Natural Therapy and Ayurveda: Differences and Similarities
Introduction:
In the cultural heritage of India, medical practices hold a significant place. The ancient medical practices of India – Natural Therapy and Ayurveda – not only treat diseases but also teach a holistic way of life. Their foundation is based on the balanced unity of body, mind, and soul. In modern life, with increasing stress, poor diet, and irregular routines leading to various diseases, these traditional methods offer effective solutions.
While the foundation of Natural Therapy lies in the balance of the five elements – Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether – Ayurveda also explains these principles from a scientific perspective, treating the body and mind at deeper levels. Both systems teach us that to fight diseases, improving one’s lifestyle and following the laws of nature are more important than medicines alone.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the similarities, principles, and treatment methods of Natural Therapy and Ayurvedic Medicine, to show that these two systems are essentially two branches of the same philosophy.
These two medical systems are a gift of our culture. They are pure, eternal, and infinite. Natural Therapy originated with nature and all living beings, including humans, animals, and birds, benefit from it. This method does not require special tools; rather, treatment can be administered by simply adhering to the fundamental principles of this system.
Ayurveda is also an ancient Indian system with almost the same principles as Natural Therapy. The term 'Ayurveda' means the knowledge of life. It is eternal. The period during which consciousness is present in a sentient being is called life. The union of the body, senses, mind, and soul is life.
The knowledge related to life is called Ayurveda. The union of Sattva, soul, and body is known as Purusha (human), and this union is what Ayurveda addresses as its subject matter.
The texts that describe the aspects of life – beneficial life, harmful life, happy life, and painful life – and the principles of living them are known as Ayurveda. Ayurveda is described in the Atharvaveda as a sub-Veda. All modern medical systems are derived from these ancient teachings. Even today, the fundamental principles of medicine remain the same as those described by the ancient scholars, though their methods and tools have evolved.
Similarities:
Both systems teach the art of living. Daily routines, night routines, and seasonal routines are fundamental aspects taught in both systems.
Improper diet and lifestyle are considered the primary causes of all diseases. Ayurveda lists three causes for diseases under the wrong diet and lifestyle: excessive indulgence, non-indulgence, and improper indulgence. Excessive indulgence includes overeating, excessive indulgence in sensory pleasures, etc. Non-indulgence refers to not using the senses naturally, and improper indulgence involves consuming harmful foods like excessive spices, oils, and acidic foods.
The root cause of all diseases is foreign matter (foreign substances) in the body. All diseases arise from the accumulation of foreign substances and slow digestion. Disorders in the stomach lead to poor digestion (mandagni), and poor digestion leads to the accumulation of toxins (Ama).
Food as medicine: In both systems, food is considered the primary medicine for treating diseases.
Both systems emphasize the importance of purification procedures, such as Panchakarma, rather than just using stimulating medicines.
The five elements (Panchamahabhuta) that make up the body are considered the best tools for healing in both systems.
The core principle of both systems is that nature itself is the healer. The real healing work is done by nature, while doctors or medicines merely assist in this process. The role of the healer is like a hand supporting someone stuck in a swamp, while nature provides the true cure.
Thus, it is clear that both systems are essentially the same, with only different names.
Conclusion:
Natural Therapy and Ayurveda are both priceless treasures of our cultural and spiritual heritage. These systems are not merely methods of treating diseases but also guide us toward a complete lifestyle. The main goal of both systems is not just disease treatment but to make the individual fully healthy, balanced, and spiritually enriched.
The similarities between them affirm that to live a healthy life, one must follow the rules of nature. By adhering to simple practices such as proper diet, routine, and seasonal lifestyle, we can be free from even the most severe diseases. Purification of accumulated toxins and improving one's lifestyle is the foundation of both systems.
Thus, whether it is called Natural Therapy or Ayurveda, both have the same goal – overall health and a harmonious life with nature. By adopting these principles, we can not only stay free from diseases but also move towards a stronger, peaceful, and positive life.
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