By Madhuri Phillips • August 3rd, 2011

Ayurveda~ Understanding Your Constitution

Ayurveda literally means the ‘knowledge of life’. It is the world’s oldest wholistic healing system still in use today. The ancient principles of Ayurveda originated in India more than 5000 years ago. They have been passed down as a sacred oral tradition and within the Veda’s- the oldest scriptures known to humankind. The essence and practices of Ayurveda have no borders or boundaries. It is an art and science for all who wish to return to a state of internal and external harmony.

How to Establish Your Constitution

Go through the following checklist twice. To establish your prakruti (essential nature/ constitution from conception), initially check the boxes that relate to your long-term tendencies or the way that things have been most of your life. The 2^nd time through, check the boxes that relate to your vikruti (current state).  The checklist is merely a guide- its accuracy is determined by the objectiveness of the individual. It is best to see an Ayurvedic Consultant or Practitioner to get a clear and accurate assessment of both your prakruti and vikruti.

Prakruti and Vikruti

Each individual has a prakruti or inborn constitution, a unique composition of the three doshas. One’s current state is known as the vikruti or imbalance stemming from deviation from our innate nature. Once we establish our prakruti and vikruti, we can use the wisdom of Ayurveda to consciously make choices regarding food, lifestyle, yoga, exercise, career path, environment and every other aspect of our life to maintain balance, and therefore have the energy to fulfil our highest potential.

Location:  Vancouver, CA

Madhuri is an internationally known Yoga teacher, certified Clinical Ayurvedic Specialist (CAS) and Pancha Karma Specialist (PKS), receiving certification from the California College of Ayurveda. She has done advanced study with world renowned, Dr. Vasant Lad...