Life as a Living Artform
I always say that ayurveda, “the science of life,” is the sister practice to yoga. Similar to yoga, ayurveda is an ancient holistic healing system that originated in India over 5,000 years ago.
Yet, ayurveda is more than just Indian cuisine. It is a lifestyle with many interesting practices such as cleaning your tongue with a scraper, daily oil massage and oil pulling, etc . . . I love that most of these techniques are now so mainstream!
I can tell you this, I have tried many different diet and lifestyle approaches over the years. As an athlete and an NCAA tennis player, I went from things like: high carb and mostly vegetarian diet for a decade, eating meat and vegetables and herbs only for over 2 years, eating only vegetarian, training for marathons and triathlons with all kinds of powdered supplements, eating for my blood type, fasting, not fasting, etc… None have had the profound effect on my clarity, strength and vitality than ayurvedic cooking and lifestyle practices.
In ayurveda, food is considered medicine. Eating and cooking with high vibration ingredients fresh from the ground plays a significant role in achieving balance and well-being.
There is also an emphasizes on the importance of individualized approaches to health, recognizing that each person has a unique constitution or dosha which influences their physical, mental and emotional characteristics. Take an ayurvedic quiz here to determine your dosha.
So, ayurvedic takes into account the individual’s constitution, the seasons and the qualities of different foods to create meals that support balance and vitality. This culinary practice involves not only the selection of ingredients but also the cooking methods and spices used to prepare the dishes.
When teaching my classes, I share insights about the practical application of ayurvedic cooking and lifestyle practices. Here are some of the things you’ll experience in my class:
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- Basics of Ayurvedic Cooking: These classes provide an introduction to ayurvedic ingredients, recipes and cooking techniques. Participants learn how to prepare and taste dishes that align with the principles of ayurveda.
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- Ayurvedic Practices and Simple Techniques: In addition to cooking, these classes cover various ayurvedic practices such as mindful eating, herbal remedies and daily routines that can contribute to overall well-being.
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- Diversity of Ayurvedic Cuisine: Ayurveda is not limited to traditional Indian food. I’ve taught children the principles of ayurveda through activities like making chocolate bark, demonstrating the versatility of ayurvedic principles in culinary creations.
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- Transformation of Traditional Dishes: I’ve transformed my grandmother’s butter and cream dishes into healthier alternatives, like my now infamous Slavik Cauliflower Paprikash dinner. Through my classes, you too will learn how ayurveda can inspire innovative and nutritious recipes.
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- Interactive Cooking Sessions: Schedule a “Cook and Sip” class with your friends and enjoy the social aspects of learning and applying ayurvedic cooking principles! The menu of the class will be tailored to your personal preferences.
I know it seems like a lot, but when you take ayurvedic methods in small doses and incorporate simple changes into your life, suddenly the practices become an amazing way for health maintenance. Certainly, if you are really sick- go to a doctor!
In our fast paced world, it can be very difficult to have optimum health. I highly recommend and embrace organic food cooked with energy and intention behind it. This is ayurveda, and combined with yoga, the practices create a life that is a living artform.
With much love,
Helen
ps- see a little more about ayurvedic basics in practice . . . 5 elements and the 6 tastes.
