What is Ayurveda and how does it work?
Āyurveda (आयुर्वेढ) is the science of life, a holistic system of medicine originating from India that has been practiced for over 5,000 years. It focuses on understanding the root causes of disease and imbalance in the body. Ayurveda teaches that our bodies consist of elements represented by the doshas (vāta, pitta, kapha), but it goes beyond this to examine tissues and the intricate interactions within our systems and other concepts such as digestive fire (agni अग्नि) or accumulated toxins (āma आम).
Each of us is composed of these elements in unique proportions, and imbalances can manifest differently depending on our lifestyle, nutrition, and even our thoughts. Ayurveda benefits not only those who are unwell but also those who are healthy and wish to maintain their well-being or learn to better attune themselves to their bodies.
An Ayurvedic Practitioner is trained to view the whole person, rather than just addressing symptoms. We recognize that various life factors contribute to imbalance, and we are skilled in identifying root causes while considering the individuality of each client.
Sāmudra (समुद्र) which means ocean or gathering of waters in Sanskrit, beautifully embodies the essence of Ayurveda. It symbolizes our inherent connection to balance, much like a river that instinctively flows back to the ocean. Just as a river finds its rightful place in the ocean, we too are meant to exist in a state of harmony.
I am Ana Pereyra, the Ayurvedic Practitioner behind Sāmudra Holistics. My journey into holistic healing began as a humanitarian aid worker, where I lived in war-torn and violence-affected contexts. Witnessing the profound impact of stress and unfiltered human suffering on the mind and body inspired me to seek healing practices that could restore balance.
My discovery of Ayurveda began in an ashram in Haridwar, India, after a consultation with an Ayurvedic doctor who, by examining my tongue, taking my pulse, assessing my physique, and listening to me, articulated what my body, mind, and soul were trying to communicate for years and I could not put into words. I was captivated by the wisdom our bodies hold, which led me to three years of self-study. Ultimately, I pursued formal Ayurvedic education in the United States, training full-time for two years under Dr. Vasant Lad at the Ayurvedic Institute. Through Ayurveda, I hope to support others find their own paths to wellness, particularly acknowledging the toll that challenging experiences can take on aid workers, caregivers, and anyone living or working in stressful conditions.