This month we look at the synergy between two ancient practises, that unearth the secret for good health & happiness.
Yoga is one of the paths to enlightenment. A practitioner of Yoga over the years develops a synergy between Body, Mind & Soul. In the process he harnesses peace, happiness and good health.
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine. The term Ayurveda is derived from the Sanskrit words ayur (life) and veda (science or knowledge). Thus, Ayurveda translates to knowledge of life.
The science of Ayurveda is based on the premise that disease is due to an imbalance or stress in a person's consciousness. Ayurveda encourages certain lifestyle interventions and natural therapies to regain a balance between the body, mind, spirit, and the environment.
"When diet is wrong, medicine is of no use. When diet is correct, medicine is of no need." – Ayurvedic Proverb
What is common to both is the focus on creating the ideal balance within us. They have the same goal, hence you may call them “Sister Sciences” . Both are considered to have originated from divine sources. They were compiled and codified by Rishis in the past.
The Yoga Sutras compiled by Patanjali enunciates the 8 angas or steps to union with the Divine. The Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Gheranda Samhita and the Siva Samhita are the three classical texts on Hatha Yoga. The Gheranda Samhiti is a comprehensive work with focus on the Shat Kriyas - exercises for cleansing the internal organs.
Dhauti is a Sanskrit term meaning “purification” and is derived from the root word, dhoo, meaning “to wash.” Dhauti is one of the shatkarmas, which are the six cleansing techniques described by Hatha yoga. The six shatkarmas are neti, dhauti, basti, nauli kriya, kapalbhati and tratak. These yogic cleansing technique improves digestive and respiratory health.
The Bṛhat-Trayī, comprising the three sanskrit encyclopedias of Ayurveda – Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita and the Ashtanga Hridayam Samhita are the foundation text of Ayurveda.
Ayurveda treatment starts with an internal purification process, followed by a special diet, herbal remedies, massage therapy, yoga, and meditation.
In Ayurveda & Yoga the foundation principle is same - internal purification and cleansing. This is what helps eradicate the disease from the root.
The concepts of universal interconnectedness, the body's constitution (prakriti), and life forces (doshas) are the primary basis of ayurvedic medicine. Goals of treatment aid the person by eliminating impurities, reducing symptoms, increasing resistance to disease, reducing worry, and increasing harmony in life. Herbs and other plants, including oils and common spices, are used extensively in Ayurvedic treatment.
The Synergy of Yoga and Ayurveda: A Holistic Pathway to Wellness
The synergistic combination of both offers a comprehensive approach to achieving holistic wellness. Yoga’s physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation practices prepare the body and mind for Ayurvedic treatments, enhancing their effectiveness and promoting deeper healing. Ayurveda, in turn, provides a personalized understanding of one’s body and dosha type, enabling individuals to choose appropriate yoga practices that align with their unique constitution.
“Ayurveda does not look upon asanas as fixed forms that by themselves either decrease or increase the doshas. It views them as vehicles for energy that can be used to help balance the doshas, if used correctly.” – David Frawley, Yoga For Your Type: An Ayurvedic Approach to Your Asana Practice
Unlike modern medicine these practises go to the root to eliminate the cause of pain and suffering. They help activate the natural healing forces in our body. They are time consuming and require patience and effort. It is difficult to find authentic places that follow the practise of the ancient texts. But the few rare places that offer value find seekers from all over the globe.
"The natural healing force within each one of us is the greatest force in getting well." – Hippocrates
Thank you <3