Elizabeth Innes, community pharmacist, is offering an informative talk on the ancient healing art from India called Shaka Vansya Ayurved.
Ayurved is an ancient system to maintain good health and prevent disease. It includes life style, diet, herbs, energy massage and other methods for maintaining the mind and body in the best possible functioning order. With years of experience in both the natural healing of India and modern medicine, Innes brings a unique perspective to both areas.
The healing arts of Ayurved have survived many invasions of India. One of the ways it was preserved was in kitchens. Many of the culinary herbs in Indian cooking are medicinal. We are now seeing a great deal of scientific research of the anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric and its anti-carcinogenic properties. Holy basil recently hit the news because of its ability to prevent swine flu. Cumin helps the absorption of nutrients. Coriander is a great kidney tonic. Cinnamon helps balance blood sugar. The list goes on and on.
The foundation of Ayurved is enlivening the life force or prana in our bodies. The water we drink, the food we eat, the cycles of the day and the seasons affect us whether we know it or not. Greater awareness of these influences helps us maintain good health.
The evening will start with Sanskrit chanting to honour this vast 5,000-year-old body of knowledge, followed by discussion and a medicinal herbal tea that has many benefits to tone and cleanse the body. It will be held Friday, Oct. 9 at 7:30 p.m. at Blissful Yoga Studio, 5654 Dolphin St. in Sechelt.
