What Is Ayurveda And The Ayurvedic Diet?

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Ayurveda is the “science of life” promoting longevity and has its roots from India extending back five to ten thousand years.

Many people, especially in the west are unaware of Ayurveda and the Ayurveda diet which is designed to completely balance the body – physically, mentally and emotionally.

Those who have heard of it (perhaps that’s why you are here reading this article) only get bits and pieces of the whole system.

The whole system of Ayurveda is not really that simple because there are in fact a variety of components that include the science and composition of food, anatomy, physiology, pathology, diagnostic systems and treatment strategies for specific health and medical conditions.

In India and other places around the world an Ayurvedic doctor must complete a 5 – 6 year post-graduate degree (Bachelors of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) to become qualified.

It should be noted that Ayurveda is recognized by the World Health Organization as an effective, traditional medical practice and health science.

To really learn the ancient techniques and secrets of Ayurveda one must not only practice the Ayurveda diet but also learn and apply Ayurveda dietetics or principles.

There are many principles but the main ones include eating wholesome, organic, non-processed and unrefined foods. It also involves eating specific super-foods and herbs that are good for you.

It is important to note that being on an Ayurvedic diet means eating the right quantity and quality of foods that are best for your unique personality or dosha type. Not all Indian food is Ayurveda food.

To help determine what foods and combination of foods are best for you the first step should be to find out your constitution by taking an Ayurvedic test.

Ayurveda stresses the importance of constitutional variety which means that every person is unique and different with respects to their body compositions, mind and emotions.

No two people are a like therefore the approach for healing, health and diet will be different for everyone.

Ayurveda has developed a unique category system for each individual based on three main principles or doshas.

These three doshas in Indian Sanskrit are called Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, which can be related to or translated as Air, Fire, and Water respectively.

Once you have taken a dosha test to determine your profile or constitution you can begin the diet immediately.

Understanding, knowing and eating the Ayurvedic way creates an arena for you to become healthier and to reap some extraordinary benefits for your wellness.

Your diet should also be incorporated with exercises and spiritual practices such as yoga and meditation.

Developing your spirituality is essential for real everlasting growth and change.