What is Ayurveda ?

I have been thinking about this question for a long time. The answer, I suppose, would be different for different people. For some, Ayurveda is a very old system of medicine that lacks research evidence or scientific validation. For others, it is massage, Shirodhara and Panchakarma. For some, anything natural is Ayurveda. They believe that because something is herbal or natural, it must be safe and free from side effects. And then there are people who are simply clueless about what Ayurveda really is. But if you ask me, what is Ayurveda?

My answer would be my own way of looking at it. And I am happy for it to be that way. Ayurveda became a part of my life when I was very young. Back then, I didn’t really know what it was. I didn’t have a definition for it or a complete understanding of its principles. But slowly, by living with it, learning from it and experiencing it, I began to unfold many truths about Ayurveda and, more importantly, about myself. The first thing it taught me is to trust myself and my body.

I began to understand that my body has an incredible ability to heal, adapt and sustain life. Whatever happens, my body is constantly working to keep me alive and maintain its balance. I don’t have to fight my body. I have to understand it, listen to it and learn to work with it. And perhaps that was the beginning of my relationship with Ayurveda.

This is just the beginning of my thoughts. There is so much more I would like to share, and I believe this conversation will continue. I would love to hear your thoughts, experiences and perspectives.

Sincere feedback, questions and healthy criticism are always welcome. They might even help me look at things from a different perspective.

This is a journey, and I am happy to share it as it unfolds.