AYURVEDA AND YOGA CORELATION

Ayurveda is defined as the "science of life". It is considered a sister science to yoga, which is well known in the west as a physical exercise. However, yoga is more than just placing the body in certain postures. Yoga is defined as many things, but at its heart it is all things. It is the method of finding peace within this world. The word Yoga means "to yoke"-through yoga practices (including exercise and meditation), the mind is yoked and brought back to original wholeness (citation).

The ancient Rishis (Sages) had keen understanding into the human condition and their wisdom continues today. Yoga and Ayurveda were developed together to promote sukha (ease, happiness). Ayurveda uses herbs, exercise, diet, gemstones, meditation, colors and nature therapies to heal dukha (suffering,disease). Ayurveda is based in healing each individual and paying attention to their doshas (vata, pitta, kapha) or constitutions. By focusing on the unique make up of each person, ayurveda and yoga practices are different from modern notion of 'one size fits all' health care. Western people are becoming increasingly weary of drug based medicine and looking to alternative forms of therapy. Yoga in terms of exercise, is very popular. However, when one looks deeper into the philosophy and true meaning, they will find a world of wellness, which includes Ayurveda.