What is Ayurveda Yoga?
Jack UtermoehlAyurveda yoga combines the principles of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, with yoga practices to create a personalized and holistic approach to health and well-being.
This practice aims to balance the body, mind, and spirit according to one’s unique constitution (dosha) and current state of health, aligning lifestyle and yoga routines with individual needs.
Note: Ayurveda yoga refers to yoga prescribed by Ayurvedic practitioners. There is no specific "type of yoga" exclusive to Ayurveda, as practices vary based on each patient’s unique constitution and health goals.
Ayurveda yoga tailors yoga practices to the individual's dosha type—Vata (air and space), Pitta (fire and water), and Kapha (earth and water).
By integrating yoga with Ayurvedic principles, practitioners can address specific health concerns, restore balance, and enhance overall vitality.
Origins of Ayurveda Yoga
Ayurveda, meaning "science of life," is a holistic medical system originating in India over 5,000 years ago. Documented in texts like the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, it emphasizes the interconnectedness of body, mind, and environment.
The integration of Ayurveda and yoga has been practiced for centuries, combining yoga’s physical and mental benefits with Ayurveda’s focus on dosha balance and holistic healing. This synergy helps achieve harmony and health on all levels of being.
Ayurveda Yoga Practice
The practice of Ayurveda yoga involves tailoring yoga techniques to the individual's dosha and current imbalances. Core principles include:
- Dosha Assessment: Identifying the practitioner’s dominant dosha and current imbalances.
- Tailored Asana Practice: Selecting poses that counterbalance the specific dosha.
- Pranayama: Using breathwork to regulate energy and bodily functions.
- Meditation: Applying mental focus and mindfulness to stabilize the mind.
- Diet and Lifestyle: Incorporating Ayurvedic dietary and lifestyle recommendations to support yoga practice.
Common Practices for Each Dosha
Vata (Air and Space)
- Asanas: Grounding poses like Mountain Pose (Tadasana), Tree Pose (Vriksasana), and Child’s Pose (Balasana).
- Pranayama: Slow, deep breathing techniques like Dirga Pranayama (Three-Part Breath).
- Meditation: Gentle, focused practices to calm the mind and reduce anxiety.
Pitta (Fire and Water)
- Asanas: Cooling poses like Forward Bend (Uttanasana), Fish Pose (Matsyasana), and Moon Salutations (Chandra Namaskar).
- Pranayama: Cooling techniques like Sheetali Pranayama (Cooling Breath).
- Meditation: Soothing practices to temper intensity and promote inner peace.
Kapha (Earth and Water)
- Asanas: Energizing poses like Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar), Warrior Poses (Virabhadrasana), and Boat Pose (Navasana).
- Pranayama: Stimulating techniques like Kapalabhati (Skull Shining Breath).
- Meditation: Active and engaging practices to reduce lethargy and encourage vitality.
Ayurveda Yoga Suitability
Experience Level: Mixed Level (Suitable for All)
Physical Demand: Varies by dosha
Mind-Body Engagement: Balanced Mind-Body
Adaptability: Highly Adaptable
Focus Area: Dosha Balancing
Notes on Ayurveda Yoga
Ayurveda yoga addresses the specific needs of each dosha to achieve balance, health, and vitality.
By integrating Ayurvedic principles, this practice supports detoxification, rejuvenation, and the prevention of disease, enhancing overall well-being and quality of life.
Similar Styles
Bhakti Yoga, Mantra Yoga, Japa Yoga, Karma Yoga, Raja Yoga, Integral Yoga
Equipment Needed
Required: Yoga Mat
Nice to Have: Meditation Cushion, Ayurvedic Oils
Optional: Yoga Blocks, Yoga Blanket, Herbal Supplements
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Shop NowReferences and Resources
‘The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies’ by Dr. Vasant Lad
‘Ayurveda: The Science of Self-Healing’ by Dr. Vasant Lad
‘Yoga for Your Type: An Ayurvedic Approach to Your Asana Practice’ by David Frawley and Sandra Summerfield Kozak
‘Practical Ayurveda: Find Out Who You Are and What You Need to Bring Balance to Your Life’ by Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre
