Have you heard of Ayurveda?

First, let's make sure we’re pronouncing it right

AH-yuhr-VAY-duh

It’s an ancient healing system–maybe the most ancient healing system–that’s stood the test of time for a reason. 

Amidst the resurgence of Eastern medicine traditions (think acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, and herbal remedies), Ayurveda is one of the oldest and most profound approaches to well-being. But Ayurveda is more than just a healing system; it’s a science that provides specific regimens and activities for living that help to achieve longevity. The average life span is 120 years!

I had heard whispers of Ayurveda when I first began my health journey. But after reading and studying it, I was hooked. I wanted to live it, and I wanted to commit. So naturally, I booked a flight to Sri Lanka, the teardrop island below India, is a special place where an Ayurvedic lifestyle is still very much at the center of a healthy life. 

But what actually Is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is a 5,000-year-old natural healing system that originated in the Vedic culture of India.

 composed of two Sanskrit words words

Ayu =  life

Veda = science or knowledge

Ayusho Vedha Ayurveda = knowledge about life

The first basic principle you need to know is “Pacha mahabhuta.” The word sounds complicated. I promise you, it’s the opposite.

Pachu mahabhuta is the concept that you, me, and literally all objects and bodies of living creatures come from the five basic elements of existence: space, air, fire, water, and earth. So simple, but so true.

For each of us, these elements have different roles in our bodies. For example, some of us are made of more fire. Others come from more air. 

Figuring out these elements that make you you can guide each one of us to the proper diet, habits, and exercises to restore balance in the body, mind, and consciousness. It can make us healthier, it can provide balance, it can improve our mood, and it can prevent disease from building inside the body. We each have our own reasons for wanting to find that balance. It can be as simple as wanting to live healthier and happier.

If you're curious about my experience with learning and living Ayurveda, take a look at this blog post.

28 days living in Sri Lanka