An Overview of Ayurveda Certification Programs

Ayurveda has become a popular choice for Americans seeking alternative and complementary therapies. As a healthcare provider or a student looking to be part of the medical community, you may be wondering what Ayurveda is and how to get certified in it. Here’s a little more information about what the art can bring to your practice – and how to get there!

Are you thinking of getting Ayurveda certified? Here’s what you need to know.

The Basics – Understanding Ayurveda 

Ayurveda – a word of Sanskrit origin meaning “the science of life” – is a science with ancient roots. Originating in India, Ayurveda has been practiced for centuries, with some Ayurvedic practices predating the written word! So, what could this old-world form of medicine have to do with today’s patients?

As you have undoubtedly noticed in your own community, Americans are moving toward holistic, natural and alternative therapies instead of or in addition to their regular healthcare routine. With so many concerns about drug side effects, surgery aftermath and other drawbacks of traditional, Western medicine, more and more people are looking for therapies that are complementary to their current care. Ayurveda – with its focus on the body’s ability to heal itself with limited use of drugs or invasive methods – is a perfect choice for this modern trend.

Where to Learn

Seeing just how popular complementary therapies are, it’s no wonder so many students seek Ayurveda certification in the United States. The trouble is, that certification is not as common as it might be in India. Fewer colleges and universities offer it in North America, but that doesn’t mean the certification isn’t accessible.

In California, there are more schools offering programs in areas like Ayurvedic medicine than anywhere else in the nation. Programs educated students in a variety of topics and techniques, including:

• Ayurvedic history
• Massage therapy
• Pain and disease management
• Holistic pathology
• Herbology and drug interactions with certain herbal supplements

Getting your certification in Ayurveda in the United States may seem difficult upfront, but trust that with the growing trend toward holistic medicine, it’s very worth it!

Varying Standards 

It’s important to remember that in the United States, there is no government-regulated standard for Ayurveda education. While it is likely that these regulations will occur eventually. In the meantime, students should seek reputable schools with a long-established tradition of excellence when seeking their Ayurveda certification.

Ready to learn more about getting your Ayurveda certification and providing your future patients with excellent treatment and advice? Contact your nearest college, university or trade school offering Ayurveda programs and find out how to get started from where you are. You’ll never know what the art of Ayurveda can add to your practice until you add it to your skillset!