What is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda is the traditional and comprehensive system of healing in India and is one of the oldest practices of holistic health. It can also assist us in maintaining optimal health and longevity. It is a beautiful and simple study of the science of life and teaches true holistic health by encouraging the understanding of the elements and how they work within us.
An Ancient Elemental System of Healing and Life
The origin of Ayurveda is based on the five elements and the concept of primordial energy as the force of creation. This primordial force manifests as nature, consciousness, cosmic intelligence, and the energies of creation, which generate the mind, sensory and motor organs, and the fundamental elemental groups that compose all matter. These are: Ether, Air, Fire, Earth, and Water. The five elements coalesce to become the three governing principles of nature as well as the primary life-energies of the body. They are named Vata, Pitta, and Kapha and are referred to as the biological humors or doshas. Each humor encompasses two elements. Vata is composed of air and ether. Pitta is a fusion of fire and water. Kapha is a combination of water and earth. They are the primary principles of Ayurveda. The doshas are not the elements. They are manifestations of the life force working through and enlivening the elements. They govern inception, support abolition of bodily tissue and the elimination of wastes. In addition, they direct psychological phenomenon such as emotions, understanding and love.
Ayurveda Jennifer
The Humors
The humors exhibit unique characteristics and reside in specific areas of the body. In addition, they represent specific actions of the body. The sites in which these doshas reside, can accumulate, become unbalanced and promote disease. Disorders can be alleviated by treating the doshas at their specific locations using prescribed methods. Through the understanding of the humors, we can recognize the vital bodily forces and their processes of balance and imbalance. A fundamental aspect of Ayurveda is that balance can be created in these internal forces through the application of natural remedies, diet and a healthy routine.
Ayurveda and Animals
The life science of Ayurveda extends its knowledge to veterinary medicine. The principles that are applied to humans can be applied to other animals in a variety of ways. The principles of Ayurveda can be applied to both horse and horseman. It can assist us in understanding ourselves physically, mentally, and spiritually. The guidelines within this living science can also assist us in understanding the physiological, psychological, and emotional needs of our equine partners, thereby creating a better relationship through compassion and understanding. Ayurveda can easily be incorporated into daily life. The primary objective of this healing art is prevention and it focuses on treating and understanding the causes of disease without simply suppressing the symptoms. It is a multifaceted practice that consists of evaluating the physiological and psychological conditions of a horse. A therapeutic approach is individualized and includes the following therapies:
Herbal Applications
Ayurveda utilizes herbal compounds to promote health and healing. A basic formula of turmeric, ginger, and coconut oil reduces inflammation, promotes healthy digestion and has antimicrobial properties. Mahanarayan oil is excellent for external massage to alleviate sore muscles and heal soft tissue injuries.
Nutrition
Quality hay, healthy pasture, and clean water are required nutrition. Ayurveda avoids highly processed grains. Whole grains or partially milled grains would be provided depending on the needs of the individual horse.
Yoga Asana (straightening and in-hand exercises for horses)
Horse training in-hand includes work on the longe, long lines, long, and short reins. It teaches lateral work on the ground and promotes suppleness and relaxation.
Detoxification
Depending on the constitution of the horse, herbal formulas would be utilized to promote detoxification. The elimination of processed grains and access to chemical free hay, pasture and clean water would also be prescribed.
Rejuvenation
After detoxification, herbs such as Shatavari, Ashwagandha, and Brahmi would be used to rejuvenate the mind and body of the horse. The constitution of the horse would be taken into consideration when choosing herbal formulas. Grazing and socializing would also be included in rejuvenation.
Psychological Health (pasture, socialization, and routine)
Horses require pasture and socialization with other horses to maintain mental health. We need to allow them to be horses. Our equine companions appreciate routine in work and relaxation. It promotes trust and tranquility.
Constitutional Types
Ayurveda categorizes horses into constitutional types relative to the predominance of the doshas within them. There are seven basic types distinguished in Ayurveda: Pure refers to Vata, Pitta, or Kapha in singular expression. Dual is a combination of the doshas. For example, Vata-Pitta, Pitta-Kapha, or Kapha-Vata. The last type is a triple expression of Vata-Pitta-Kapha. Understanding the constitutions, allows horseman to recognize disease tendencies as well as the psychological and emotional predispositions of a horse. In general, all diseases can be treated by balancing the constitution. This approach is the essence of Ayurveda and gives it depth and power regarding disease prevention, treatment, health maintenance and enhancement of longevity. A specific humor will naturally predominate and influence disposition and appearance. In addition, various degrees of aggravation and unbalance can manifest based on the qualities of the doshas.
Our equine companions benefit greatly from the healing modalities of Ayurveda and the principles of this healing art can be integrated into the daily routine of horse and rider.
About Jennifer Marie Frieze
Jennifer resides in Eastern Pennsylvania with her dogs and horses. She specializes in teaching yoga to equestrians by bridging traditional yoga with classical horsemanship. In addition, she incorporates Ayurveda into equine rehabilitation and training. Jennifer also enjoys gardening, farming, reading, traveling and cooking. Check out Jennifer’s website,
darshanashva.net or reach her at 267-371-9417.