Ayurveda in a Nutshell

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian medical system that prevents and treats illness.
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Yoga and Ayurveda developed parallel with each other during ancient times. Therefore, Ayurveda is called the sister science of Yoga. Ayurveda builds on the elements of the Universe and helps us understand the effects of nature on the human body. We can see a close relationship in the practice of Yoga and Ayurvedic life style, when we connect them with the elements earth, water, fire, air, and ether.
Ayurveda is an effective tool for a healthy lifestyle; it includes Yoga, Diet, Marma Chikitsa(healing through acupressure) and Herbs.

What sets Ayurveda apart from other health traditions is that it adjusts to, and treats, each individual, according to their body types (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). Ayurveda aims for balance of these related energies in harmony with the environment.
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Vata predominantly carries Air + Ether; it is the motivating power of all life.

Pitta predominantly carries Fire + Water; it supports the transformation of energy/digestion.

Kapha predominantly carries Earth + Water; it retains what is achieved.

Ayurveda recommends an appropriate lifestyle for each individual. Applying a daily routine (Dinacharya) with a minimal effort can make a huge difference in a person’s wellbeing, for example: Getting up earlier in the morning and going to bed earlier; taking the main meal at mid-day; choosing warming and moist foods for Vata; cooling calming foods for Pitta, and light foods for Kapha. A warm meal that works for most is a Kitchari (shown in the photo)

Kitchari

Balancing Yoga practice
A Vata person needs to stay grounded, calm, and focused, by moving the body slowly, and using the muscles to strengthen.

A Pitta person needs to keep cool, relaxed, and should practice Asanas in a surrendering manner to remove heat and tension.
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A Kapha person should warm-up the body well and then practice Asanas with effort, if the body allows it.