Learn about the

Origins of Ayurveda & Yoga

The Ancient world of AyurvedA

Ayurveda: The Science of Life

'Ayu' means 'Life', and 'Veda' means 'Knowledge'. Hence, knowledge of our life is called 'Ayurveda'.

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravishankar

Indian guru and spiritual leader

Rooted in the sacred texts of the Vedas, Ayurveda, the ‘Science of Life,’ is one of the world’s oldest holistic healing systems. Developed more than 5,000 years ago in India, it is based on the belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body, and spirit. Ayurveda focuses on eliminating illness at the root rather than treating surface level symptoms. Its primary goal is not just to fight disease but to promote good health through practices that align with the rhythms of nature.

The purpose of Ayurveda is to bring balance to three doshas or elements (Vata, Pita, and Kapha) amidst the changing times of day, seasons, and phases of our lives, in order to promote and maintain quality and longevity of life.

Vata

Principle of Movement

Pita

Principle of Transformation

Kapha

Principle of Structure

Yoga (To Unify)

While distinct in their practices, Ayurveda and Yoga share a symbiotic relationship, each complementing the other. Both rooted in the thousands of year old Vedic tradition, they together offer a comprehensive approach to physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, emphasizing the balance between internal and external worlds. Ayurveda focuses on the health of the body and Yoga centering on the harmony, or unity, of the mind and spirit.

Timeline

Explore an interactive timeline tracing the historical milestones of Ayurveda and Yoga. Click on the events below or the arrows on the right and left hand side to navigate from BCE to the present.

प्रयोजनं चास्य स्वस्थस्य स्वास्थ्यरक्षणमातुरस्य विकार प्रशमनंच||२६||

The utility of Ayurveda is to maintain the health of a healthy individual and to heal the disease of the sick.

Charaka Sutrasthana

Chapter 30, verse 26