What is Ayurveda? Ayurveda is an ancient healing system that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. It focuses on maintaining wellbeing through balance and harmony in the body, mind, and spirit. Ayurveda means "the science of life" in Sanskrit.

What are the main principles of Ayurveda? Ayurveda is based on the concepts of the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether) and three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). These principles guide the maintenance of body wellbeing and balance. 

What are doshas? Doshas are bio-energies that govern the physiological and psychological functions of the body. There are three doshas:

• Vata: Governs movement and is associated with air and ether.
• Pitta: Governs metabolism and is associated with fire and water.
• Kapha: Governs structure and fluid balance and is associated with earth and water.

How do I determine my dosha? Your dosha can be determined through a detailed assessment of your physical, emotional, and mental characteristics. 

Can Ayurveda help me? Ayurveda aims to prevent and restore body balance by restoring equilibrium to the doshas and improving overall wellbeing. While it can be effective for assisting body wellness and enhancing well-being, it may not replace conventional therapies for acute or severe issues.

What are some common Ayurvedic therapies? Ayurvedic remedies include herbal remedies with activated herbs and spices, dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, massage and meditation.

What is the role of diet in Ayurveda?  Food and drink, herbs and spices are chosen based on their qualities (guna), tastes (rasa), and effects on the doshas. Drinking teas with activated herbs and spices according to your dosha and the seasons can help maintain balance and wellbeing.

Is Ayurveda safe? Ayurvedic treatments are generally safe. However, it is important to use high-quality and properly prepared herbs and spices to prevent counterbalance and to maximize their potential.

How does Ayurveda integrate with modern therapies? Ayurveda can complement modern therapies by providing holistic approaches to wellness and body balance.

Can I use Ayurvedic remedies along with my regular medication? It is essential to consult with your regular provider before combining therapies to avoid interactions and ensure safety.

How can I incorporate Ayurveda into my daily routine? You can incorporate Ayurveda into your daily routine by:

• Following a dosha-specific regime.
• Drinking Ayurvedic and supplement teas and tisanes that are made with activated herbs and spices
• Adopting daily self-care rituals.

What is a typical Ayurvedic daily routine? A typical Ayurvedic daily routine includes waking up early, practicing hygiene (like tongue scraping), exercise and contemplation, drinking activated herb and spice tea lattes and mulled teas before or after meals, and going to bed early. Hydration is essential to body wellness and drinking activated herb and spice drinks make hydration a pleasant experience. The routine may vary based on your dosha.

Can Ayurveda help with stress management? Yes, Ayurveda offers various techniques for stress management such as the use of adaptogenic herbs like Ashwagandha, Manjistha, Shatavari and activated spices in tea  lattes and mulled teas. The full benefits of these herbs are cumulative and can take some time to completely manifest. It is essential to use activated herbs and spices.

Is Ayurveda only for people with certain conditions? No, Ayurveda is for everyone. It focuses on maintaining health and preventing body imbalance, making it beneficial for people of all ages.