Practical Ayurveda

Practical Ayurveda is an introductory work on the Ayurvedic system of health care. The system is presented in an easy to read, lucid style suitable for Westerners. The simple explanations and avoidance of Sanskrit terms make it especially accessible. Additionally, Atreya establishes the spiritual roots of Ayurveda and shows how to practical use the subtle healing modules available in the Vedic tradition.

Ayurvedic healing originated over 5000 years ago and 70% of India’s 900 million people are treated with this brand of medicine. Atreya lives in Europe and practices this ancient system of healing since 1987 which treats the whole person through diet, herbs, and lifestyle recommendations. Many doctors, naturopaths, chiropractors, herbalists, and nutritionists are now using Ayurvedic methods with their patients.

The key components to this system are the concept of prana ("vital energy"), the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, ether), and the three biological humors (vata, pitta, and kapha). Atreya explains the Ayurvedic method of diagnosis, food as medicine, the therapeutic use of herbs, and the role sex and meditation have in health and well — being. Stress, repressed emotions, poor diet, overwork, devitalized food, and a toxic environment all cause the humors to go out of balance. The goal of Ayurvedic healing is to restore balance.

First published in 1998.

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