An Elementary Textbook of Ayurveda Book

Personal Change and transformation (psychological and physical) are among Ayurveda's concerns. However, the central paradigm in Ayurveda is the maintenance of optimal health by daily proactive care. The individual is seen as a comprehensive and integrated biopsychospiritual being who strives for an optimal quality of life by adhering to daily health routines, including diet, exercise, and psychological work, all of which are continually modified according to seasonal changes. Ayurveda presents a comprehensive way of life that encourages balance in all aspects of living. This volume appears at a time when alternative medicine is receiving increased attention from both the medical profession and consumer advocates. Ayurveda has its origins in the rich soil of Indian culture where it has been practiced for between three to six thousand years. The word Ayurveda derives from the traditions of the ancient Indian sages and denotes enlightened knowledge of all aspects of optimal, healthy, daily living, and longevity. The author brings to this volume not only his enormous knowledge of Ayurveda but his background as a Western-trained psychiatrist, which enables him to present Ayurveda to Western readers in a straightforward and clear fashion.