What is Ayurveda ?
Ayurveda, the knowledge of life and longevity, is the oldest, most comprehensive scientific discipline, a complete health care system or healing system that was preached, practiced and documented in the ancient times by omniscient sages. This knowledge was revealed to them in their spiritual pursuits.
Closely associated with the Indian thought process, the origin of this system can be traced to the Vedas, the earliest codified knowledge body, which deals with all aspects of the universe. This ancient knowledge was then dissipated to mankind around 5,000 years ago by sages and seers for the well-being of mankind.
What are the basic principles of Ayurveda?
Ayurveda’s ingredients are simply the basic building blocks of the universe itself. The 5 great elements of Ayurveda are: (Pancha Maha Bhootas) – Space (Akash), Air (Vayu), Fire (Tejas), Water (Ap) and Earth (Prithvi). Shake up the 5 elements and you have the recipe for creating this universe in all its entirety and variety.
A person is part and parcel of this universe and can hardly be considered in isolation. The Pancha Maha Bhautik Sharira (body) along with Manas (mind) and Atman (soul) constitutes you and me, the Purusha (the living, breathing, feeling self) in constant interaction with the outer universe (Loka).
The self of the person (Purusha) is a continuum of the universal self while the physical body, composed of the Pancha Maha Bhootas (five great elements), originates from the Pancha Maha Bhautik and receives nourishment from food and drinks of similar composition. Hence, equilibrium between the internal and external makeup of a person is essential for the maintenance of the living body. Since the individual human being is the miniature replica of the universe; the individual (Purusha) and the universe (Loka) stay in constant interaction with each other and derive and draw materials from each other to maintain their normalcy and homeostasis. This interaction and exchange continues in a normal way, by breathing the air and eating natural, healthy foods. If this interaction is wholesome and complete, the body is in optimum health. When this harmonious process breaks down, a disease state begins. Hence, in Ayurveda the main goal of treatment is to restore the harmonious exchange between Purusha (individual) and Loka (universe).
Does Ayurveda takes a long time to heal ailments?
No. This is a common misconception about Ayurveda. The question you must ask yourself is: Are you looking for a quick fix or merely suppression of symptoms? Or are you seeking to dissolve the deep-rooted cause of the imbalance and rejuvenate your body entirely? If you are looking for a quick fix or a quick suppression of symptoms then Ayurveda is not the right modality for you. If, however, you are looking to get to the bottom of your imbalance then you will be pleasantly surprised to discover the benefits of Ayurveda, in a relatively brief period of time.