Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, emphasizes the deep connection between the mind, body, and spirit in achieving overall health and well-being. As explained by Dr. Deepika Gunawant, Ayurveda takes a personalized approach to health by considering an individual’s unique personality traits and constitution. Developed over a thousand years ago in India, this holistic system remains one of the oldest and most comprehensive methods of healing.
The primary goal of Ayurveda is to promote overall wellness and prevent illness. While it also addresses specific health concerns, the emphasis lies in maintaining balance and harmony within the body.
Despite the remarkable progress in modern medicine, many chronic and metabolic conditions remain difficult to treat due to unclear underlying causes. Rising stress and anxiety levels contribute to numerous health problems such as infertility, high blood pressure, depression, and premature aging—ultimately diminishing the quality of life. According to Ayurvedic philosophy, optimal health is achieved through the balance of three fundamental energies or doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
Each person possesses a unique combination of these doshas, with one or more typically being dominant. Imbalances among these doshas are believed to be the root cause of many illnesses. Ayurvedic treatment, therefore, focuses on restoring this balance to reestablish health and vitality.
Ayurveda advocates a natural, holistic approach to self-care that includes a balanced diet, regular yoga and meditation, physical activity, psycho-spiritual counseling, and therapeutic treatments using herbs and natural remedies. These practices aim to harmonize the doshas on both physical and mental levels.
An initial Ayurvedic consultation generally lasts 30–40 minutes and involves an in-depth assessment of the individual. This includes analyzing the patient’s constitution (prakriti), reviewing personal and family medical history, conducting a physical examination and pulse diagnosis, and gaining insights into lifestyle, dietary habits, and emotional well-being.