, any given dosha can become excessive. This excess is due to things like:

• Your lifestyle choices
• The climate you live in
• Your diet
• Your relationships
• Toxins you're exposed to
• As well as a myriad of other factors

This is why it is important to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner to tune into the subtleties of your body. An Ayurvedic practitioner can help you in getting to the root cause of your imbalances. 

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Ayurvedic Diet and Nutrition

Ayurvedic healing encourages you to consider your doshas when eating. Following an Ayurvedic diet works as great preventative medicine. Different doshas have specific dietary needs to maintain balance and promote optimal health. Not everyone will fit perfectly into one dosha category. You may have a combination of two doshas. You may experience fluctuations in dosha balance based on various factors. Consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner to get a personalized Ayurveda program.
Here is a general overview of the Ayurvedic diet suggested for each dosha...

Eating for Your Dosha: Understanding Ayurvedic Nutrition

Vata Dosha

• Vata folks tend to have irregular digestion and can benefit from warm, nourishing, and grounding foods.
• They should favor cooked foods, including grains like rice and quinoa, root vegetables, soups, stews, and one pot meals.
• They should have their food and drinks served hot.
• They should minimize cold and raw foods as well as legumes.

Pitta Dosha

• Pitta individuals tend to have strong digestion but can be prone to excess heat and acidity.
• They should favor cooling and hydrating foods, such as sweet fruits, leafy greens, cucumber, coconut and grains like basmati rice.
• They should minimize spicy, oily and fried foods, as well as excessive amounts of sour and fermented foods.

Kapha Dosha

• Kapha individuals tend to have slow digestion and can be prone to weight gain and congestion.
• They should favor light and stimulating foods, including spicy spices, bitter vegetables, legumes, and light grains like quinoa and millet.
• They should minimize heavy and oily foods, as well as excessive amounts of sweet and salty foods.​

Ayurveda also emphasizes mindful eating practices. These include things like:

• Eat in a calm environment
• Chew your food well
• Pay attention to hunger and stiety cues
• Follow a regular eating schedule
• Avoid overeating​

Schedule a free discovery call to learn more about how our Ayurvedic center in NJ can best serve you.

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Benefits of Fasting in Ayurveda

Approach fasting with caution. It should not be undertaken by everyone. It may not be suitable for individuals with certain health conditions such as diabetes, pregnancy or eating disorders. Before considering fasting, consult an Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare professional. They can guide you based on your individual needs and body type.
The specific fasting practices in Ayurveda vary depending on an individual's doshas and any existing imbalances. Ayurvedic fasting practices can include short-term fasting, juice fasting, mono-diet fasting, or intermittent fasting. The duration and type of fasting is determined based on an individual's unique needs. The only dosha that can completely abstain from food on occasion is Kapha.
Ayurveda views fasting as a way to:

• Cleanse and reset the body
• Improve digestion
• Detox
• Promote well-being

Here are some potential benefits of fasting in Ayurveda:

• Digestive Reset
  • Fasting allows the digestive system to rest and rejuvenate. The digestive organs can focus on eliminating accumulated toxins and improving digestive efficiency. It gives the digestive fire (known as agni) an opportunity to strengthen and rebalance.
• Detoxification
  • Fasting supports the elimination of accumulated toxins (known as ama) in the body. This supports your organs and systems. It improves your health and vitality.
• Increased Awareness
  • Fasting can heighten our awareness of the mind-body connection. By abstaining from food, we become more attuned to our body's signals, hunger cues and emotional triggers related to eating. This increased mindfulness can foster a healthier relationship with food. It also invites mindful eating habits.
• Improved Digestion and Metabolism
  • Fasting can improve digestion by allowing the digestive system to rest and reset. It can support healthy metabolism by enhancing the body's ability to use nutrients. This can encourage an optimal balance of the doshas.
• Enhanced Mental Clarity
  • Fasting has been shown to increase mental clarity and focus. It can reduce mental fog, enhance cognitive function, and promote a sense of lightness and mental alertness. You may notice better concentration during or after fasting.
• Weight Management
  • When done in a balanced and supervised manner, fasting can support healthy weight management. It can help regulate appetite, improve metabolism, and promote fat burning. Consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner to get guidance on fasting for weight management.

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The Integration of Ayurveda and Modern Medicine

The integration of Ayurveda and modern medicine is gaining interest. Ayurveda, as a traditional system of medicine, has a holistic approach to health and well-being. Modern medicine is rooted in scientific research, evidence-based practices, and technological advancements.

While Ayurveda and modern medicine have different approaches, there is room for integration. Here are some possibilities:

• Complementary Therapies
  • Ayurveda and modern medicine can complement each other by integrating certain therapies. For example, Ayurvedic practices such as yoga, meditation, herbal remedies, and dietary recommendations can be used alongside conventional medical treatments to support overall health and well-being. Integrative clinics often incorporate both Ayurvedic and modern medicine approaches to provide comprehensive care.
• Preventive Care
  • Ayurveda emphasizes preventive care and lifestyle interventions to maintain health and prevent diseases. These principles can be integrated into modern medicine by:
    • Promoting an Ayurvedic lifestyle
    • Stress management techniques
    • An Ayurvedic diet appropriate for your body type
  • Ayurvedic therapy can enhance preventive care strategies. They reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve health outcomes.
• Patient-Centered Care
  • Both Ayurveda and modern medicine recognize the importance of patient-centered care. Integrating Ayurvedic principles with modern medicine can foster a more holistic approach to patient care. Considering individual needs, preferences and cultural backgrounds can enhance compliance. This can result in better outcomes. This integration can enhance the patient-physician relationship. It also promotes a comprehensive understanding of the patient's health.
• Research and Evidence-Based Practices
  • Modern medicine relies on rigorous scientific research and evidence-based practices to establish the safety and efficacy of treatments. Integrating Ayurveda and modern medicine can lead to research to evaluate Ayurvedic therapy using standardized scientific methods. This can help bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and modern scientific evidence, providing a stronger foundation for integrating Ayurvedic practices into mainstream healthcare.
• Education and Collaboration
  • Integrating Ayurveda and modern medicine requires collaboration and education among healthcare professionals. By promoting interdisciplinary training between Ayurvedic practitioners and modern medical professionals, we can achieve a more integrated approach to healthcare! This collaboration can enhance patient care and contribute to a broader understanding of health and healing.​

The integration of Ayurveda and modern medicine should be approached with caution and carried out under the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals. The safety, efficacy, and appropriate use of Ayurvedic treatments should be carefully evaluated and discussed with healthcare providers.