Ayurveda: A Holistic Approach to Health

Today is Dhanwantari Jayanti or Dhanteras, which falls on October 29 this year

is celebrated as Ayurveda Day. Lord Dhanvantari is considered as divine propagator of Ayurveda and is conferred with the virtues of granting health and wealth. The Ministry of AYUSH, therefore, initiated Ayurveda Day in 2016 to promote awareness about the benefits of Ayurveda and its potential in addressing various health concerns.

This ancient Indian healing system emphasises a holistic approach, recognising the interdependence of body, mind, and spirit, as well as the inter-connections between humans, animals, plants, and the environment.

Celebrating Ayurveda Day acknowledges the value of this traditional medicinal system and its potential to enhance global health and wellness.

With a history spanning over 5,000 years, Ayurveda is deeply rooted in Indian tradition. The term “Ayurveda” originates from two Sanskrit words:

Ayur (आयुर) meaning “life” or “longevity”; and

Veda (वेद) meaning “science” or “knowledge”.

The core principles of Ayurveda include:

1. Three Doshas: Ayurveda describes three essential energies, or doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—that define individual characteristics and tendencies.

2. Five Elements: Ayurveda is based on the five elements—Earth (Prithvi), Water (Jala), Fire (Agni), Air (Vayu), and Ether (Akasha)—which form both the universe and the human body.

3. Seven Chakras: Ayurveda recognises energy centres, or chakras, within the body, which are vital for maintaining physical, emotional, and spiritual harmony.

4. Panchakarma: These detoxification and rejuvenation therapies are designed to cleanse and balance the body.

5. Ahara (Diet): Ayurveda places great importance on personalised nutrition, adapting to individual constitutions, seasonal changes, and the properties of different foods.

6. Vihara (Lifestyle): It recommends a balanced daily routine, physical activity, and stress management for overall well-being.

The following Ayurvedic Practices are followed:

1. Herbal medicine

2. Yoga and meditation

3. Massage therapy (Abhyanga)

4. Panchakarma treatments

5. Dietary counseling

6. Lifestyle coaching

7. Stress management techniques

Ayurveda offers various benefits, including:

1. Preventive healthcare

2. Chronic disease management

3. Improved mental clarity and focus

4. Enhanced physical vitality

5. Emotional balance and well-being

6. Spiritual growth and self-awareness

As noted above, Ayurveda—the ancient healthcare tradition of humanity—goes beyond being just a medical system; it reflects our deep, interconnected relationship with nature.

Ayurveda is a comprehensive and well-documented healthcare system that emphasises both disease prevention and health promotion. Its principles and practices are increasingly being integrated into modern healthcare, providing a valuable complement to conventional medicine.

The theme for Ayurveda Day 2024 is “Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health.” This theme highlights the contributions of Ayurveda as a comprehensive and holistic healthcare system that supports global wellness.

True Dhan (wealth) lies in our health. Today, let us wish for optimal health for everyone—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. 

Shubh Dhanteras to you and your loved ones 🙏❤️🙏.

–Kaushal Kishore