Ayurveda is the ancient system of natural and holistic medicine. When translated from Sanskrit, Ayurveda means “the science of life” (the Sanskrit root ayur means “longevity” or “life” and veda means “science”). Ayurveda therapies have varied and evolved over more than two millennia. Therapies include herbal medicines, special diets, meditation, yoga, massage, laxatives, enemas, and medical oils.
In Ayurveda texts, Doṣha balance is emphasized, and suppressing natural urges is considered unhealthy and claimed to lead to illness. Balance (Skt. sāmyatva) of the doṣas results in health, while imbalance (viṣamatva) results in disease. It is importanat to stay within the limits of reasonable balance and measure when following nature’s urges. Emphasis is placed on moderation of food intake, sleep, and sexual intercourse.
The three elemental doshas or tridosha, are vata (space or air, equated with the nervous system), pitta (fire, equated with enzymes), and kapha (earth and water, equated with mucus). A parallel set of mental doshas termed satogun, rajogun, and tamogun control psychology. Each dosha has particular attributes and roles within the body and mind. The natural predominance of the doshas explains a person’s physical constitution (prakriti) and personality.
Ayurveda treatment starts with an internal purification process, followed by a special diet, herbal remedies, massage therapy, yoga, and meditation. The concepts of universal interconnectedness, the body’s constitution (prakriti), and life forces (doshas) are the primary basis of ayurvedic practices.
When you attend one of Amansala Retreat and Wellness Center ayurvedic events, you will personally meet the ayurvedic partners.
Each class will teach you:
- Take Time And Be Gentle With Yourself – Mourning rituals, Dinacharya (daily regimen) practices to retain a soothing structure, and Implement nourishing food and spices like ginger, cumin, or coriander.
- Seek Nourishment and Grounding – Have wholesome, warm food with the sweet, sour and salty tastes. Eat at regular meal times and include simple meals with soups and stews. Be regular with your sleep cycle. Don’t suppress natural urges (vegadharana) like tears which can vitiate Vata and reduce Agni. Follow a routine and try nature walks.
- Pamper yourself with a daily massage – Abhyanga or Snehana (another word for oleation or love) is a self-massage that is a calming, nurturing, and balances Vata. Massage your scalp with Brahmi or Amalaki oil. Massage your feet before sleeping (wear socks to prevent slipping). Perform a head massage with warm oil such as Marma, and Nasya or Hridaya Basti (a heart Basti). Implement uplifting lifestyle practices similar to psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) in modern medicine.
Our partnered Life Coaches are available to assist you in Ayurvedic practices. To learn more about our partnered Life Coaches, please visit the biography pages of each Life Coach. Please feel free to schedule one of our Ayurvedic events. Be sure to visit the Events and Activities calendar to assist with scheduling your visit. When you are ready to schedule a visit, please feel free to contact us and let us know you will be attending the event.