Explore Ayurvedic Medicine with Talalla Yoga

Meet Dr. Prabha Weeranayake – our Ayurvedic Doctor here at Talalla Yoga, offering Ayurvedic consultations and workshops during our “Alchemy of the Elements” Yoga Retreat. 

Ayurveda is a system of healing that has been perfected for more than five thousand years. It is a strong tradition in Sri Lankan health care, based on a holistic approach to the body, using herbs and diet to support dis-ease.

The word Ayurveda is a Sanskrit term meaning ‘Science of Life.’ 

Ayu means ‘life’ or ‘daily living’ and Veda is ‘knowing.’ 

Ayurveda deals with health in all its aspects; physical health, mental balance, spiritual well-being, social welfare, environmental considerations, dietary and lifestyle habits. 

According to Ayurvedic beliefs, factors such as stress, unhealthy diet, weather, and strained relationships can all influence the balance that exists between a person’s “doshas”.

What are Doshas? 

“Doshas” refer to your unique physical and mental constitution, which influence your personal well-being. Each person has their own dominant dosha or combination of two or three of these elemental forces. Knowing yours can help you maintain balance through seasonal changes for lasting health and peace of mind.

Thought to be condensed from different combinations of the primal elements earth, water, fire, air, and ether, the doshas are the life energies behind all of our bodily functions.

The 3 Doshas:

Pitta energy is linked to fire, and is thought to control the digestive and endocrine systems. People with pitta energy are considered fiery in temperament, intelligent and fast-paced. When pitta energy is out of balance, ulcers, inflammation, digestive problems, anger, heartburn and arthritis can result.

Vata energy is associated with air and space, and is linked to bodily movement, including breathing and blood circulation. Vata energy is said to predominate in people who are lively, creative, original thinkers. When out-of-balance, vata types can endure joint pain, constipation, dry skin, anxiety and other ailments.

Kapha energy, linked to earth and water, is believed to control growth and strength, and is associated with the chest, torso and back. Kapha types are considered strong and solid in constitution, and generally calm in nature. But obesity, diabetes, sinus problems, insecurity and gallbladder issues can result when kapha energy is out of balance, according to Ayurvedic practitioners.

Here at Talalla Yoga we have created our “Alchemy of the Elements” Retreat – where each day is dedicated to one of the 5 elements practiced through yoga, specialty workshops, journaling and meditation. 

Through the ancient wisdom of eastern philosophy and Ayurveda we learn how to harness the foundations to find a balanced life.

Email us now for more information: [email protected]

References by Yoga Journal