ayurvedic panchakarma

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veda Elements 17 O rchar d Rd C ha tsw ood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

1 Ayurveda Lifestyle

Certificate Course

phone/fax 02 9904 7754

texts 0425 233 426

[email protected]

17 Orchard Road Chatswood Sydney 2067

www.fertilitynaturally.com

www.ayurvedaelements.com

www.ayurvedahealthresorts.com

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2

Ayur veda Elements 17 O rchar d Rd C ha tsw ood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754

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3 Commencing Mantra

Om. saha naa-vavatu

saha nau bhunaktu

saha veeryam karavaa-vahai

tejasvina-avadheetam-astu

maa vidvisha-avahai

om shaantih shaantih shaantih

Om.

May the divine protect us. May it nourish us.

May we work together uniting our strengths for the good of humanity.

May our wisdom be luminous.

May our relationship be always harmonious. May there be peace, peace, perfect peace.

Concluding Mantra

Om.

sarve bhavantu sukhinah

sarve santu nir-aamayaah

sarve bhadraani pashyantu

maa kascit duhkha-bhaag bhavet

om shaantih shaantih shaantih Om.

May all be happy. May all be healthy.

May all experience what is good and let no one suffer.

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4 healer’s prayer

Lord,

Make me an instrument of your health Where there is sickness, let me bring cure;

Where there is injury, aid; Where there is suffering, ease; Where there is sadness, comfort;

Where there is despair, hope;

Where there is death, acceptance and peace; Grant that I may not:

So much seek to be justified, as to console; To be obeyed, as to understand;

To be honoured, as to love …

For it is in giving ourselves that we heal, It is in listening that we comfort, And in dying that we are born to eternal life

Prayer of St. Francis

(Modified by Charles C. Wise)

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5 Course Information

Optional reading

1. David Frawley Ayurveda and the Mind 2. Harish Johari Chakras

3. Invis Multimedia Ayurveda – Mantra of Niramaya (105 page book with innumerable colour plates) 4. Invis Multimedia Ayurveda – Mantra of Niramaya (CD Rom –around 4.5 hours of viewing) 5. Invis Multimedia Panchakarma (110 page book with innumerable colour plates)

6. Invis Multimedia Panchakarma (DVD 50 minutes)

7. Maya Tiwari Ayurveda –a life of balance 8. Maya Tiwari Ayurveda Secrets of Healing 9. Pratima Raichur Absolute Beauty

10. Robert Svoboda Ayurveda Life, Health and Longevity 11. Robert Svoboda Prakruti

12. Vasanth Lad Ayurveda – The Science of Self-healing 13. Vasanth Lad A Complete Guide to Clinical Assessment

Assessment Criteria

1. Classroom participation 30% of the total marks 2. Assignment, homework 20% of the total marks 3. Examination 50% of the total marks

4. Pass mark Minimum 60 %

5. Attendance Minimum 15 days is essential to qualify for the exam

6. Certificate Upon successful sufficient attendance & completion of assignments & exam.

Some suggestions

1. Organize a monthly get together to share your experience and to discuss the subject covered over the previous weekend. 2. Try not to miss any class. But, if you miss one, please ensure a fellow student collects your notes. Catch up sessions are $50/hr. 3. Open an Gmail account, if you don’t have one, so that we can have group discussions.

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6 Ayurveda Elements © 2009

Copying whole or part of this work should be performed only with the

written permission from Rama Prasad or Caroline Robertson.

Warning:

The information in this workbook is only for general information. If you have

any serious health condition you should consult your health practitioner.

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7 Course Curriculum

Module Topics

1. Ayurveda in daily life

Life - Mind - Body Ayurveda as the art of living and the science of healing • Path to long, healthy living - daily routine • Five pillars of life • The three doshas • Body-types • Veda and Ayurveda • Vedic cosmology • Subtle body • Three modes of universe & the mind (satva, rajas and tamas) • Elements & doshas • Twenty attributes.

2. Dosha and Tissues

Body Tree Dosha rhythms • Branches of doshas • Prana, Tejas and Ojas -the source of doshas • Signs of doshic imbalance • Doshas and seasons • Structure of the body - the subtle tissues • Channels and wastes. Natural urges • Agni - digestion and metabolism • Agni imbalances.

3. Ayurvedic nutrition Food as medicine • Ayurvedic nutrition • Food classification • Diet during various health conditions • Ayurvedic cooking.

4. Kitchen herbs Therapeutic actions of herbs • Kitchen herbal remedies for common ailments • Traditional and powerful ayurvedic herbs.

5. Powerful herbs Introduction to Herbal, Metal and Mineral formulations • Cause and course of disease ~ Six stages of diseases • Disease as healing.

6. Diagnosis Diagnosis: Tongue, Doshic and Elemental • Clinical healing • Lifestyle in dosha imbalance • Colour, aroma and gem therapy • Seasonal regimes.

7. Ayurvedic massage Marmas • Oils and formulas • Head, foot and body massage.

8. Therapeutics Introduction to Ayurvedic body therapies • Beauty regimes • Rejuvenation therapies • Purifications Yogic (Shatkriyas) and Ayurvedic (Pancakarma) • Examination.

9. Hands on therapies Hands on therapies ~ Shirodhara • pichu • Nasya • Tarpana • Discussion • Farewell dinner.

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8 Weekend 01

Introduction

11 Flowing with nature

15 Four phases of life

19 Life pursuits

20 Behavioral tonics

21 Daily routine

25 Massage

31 Creative visualisation

35 Pillars of health

38 Health questionnaire

42 Natural urges

45 Life as spiritual practice

46 Evolution

49 Energy vortexes

51 Subtle and gross body

52 The modes of universe

53 Five elements

55 Doshas

58 Subtle qualities

60 Your mind-body type

61 Appendices

71 Moment meditation

72 Flow with the seaason

83 Study of doshas

86 Gunas

87 Dosha types

90 Homework

98 ayurveda is the

knowledge that

indicates what is

appropriate and

inappropriate

for a blissful life.

As well as what is

auspicious and

inauspicious

for longevity.

charaka samhita 1.41

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9 Weekend 01

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10

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11 Introduction to Ayurveda

Ayus ……… ……… ……… Veda ……… ……… ……… Ayurveda ……… ……… ……… ………

Origin of Ayurveda

Brahma ……… ……… ……… ……… Prajaa pati ……… ……… ……… ……… Ashwini twins ……… ……… ……… ……… Sahasra aksha ……… ……… ……… ……… Munis ……… ……… ……… ……… Tantraani ……… ……… ……… ………

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12

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13 Geographical Origin

……… ……… ……… ……… ………

Literature

Charaka samhita Charaka General medicine

………

Sushruta samhita Sushruta Surgery

……… Asthaanga samgraha Vaagbhata General medicine

……… Ashtaanga hridaya Vaagbhata General medicine

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14 Branches

1. Kaaya chikitsa General medicines 2. Baala chikitsa Paediatrics

3. Graha chikitsa Psychiatry and psychology.

Also healing with gems, colour, music and mantra.

4. Uurdhvaanga chikitsa Therapeutic and surgical procedures are described to correct con-ditions of the ears, nose, throat and eyes.

5. Shalya chikitsa Surgery. 6. Visha chikitsa Toxicology. 7. Rasaayana chikitsa Rejuvenation.

8. Vrsha chikitsa Fertility therapy that deals with sub fertility management of male and female, prenatal, natal and postnatal conditions.

……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ………

Ayurvedic scientists discovered and used

o Over 100 surgical instruments o Various surgical methods o Artificial feeding

o Intramuscular medication o Plastic surgery

o Oxidised, safe metals as internal medicines o Over 11,000 herbs

o Immobilisation techniques o Various types of bandages

……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ………

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15 Flowing with nature

We grow from the events in our lives. We grow from our experiences. We grow through changes, rhythms and movements.

The universe is full of cycles and rhythms such as day and night, hot and cold, left and right, yin and yang. When we follow nature’s rhythms we enjoy health. Whenever we disobey nature, inwardly and outwardly, we fall into pain and suffering.

To be healthy, we need to flow with nature. “Flowing with the universe” can be divided into the fol-lowing categories:

1. Aashrama Four phases of life

……… ……… 2. Purusha artha Four life pursuits

……… ……… 3. Brahma carya Cruising with the cosmos

……… ……… 4. Sadvritta Living in harmony

……… ……… 5. Dina carya Dancing with the day

……… ……… 6. Ritu carya At ease with the seasons

……… ………

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16 Wheel of Life

The 8 sections represent a balanced wheel. Take the centre or hub, of the wheel as 0 (totally dissatis-fied) and the outer edge as 10 totally satisfied. Rank your level of satisfaction with each area of your life by putting a cross on the relevant spoke.

Draw a line to join the crosses.

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Keeping your ‘wheel of life’ in mind, what are your short and long term goals or intentions? What do you most want for yourself in the following areas?

1. Physical environment 2. Friends/Family 3. Health 4. Career 5. Money 6. Partner/Relationship 7. Personal growth 8. Fun/Recreation

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18 The path to a long,

healthy life.

Art is defined as

the dance of the

goddess of wisdom.

Every molecule in

our body is dancing.

Life is a vibrant,

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19 Four phases of life - aashrama

Brahmacharya ……… Garhasthya ……… Vanaprastha ……… Sanyaasa ……… ……… ……… I have achieved/want to achieve the following:

Brahmacharya ……… Age 0-30 ……… ……… ……… Garhasthya ……… Age 30-60 ……… ……… ……… Vaanaprastha ……… Age 60-80 ……… ……… ……… Sanyaasa ……… Age 80+ ……… ……… ………

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20 Life pursuits - purusha artha

Kama – Artha – Dharma – Moksha

What is my plan / dream / goal?

What would I love to have? What excites me?

What is my life-goal?

……… ………

What are my resources?

Books, training, references. What type of help do I need? Who can help me?

……… ………

What is my strategy?

My plan A / plan B.

Is my plan well thought out? Is it logical, structured?

……… ………

Am I pro-active?

Am I focussed?

Are there any distractions? Am I committed, detached?

……… ………

How do I manifest my dreams? Sankalpa.

Day 1: Read. Write. Visualize. Day 2: Read. Rewrite. Visualize.

Continue this for a month or as desired.

……… ………

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21 Life pursuits in practice

My main goal ……… ……… ……… ……… My main resources ……… ……… ……… ……… My strategy ……… ……… ……… ……… I get my fulfilment from

……… ……… ……… ………

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22 Society and You - sad-vrittam

Ashtanga Yoga

Yama Social rules: Active compassion, truthfulness, honesty, follow nature’s rules, minimise possessions

……… Niyama Personal rules: Fulfilled, cleanliness, perseverance, self-motivated, staying with the inner force

……… Aasana Physical fitness: Strength, suppleness, stamina

……… Praanaayaama Physiological fitness, adaptability, dynamic balance

……… Pratyaahaara Minimising distractions

……… Dhaarana Concentration, forcus

………

Dhyaana Meditation

………

Samaadhi Manifestation

………

Getting God Delivered to Your Door Step!

Bhartr Hari’s method

Udyama Conscious effort

……… Saahasa Immediate action

……… Dhairya Courage through understanding

……… Buddhi Intelligence

……… Shakthih Massive action

……… Paraakrama Pro-activeness

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23 Behavioural tonics for a Long healthy life

1. Speak truth.

2. Stay away from addictive habits. 3. Practice active compassion.

4. Take time to rest and rejuvenate. Avoid over-exer-tion.

5. Speak pleasantly and carefully. Use gentle words. 6. Clean the body by regular bathing.

7. Be courageous and patient. 8. Always be charitable.

9. Follow religious and virtuous acts according to your own beliefs.

10. Always be calm. 11. Practice safe sex.

12. Respect your teachers, elders, nature and all animals. 13. Always be loving and caring.

14. Be merciful to all who are in need of your help.

15. Maintain balance in waking and sleeping in the night; do not stay awake long in the night and do not sleep in the daytime.

16. Take milk and ghee in moderation in your diet.

17. Understand the right action according to time, place and circumstances.

18. Develop the habit of planning and sticking with the plan. It is said that failing to plan is planning to fail. 19. Always be humble.

20. Behave according to the rules of society.

21. Do not be mean-spirited; be generous and sharing. 22. Strive towards pure consciousness.

23. Respect and serve your elders and wise people. 24. Respect and serve priests, sages, and saints who serve

your religion and the Divine.

25. Respect and serve the people who have conquered their senses.

26. Practice spiritual activities.

27. Continually study new science, advances, research and philosophies.

28. Utilize the wisdom for the benefit of all beings. 29. Eat in a calm, settled atmosphere.

30. Always sit down to eat.

31. Eat only when hungry. If not correct your digestion. 32. Avoid ice-cold or extremely hot food and drink. 33. Don’t talk while chewing.

34. Don’t eat too slowly or too quickly. 35. Eat only if previous meal is digested. 36. Take a few sips of water with meals.

37. Eat freshly prepared foods whenever possible during meal times.

38. Sit quietly for a few minutes after eating. 39. Food should please all five senses. 40. Breathe deeply.

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24 Just For Today

Just for today I will try to live through this day only

& not tackle my whole life problems at once.

Just for today I will be happy. This assumes to be

true what Abraham Lincoln said, that “Most folks are

as happy as they make up their minds to be.”

Just for today I will adjust myself to what is & not

try to adjust everything else to my desires.

I will take my “luck” as it comes & fit myself into it.

Just for today I will try to strengthen my mind. I

will study; I will learn something useful; I will not be

a mental loafer; I will read something that requires

effort, thought & concentration.

Just for today I will be agreeable. I will look as

good as I can, dress becomingly, talk gently, act

courteously, criticize not one bit, not find fault with

anything & not try to improve or regulate anybody

except myself.

Just for today I will have a program.

I may not follow it exactly, but I will have it.

I will save myself from two pests: hurry & indecision.

Just for today I will have a quiet half hour all by

myself & relax. During this half hour, sometime, I will

try to get a better perspective on my life.

Just for today I will be unafraid. I will enjoy that

which is beautiful & will believe that as I give to the

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25 Daily Routine - dinacharya

dina ……… charya ……… aachaara ……… 01 • Awakening ……… ……… ……… ……… 02 • Affirmation & visualisation

……… ……… ……… ……… 03 • Answering nature’s calls

……… ……… ……… ……… 04 • Oil-massage and exercise

……… ……… ……… ………

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05 • Daily bodily cleanses

……… ……… ……… ……… 06 • Shower/bath ……… ……… ……… ……… 07 • Breathing exercise ……… ……… ……… ……… 08 • Meditation ……… ……… ……… ……… 09 • Preparation and eating food

……… ……… ……… ………

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10 • Work ……… ……… ……… ……… 11 • Retiring from work

……… ……… ……… ……… 12 • Family time ……… ……… ……… ……… 13 • Head & foot massage

……… ……… ……… ……… 14 • Bath/shower ……… ……… ……… ………

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Ayur veda Elements 17 O rchar d Rd C ha tsw ood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754 15 • Gentle stretch ……… ……… ……… ……… 16 • Light dinner ……… ……… ……… ……… 17 • Reflection ……… ……… ……… ……… 18 • Reading from an enlightening book

……… ……… ……… ……… 19 • Sleep/rest ……… ……… ……… ………

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29 My Daily routine

The following is a sample day with some suggested times. Adjust it according to your schedule’s convenience. A steady routine gives your physiology a healthy rhythm. Once we resonate with the rhythm of Mother Nature she embraces us in the cosmic dance of growth and vitality.

Your programs

1.

Awakening. Visualisations and affirmations.

2.

_{Emptying bowels bladder.}

3.

_{Cleansing teeth, tongue, nose eyes and ears.}

4.

Exercise.

5.

Massaging body, face and scalp. Shower.

6.

_{Yoga asanas -Pranayama.}

7.

_{Meditation / reading from an enlivening text.}

8.

Dressing and grooming.

9.

Prepare and take breakfast.

10.

_{Daily duties in the most positive consciousness.}

11.

_{Lunch and a gentle walk, appreciating nature.}

12.

Continue daily duties.

13.

Plan the schedule for the following day.

14.

_{A foot massage. Have a shower or bath.}

15.

_{A stretch, rest or meditation.}

16.

Prepare and have dinner.

17.

Spend some time with family / friends.

18.

_{Take a gentle walk.}

19.

_{Assess your performance during the day and}

contemplate the lessons given.

20.

_{Prepare to sleep.}

21.

Bed time.

Yesterday is but a shadow. Tomorrow is only a dream.

But today well lived makes every yesterday

a memory of happiness and every tomorrow a vision of hope.

Live well therefore this day.

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31 Massage - Abhyanga

Ayurveda recommends the practice of daily self-massage, called Abhyanga. Mas-sage helps to keep one feeling young, beautiful, vital and healthy. Among it’s many other benefits, massage gives the skin a beautiful lustre, tones muscles, improves circulation, flushes out toxins, soothes the nervous system, provides deeper sleep and stimulates the growth of strong, thick hair on the scalp. Self-massage is an easy, grounding meditation that promotes wellbeing at all levels. WHICH OIL? Ayurveda, generally recommends oil massage. Sesame oil is consid-ered the ideal massage oil. Almond, coconut, jojoba, coconut or olive oil can also be used. A few drops of essential oil suited to your constitution and condition may be added to the massage oil to enhance the effect of the massage. Coconut oil is better if you have sensitive skin or tendency to develop rashes or boils. THE SEQUENCE: The three most important organs to be massaged everyday are the head, ear lobes and feet. Commence self-massage on your scalp then move on to your face and finish by massaging your body. The direction of strokes is away from the heart, generally following the flow of the hair growth. If massage is not possible everyday perform it on alternate days or at least on the weekends. PROCEDURE: The most effective self-massage is practiced with a loving and nur-turing mind-set. Tap into your tactile sensitivity, moulding and stroking your body like a sculptor creating a masterpiece. Keep the pressure firm but not pain-ful beyond tolerance. Following are comprehensive instructions on the practice of self-massage.

1. SCALP MASSAGE

Coconut oil is the ideal oil for scalp massage as it is like rich, nourishing fertiliser for thirsty grasslands. It prevents hair loss, premature greying and dryness.

METHOD

1. Apply oil to the whole scalp by systematically parting the hair and squeez-ing oil onto the area. Ussqueez-ing the pads of your fsqueez-ingers massage the oil onto the scalp.

2. Use both fists to gently tap the head all over.

3. Gently pull small tufts of hair from the roots and twist clockwise three times. 4. Comb through hair with a wide toothed comb.

5. Leave the oil in your hair for 1-24 hrs then wash out.

6. When rinsing avoid conditioner. Conditioners are not considered conducive to healthy hair as they build up an oily residue on the scalp, trapping dirt and impeding growth by blocking hair follicles.

7. Avoid external heat on the hair in the form of sunshine, hair driers or hot water. Heat on the head encourages early balding, greying and dryness.

BENEFITS

• Increases rate of hair growth and gives a glossy, strong quality to the hair. • Relieves neck and back tension.

• Improves mental clarity, memory & co-ordination.

• Regulates hormone release by stimulating the pituitary and pineal glands; fa-cilitates the release of mood elevating serotonin and relieves mental tension. • Relieves dizziness and tinnitus, reduces blood pressure.

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Ayur veda Elements 17 O rchar d Rd C ha tsw ood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754 2. FACIAL MASSAGE

You may use oil or the following cleanser for facial massage. INGREDIENTS

- 1 cup jojoba/ almond oil - 1cup glycerine - 5 drops tea tree oil - 2 tsps lemon juice METHOD

Mix 2 tsps of this combination with water. Apply morning and evening with smooth upward strokes. Wash off with cool water. Also spend time pressing and pulling ears.

BENEFITS

* Dissolves facial tension and bodily stress, smoothing wrinkles. * Stimulates lymphatic drainage, enhances circulation, creating a

glowing complexion.

* Promotes tissue elasticity, which helps to maintain youthful con-tours.

3. BODY MASSAGE

Sesame oil is said to be the most nourishing and toning oil to use on the body. It is slightly warming and specifically soothes the nervous sys-tem.

METHOD

Practice before a shower or bath, once or twice daily. Pour cold-pressed warm sesame oil into your cupped palm and apply to the body in the direction given in the illustration. Massage each part in the given se-quence, applying circular movements over the joints and long strokes over other areas. Leave oil on for 10 - 60 minutes then wash off in a warm shower or bath. The residual oil is sufficient to moisturise your skin so there is no need to apply extra moisturiser.

BASIC SEQUENCE

The massage should be started with the umbilical region. Follow the following sequence. Umbilical region - abdomen -

heart - breasts - shoulders - neck - arms - hands - hips - legs - feet - legs - back - neck.

BENEFITS

* Tones the skin, muscles and strengthens the bones.

* Increases suppleness and circulation, noticeably reducing cellulite. * Corrects the flow of electromagnetic energy. Increases stamina,

en-ergy and immunity.

* Balances the function of all internal organs. PRECAUTIONS

If you have a cold, fever, diarrhoea, severe indigestion or any other seri-ous health problem, consult your Ayurvedic physician before perform-ing self-massage. Avoid heavy pressure over varicose veins, bruised or fractured areas.

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35 Creative Visualisation

Though Western medicine is reluctant to accept that the mind can alter the body, it already firmly believes the reverse - that the physical can affect the mental - and it regularly utilises this connection. Tranquillisers, anti depressants, and anaesthetics are all examples of this. Since it is obvious that the body can affect the mind, doesn’t it stand to reason that the use of mental power such as imagery can affect the body. The medical use of imagery has existed in many cultures around the world for centuries (in Tibet, India, Africa, among Eskimos and American Indians).

Imagery provides a technique to generate new experiences. Instead of simply reacting to experi-ences, you create them - as you do in your life when you intentionally set a new goal.

Try to see your life as a garden that needs to be tended. We are essentially gardeners entrusted with our own reality - gardens. As gardeners we must attend to the weeding, seeding and harvesting. Gar-dens that are full of weeds cannot be harvested properly. Weeds will over run the seeds and prevent them from taking root and blossoming. Illness, disease, and negative beliefs are weeds that we have allowed to grow in our personal gardens. Emotions such as anxiety, depression, fear, panic, worry and despair are also weeds. Negative beliefs and emotions are intimately connected with illness and disease. It’s no surprise to anyone who recognises the basic unity of the body-mind that research-ers have found a correlation between negative emotions and lowered immunity. Similarly, positive beliefs bring us positive emotions such as humor, joy and happiness, and researchers have show that positive emotions are tied into the healthy immune responses.

Mental imagery is a technique for clearing out the old, negative weed-beliefs and replacing them with new, positive seed-beliefs. By becoming a gardener of your own reality, self-heating becomes possible.

PREPARATION

Imaging is directly and dramatically connected to intention, the mental action that directs our atten-tion and our acatten-tions. When we do an imagery exercise, we always begin by defining and clarifying our intention - what we want to achieve with the exercise. Intention is directed will, and it is essential to all self healing work generated through the imagination. By using the imagination, we direct the will inward to find new pathways for ourselves, creating better health and richer lives.

Imagination involves the use of the right side of the brain, opening ourselves to change and renewal. The key to the process of imagery work lies in the connection between emotions, sensations and images. An image is a mental form of feeling. In imagery work, you use your images to change your emotions or your sensations. Using images we have the capacity to create something new, influenc-ing the physical materials of our bodies by utilisinfluenc-ing our unique creative imagination.

Imagery is possibly the most powerful yet easy method of self-healing. Focussing your capacity for day dreaming through a distinct intention is the key to successful imagery. It is very important that you feel a sensation with your imagery, the stronger the sensation, the more powerful the imagery. Once an initial imagery exercise has triggered a sensation, it takes less effort to stimulate that sensa-tion which triggers the healing intensensa-tion.

A positive example of this is when Pavlov conditioned dogs to salivate at the sound of a bell, because it triggered the vision of food in their minds. Another example how an imaging trigger can set loose a powerful physiological effect is an experiment performed in a New York hospital. A group of 30 former heroin addicts, free of drugs for 10 years, agreed to board a bus that would take them to the New York street corner where a decade earlier they had bought their drugs. As soon as they saw the image of the street corner the ex-addicts went into a state of drug withdrawal.

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BEGINNING THE EXERCISE

Imagery is very potent at the three transitional points of your day. Upon waking, at twilight and be-fore sleep. Ideally creative visualisation (imagery) is performed in a quiet room at a time when you won’t be disturbed, however imagery can be done anywhere at any time. If you prefer to sit while visualising, place your feet flat on the floor, your palms in your lap or by your side, keeping your spine straight and your head in alignment with your body. You may prefer to lie down in which case keep your legs slightly apart, your palms by your side, facing upwards and your head in alignment with your body.

Gently close your eyes and relax your whole body. Bring your awareness to your breathing. Feel your whole body becoming heavy and sinking into the floor as if you were resting in a warm cloud. RIVER OF LIFE

Close your eyes. Breathe deeply three times to completely relax. See your eyes becoming clear and very bright. Then see them turning inward, becoming two rivers flowing down from the sinuses into the nasal cavity and throat down to flush out all the channels of the body. Their currents carrying away all the waste products, pain and congestion. The rivers are flowing through your chest and ab-domen, into your legs and exiting as murky coloured water through your urinary tract. Place special attention on the kidney and urinary channels. Visualise your breath exhaling as black air and waste products flowing out of all orifices. Sense the river pulsating rhythmically through the body and see light coming from above, filling up the sinuses, nose, throat, respiratory channels, prostate, kidneys and urethra all the tissues are becoming pink and healthy. When you sense both the rhythmic flow and the light filling the cavities, breathe out and open your eyes.

EGYPTIAN HEALING

Close your eyes. Breathe out three times, relaxing our whole body. Imagine yourself standing in a large open field or green grass. See yourself stretching up toward the bright golden sun in a cloudless blue sky. Your arms are becoming very long as you stretch your palms up toward the sun.

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The sun’s rays enter your palms, circulating through the hands and finger tips so that there is a ray of sunshine from each finger. If you are right handed at the end of each ray of the fingers of your right hand see a complete small hand. At the end of the ray of each finger of your left hand, see an eye. Now you see five hands and five eyes. If you are left handed, see the hands on your left fingers and eyes on your right fingers. Now turn these hands and eyes towards your body and use the eyes to see your body, emitting light in or on the area you are investigating. Each small hand holds a different instrument. There is a gold bristled brush for cleaning, a laser light tube for healing, golden scalpel for surgery, cans of golden ointment for healing, as well as gold thread for sewing. After completing your work come out of your body the same way you entered. Waste materials you collected with the small hands should be thrown away behind you. Hold your hands up toward the sun, allowing the small hands and eyes to absorb back into your palms to be stored there for future use.

PURIFICATION PROCESS

Close your eyes and breathing deeply three times relax your whole body. Visualise yourself on a beautiful calm beach, preferably a place that you have visited or seen before. There is golden sand, a cloudless blue sky and the sun is shining warm and golden.

Walk to the shoreline, where the water meets the sand. Gazing at the endless expanse of clear blue ocean relaxes your body and clears all thoughts from your mind. Lie down on your back with the soles of your feet towards the water and gently smooth your body over with the sand and water mix-ture, cleansing your skin. The tide enters the soles of feet and creates spiral currants of water wash-ing away all the toxins from your body, dissolvwash-ing any deposits or nodules. As the water flows out through the soles of your feet see the waste product emerging as black or grey stands being carried away by the out going tide. Repeat this sequence of the water flowing into your body and carrying all the toxins from your body twice more. Feel all your muscles being massaged and your ligaments, tendons and joints stretching. Make sure the water flushes through your whole body from the tips of your toes to the tips of your fingers up to the crown of your head. One last time see the water exit from your body through the soles of your feet and the water is crystal clear. See all joints, tendons and cartilages are perfectly formed strong and glowing white. Sense a new strength and vitality flowing through the body.

Stand up and dive into the warm crystal clear ocean, swimming out confidently to out the hori-zon. Your arms, legs and torso are becoming long as you swim free style in smooth, flowing strokes. As you reach the horizon, turn over onto your back and swim to the shore using backstroke. Your arms, legs and torso feel stretched, strong and flexible. Reaching the shore you walk out of the water. To-tally revived and refreshed you say to yourself with a contented smile “I am now experiencing real love, real health and real happiness. All positive forces in the universe are creating joy in my life, now and al-ways.”

Affirmations

Repeat your favourite from the following phrases at the end of each visualisation:

I comfortably and easily release the old and wel-come the new in my life. I am safe.

I only create joyful experiences in my life. I accept and rejoice in myself.

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38

Ayur veda Elements 17 O rchar d Rd C ha tsw ood NSW 2067 0061 2 9904 7754 1. Nidra Rest

1. What are the three signs of healthy sleep?

2. What should the direction of head be when you sleep? 3. What is the best time to go to sleep?

4. What are the techniques to optimise quality of sleep? 5. What are the activities included in nidra?

6. What are the best positions for sleep?

7. Who should have a siesta? What are the effects of regular day sleep?

……… ……… ……… 2. Maithuna Relationship

1. What is the most important relationship?

2. What are the techniques to optimise relationship with your partner? 3. How do you improve your relationship with your family and friends? 4. How do you improve your relationship with society?

5. How do you improve your relationship with nature?

……… ……… ………

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39

3. Vyaayaama Exercise

1. What are the three forms of exercise? 2. What are your favourite forms of exercise? 3. What is your best time to exercise?

4. How many hours do you exercise?

5. What are the signs of the right amount of exercise?

……… ……… ………

4. Aahaara Nutrition

1. Are you just what you eat?

2. What is the force behind digestion? 3. What is the reason behind eating? 4. What is by-product of bad digestion? 5. Is drinking permitted while eating?

……… ……… ………

5. Karma Work

1. Do you feel like your effort is reciprocated? 2. Do you feel like you are contributing positively? 3. Do you feel like your strength is challenged? 4. Do you feel satisfied at the end of the day? 5. Does it help you grow in wisdom?

……… ……… ………

Pillars of health - sthambha

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40 Digestion

Signs of Perfect Digestion

……… ……… ……… Signs of Poor Digestion

……… ……… ……… By practicing the following tips you will create perfect digestion.

Remember to eat your liquids and drink your solids!

1. BEFORE EATING

Am I really hungry? It is best to eat only when you are really hungry and when the previous meal has been fully digested (roughly 5 hours).

Do I need to go to the toilet first? It is recommended to empty one’s bowels and bladder be-fore eating. It is a sign of ill health to empty one’s bowels immediately after eating.

Did I wash my hands, face & feet? Simple hygiene is important to avoid illness. Avoid a full shower or swim within 3 hours after eating as it draws the circulation away from the digestion.

Am I in congenial surroundings? Good company, conversation & surroundings are conducive to a contented mind, which assists proper digestion.

Did I express my gratitude? This may be in the form of a prayer to a higher power or at least to the people who helped to provide the meal.

2. DURING EATING

Am I rushing? Eat at a moderate speed, taking care to chew each mouthful at least 10-20 times. Am I appreciating this meal? Take time to appreciate the sound, the aroma, the texture, ap-pearance & the taste.

Do I need a drink? Small quantities of warm drinks encourage efficient assimilation and elimi-nation.

Am I satisfied? It is important to remember that the stomach is only the size of a fist. In order to avoid over eating make it a practice to fill your stomach half with solid food, a quarter with liquids and leave the remaining one quarter empty for space to circulate to aid digestion.

3. AFTER EATING

Avoid heavy labour, exercise or mental work for at least thirty minutes after eating. However, one may lie on the left side for up to fifteen minutes to optimise the digestion. A yoga pose known as Vajrasana is a good sitting posture to aid digestion. A slow walk for five minutes is advised.

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41 The Ideal Diet

Check these eating aspects to optimise your nutrition

1. Why do I eat? 2. Is the food appropriate for me? * 3. Do I have enough time to enjoy a meal? 4. What is the quality of the ingredients? 5. How was the cook and quality of cooking? ** 6. How many textures are there in my meals? 7. Am I enjoying my meal with all senses? 8. How many flavours are there in my meals? ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… * Good appearance, tastes and smells delicious.

** Heavier foods should be eaten earlier in the meal and lighter foods towards the end. Fresh, locally grown, seasonal and organic ingredients. Has a good balance between heavy and light, moist and dry, cooked and raw, cooling and heating foods. Season and local food. Prepared lovingly in hy-gienic conditions. There are complementary proteins such as rice & dhal. Cooking in healthy earthen, ceramic, bronze, copper or stainless steel vessels. Happy chef.

Boosting Your Fire: Before eating: 15 minutes before eating try the following recipe. Mix half a

teaspoon grated ginger with half a tsp. lemon juice and a pinch of rock salt. After eating: Chew 1/2 teaspoon of equal parts of fennel seeds, cumin seeds, cardamom seeds, black pepper and rock sugar.

Fasting: Fasting is often the most effective way to purify your body of toxins. In Ayurveda, fasts are

tailored according to the individual’s degree of toxic accumulation, their strength and specific imbal-ance. To maintain health one is advised to have a cleansing tea fast or a warm water fast one day a fortnight in order to give the digestive system a rest, to re-establish proper eating habits and to expel accumulated toxins. A mental purification is followed at the same time, which involves silence other than prayers or affirmations, avoiding exposure to television, radio or noise and adherence to the principles of honesty, celibacy, cleanliness and service to others. Heavy mental and physical exer-tion is avoided at this time, however short walks in nature and self-massage are considered highly beneficial.

The most common

dietary indiscretion in

developed countries

is over eating. This is

causing a phenomenon

known as “the

under-nutrition of

overconsumption”

Optimise your

Nutrition.

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42 Health questionnaire

HEALTH QUESTIONNAIRE I

How much can I improve? If a following statement is applicable choose higher numbers. If not ap-plicable choose ‘0’.

1. I get headaches often 5 4 3 2 1 0

2. I feel heavy/tired when I wake up 5 4 3 2 1 0 3. I feel sleepy/tired after a meal 5 4 3 2 1 0 4. I get shaky/irritable/tired if I miss a meal 5 4 3 2 1 0 5. I get gas/bloated with some food 5 4 3 2 1 0 6. I get diarrhoea /constipation 5 4 3 2 1 0 7. I get tired in the afternoon 5 4 3 2 1 0 8. I have negative/upsetting dreams in my sleep 5 4 3 2 1 0

9. I get sore joints/back/neck 5 4 3 2 1 0

10. I have weight problems (loss/gain) 5 4 3 2 1 0 11. Though I eat fairly well, my energy is low 5 4 3 2 1 0 12. I get mouth ulcers/ coldsores 5 4 3 2 1 0 13. I get sinusy/hay fever in winter 5 4 3 2 1 0 14. My scalp is itchy / my nails are ridged 5 4 3 2 1 0

15. I get stiff/tight joints 5 4 3 2 1 0

16. My hair falls especially under stress 5 4 3 2 1 0 17. I have difficulty making decisions 5 4 3 2 1 0 18. I get pain/blood with my bowel movement 5 4 3 2 1 0 19. I get rashes/itchy skin/psoriasis/eczema 5 4 3 2 1 0 20. I think the world is a very bad place 5 4 3 2 1 0 Total: I can improve another /100

HEALTH QUESTIONNAIRE II Digestion

1. I don’t get hungry periodically 7 5 4 2 1 0 2. I never feel satisfied after a meal 7 5 4 2 1 0 3. I don’t feel energised and relaxed after a meal 7 5 4 2 1 0 4. I crave sugar/salt/carbohydrate after a meal 7 5 4 2 1 0 5. Many times I feel sick after a meal 7 5 4 2 1 0 6. I take a long time to recover from a meal 7 5 4 2 1 0 7. I feel hypoglycaemic if a meal is delayed 7 5 4 2 1 0 8. I get headaches if a meal is missed or delayed 7 5 4 2 1 0 9. I get headaches during fasting 7 5 4 2 1 0

10. I tend to overeat 7 5 4 2 1 0

11. I am in a hurry and don’t chew my food at all 7 5 4 2 1 0 12. I worry a lot during eating 7 5 4 2 1 0

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43

14. I watch TV/read while eating 7 5 4 2 1 0

15. I get gas/bloating often 7 5 4 2 1 0

Total: I can improve another /100

HEALTH QUESTIONNAIRE IIa How did I get Poor Digestion?

1. Taking the wrong foods at the wrong time, in the wrong amount. 5 4 3 2 1 0

2. Eating too frequently. 5 4 3 2 1 0

3. Eating without awareness. 5 4 3 2 1 0

4. Eating too late. 5 4 3 2 1 0

5. Eating in a negative mental or physical environment. 5 4 3 2 1 0 6. Premature stimulation, suppression or failure to attend to the

body’s natural urges such as thirst, hunger, urination, defecation, sleep, passing flatus and sneezing.

5 4 3 2 1 0 7. I have lots of cold drinks and / or cold foods (ice cream). 5 4 3 2 1 0

8. Addictions. 5 4 3 2 1 0

9. Exposure to external toxins such as air pollutants, domestic

chem-icals, chemical beauty products and perfumes. 5 4 3 2 1 0 10. Prolonged emotional strain (stress, grief, anger and denial). 5 4 3 2 1 0

Total: I can improve another /50

HEALTH QUESTIONNAIRE III Sleep

1. My sleep is light, any noise can disturb me 9 7 5 3 1 0 2. I sleep late (e.g: after 11pm) 9 7 5 3 1 0 3. It is difficult to fall asleep 9 7 5 3 1 0

4. I don’t sleep well 9 7 5 3 1 0

5. I toss and turn 9 7 5 3 1 0

6. I get night sweats 9 7 5 3 1 0

7. I get bad dreams / nightmares 9 7 5 3 1 0 8. I wake up many times at night 9 7 5 3 1 0 9. I don’t wake up refreshed, energised / positive 9 7 5 3 1 0 10. I am slow, sluggish and cranky in the morning 9 7 5 3 1 0 11. I feel like having more sleep in the morning 9 7 5 3 1 0 12. I need a regular siesta 9 7 5 3 1 0 Total: I can improve another /100

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44 Bring forth what is

within you, what you

bring forth will save

you. If you do not

bring forth what is

within you, what you

do not bring forth

will destroy you.

-Jesus Christ

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45 Natural Urges - vega

vega ………

………

dharaneeya ………

adharaneeya ………

Not to be suppressed

There are innumerable vegas, and fourteen of them are listed below with the signs and symptoms of their prolonged suppression.

Signs of prolong suppression

1. Sleep Heaviness, yawning, fatigue, body pain, memory problems. 2. Thirst Wasting, fatigue, dizziness, deafness and heart disorders.

3. Hunger Headache, malfunctioning of vital organs, stiff neck and hemiplegia. 4. Flatus Bloating, constipation, anuria, shifting pain in abdomen and heart, reverse

peristalsis, fatigue, loss of appetite and diseases of eyesight.

5. Faeces Cramps, rhinitis, headache, burping, cutting pain in abdomen and heart disor-ders.

6. Urine Same as suppression of faeces and flatus.

7. Belching Tremor, anorexia, tight heart/chest, bloating, cough and hiccup. 8. Sneezing Headache, debility, stiff neck and palsy.

9. Cough Heaviness of head and eyes, lassitude, yawning, body pain and diseases of memory.

10. Gasping Tumours, heart disease and delusion.

11. Yawning Headache, debility, stiffness of the neck and facial paralysis.

12. Tears Rhinitis, pain in the eyes, diseases of the heart and head, stiff neck, loss of ap-petite, giddiness & abdominal tumours.

13. Vomiting Dermatitis, neuritis, dry eyes, anaemia, cough, nausea, pigmentation and oedema.

14. Sexual

fluids Uncontrollable discharge, premature ejaculation, pain and swelling of the genitals, fever, palpitation, dysuria, anuria, body ache, hernia, seminal calculi and infertility.

Urges that are to be controlled

Mental Intention to harm/quarrel, jealousy, finding fault, misunderstanding.

Verbal Obscene language, nasty abusive words, harsh speech, lying, breaking up other people’s relationships.

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46

When we learn to see the sacred essence of our actions every day becomes a “holi-day.” Even simple daily routines can be invested with meaning when we view them from a spiritual perspective.

Ritual of gratitude Offering food to the divine and others Ritual of humility Giving service to others

Ritual of resolve Clearing out unnecessary things & keeping away from neg-ative influences

Ritual of purity Cleansing mind, body and surroundings Ritual of unity Connecting with others

Ritual for revitalisation Cooking, gardening and exercising Ritual of renewal Shopping

Ritual of contemplation Meditating, writing thoughts and spending time in nature.

Recharging your elements

Ether, air, fire, water and earth are the five elements. In order to support a balanced flow of elements vastu shaatra offers specific design and placement principles. Ways in which we can ensure a healthy connection with these forces that weave our exis-tence are simple. Following are the balancing exercises for elemental deficiency. Even though you may lead a very busy life it is worth taking 5 minutes every morning to energise the elemental balance in your home. This very simple yet profound prac-tice channels supportive energies into your life so your day will be much smoother and easier to cope with. Many households in India, Bali and Asia practice this every morning.

The best time to do this is before breakfast, after you have gone to the toilet, brushed your teeth, had a shower and dressed in fresh clothes. Set aside a small area of your home. All the utensils used are preferably not used for any other purpose.

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47

For the practice you will need the following articles:

A bell, preferably with a deep ring or a conch shell, Lighter or matches, 3 sticks of pure incense, an incense holder, a small candle or lamp which you may add 1/2 tsp camphor crystals to, a small open container of water, a fresh, sweet smelling, stemless flower, do not smell or taste any of the articles before the ceremony. Ideally your symbol of divinity is placed in such a way that you are near an open window in the north-east and so that you can face east.

This symbol acts as a medium, accepting your offerings and passing them on to the spirit of the home.

1. Place your palms together in prayer position and sense the vibration in your body.

2. Visualise a protective white aura enveloping the house, including yourself. You may also pray for your divinities presence to pervade the home.

3. In your left hand ring the bell in three clockwise circles around the divinity or blow the conch shell three times. This purifies the element ether.

4. Light the three sticks of incense, holding them in your right hand. Ring the bell in your left hand whilst offering the incense clockwise around the divinity for 3 circles. Then place the incense in the holder. This purifies the air element.

5. Light the candle or lamp and ringing the bell in the left hand offer the flame in three clockwise circles. This purifies the fire element.

6. Ringing the bell in the left hand hold the water in the right hand and offer it three times around the divinity. You can then place the water at the base of the picture or statue and sprinkle a little water on the flower with your right hand fingers.

7. Offering the flower in three clockwise circles ring the bell with the left hand. Place the flower in front of the divinity.

Ether Playing inspiring music (suitable mantras, classical Indian ragas, Mozart and Vivaldi are recom-mended), singing and chanting can harmonise ether. Avoid disturbing noises such as creaky doors, loud television and alarms.

Air Burn uplifting scents, keep windows open whenever it is possible, install a skylight in the centre of the building, avoid air conditioning, use a negative ionisor, practice yogic breathing (pranayama), walk in nature and keep indoor plants.

Fire Watch the sunrise, gaze at a candle flame (Trataka, a yogic practice), let the morning sun into the house, install a fireplace, use bright colours for clothing or as curtains and exercise to sweat to harmonise fire.

Water Place a fountain in the north-east of the room or garden, keep indoor plants to balance hu-midity, make sure poor guttering, plumbing or rising damp is addressed, have an epsom salts essential oil bath.

Earth Walk in the garden/beach with bare feet, check the house foundations are stable, fix any gaps or cracks in walls and ceiling, do weight bearing exercise, eat nourishing meals.

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48

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49 Evolution

Field of consciousness & the unmanifest Purusha – Prakrti

t

Intelligence - That is “I” Mahat

t

Ego - I am “That” Ahamkara

t

Harmony Action Resistence

Satva Rajas Tamas

t t t

Sense & motor organs 5 elements & sense faculties Organ of perception

Senses & Motor t Power & From

t t ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… ……… t Individual

Universe & Body

A living being is a reflection of the universe –Vedas

Principle Planetary Energies Physiological units Vayu ~ knowledge Vayu ~ Air Prana ~ immunity Vata ~ regulation, wisdom Agni ~ Transformation Surya ~ Sun Tejas ~ immunity Pitta ~ digestion, transformation

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50

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51 Energy Vortexes - chakras

The following is another way of looking at evolution. Chakra Seat Gland/region Emotions Colour Gems Note Mantra Instruments Elemnets Symbol

Saha-srara

Brain Pineal gland, hair, top of head, central nervous system Compassion, peace, acceptance, detachment, divine love Violet Amethyst, diamond, alexandrite

B Ksham Wisdom White light

1000 petals

Ajna Brow Pituitary, eyes, hypo- thalamus, autonomic N.S. Intuition, clairvoyance, equanimity, psychic powers

Indigo Lapis lazuli, clear quarts, fluorites

A Aum Visualization Awareness 2 petals

Vis-huddhi Throat Thyroid, parathyroid, neck ears, sinus, throat and atlas Communica-tion, creativ-ity, com-prehension, respiration, expression Blue Turquoise, crysocolla, aquamarine

G Hum Vocal Ether 16

petals

Anaahata Heart Thymus, lungs, heart, immune function Giving and receiving, trust, joy, expression Green Emerald, tourmaline, jade, rose quartz

F Yum Flute Air 12

petals Manipura Solar plexus Organs of diges-tion Pancreas, liver, stomach, small intestine, gall bladder Power, clarity, willpower, per-fectionism, digestion. Yellow Topaz, amber, citrine, tiger’s eye

E Rum Horn Fire 10

petals Swadhi- shthana Spleen kidney Sex organs Spleen, ovaries, uterus, kidneys, urinary tract, adrenals Emotional needs, boundaries, attachment, warmth, sense gratification Oran-ge Coral, moonstone, fire opal

D Vum Strings Water 6 petals

Mula-

dhara Base Reproductive organs, perineum, sacrum, legs, feet Security, sexuality, material needs, physical space

Red Ruby, pyrite, garnet, hematite

C Lum Drums Earth 4 petals

Sahasraara

Ajna

Vishuddhi

Anaahata

Manipura

Swadhishtana

Muladhara

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52 Subtle and Gross body

Suukshma and Sthuula shareera

Sthuula shareera Anna-maya ……… ……… How to strengthen? ……… ……… Praana-maya ……… ……… How to strengthen? ……… ……… Suuksha shareera Mano-maya ……… ……… How to strengthen? ……… ……… Kaarana shareera Vijñaana-maya ……… ……… How to strengthen?……… ……… Aananda-maya ……… ……… How to strengthen? ……… ……… Atman is comprised of sad-maya - ultimate reality, essence or purity, cid-maya - the state of transcen-dent self-awareness or divine consciousness and Ananda-maya - total bliss.

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53 The modes of Universe

Tri-guna

Tri Guna Manas Antah-karana

Satva qualities ……… examples ……… signs of excess ……… example ……… Rajas qualities ……… examples ……… signs of excess ……… example ……… Tamas qualities ……… examples ……… signs of excess ……… example ………

Controlled senses, wisdom acquired from experience, knowledge of space, time and personal goals,

following good conduct, using a mantra, performing a ritual daily and being hygienic prevents

diseases of external and internal origin.~ vaagbhaTa.

1. How do tri-gunas work in a particle? 2. How do tri-gunas work in a person? 3. Explain the nature of an excess tamas mind.

4. Explain the nature of an excess rajas mind. 5. Why are tri-gunas known as the modes of the universe? 6. Why are rajas and tamas considered to be etiological factors?

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54 How is my mind today?

Category My Score My Score My Score

1. Mental clarity Very clear Hyperactive Cloudy

2. Concentration Good Moderate Poor

3. Memory Good Moderate Poor

4. Will power Strong Variable Weak

5. Honesty Always Most of the time Rarely

6. Peace of mind Generally Occasionally Rarely

7. Creativity High Moderate Low (I don’t use it now)

8. Spiritual study Daily Occasionally Never (I don’t have time)

9. Mantra/ Prayer Daily Occasionally Never

10. Meditation Daily Occasionally Never

11. Selfless service Often Occasionally Rarely

12. Relationships Harmonious Passionate Disturbed

13. Anger Rarely Sometimes Frequently

14. Fear Rarely Sometimes Frequently

15. Desire Little Some Uncontrollable

16. Pride Modest Some ego Vain

17. Depression Never Sometimes Frequently

18. Love Universal Personal Lacking in love

19. Violent behaviour Never Sometimes Frequently

20. Attachment Materially detached Occasionally Attached

21. Forgiveness Forgive easily With effort Long term grudges

22. Diet Vegetarian Some meat Frequent meat

23. Addictive nature Never Occasionally Frequently

24. Sensory impressions Calm Mixed Disturbed

25. Sleep requirement Little Moderate Excessive

26. Sexual activity Controlled Intense passion Uncontrollable

27. Control of senses Good Moderate Low

28. Speech Calm, peaceful Agitated Dull

29. Cleanliness standard High Moderate Low

30. Work Selfless Reward centred Aimless

SATWA >> RAJAS >> TAMAS >> ………… is my current mental state, which can be improved.

How can I strengthen my Satwa?

Diet Emotions Thoughts Activity Attitude

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55

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56 Elements, functions & attributes

Elements Principle Functions Powers States

Ether Vacuity Space Sound Ether

Air Motion Rhythm + Touch Gas

Fire Luminosity Transformation + Form Energy Water Liquidity Flexibility + Taste Fluid Earth Solidity Gravity + Smell Solid

Elements Sensory Motor

Ether Hearing-Ears Expression-Vocal cords, tongue Air Touch-Skin Locomotion-Legs

Fire Vision-Eyes Action-Hands

Water Taste-Tongue Creation-Reproductive organs Earth Smell-Nostrils Excretion-Bowels

Elements Qualities Manifestation

Ether Subtle, clear, light, porous awareness, wisdom Air Mobile, dry, subtle, light, cold mobility, rhythm, balance Fire Hot, intense, subtle, light power to interact

Water Unctuous, cold, heavy, slow bonding ability, flexibility Earth Solid, heavy, stable, cold, rigid integrity, stability

Notes: Even an atom is composed of these elements. The space occupied by an atom is its space, the coordinated and rhythmic movements of it is air, the energy or heat without which it cannot interact is the fire, the cohesive force within the atom is the water and the gravity or weight is the earth.

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57 Applied elements

Elements in nature

Ether Air Fire Water Earth

Space Gas Heat Fluidity Structure

Wisdom Rhythm Transformation Flexibility Dense, Firmness Bliss Circulation Assimilation Liquid, Cohesion Solid

Knowledge Mobility, Cycles Warmth Sensitivity Stability Creativity Motion Drive, Passion Compassion Support

Elements & your permanant body constitution

Tall Small Triangular Rounded Rectangular Delicate Short Muscular Curvaceous Solid

Slender Slight Angular Soft Heavy bones

Elements & your permanant mental constitution

Philosopher Communicator Marketer Nurturer Hands on Scientist Easy going Sharp, Precise Tolerant Coach, Trainer Creative, Open Adaptable Challenging Gentle Methodical Adviser Multitasking Forceful Carer Routine lover Charitable Teacher Analytic/result based Nurse/parental Administrator Thinker Performer Driven/forceful Parental Supervisor, Manager

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58 Doshas -biological units

Dush ………

Dosha ………

Physiological

functions _Ether+AirVata Pitta_Fire _Water+EarthKapha

Controls, regulates. Creates and mobilises. Excites and stimulates.

Activates and transforms. Heats and expands. Motivates and encourages.

Bonds and integrates. Lubricates and stabilises.

Calms and supports. Awareness, perception

creativity, enthusiasm, regulation, movement,

cycles and rhythms.

Temperature, lustre, transformation, sharpness,

inten-sity, digestion, metabolism, courage. Stability, endurance, flexibility, lubrication, compactness, forbearance and tolerance. Qualities and working of doshas

Cold, light, dry Hard / stiff Subtle, subtle Rough, porous

Hot, light, moist Intense / sharp

Fast, active Odorous, liquid

Cold, heavy, oily Gentle, soft Dense, stable Slow, smooth

Food Brought to intestine Digests the food Fluids

Information Brought to brain Process/analysis Record/memories

Discuss the following topics:

Dosha as functional and structural units. Is dosha just body type?

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59 The dosha clock

Doshas, the physiological units, are more active during certain periods of the day, night, seasons, emotions and stages of growth. They are like the tides which depend on the moon and the sun. They always begin with Kapha, followed by Pitta and end with Vata. They are parallel to the twelve meridians in Chinese medicine. The following is the brief form of the dosha clock.

Vata Pitta Kapha

Day Night Age Digestion Disease Body region

ayurvedic panchakarma

1

Ayurveda Lifestyle

Certificate Course

phone/fax 02 9904 7754

texts 0425 233 426

[email protected]

[email protected]

www.fertilitynaturally.com

www.ayurvedaelements.com

www.ayurvedahealthresorts.com

2

3

Commencing Mantra

Concluding Mantra

4

healer’s prayer

Prayer of St. Francis

5

Course Information

6

Ayurveda Elements © 2009

Copying whole or part of this work should be performed only with the

written permission from Rama Prasad or Caroline Robertson.

Warning:

The information in this workbook is only for general information. If you have

any serious health condition you should consult your health practitioner.

7

Course Curriculum

8

contents

Weekend 01

Introduction

11

Flowing with nature

15

Four phases of life

19

Life pursuits

20

Behavioral tonics

21

Daily routine

25

Massage

31

Creative visualisation

35

Pillars of health

38

Health questionnaire

42

Natural urges

45

Life as spiritual practice

46

Evolution

49

Energy vortexes

51

Subtle and gross body

52

The modes of universe

53

Five elements

55

Doshas

58

Subtle qualities

60

Your mind-body type

61

Appendices

71

Moment meditation

72

Flow with the seaason

83

Study of doshas

86