In this first book in the "Ayurveda Simplified" series, Dr. Nisha Manikantan explains not just the basic principles of Ayurveda, but also eloborates topics that are not conventionally considered a part of Ayurveda. Ayurveda is one of the oldest systems of medicine in the world. It goes back to almost 5000 years ago where it finds its first mention in the Vedas. In this first book in the "Ayurveda Simplified" series, the author explains not just the basic principles of Ayurveda, but also touches topics that are not conventionally considered a part of Ayurveda. The author also talks about the uniqueness of Ayurveda with its all natural, holistic approach towards any ailment and promotion of health on a whole. This holistic approach in explaining the mechanics of this ancient science offers a fresh perspective and makes this book a lot more than an introduction.
Ayurveda is a very vast topic, and most books on Ayurveda can overwhelm you with the plethora of knowledge that they offer. Ayurveda Simplified is a short 122 page book which talks about the tridosas, yoga, the three gunas, chakras, and enables you to identify which prakriti (natural constitution of the five elements in our body) you are, and what to do in case of dosa imbalance (vikrti). For someone who just wants the basic knowledge of Ayurveda and about our astral bodies, this book explains all the terms, uses scientific references, and is a great, short introduction to Ayurveda.
If you have started practicing yoga, breathing techniques, have read ancient vedanta books. This book will knit all the practices in a lifestyle that is of joy, love, health and true contribution. A most read for any person in seeking to make a rooted change for lifetime and feel really happy! A yoga enciclopedia.
I have had a curiosity to learn about Ayurveda and develop a holistic lifestyle and was looking for a primer on it. I picked up this book with the hope it would be easy to understand but alas no. While I am no expert and cannot comment on the veracity of the facts, the structure of the book can be greatly improved. The first half of the book seems extremely technical and quite difficult to grasp/retain. The only section of the book I enjoyed was about the Prakrutis and Doshas. A lot of things made sense about the way my body reacts in different situations.While this book may not give readers all the beginner's knowledge about Ayurveda, it definitely is a starting point.