I am frequently asked about the connection of Ayurveda and Jyotish (Vedic Astrology). While the connection between Ayurveda and Yoga appears obvious, the connection to Jyotish requires a deeper understanding of the origins of the sciences and their shared roots. It helps to understand that Yoga and Ayurveda are both Vedic sciences; they both originate from ancient scripture known as the Vedas. According to both sciences, the material universe is composed of the five elements, earth, water, fire, air and ether. These same elements are echoed in the qualities of Grahas, or planets, as well as the zodiacal signs they rule. Jyotish observes health through the grahas (planets), not through doshas (vata, pitta, kapha) like Ayurveda, because each planet itself represents a certain dosha. By combining Jyotish and Ayurveda we can make more individualized nutrition and routine. Ayurveda is oriented in body-healing methods, while Jyotish in healing the inner being (mental and emotional level and the level of the soul).
Known as sister sciences, Ayurveda and Jyotish (Vedic astrology) have been studied as parallel practices since their conception. Ayurveda translates into “knowledge of life,” and Jyotish into “science of light.” Ayurveda promotes harmonization of your mind/body constitution to activate your optimal vitality. Jyotish is the science of time, the unfolding of karma, and reveals a map of tendencies, timing, and habits. Jyotish and Ayurveda are an integral part of the holistic system, called Yoga, whose goal is self-realization and the attainment of the Unity state of consciousness. When all three disciplines are used together (Jyotish, Ayurveda, and Yoga), the best results are achieved, because through them we use the best techniques for working on a physical, astral and causal body.
Ayurveda provides the foundation for a healthy life through proper care of the physical body. Jyotish shows us how to neutralize and optimize the energy of karma, which applies to our astral body. Yoga helps us to awaken and connect with our soul and use the full potential of our causal body. Ayurveda primarily works at the body level. Ayurveda and Yoga are connected through the first 4 yoga limbs (yama, niyama, asana, and pranayama or behavioral rules, moral principles, exercise, and breathing exercises) whose actions are more related to the physical level. Whereas Jyotish’s remedies are much more effective at the emotional and mental level (fears, worries, tension, emotional and mental instability).
The goal of the integral approach of Jyotish, Ayurveda, and Yoga is a profound transformation, a healthy and fulfilled life where we use our full potential.
