Monday, September 26, 2016

Ayruveda—The Science of Life

Ayruveda is a sanskrit word which means ”science of life.”  I have been fascinated by ancient origins for many years now.  Ayruveda is a 5,000 year old natural healing system of India.  I know that everything that is ancient isn’t necessarily wise or worthwhile, however, the more I learn about Ayurveda the more it is supported by wisdom and good science of the day.  Ayurveda is governed by three cosmic forces: Life (Prana), Light (Jyoti), and Love (Prema which relate to the three great elements of air, fire and water.  These three elements combine to create the three governing forces known as Doshas: Vata (air/space), Pitta (fire) and Kapha (earth/water). Each of us has all three doshas, however one usually is more dominant.  The intention of Ayruvada is to bring the Dosha compositions into balance in all areas of our lives.  

Vata means, “that which moves things”.  The Air element governs sensory and mental balance.  It's primary attributes are dry, cold and light.

Pitta means, “That which digests things”.  Pitta governs our mental digestion, the capacity to perceive reality and comprehend things as they are.  The attributes of Pitta are hot, light and moist.

Kapha means “That which holds things together.”  Kapha provides support, substance and comprises the bulk of our bodily tissues.  Kapha also provides our emotional support and stability relating to positive emotional traits like love, compassion, patience and forgiveness.  The Primary attributes of Kapha are heavy, cold and moist.  


Having all three doshas in balance is the goal.  Doing yoga helps to bring them into balance.  It is a place of physical and mental well being.  Even though we will never reach that perfect balance, doing yoga, eating well, breathing well and any other healthy practices are in themselves a state of well being and worth doing every day.  www.gobodhiyoga.com

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