AYU Ayurvedic Academy, Berkeley/East Bay
Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner (CAP)
Vara Healing Arts Center, Berkeley and AYU Ayurvedic Academy & Clinic, Seattle, in partnership with KERALA AYURVEDA, India, one of India's oldest Ayurvedic companies, is pleased to announce a new in-depth training course – Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner (CAP) Level I . The course offers the highest level of Ayurvedic training available outside of India. This course will be of particular value to yoga teachers, massage therapists, healers, physicians, registered nurses, naturopaths, acupuncturists, chiropractors, nutritionists, physical therapists, psychotherapists – all those involved in all fields of wellness.
The course is a 400 hr training consisting of eleven (11) two day weekends and will begin March 2007.
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Ayurveda - a special science
Reference: A Beginner's Introduction to Ayurvedic Medicine by Dr. Vivek Shanbhag
• It respects the uniqueness of the individual.
• It considers all the levels of the individual.
• It offers natural ways of treating diseases and promoting health.
• It emphasizes prevention.
• It empowers everyone to take responsibility for their own well-being.
• It is cost –effective.
• It works.
Our Mission is to share the wisdom and the proven healing benefits of Ayurveda by providing a strong curriculum of education and personal growth for those within related fields of study.
Our Purpose is to build a program that will create an inspirational atmosphere for higher Yogic and Ayurvedic teachings.
Our Expertise
We are committed to academic excellence and an ongoing goal of providing the highest level of Ayurvedic training outside of India.
“AYU Ayurvedic Academy provides advanced, authentic Ayurvedic training and education, presented by a teaching faculty that includes several of the world’s leading Ayurvedic academicians and physicians.”
- Dr. Robert Svoboda, BAMS, Internationally acclaimed Ayurvedic author and teacher
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Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner (CAP)
Students will build a strong foundation of Ayurvedic philosophy, psychology and physiology. They will learn to live an Ayurvedic lifestyle. Students will be able to integrate Ayurvedic principles and practices into their personal & professional life. They will get a good understanding of Ayurvedic nutrition, herbology, Pancha Karma, daily and seasonal routines, and evaluation of constitution (Prakruti). A graduate can offer Ayurvedic lifestyle counseling to individuals or groups and practice as an Ayurvedic wellness coach by helping others in creating a personalized wellness plan.
INVITATION by Dr. Vivek Shanbhag, founder-director of the program
Namaste!
Welcome to the Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner(CAP) program in East Bay/Berkeley! We congratulate you for embarking on this healing and exciting journey into the world of Ayurveda - the science of natural, holistic healing. As you venture into Vedic philosophy, Yogic psychology, Ayurvedic herbology, Constitutional evaluation, Clinical training and other topics, you will marvel at the true holistic nature of Ayurveda. Be assured that when you graduate from the Ayurvedic Academy as a Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner (CAP) - you will be looked up as a leader in the field of holistic, natural healing.
The Academy is committed to giving you the highest quality Ayurvedic training. Our courses are not only academically challenging and intellectually stimulating, but also the most comprehensive Ayurvedic courses available outside of India. Our course content and formats are based on curriculums offered by leading Ayurvedic Universities in India. The instructors who teach at our Academy are experienced faculty, physicians and professors from leading Ayurvedic Universities in India and other countries. The Ayurvedic Academy is approved in the U.S. by the State of Washington and internationally by International Academy of Ayurveda in Pune, India and the International Holistic Health Institute in Bangalore, India State Department of Education.
Education at Ayurvedic Academy may be evaluated for use in Hindu University’s Master’s Degree in Ayurvedic Sciences. Our courses include course manuals, classroom teaching, practical training and clinical internship. Graduates have the option of doing additional internship programs in India.
Enrolled students include physicians, registered nurses, naturopaths, acupuncturists, chiropractors, nutritionists, massage therapists, physical therapists, psychotherapists, yoga teachers and fitness instructors. Others who have found our programs very valuable include individuals who are trying to incorporate Ayurvedic health routines into their daily life, and patients who are following Ayurvedic treatments for their healthcare concerns. As an Ayurvedic Academy student you will also learn a lot during interactions with your classmates. Our training programs will help you integrate Ayurvedic principles and practices into your personal life, as well as into your professional endeavors. We video tape our courses, so if you miss a class, you will be able to study the missed material with the help of the course manuals and video tapes.
As our health care system evolves, graduates of the Ayurvedic Academy will be well-poised to make very important contributions to the healing and well-being of humanity. You are invited to embrace this mission and passion of personal development, professional excellence and global wellness.
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Class Schedule
We have a high level of interest from serious applicants. Applicants who have been approved will be registered on a ‘first come, first served’ basis.
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Course Description
AYU 5001 Ayurvedic Philosophy & Anatomy (Tarka Sankhya and Sharir)
Begin with an engaging introduction to the history and philosophy of Ayurveda. Learn the foundations of the three Gunas, five Elements and the three Doshas. Understand the concepts of Constitution (Prakruti), Imbalance (Vikruti) and Dynamic Balance. Review the components of Comprehensive Individualized Ayurvedic Treatment Plans & Health Programs. Learn about Cosmology, Sankhya Philosophy and the Ayurvedic perspective on the human body, including Doshas, Dhatus, Malas, Marmas, Asthis, Sandhis, and Strotas.
AYU 5002 Ayurvedic Physiology (Dosha Dhatu Mala Vidnyan)
This session discusses in detail the fifteen Sub-Doshas, seven Dhatus, three Malas, sixteen Srotas, Marmas and the role of these in health and disease. Explore the depth of the three Gunas (Sattva, Rajas and Tamas) and how they govern both mind and emotions. Other topics include definition of life; Dosha characteristics and their primary location; signs of balance and imbalance; Agni, its types, function, and importance in health and disease; Ojas, its function, signs of increase or decrease.
AYU 5003 Ayurvedic Psychology (Manasa Shastra)
Principles of mental Doshas, their function, location and origin; aspects of the mind; principles of the five sheaths; Kundalini and the Seven chakras; three gunas and their characteristics; Mental Constitution.
AYU 5004 Ayurvedic Herbology (Dravya Guna Rasa Shastra)
This practical workshop will focus on the application of Ayurvedic herbology energetics like Rasa, Virya, Vipaka and Prabhava. Clinical application of important Ayurvedic herbs will be discussed. Explore the science of Synergetic Combining of healing herbs. As spices have been largely misunderstood and misused, this informational session will explain the scientific purpose of using spices in cooking. Learn for the first time, how to wisely use popular spices to prevent imbalances, heal diseases and promote health. Study various methods of herbal preparation.
AYU 5005 Ayurvedic Nutrition & Prevention Science (Swastha Vritta)
Ayurvedic disease prevention science is practically incorporated in Dinacharya (Daily Routines) & Ritucharya (Seasonal Routines). Learn how to use these techniques and procedures to maintain optimum health and prevent common diseases resulting from seasonal changes. This practical workshop will focus on how to use the six tastes of food to nutritionally balance Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Learn how to evaluate a client’s diet diary and how to use that information to prescribe an individualized diet plan. Other topics include definition of health; understanding digestion; Epidemic diseases; and Immune system.
AYU 5006 Ayurvedic Detoxification Therapy (Pancha Karma)
This practical session will focus on Ayurveda’s five natural purification procedures (Pancha Karma). Explore how and when Pancha Karma is recommended for therapeutic goals of preventing and healing diseases. Understand their application in daily and seasonal routines. In this hands-on workshop, learn the techniques of Pancha Karma treatments. Discover how to prepare and use the various herbal preparations needed in the different steps of these detoxification procedures. Understand the dos and don’ts of therapeutic Pancha Karma and rejuvenation therapies, including Vaman, Virechan, Basti, Nasya, and Rakta Moksha. Includes basic principles of palliation, purification and rejuvenation, as well as Clinical Ayurvedic massage.
Mid-Term Exam
AYU 5007 Pathology, Constitution Evaluation and Diagnosis (Roga Samprapti and Nidan Panchaka)
Learn the art and science of History Taking and Constitution Questionnaire Evaluation. Practice the skills of Physical Observation and Physical Examination. Understand how to use above information for effective Evaluation of Constitution (Prakruti) & Imbalance (Vikruti) Learn Ayurvedic concepts of disease stages, classifications and prognosis, including aggravation, alleviation and movement of the doshas; and Ojas as the essential energy for the immune system. Basic clinical examination including Sama and Nirama conditions, pulse and tongue diagnosis, as well as abdominal exam and corresponding organs.
AYU 5008 Disease Diagnosis & Management (Roga Nidan and Kaya Chikitsa I)
Ayurvedic Diagnostics and client examination. Includes Ayurvedic etiology, symptoms and signs of various respiratory and digestive disorders, their diagnosis, and prognosis. Learn signs of aggravation of Doshas, Dhatus, and Malas, herbal treatment and dietary management.
AYU 5009 Disease Diagnosis and Management- Part II (Kaya Chikitsa II)
Ayurvedic Diagnostics and client examination, Ayurvedic etiology, symptoms and signs of various psychological, cardiovascular, urinary and skin disorders, their diagnosis, prognosis, signs of aggravation of Doshas, Dhatus, and Malas, herbal treatment and dietary management.
AYU 5010 Disease Diagnosis and Management- Part III (Kaya Chikitsa III)
Above series continues with emphasis on gynecological diseases, diseases of the ear, nose, and eye, their diagnosis and prognosis. Includes signs of aggravation of Doshas, Dhatus, and Malas, herbal treatment and dietary management.
AYU 5011 Review, Clinical Management, Final Comprehensive Examination
Review of the course materials; Principles of Ayurvedic Practice and management of legal issues; hands-on clinical workshop on patient evaluation and case management; questions and answers on the course.
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FAQ
1. What is Ayurveda and how can it benefit me?
Ayurveda means science of life. This tradition of natural wellness has healed millions of people for more than 50 centuries. The complimentary sciences Yoga and Ayurveda together help you to balance your inner energies and to create harmony of your body, mind and spirit. Ayurveda helps you in improving health, preventing illness, healing disease and promoting longevity. Ayurveda considers that each of us is a unique individual with a unique mind-body type which is determined during conception. It assists you in creating a comprehensive wellness plan personalized for your unique physiology and your specific condition. Ayurvedic natural healing program includes customized nutrition & lifestyle guidelines, healing herbs, gentle detoxification with Pancha Karma cleansing, appropriate exercises & yoga postures, special daily & seasonal health routines, rejuvenate Rasayana therapy, aroma therapy, music therapy, Pranayama and Meditation.
2. What does Ayurveda treatment include?
A comprehensive and customized Ayurvedic natural health program consists of:
- Natural diet to suit the individual’s body type.
- Therapeutic nutritional supplements.
- Healing botanical medicines and herbs.
- Detoxification by gentle cleansing called Pancha Karma therapy.
- Ayurvedic body work and massage.
- Physical exercise and stretches including yoga postures.
- Stress management through:
- Relaxation exercises
- Breathing techniques called Pranayama
- Music therapy
- Aroma therapy
- Focusing exercises
- Meditation
- Rejuvenation therapy called Rasayana to delay aging and promote longevity.
- Special daily routines which include:
- Natural oral hygiene
- Preventive care of eyes, ears, nasal passages, sinuses, and throat.
- Nourishing treatment of skin, hair and nails.
- Special seasonal routines for year-round health by adapting to the seasons
- Recovery from addictions and codependency
- Counseling and health education
- Health life-style
3. How does Ayurveda define health?
According to Ayurveda, health is a participatory ongoing process of achieving and maintaining a dynamic balance in all aspects of life through the means of comprehensive natural therapies customized to suit the individual’s psychosomatic constitution and current imbalance, if any. The goal of this process is not only to heal disease and to reestablish balance, but also to prevent disease and to promote positive health.
To elaborate the above definition, we need to emphasize that:
- Health is a process---not a state.
- This process is ongoing---not a one-time attempt.
- This process is participatory, the person must take the responsibility for his or her health---not depend on an expert to fix it.
- Health is dynamic balance---not stationary balance.
- The dynamic balance needs to be achieved in all aspects of this person’s life—physical, biochemical, intellectual, emotional, behavioral, spiritual, familial, social, environmental and universal---not narrowed down to only physical or biochemical aspects.
- Therapies need to be comprehensive, considering all aspects of life like nutrition, natural medicines, exercise, rest, emotions and lifestyle---not limited to drugs and surgery.
- Therapies need to be natural---not synthetic.
- Therapies need to be customized to suit the individual---not standardized for the imaginary “average person.”
- Therapies need to address the complete physical, biochemical, intellectual, emotional, behavioral, spiritual, familial, social picture---not just the physical symptoms.
- The goal is top heal disease, reestablish balance, prevent diseased, and promote positive health---not just to suppress symptoms or “quick-fix the problem.”
4. How will Ayurvedic training help me?
If you are seeking improvement of your health, or looking to heal your disease, learning Ayurveda would be valuable. If you are a Yoga teacher, massage therapist, chiropractor, nurse or a physician wanting to serve your clients better—training in Ayurveda can provide significant benefits. The training will let you integrate Ayurvedic wellness principles and practices in your personal and professional life. Unlimited opportunities await the Ayurvedic Practitioner in the field of natural holistic health care, public education, research and writing. As an Ayurvedic practitioner you will help others in their healing process by being their teacher, wellness coach, doctor, and healer.
5. Accreditation
Currently, as of this writing, California State does not recognize Ayurveda as an independent discipline and does not grant a license to practice Ayurveda. If you currently hold a license in a related field of health care (massage, physical therapy, nutrition, chiropractor, acupuncture/Traditional Chinese Medicine), you can incorporate Ayurvedic principles into your existing practice. The California State Board of Education is aware of the school and is working with us to meet its academic standards, should the legislature be amended to recognize Ayurveda.
Successful completion of this course may eventually qualify the student for registration as a licensed practitioner of Ayurvedic Medicine when, and if, the [ California ] State laws change. These changes have already taken place for students of chiropractic, acupuncture, massage, and nutrition, and several States are currently considering extending their laws to include Ayurveda. We feel it is only a matter of time before California, historically a leader in alternative education, recognizes the time-tested discipline of Ayurvedic Medicine.
6. Tution Cost
The tuition for the Level 1 Certificate Course is at the special introductory price of US $5,000 per year for students beginning in November 2006.
7. How can I further advance my Ayurveda Training?
A complete program of training has been developed so that students are able to pursue their education to a high level
of training.
Level 1—Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner—400 hours
Level 2—Advanced Ayurvedic Practitioner—400 hours
Level 3—Master’s Degree in Ayurveda -900 hour
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Level 1: Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner (CAP)
Students will build a strong foundation of Ayurvedic philosophy, psychology and physiology. They will learn to live an Ayurvedic lifestyle. Students will be able to integrate Ayurvedic principles and practices into their personal & professional life. They will get a good understanding of Ayurvedic nutrition, herbology, Pancha Karma, daily and seasonal routines, and evaluation of constitution (Prakruti). A graduate can offer Ayurvedic lifestyle counseling to individuals or groups and practice as an Ayurvedic wellness coach by helping others in creating a personalized wellness plan.
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Level 2: Advanced Ayurvedic Practitioner (AAP)
Students will get involved in deeper learning of advanced herbology, pharmacology, pathology, diagnostics and therapeutics. They will study history taking, physical observation and examination. Students will understand detailed evaluation of imbalance (Vikruti). They will learn how to design individualized Ayurvedic treatment plans consisting of customized diet plans, herbs and Pancha Karma. Students will also learn how to prescribe Rasayana rejuvenation, daily and seasonal routines for disease prevention. The course includes detailed theoretical and practical training in Pancha Karma.
This 400 hour course includes:
- Advanced Intensive in India -14 days, Dec 18 thru 31 at Ayurvedic Resort, Bangalore, India
- Advanced Intensive in USA – any 8 days selected from Summer, Fall & Spring Quarter break Intensives
- Course Project
- Clinical Internship
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Level 3: Master’s Degree in Ayurvedic Sciences
Master’s Degree in Ayurvedic Sciences is offered via distance learning by Hindu University. Ayurvedic Academy is collaborating with Hindu university which is authorized by Florida State Department of Education. Education at Ayurvedic Academy may be evaluated for use in Hindu University’s Master’s Degree in Ayurvedic Sciences.
This may include:
- Completion of Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner
- Completion of Advanced Ayurvedic Practitioner
- Two Distance Learning Courses from Hindu University:
- Sanskrit
- Philosophy
Details of Clinical Internship (120 Hours in East Bay/Berkeley), Level 2 Advanced Ayurvedic Practitioner (AAP), and Master’s Degree will be available soon.
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