Because Āyurveda is so grounded in the principles of individualized diagnosis and treatment, taking into account the unique physical constitution, lifestyle, relationships, and motivations for finding healing balance for each person, the variety of possible health concerns that can be addressed is essentially endless. Digestion, hormonal imbalance, sleep, skin conditions, and weight concerns are a few of the common concerns an Āyurvedic practitioner may be familiar with treating, but most any symptom, illness, or ailment has a root cause which can be effectively treated, and eventually overcome, with proper treatment. The possible treatment protocols one may receive in a consultation is just as vast.
In an initial consultation, after being asked extensively about daily routine, dietary habits, sleep, health concerns, symptoms, digestion, emotional tendencies, relationships, stressors and more, the Āyurvedic practitioner will use traditional assessments for diagnosis, such as pulse, tongue, and eye analysis. They will then come up with a detailed and thorough, yet approachable, set of recommendations or treatments specific to the client. The recommendations will likely include diet and eating advice and lifestyle incorporations such as prāṇāyāma techniques, sleep guidelines, stress management, and more. Herbal protocols which may include traditional Indian plants as well as some familiar western herbs, specific oils for self-massage (abhyaṅga), and/or medicated decoctions/concoctions will also likely be a part of the proposed protocol. Treatments such as shirodhāra (continuous flow of warm oil to the forehead), external basti (an oil bath applied to a specific organ, joint or section of the body) or marma therapy (stimulation of specific energy points on the body to remove blockages and impart physical and psychological relaxation) may also be advised.
Pañchakarma, translated as “five actions”, is the individualized process of detoxification, and is another important aspect of Āyurvedic treatment. This process is a series of a selection of ancient therapies that may include oil massage, therapeutic sweating, shirodhāra, bastis (internally as enemas or externally as oil baths) along with special herbal protocols and diet during an indicated duration in which one undergoes a deep and thorough cleanse. Some of these protocols may be recommended after a series of consultations, and many can be practiced at home under the guidance of a practitioner.
Consultations can be done in person or online.
To schedule an initial consultation, or for more information, contact us here.
Roots & Nectar Āyurveda 