Ayurveda & Yoga Curriculum: Foundational | Institute of Integrative Ayurveda

Stuart Rothenberg, MD

Research evidence that preventable mistakes in lifestyle and diet are the main cause of chronic disorders
Definition of Ayurveda
Source of Ayurveda knowledge
History of decline and recent revival of Ayurveda
Overview of the unique Ayurvedic approach to health
Outline of the course

Stuart Rothenberg, MD

The Ayurvedic approach to enliven the inner intelligence and healing ability of the body.
Introduction to body type (Prakriti) and imbalance (Vikriti)
Introduction to the organizing principles of all bodily functions – the three doshas ( Vata, Pitta and Kapha)
Dosha qualities and symptoms of balance and imbalance
Body Type and Personalized Medicine
Body Type determination and use of the body type questionnaire

Stuart Rothenberg MD

Diet effects on gene expression
Evidence on dietary mistakes at the basis of a chronic conditions
The need to personalize diet
General dietary recommendations for all body types
Spices – research and use
Diet recommendations for Vata, Pitta and Kapha types
Digestion: How we digest is as important as what we eat.
Introducing and discussion of “Ama” – toxins, impurities and blockages cause by poor diet and digestion.
Introduction and discussion of “Soma” – biochemical products of proper diet and digestion that enhance health and longevity
Ama symptoms and use of Ama questionnaire to determine levels of ama buildup
Bowl regularity Ayurvedic recommendations

Nancy Lonsdorf MD

Introduction to Agni – the digestive fire
Types of Agni and their locations in the body
The 7 bodily tissues and the keys to their proper development
Signs of Vata, Pitta, Kapha balanced and imbalanced digestion
Factors that disturb Agni
The “Hot water” recommendation to enhance Agni and removes Ama
Program for healthy digestion – all body types
Herbs and spice recommendations to enhance Agni
Introduction to Ayurvedic in-residence physiological purification procedures – Panchakarma
Ayurvedic recommendations for proper food preparation

Nancy Lonsdorf MD

Nancy Lonsdorf MD

Understanding the cycles in nature
Our Biological Clocks: Nervous system changes during natural cycles
Effects of disruptions of Circadian rhythms on health
The Vata, Pitta and Kapha times of day
Time of day to eat the largest meal
Time of day to eat less to avoid Ama and overweight
Timing of sleep for maximum rest and rejuvenation
Research on Circadian rhythms and cancer and overweight conditions
Circadian rhythm effects on gut bacteria – Ayurvedic approach to a healthy gut biome
Circadian rhythms and gene expression
Fertility and Circadian rhythms
The health benefits of the experience of timelessness – The TM Technique

Nancy Lonsdorf MD

Stuart Rothenberg MD

Introduction to the Personal Wellness Journal – Tracking your Ayurvedic diet and lifestyle and its effects on your personal health
Review of the use Ayurvedic self-assessment questionnaires
1. Body Type
2. Digestive Type
3. Ama score
4. Eating Habits score
5. Lifestyle Habits score
Review of general dietary recommendations
Creating your personal dosha specific diet program
Purification diets for use when Ama and overweight conditions are present
Review of use of spices
Determining Ama levels and procedures to remove Ama
Seasonal modifications of diet and behavior
Herbal preparations for sluggish digestion
Best behaviors for good digestion
Review of Ayurveda bowl regularity approach
Ayurvedic approach to good sleep
Key points for a healthy Ayurvedic lifestyle
Ayurvedic approach to mental and emotional effects on health
Ayurvedic Mind-Body Medicine – the TM technique
MAPI products and code for purchase discounts
Health coach options to support the online course