Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ayurveda and where did it come from?
Ayurveda (Ayurvedic Medicine) is a traditional system of medicine that can be both preventative and curative. The origins of Ayurveda can be dated back to more than 5,000 years ago.
The Charaka Samhita is a Sanskrit text written on Ayurveda. The information was compiled and codified by many and revised by Charaka, known as the 'Father of Ayurveda'. Ayurveda is attributed to Dhanvantari, who was the physician to the Gods in Hindu mythology, who received this information from Brahma (God of creation/ God of the Universe). Concepts of Ayurveda were first seen in the Atharvaveda - one of the four Vedas.
How does Ayurveda work?
Ayurveda has both preventative and curative aspects. The preventative components include strict personal and social discipline. Exercise, a sattvic diet, yoga and meditation are remedial aspects of Ayurveda. Curative aspects of Ayurveda include herbal medicines, external preparations, physiotherapy and diet. These preventative and curative aspects of Ayurveda are adapted to the personal requirements of each person.
What is Hatha Yoga?
The word ‘Hatha’, is a combination of two words: ‘Ha’ and ‘tha’. ‘Ha’ represents the esoteric sun, the masculine energy; while ‘tha’ represents the moon energy, the feminine. The word ‘yoga’ means to join, to yoke or to unite. A hatha yoga practice aims to join or balance these two energies, which are inherent in all of us, no matter the gender.
The practice of hatha yoga can be seen as asana (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), mantra (chanting), mudra (hand gestures), shatkriyas (cleansing techniques) and meditation. It is generally a physical practice to prepare the body for a higher possibility.
The word ‘hatha’ can also be translated as ‘force’, but this does not mean you have to contort your body into complex postures or stand on your head. It simply means that consistency and discipline are needed to attain the benefits of practicing hatha yoga or leading a yogic lifestyle. Practicing hatha yoga with a sense of humility and practicing in a way that suits your individual body can be a fantastic and fulfilling process.