Introduction To Ayurveda

 by: Janet Male

Natural Health just about sums it up! Good health should be natural. Drug companies are relying on us to increase their business. Don't let them get a look in! Look after your birthright, which is perfect health.

The easiest way to do this is by following an ayurvedic lifestyle. This is an ancient health care system based on keeping yourself well by following a healthy lifestyle. Sounds simple, doesn't it? The truth always is!

People often visit ayurvedic doctors when they are well. By a simple pulse diagnosis the doctor can tell if there are any deep seated imbalances which could lead to disease. If this is the case then simple lifestyle changes are advised.

The danger is thus averted before it arrives!

As you can see this is the opposite of modern medicine. So many of us abuse our bodies then rush to the doctor when we are ill.

This would seem ludicrous to a follower of ayurveda!

An ayurvedic lifestyle is an enjoyable one. It advocates staying in harmony with the laws of nature. This means getting plenty of rest, having a healthy, pure diet and taking enjoyable exercise. Meditation is recomended. If there are some imbalances in the system healing herbs may be recommended.

Ayurveda, a sanskrit word, means "science of health and longevity"

According to this science every person has a unique body type [prakriti]. Roughly these divide into three types, Vata, Pitta and Kapha. However, combinations of one, two or all three types are possible.

Each type is prone to different ailments. This doesn't mean they'll get them. They just need to take more care in certain areas.

For example, vata types are often anxious, pittas angry, and kaphas far too laid back!

I have heard it said that after a meal a vata type should lie down and rest, pittas go for a walk, and kaphas wash the dishes.

I'm sure the kapha types will object to that!

As the title says this is just an introduction to ayurveda. However, I hope I've whetted your appetite!