Ayurveda literally means “The Science of Life”. Ayur=life and Veda=knowledge or science. It is the oldest comprehensive medical system known to man. Ayurveda is not only a system of natural healing techniques; it is a way of life that reveals who we are and how close we are linked with mother nature.
The fundamental structure of Ayurveda has remained the same for more than 5000 years but it is flexible enough to adapt to new trends and the ever-changing needs of humanity. This ancient science embraces a global vision: man is an integral part of nature, thus human life can only be examined in its totality. Ayurveda teaches us how to live a healthy and contented life. It emphasizes that physical health is necessary to enjoy worldly pleasures and mental health is needed to reach eternal and supreme happiness called moksha.
Ayurveda views the human body as a combination and interaction of physical and chemical energies called doshas, tissues or dhatus and metabolic end-products called malas. A human being is healthy when doshas, dhatus and malas are in a balanced state, metabolism is at optimum level and mind, body, and spirit are cheerful. Ayurveda, unlike any other health system, also adds a dimension of spirituality.