Ayurveda is an ancient healing art that translates roughly to: "The knowledge of long life." It treats the person as a whole. The healing art of Ayurveda originates from India, where it is still practiced and taught today.
Here in Europe, Ayurveda has long been used in the wellness sector, with its massage treatments and nutritional programs, to ensure greater well-being.
The harmony of the types
Central to Ayurveda is the idea of harmony. The human being is understood as a unity of body, mind, and soul. According to this ancient Indian natural medicine, health means nothing other than that the individual forces within a person are in harmony with each other, meaning they support rather than block one another. If the flow of life energy is obstructed, Ayurveda does not look merely at the symptom. Rather, it is about observing the whole person with a watchful eye. What is their diet? How do they sleep? What do they think about most intensely? What about their digestion, metabolism, and tissues? And above all: Are the three central forces of life in balance within them?
The typology of Ayurveda
At the heart of Ayurveda is the doctrine of the Doshas. They are often described as life forces, but in the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit, "Dosha" initially means "flaw," or "that which can cause problems." In a broader sense, this refers to three fundamental principles that act in (human) nature and lie behind all physical processes. These forces exist in every person in an individual ratio (Prakriti). It is only when this personal mixture falls out of balance, for example through an unsuitable diet, that a person loses their balance and becomes ill in one way or another. Those who know their own unique constitution can target the Doshas specifically to regain lost harmony. The three Doshas are composed of five elements: Kapha from water and earth, "Pitta" from fire and water, and Vata from air and space. No person represents one Dosha in its pure form. Rather, the body of every living being is a home to Kapha, Pitta, and Vata.
The "sturdy" Kapha type
This type has a stocky build and is prone to obesity. Typical for them are sluggish digestion and a particular love of food. Kapha types are generally lethargic, listless, and slow, but also strong, enduring, and difficult to ruffle. According to Ayurveda, the Kapha type has an elephant's memory and a tendency to sit around at home. Yet, movement would be particularly good for them to master their typical susceptibilities: joint problems, sluggish bowel function, being overweight, and frequent infections. Kapha tips: half an hour of exercise daily, e.g., jogging, cycling, ball sports, or gymnastics. Do not sleep too much and avoid snacking so that the gut is not constantly occupied. In addition: a high-fiber diet and plenty of fluid intake.
The "robust" Pitta type
This type has an athletic build and is usually neither particularly tall nor short. Typical for them is warm, dry, sensitive skin that quickly starts to sweat under stress. The Pitta type has a good appetite and a blessed digestion, but blood sugar levels drop quickly. According to Ayurveda, this is not the only reason they can sometimes react quickly with impatience and irritation. Tension and irritability are, in fact, typical characteristics of this Dosha. Therefore, stress and hectic pace, as well as heat, are unfavorable factors for the Pitta type. Under such influences in particular, they are prone to headaches and stomach pain. Pitta tips: integrate enough rest phases into everyday life and avoid stress as much as possible. Types of movement such as swimming, hiking, or walking are good for this type. They should, however, be cautious with salty, sour, and spicy meals.
The "delicate" Vata type
This type has a slim, sometimes even fragile build. They neither build muscle easily nor do they gain weight quickly. They are a restless type, both mentally and physically. A tendency to brood and have worried thoughts characterizes them just as much as chronically cold feet and hands. Unlike the Pitta type, their digestion is poor and they are prone to bloating. Another typical problem of this Dosha is sleep disorders. Vata tips: A regular daily routine and habits have a particularly beneficial effect on the restless Vata type. This includes eating and going to bed at the same times whenever possible. According to Ayurveda, massages and activities such as yoga, Qigong, walking, or swimming are also particularly helpful for this type. The Vata type should avoid cold and bloating foods.
The Churna of Ayurveda
An important component of traditional Indian folk medicine is herbal medicine. Central to this are Churna, i.e., powdered medicinal herbs. In the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit, Churna also means "powder" and can refer to an effective mix of various medicinal plants. For example, powder from the Ashwagandha root is popular.
Ashwagandha in Ayurveda
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) has its firm place in the Indian healing art of Ayurveda as a traditional medicinal plant. Traditionally, leaves and root components are processed into powder and tea. The carefully selected Ashwagandha roots are "washed" with milk in accordance with Ayurvedic practices.
In this country, Ashwagandha is also known as winter cherry or sleep berry. Ashwagandha has long since established itself as a "superfood" among health-conscious people. In Indian healing, Ashwagandha is considered an energy booster and helps with stress relief.
- More information on the subject of medicinal plants can be found here.
