This book brings forth the practices of Ayurveda from the ancient texts and presents them in a systematic organization that is readily accessible to a Western audience. Vasant Lad provides comprehensive information on therapeutic modalities including diet and lifestyle recommendations, palliative and cleansing therapies, subtle healing methods including individual rejuvenation protocols, yoga and pranayama practices, and herbal substances as well as management techniques according to dosha, dhatu, srotamsi, and the subtle essences. Each section clearly explains the principles of the healing techniques, often with the steps outlined for the reader, in addition to the herbal substances and their practical application. It is an essential reference for the Ayurvedic practitioner. <P> One of Dr. Lad's favorite sutras from Charaka says that a true physician knows the body, mind, thoughts, feelings, and consciousness of the patient. Unless you enter the heart of your patient with the light of awareness, knowledge, compassion, and insight, you will not be able to diagnose their problem and treat the person accordingly. <P> Dr. Lad's students from all over the world learn Ayurveda, step by patient step, grounding their knowledge in the principles of a system that pre-dates Western medical concepts by thousands of years. Next, they learn the sophisticated methods of evaluation that Ayurveda provides. Mastering these techniques takes practice and dedication. The previous steps, well practiced, have prepared the student to enter into the next stage, where they can stand beside the client and guide them on their journey of healing.
Ayurveda finds its home in the hearts of special beings whose dharma it is to preserve and maintain traditions of wisdom for the purpose of healing themselves and the world. Bridging the gap between the changing philosophies, sciences, and religions of the ages, it is passed down in the various cultures through these dedicated individuals. Dr. Lad's heart is one of the homes for that living flame, and his life and teachings are an expression of Ayurveda s true purpose in the world. <P> Dr. Lad brings a wealth of classroom and practical experience to the United States. He received the degree of Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine & Surgery (B.M.A.S.) from the University of Pune, in Pune, India in 1968 and a Master of Ayurvedic Science (M.A.Sc . ) from Tilak Ayurved Mahavidyalaya in Pune, India in 1980. For 3 years he served as Medical Director of the Ayurveda Hospital in Pune, India. He also held the position of Professor of Clinical Medicine for seven years at the Pune University College of Ayurvedic Medicine, where he was an instructor for many years. Dr. Lad's academic and practical training includes the study of allopathic medicine (Western Medicine) and surgery as well as traditional Ayurveda. In 1979, he began traveling throughout the United States sharing his knowledge of Ayurveda. In 1981, he returned to New Mexico to teach Ayurveda. In 1984, he founded The Ayurvedic Institute and began as the director of the Institute. Dr. Lad is the author of numerous articles and several books including
Ayurveda, The Science of Self Healing, and is co-author of
The Yoga of Herbs and
Ayurvedic Cooking for Self-Healing. His book,
Secrets of the Pulse, The Ancient Art of Ayurvedic Pulse Diagnosis, presents this fascinating subject for the first time. His work from Harmony Books,
The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies, is a compendium of classic Ayurvedic treatments for common and chronic ailments. This textbook is the third volume of a four volume set. He is also the co-author of a book on marma therapy,
Marma Points of Ayurveda. <P> Dr. Lad presently is the Director of The Ayurvedic Institute in Albuquerque, New Mexico where he teaches the two levels of the Ayurvedic Studies Program and the more advanced Gurukula Program in India each year. Dr. Lad also travels throughout the world, consulting privately and giving seminars on Ayurveda, its history, theory, principles, and practical applications.
