How Ayurvedic Yoga Changed My Practice
When I entered yoga therapy training, I thought my most important studies would be in anatomy, biomechanics, and movement assessment. I wanted to sharpen my skills so I could make better choices when sharing yoga poses to support my clients’ needs, and in my mind, this was all about understanding the body.
And yes—I gained those skills. But to my surprise, the most impactful part my training was something else entirely. My studies of Ayurveda completely transformed my view of health and wellness, my understanding of how yoga helps, and how I think about selecting practices to support my clients.
While I’m not an Ayurvedic doctor, I use the principles I learned in that training every single day. Ayurveda has given me a new lens for adapting yoga practices to the individual, and I’d love to share some of those insights with you.
What is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda is a holistic health science that focuses on wellness—not just treating disease, but also preventing it by moving you toward balance in body and mind. With roots in South Asia, it has been practiced for thousands of years and is often paired with yoga in therapeutic settings. Ayurveda is a whole in-depth medical study that goes far beyond the scope of this blog post. However, I think some of the key concepts of Ayurveda can be extremely helpful in understanding health, and how to apply yoga practices to support it.
What is Ayurvedic Yoga?
Ayurvedic yoga is a therapeutic approach that uses Ayurvedic concepts to select and adapt yoga practices that support health and balance. Instead of sticking to a one-size-fits-all routine, this approach to yoga encourages flexibility and responsiveness—in other words, it changes to fit the circumstances.
This might mean:
- Adjusting your practice to match the season and climate
- Choosing yoga poses that support you in your current stage of life
- Considering your unique characteristics and constitution
- Modifying your yoga practice based on your current circumstances or stressors
Depending on what is needed, you might do different practices, or you might approach the same practices differently. With Ayurvedic yoga, the goal is to meet yourself where you are and let your yoga practice evolve as you do.
3 Lessons from Ayurveda for a Healthier Yoga Practice
In the video below, I share three key Ayurvedic lessons that can help you create a more health-promoting yoga practice. These ideas can make your yoga more personalized, supportive, and sustainable—whether you practice at home, in a group class, or with a yoga therapist.
Bringing Ayurvedic Yoga into Your Wellness Routine
The beauty of Ayurvedic yoga is that it teaches us to adapt. Instead of pushing through a strict routine, we can learn to listen to our bodies, honor what’s happening in the present moment, and choose practices that support balance.
Whether you’re refining your personal yoga practice or simply exploring new tools for wellness, Ayurvedic yoga offers a pathway to a more mindful and health-focused approach.
Ready to Explore Ayurvedic Yoga for Yourself?
If you’re curious about how Ayurvedic yoga can support your health and well-being, I’d love to help you personalize your practice. Whether you’re looking for guidance with movement, breathwork, or lifestyle adjustments, working together can give you the tools to bring more balance into your daily life. Reach out to schedule a session or join my mailing list for more resources and practices.
