What is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that originated in India over 3,000 years ago. The word comes from Sanskrit:

“Ayur” = life

“Veda” = knowledge or science

So, Ayurveda means “the science of life.”

More Info Below:

Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that originated in India over 3,000 years ago. The word comes from Sanskrit, where “Ayur” means life and “Veda” means knowledge or science, so Ayurveda translates to “the science of life.”

It is based on the principle that health depends on a balance between the mind, body, and spirit. Ayurveda emphasizes three primary energy types, known as doshas: Vata (air and space), which governs movement and creativity; Pitta (fire and water), which controls digestion, metabolism, and transformation; and Kapha (earth and water), which provides structure, stability, and immunity.

This system takes a holistic approach, focusing on diet, herbal medicine, yoga, meditation, detoxification, massage, and lifestyle choices, with treatments tailored to an individual’s unique constitution and needs.

Ayurveda places great importance on massage as a key part of its healing practice. Ayurvedic massage, often called Abhyanga, uses warm herbal oils tailored to an individual’s dosha to deeply nourish the skin, muscles, and nervous system.

This type of massage helps to improve circulation, release toxins, reduce stress, and promote overall relaxation and balance.

By harmonizing the body’s energies through touch, Ayurvedic massage supports both physical health and mental well-being, making it a valuable therapy in preventing illness and maintaining vitality.