Ayurveda Calendar

Marion Tarvis

Abstract

 

“Ayurveda Calendar” is a visual presentation illustrating the nutritional practice of Ayurveda. A healing practice thought to have originated in the Indus river valley 5000 years ago, Ayurveda was an oral tradition of the Vedic culture, teaching balance through nutrition appropriate for one’s dosha: the mental, physical and emotional qualities of the individual. Ayurveda identifies three principle energies: pitta, vata and kapha. Pitta energy is observed as the metabolic system of fire and water. In balance, pitta manifests as thoughtful stability. Out of balance, pitta manifests as anger and instability. The illustrations show sweet and bitter foods, grains, fruits and raw vegetables which balance the pitta constitution. Vata, representing space and air, is the force that drives the body’s movements of cellular exchange and respiration. In balance, vata manifests as creativity and change. Out of balance, vata is expressed as anxiety. The images show cooked, sweet, salty foods, as well as grains, nuts and seeds, which pacify the vata dosha. Kapha, representing earth and water, composes the structural body: muscles, bones and fascia. In balance, kapha energy manifests as loyalty and stability while out of balance, kapha is present as greed and jealousy. The kapha constitution is attracted to greasy and fried foods but should choose vegetables and astringent fruits instead, like apples and cranberries, sweetening food with honey. Above all, the images illustrate the emphasis of Ayurvedic practice on simple and whole foods.

 

Citation:

Ayurveda A Brief Introduction and Guide by Lad, Vasant.