Yoga & Ayurveda

It is important to understand that although Yoga and Ayurveda are treated as separate entities they share the same fundamental principles and it is essential that if one is studying either one of them, the other should be learned as well.   Both originate as a part of the greater system of Vedic Sciences passed on from the ancient rishis of the Himalayas.

Each discipline is based upon the principles of trigunas (satva, rajas and Tamas) and the panchamahabuthas (earth, air, fire, water, space) and encompass an understanding of how the body works (Dosha-Dhatu-Mala/humor-tissue-waste material theory) and the effect that food and  medicines have on the body (Rasa-Veerya-Vipaka/taste-energy-post digestive effect concept).

Both of these sciences have eight branches:  “Ashtanga Yoga” and “Ashtanga Ayurveda”; and have a common understanding of health of the body being dependent on the health and balance of the mind. 

In treatment, both Yoga and Ayurveda advocate for the regular practise of pranayama and meditation as well as the use of herbs, purificatory procedures, food and chanting of Mantras for physical and mental health.  In Yoga the purificatory procedures have been explained as “Satkriyas” whereas in Ayurveda they are known as “Panchakarma.