HUA-CCA participated in the International Ayurveda Day organized by CAAM on October 29, 2024, at the Silicon Andhra, Bay Area campus. Distinguished speakers shared insights on diet, lifestyle, and seasonal practices to align health with natural rhythms, underscoring Ayurveda’s relevance in contemporary wellness.
Ayurveda Day 2024 – Bay Area
– A Gathering of Knowledge, Wellness, and Tradition
HUA-CCA at the International Ayurveda Day Bay Area Celebrations – 2024
On October 29, 2024, the Bay Area hosted a vibrant celebration of Ayurveda Day. Organized by the California Association for Ayurvedic Medicine (CAAM), the event gathered Ayurveda practitioners, students, and enthusiasts to honor the ancient science of life and its modern applications in health and wellness. The theme, Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health, highlighted the potential of Ayurveda as a holistic approach to global healthcare. The evening began with the Dhanwantari Homa, performed with deep reverence. This sacred Vedic ritual, dedicated to Lord Dhanwantari, the divine physician and father of Ayurveda, was conducted to invoke blessings for health, healing, and well-being for everyone present. Hindu University of America (HUA) and the California College of Ayurveda (CCA) played significant roles in supporting the event, promoting Ayurveda’s integration into contemporary health practices and raising awareness about its preventive benefits. Distinguished guests included the Consul General of India in San Francisco, Dr. K. Srikar Reddy, and Deputy Consul General Mr. Rakesh Adlakha, both of whom emphasized Ayurveda’s global significance and its ability to address current health challenges.
Key Discussions and Speakers
Theme: Ayurveda in Daily Life
1. Dr. Rammohan Rao on the Importance of Food and Mindful Eating
Dr. Rammohan Rao from the California College of Ayurveda (CCA) and Hindu University of America (HUA) delivered an insightful talk on Ayurveda’s approach to diet and lifestyle. Dr. Rao underscored the significance of understanding the quality and source of food (Ahara). “Consider where your food is grown and how it is processed,” he advised, pointing out that natural, fresh food aligns better with our bodies than highly processed or fried foods. He encouraged attendees to observe their eating habits: “Are you eating too quickly, or are you chewing thoroughly? Chewing creates memory circuits within our body, allowing us to fully experience our food’s nourishment.”
He further highlighted that eating habits extend beyond the meal itself. Timing is key in Ayurveda, with the largest meal ideally eaten during midday when digestive fire is strongest. Dr. Rao also advised against eating mindlessly in cars or while walking, which can disrupt digestion and contribute to stress. Such mindful eating practices allow people to connect more deeply with food, aiding in both physical and mental health.
2. Dr. Rucha Kelkar – Traditional Ayurvedic Home Remedies
Dr. Rucha Kelkar shared practical Ayurvedic remedies and their everyday applications, focusing on natural ingredients that support health. She emphasized Turmeric for its well-known wound-healing properties and Trikatu (a blend of black pepper, ginger, and long pepper) as a potent aid for digestion. Additionally, Dr. Kelkar recommended Tulsi (holy basil) and turmeric for daily immunity support, as both have significant anti-inflammatory properties. She also spoke on Sandalwood (Chandana) as a cooling herb that soothes the mind and heart; applying it to the forehead, she noted, promotes calmness and is especially beneficial during stressful times. This focus on traditional herbs demonstrated how Ayurvedic remedies can be easily incorporated into modern lives, showcasing Ayurveda’s flexibility and timeless relevance.
3. Dr. Jayarajan Kodikannath – Aligning with Nature’s Rhythms through Dinacharya and Ritucharya
Dr. Jayarajan Kodikannath from Kerala Ayurveda discussed the Ayurveda concept of Vihaar, or lifestyle, emphasizing that “all healing ultimately happens within our own bodies.” He explained Ayurveda’s approach to aligning with nature’s rhythms through Dinacharya (daily routine) and Ritucharya (seasonal routine). Dinacharya promotes activities such as waking up early, engaging in gentle exercise, and eating meals at regular intervals. “The timing of your biggest meal, the intervals between meals, and even the practice of fasting can influence your well-being,” Dr. Jayarajan explained.
He discussed sleep as an essential aspect of this alignment, advising against late hours that disrupt the body’s natural rhythms. Dr. Jayarajan also recommended prioritizing downtime, such as spending relaxed moments with family, which fosters mental well-being and allows the body to rejuvenate. “Not all time needs to be productive,” he noted, reminding attendees to balance effort with rest—a core Ayurvedic principle. This emphasis on cyclical and balanced living provides a framework that supports not only physical health but also emotional and mental well-being, showcasing Ayurveda as a holistic science of life.
Key Takeaways for Health & Wellness
The event delved into Ayurveda’s approach to mental and emotional wellness. Experts emphasized the importance of practices like Vyayama (exercise) and Pranayama (breathwork) in promoting emotional resilience. They discussed how regular physical activity, even gentle movements, enhances circulation and supports mental clarity. Breathwork, similarly, helps calm the mind, balancing the nervous system and reducing stress. Speakers highlighted that incorporating these practices, along with a nourishing diet, could benefit the mind-body connection, making Ayurveda highly relevant in today’s fast-paced world. They also explored how maintaining emotional health through Ayurvedic practices can help in managing stress-related health issues, particularly those caused by imbalances leading to anger, frustration, and burnout.
Perspective on Ayurveda Innovation for Global Health
There are several concepts, principles or innovations in Ayurveda that are Nobel Prize-worthy, concepts that resonate with modern scientific research that is on-going:
These Ayurvedic insights show a sophisticated understanding of the body’s balance with nature, preventive health, and personalized care. I anticipate that many of the insights will be validated by modern science over time.
A Broader Vision for Global Health: Insights from CAAM
The California Association for Ayurvedic Medicine (CAAM) organized this event to raise awareness of Ayurveda’s potential in preventive and promotive healthcare. The association has been working actively to integrate Ayurveda into the mainstream healthcare system by promoting educational events and fostering collaborations with medical professionals. CAAM’s representatives shared that Ayurveda’s philosophy aligns with sustainable, preventative healthcare model that could greatly benefit global healthcare systems overwhelmed by chronic diseases. The Consul General of India in San Francisco reiterated Ayurveda’s value as a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern health needs. He spoke about the Indian Government’s efforts to support Ayurveda globally through educational partnerships and initiatives aimed at making Ayurveda more accessible and integrated with modern medical practices.
Conclusion: A Day of Connection, Learning, and Tradition
Ayurveda Day 2024 was a celebration of ancient wisdom and modern health insights, offering a space for learning and connection among Ayurveda enthusiasts and practitioners. The event showcased how Ayurveda’s principles—mindful eating, aligning with natural rhythms, and incorporating traditional remedies—are timeless practices that can be adapted for modern life. Through their commitment to this event, the Hindu University of America, California College of Ayurveda, and CAAM demonstrated the growing interest and respect for Ayurveda within California’s health and wellness community. By integrating Ayurveda into broader health practices, these organizations are paving the way for a healthier and more balanced approach to living, where ancient knowledge continues to inform and inspire today’s wellness trends. The evening concluded with a sense of collective enthusiasm and commitment to Ayurveda’s growth in the U.S., symbolizing Ayurveda’s enduring role in promoting holistic health. As more people incorporate Ayurvedic principles into their lives, Ayurveda Day serves as an annual reminder of the importance of balance, nature, and self-care in the pursuit of wellness.