• How one can define yoga?
• How qualified are Naturopathic Doctors (NDs)?
• What is Ayurveda?
• How does the Ayurvedic system work?
• What therapies do Naturopathy use?
• Does Ayurveda work for Everybody?
• Is there any treatment for chronic disease?
• Why should I do Yoga?
• If I can't touch my toes, Can I still do Yoga?
• If I have Health issues, Can I still do Yoga?
• Are there any side effects to Ayurvedic medicine?

How one can define yoga?

Yoga is an ancient tradition spanning back approximately 5000 years. There are many different branches and styles of yoga. The branch practiced primarily in this country is called Hatha Yoga. One of the best definitions about the purpose of Hatha yoga that we've heard comes from Dr. George Feuerstein, who says that Hatha yoga "bakes" the body, or literally cleanses and tones it to the point where it becomes the perfect vehicle for enlightenment. DON'T WORRY - if enlightenment isn't your goal, and you just want a good workout and maybe a little relaxation, that's okay… In general, Hatha is a term applied to a branch of yoga that focuses on calming the mind and body through physical practice of yoga postures (asanas), and other cleansing and mind steadying techniques. The term "Hatha" works as an umbrella word under which you will find many of the different styles of yoga we are most familiar with in this country. Many of these styles you will find in the Dover Yoga schedule: i.e. ashtanga, rasa, iyengar, integrated…. etc.

How qualified are Naturopathic Doctors (NDs)?

Naturopathic Doctors train extensively in the conventional medical sciences as well as in clinical nutrition, diet, botanical medicine, homeopathy, physical medicine, hydrotherapy, and counseling. NDs complete four year graduate degree programs at accredited naturopathic medical schools, including at least 1200 hours of clinical training. In addition, NDs must pass two sets of national board exams in the basic and clinical sciences. Currently, NDs are eligible for licensure in 14 states, efforts gain licensure in New York State are in full force.

What is Ayurveda?

Ayu means life and Veda means knowledge, therefore Ayurveda means the science of life. Ayurveda is the traditional Indian health system which is more than 5,000 years old. This system was propounded by the Rishis of India - they understood the resonance of the universe and how the body works through its anatomy and physiology. They realized that good health can be maintained through diet and lifestyle as well as taking Ayurvedic medicine. The principles of Ayurvedic medicine and the harmony between mind and body have been documented and practiced in India for thousands of years.

How does the Ayurvedic system work?

From observing the universe, macro-cosmos, climate differences in various geographical locations and seasons the Rishis discovered that these principles can be applied to the human body. We are a micro-cosmos living in macro–cosmos. They realized that the body has certain rhythms, similar to nature. When these rhythms are balanced the body is healthy; when they are imbalanced the body becomes sick - this system is governed by Dosha, biological force or humor, constitution, Prakriti or nature. Dosha is the “password” of your body, once you understand your unique password you will be able to understand how your body works and how to keep it balanced.

What therapies do Naturopathy use?

Clinical

Nutrition Diet and Lifestyle Change

Botanical Medicine

Homeopathic Medicine

Physical Medicine

Hydrotherapy

Counseling

NDs draw from the following therapies to promote health, and prevent and treat disease

Does Ayurveda work for Everybody?

Up until now I have seen that Ayurveda works in 95% of cases. The other 5% is due to intense karmic sickness.

Is there any treatment for chronic disease?

There is very good management in Ayurveda for chronic diseases.

WHY SHOULD I DO YOGA?

Basically, because it's amazing. It totally connects your mind with your body and centers you into becoming a clearer more focused person.

IF I CAN'T TOUCH MY TOES, CAN I STILL DO YOGA?

Absolutely. Here's the really great thing about yoga: EVERY POSTURE CAN BE MODIFIED. There isn't a yoga pose out there that doesn't have an easier variation. Your instructor will be able to help you modify your poses so you can get the most out of your practice. And here's the most important thing to remember in any yoga class: IT'S YOUR PRACTICE. Stretching and strengthening your body takes time and patience… don't let yourself get frustrated, stay relaxed about your practice, and remember you have the rest of your life to figure out how to do things like get your leg behind your head, so don't be in a rush. Remember, the goal of yoga is to give you increased health and stillness of mind so you can approach life easily with a positive outlook and an open heart.

IF I HAVE HEALTH ISSUES CAN I STILL DO YOGA?

Yes, but you should consult your physician if you have any doubts. All postures can be modified, and yoga has proven medical benefits for the body. Make sure you inform your instructor of any health concerns you may have.

Are there any side effects to Ayurvedic medicine?

Generally I have seen that there are no side effects, however if the dose is high some discomfort may be felt. Ayurvedic medicine has many positive effects; it can indirectly help with other conditions apart from the one being treated. This is because the herbs have been chosen due to the fundamental principles of the body.