Ayurveda is an ancient system of healing documented in the Vedas and practised by the Rishis in India. Ayur means life and Veda means science, therefore Ayurveda means the "Science of Balance in Life".
Ayurveda incorporates the knowledge of the five elements: Space, Air, Fire, Water and Earth, which create of the three Doshas (Life Forces): Vata= Space & Air, Pitta= Fire & Water and Kapha= Water & Earth. The three Doshas are constantly changing with our lifestyle, food, environment & company we keep.
The 3 Doshas & their True Nature
VATA: Dry, light, mobile, expandable, quick, cold, rough, clear & astringent
PITTA: Hot, penetrating, foul smelling, liquid, sour and pungent taste
KAPHA: Soft, well built, slow, poor appetite, cool & pleasant appearance
Typical Indications of Imbalance
VATA: Dryness, skin disorders and pain
PITTA: Burning, fever and vision impairments
KAPHA: Obesity, cough, cold and Asthma
All constitutions can have Abhyanga Oil Massage with a slight variance on the Oil and pressure used. An Ayurvedic Massage by a Wellness Consultant soothes the nervous system, rejuvenates the skin, bestows youthfulness & longevity, as well as relaxes body & mind. One can receive a traditional 4-hand massage as part of Panchakarma Therapy, whereby 2 Technicians work simultaneously to smooth the body with warm Oil... The next issue we will discuss this further.
VATA: Warm Sesame Oil with slow movements
PITTA: Cool Coconut Oil- which is best used in Summer
KAPHA: Warm Sesame Oil with fast movements
We can all achieve balance in life with awareness of the mind through Meditation & Breathing practices, awareness of the body through Massage & Yoga, and awareness of the Self through Grace, Spiritual Healing and feeling connected to the Divine or Cosmic Consciousness.
