Commonly Asked Questions about Ayurveda

What is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda is, "the science of life." Originating from India, ayurveda teaches us how to live our lifes in harmony with the cycles of nature so we can live a life free of disease, or so we can help to trigger our bodies own natural healing response to cure the disease. We use food, herbs, lifestyle practices, yoga, massage, and many other natural techniques in ayurveda.

Why do we practice Ayurveda?
In this fast-paced life of today, we often are disconnected to the subtle messages of our bodies and minds, and we don't really end up listening until the message turns into a loud screaming, or in western terms, a full-blown ailment or disease, such as cancer, heart disease, migraines, multiple-sclerosis, anxiety, depression, weight gain, etc. We practice ayurveda because it helps us get more in touch with ourselves,and to listen more carefully to the subtle messages our bodies are sending us. When we listen to these messages, instead of numbing them out, we are able to make slight adjustments in how we are living, or what we are eating, for example, to get our body back into balance, so the full-blown disease never occurs.

What are the difference between the 3 dosha’s
A dosha is the primary energy that is expressed in a person. The energy could be that of ether, air, fire, water, or earth. There are three doshas in all, and that is how an ayurvedic practitioner will look at you -- through the lens of what energy you mostly are. Once we know what your dosha is, we can help you to get your system back in balance.
The three doshas are as follows: 1. Vata (ether & air) - people who are vata doshas tend to be thin, talkative, and move alot -- they talk fast, walk fast, and are generally on the move. When they are out of balance, they tend towards anxiety, dry skin, and constipation.
2. Pitta (fire & water) - people who are pitta doshas tend to be average height and weight, and have reddish skin with freckles, light hair (or no hair), and they are very intense -- everything they do, they give 110% -- they are very smart, and also tend to be competitive. They have a strong digestion, and can't miss a meal or they will get angry. When they are out of balance, they tend towards anger, impatience, rashy skin, acne, loose stools and heartburn.
3. Kapha (water and earth) - people who are kapha doshas tend to be bigger boned and heavier set. Their skin is very soft and smooth and white, and they have thick hair, big eyes and deep voices. They are very sweet, calm and loving, and they like their routines. When out of balance, kaphas tend to gain weight, be depressed, hold on to things they need to let go, and are lethargic.