‘Ayurveda’ is a Sanskrit word which means knowledge of life and longevity. It is the oldest system of medicine developed in ancient India and is one of the best ways to cure diseases. In the modern world, there are many practices derived from Ayurvedic traditions that are used in alternative medicine. The World Health Organization (WHO) officially recognized Ayurveda in 1976.

Ayurvedic treatment is a combination of products (mainly derived from plants, but may also include animal, metal, and mineral), diet, exercise, and lifestyle. Therefore, one of the benefits of Ayurveda is being less dependent on western treatments which impact health. All the substances used in Ayurveda are natural herbs etc; therefore, there is no negative impact on one’s health when they adopt it

Another benefit is a significant reduction in stress and anxiety with improved immunity and reduced frequency of illness. Stress is one of the most common causes of a number of health-related problems that people suffer due to the modern lifestyle.

Under Ayurveda, the body types are categorized into three main types which include Kapha (Earth and Water), Pitta (Fire and Water), and Vata (Air and Ether). The treatment and therapy vary depending upon the body type with the main aim being restoring the individual balance between the mind, spirit, and body. The therapy includes meditation, yoga, exercises, and diet. As per Ayurveda, having a nutritious and balanced diet and regularly exercising keeps one disease-free.

Ayurveda improves the quality of daily lifestyle which brings well-being in one’s life leaving us with a healthy mind and glowing skin. Important factors which help us cleanse the mind and spirit are adequate diet, exercising, sun exposure, and emotional well being.

 Dr. KL Goyal, BAMS, Gurukula Kangri Vishwavidyalaya, Haridwar

An expert in the field of Ayurveda, he has pursued his BAMS – Bachelors in Ayurveda and Medical Sciences in 1982 from Gurukula Kangri Vishwavidyalaya, Haridwar. He holds an experience of over 36 years in the field of Ayurveda and has been practicing the same independently. He also won the Double Helical state award 2018  in the field of Ayurveda.