Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to health from "summary" of Yoga and Ayurveda by David Frawley
Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine from India, is more than just a system of treating diseases. It is a complete way of life that aims to bring balance and harmony to all aspects of an individual's being - physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. This holistic approach is based on the understanding that all these aspects are interconnected and interdependent, and that true health can only be achieved when there is balance and harmony in all of them. In Ayurveda, health is not merely the absence of disease, but a state of vibrant well-being and vitality. This state of health is achieved through a combination of proper diet, lifestyle, and the use of herbs and other natural remedies. Ayurveda teaches us to listen to our bodies and to pay attention to the signals they give us, so that we can make the necessary adjustments to bring ourselves back into balance. One of the key principles of Ayurveda is the concept of the doshas - the three fundamental energies that govern all biological processes in the body. These doshas - Vata, Pitta, and Kapha - are present in varying degrees in every individual, and an imbalance in any of them can lead to disease. Ayurveda seeks to restore balance to the doshas through diet, lifestyle changes, and the use of specific herbs and treatments. Another important aspect of Ayurveda is its emphasis on prevention. Rather than waiting for disease to manifest, Ayurveda teaches us to take proactive steps to maintain our health and prevent imbalances from occurring. This includes following a daily routine (dinacharya) that includes practices such as meditation, yoga, and self-massage, as well as eating a diet that is appropriate for our individual constitution.- Ayurveda offers a comprehensive and integrated approach to health that takes into account the whole person - body, mind, and spirit. By addressing the root causes of disease and promoting balance and harmony in all aspects of our being, Ayurveda helps us not only to heal when we are sick, but also to maintain vibrant health and well-being throughout our lives.