Ayurveda
 "Ayurveda" translates into the "science of life" and is the traditional system of healing in India. It encompasses all phases of living, not just health issues. The roots of Ayurvedic practices reach back to prehistory. It was the first healing system to be codified. Written Ayurvedic techniques go back as far as 4500 B.C.
Like the so-called "alternative" therapies, Ayurveda is based on establishing an optimal balance between two opposite dynamic forces. In Chinese and Japanese medicine these forces are called Yin (negative, dark) and Yang (positive, light). Indian culture relates these forces to "Spirit" (Purusha) and "Matter" (Prakuti). This insight is used both in diagnosing imbalances and choosing proper adjustments in the individual's lifestyle to regain a healthy balance. Rebalancing the doshas involves an integrated approach using diet, massage, detoxification, exercise, and herbal supplements. For humans, emphasis is also placed on meditation.
This process is aided by the concept of Tridosha. Simplistically put, this is the interplay of three energies; an active version termed Vata, a phlegmatic version termed Kapha, and a "middle of the road" version termed Pitta. No one is purely one form or another but generally one of the doshas will predominate. Vata controls movement within the body such as respiration and circulation. An individual who is primarily Vata tends to be slender, fast, and either very tall or rather short. Sight hounds and Chihuahuas fit this pattern. They can be restless and fearful. An excess of Vata can be associated with weight loss and high blood pressure. To avoid creating excess Vata, minimize feeding green beans, dried fruit, potatoes, beef, and rabbit.
Pitta regulates digestion, metabolism, and mental activity. A tiger is a good example of Pitta character. Interestingly, Rottweilers and Labrador retrievers are both Pitta types. An excess of Pitta qualities can lead to ulcers, skin problems, hormone imbalances, and mood swings. Avoid creating an excess of Pitta by eliminating corn, brown rice, garlic, beef, and lamb. An interesting concept when so many of our "hypoallergenic" commercial diets are based on lamb and rice.
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