Ayurveda is an ancient, holistic practice, originating in India that has been used for thousands of years to heal the body and promote overall health and wellbeing.  According to Ayurvedic medicine, each person has a unique constitution and that to achieve optimal health, the body, mind, and spirit must be in balance. When a person's constitution becomes unbalanced is when disease(s) occur. The Ayurvedic approach to healing is focused on restoring balance and harmony to the body by using individualised treatments which include nutrition, lifestyle advice and by the use of prescribed Ayurvedic herbs.

The most fundamental aspect of treatment with ayurveda is analysing the digestion of a person and improving their gut health. According to ayurveda all diseases start in the gut. Currently there is a significant amount of research being conducted on gut health and its significance to all aspects of health.

Another fundamental principal in ayurveda is the definitions of doshas, these are the unique constitutions that the human body is composed of. There are three doshas; Vata, Pitta and Kapha. 

1. Vata

• Attributes: Vata is associated with the elements of air and ether (space). It is characterized by qualities such as dryness, lightness, coldness, mobility, and irregularity.

• Functions: Vata governs movements in the body, including blood circulation, breathing, and the movements of tissues and cells. It is also linked to creativity and mental agility.

2. Pitta

• Attributes: Pitta is associated with the elements of fire and water. It possesses qualities like heat, intensity, sharpness, and oiliness.

• Fnctions: Pitta is responsible for digestion, metabolism, and transformation in the body. It also plays a role in maintaining body temperature and promoting mental clarity.

3. Kapha

• Attributes: Kapha is associated with the elements of water and earth. It is characterized by qualities such as heaviness, coolness, stability, and moistness.

• Functions: Kapha governs structure and lubrication in the body. It is involved in maintaining the integrity of tissues, providing strength, and promoting stability. Kapha is also associated with emotional well-being and patience.

Each individual is believed to have a unique combination of these doshas, known as their Prakriti. The proportions of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha in a person's constitution determine their physical, mental, and emotional characteristics. Imbalances in the doshas are thought to lead to various health issues, and Ayurvedic practices, including diet, lifestyle, and herbal remedies, aim to restore or maintain the balance of these doshas for overall well-being.

Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of understanding one's dosha balance and making lifestyle choices that support harmony between these energies for optimal health. Understanding your dosha plays an important role in optimal healthy living as its the blueprint to what foods, lifestyle and daily routines work for your individual constitution to ensure its kept in balance.