Ayurveda is a comprehensive system of healthcare that has been practiced in India for over five thousand years. It is thought to be the world’s oldest healing system and is commonly referred to as “mother of all sciences.” Ayurveda, in Sanskrit, means “science of life” (ayu means life, and veda means knowledge of). Rooted in ancient books of wisdom, the Vedas, Ayurveda epitomizes a true body-mind approach to health and wellness.
Ayurveda defines health as a balance of body, mind, and spirit. When imbalance occurs, ones outlook and approach to life suffers. And, illness can result. When back in balance, and with health restored, ones outlook is in sync with life, the environment, and the well-ordered universe.
To determine whether a balance or imbalance is present, Ayurveda uses the patient’s body-type or constitution (dosha) to make an assessment. In Ayurveda our dosha is made up of a combination of the five universal elements – space, air, water, fire, earth. Should one’s dosha become excessive or depleted a plan is formulated to correct the imbalance.
Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to healing: a regimen might include specific lifestyle and nutritional guidelines, vitamin and mineral supplements, herbs and homeopathy, and a detox or cleansing program for toxins. Breathing techniques, yoga exercises, meditation and mantras might also be part of the plan.
Ayurveda is a healing regimen as well as a health maintenance program. And, since imbalances can be detected before the manifestation of illness, Ayurveda is an effective prevention program as well. Prevention is a main focus of Ayurveda. Overall, Ayurveda is a way of life – a path to fulfillment, health, happiness, harmony, and bliss.
Ayurveda can be used integratively with western modalities. Dr. Kaushik combines the art of Ayurveda with the science of Naturopathy to create a unique approach for each individual.
SOMESH N. KAUSHIK, ND, BAMS, MPH, MPA, E-RYT 500
After completing the 6 ½ years of schooling for his Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) from Kurukshetra University, India, in 1983, Dr. Kaushik worked as an Ayurvedic Medical Officer for two years.
Upon moving to the United States in 1985, Dr. Kaushik received his Masters of Public Health (MPH) and Masters of Public Administration (MPA) from the University of Alabama in 1988. He then worked as an Epidemiologist and Director of HIV/AIDS Sero-surveillance Program with the Alabama Department of Public Health in Birmingham while maintaining an Ayurvedic practice.
In 1999 he moved to Connecticut and received his Doctor of Naturopathy (ND) from the University of Bridgeport, CT in 2003. He taught Ayurvedic Medicine and Public Health at the College of Naturopathic Medicine, University of Bridgeport, as well as serving as the Director of Admissions there. He has been a faculty member with the University of Bridgeport, Division of Health Sciences since 2001. Dr. Kaushik co-founded the Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies in Fairfield, CT in 2006.
Dr. Kaushik lectures on Ayurvedic Medicine at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine, Portland, OR, as well as at various national and international symposiums and events. He also offers courses, workshops, lectures, and training in Ayurvedic medicine locally. Dr. Kaushik is an approved continuing education provider for Yoga teachers through the YACEP (Yoga Alliance for Continuing Education Providers) and has achieved the highest Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher certificate having completed 500 hours of training (E-RYT 500). He includes therapeutic Yoga in his practice.
Every December, Dr. Kaushik and his family travel to India to set up camps offering free medical care for underserved populations. He’d like to expand this service to other countries as well.
Dr. Kaushik brings his unique background as an Ayurvedic and Naturopathic practitioner with experience in public health and health education to this locality. He welcomes you into his wellness community.
For information contact:
Dr. Somesh N. Kaushik
914-875-9088 clinic M, T, W; 646-670-6725 cell;
drkaushik@drkaushik.com; www.drkaushik.com