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Gurukula
An Experiential, Lived and Hands On Curriculum at Vedika - Swasthavritta
Gurukula education at Vedika is dedicated to the principles of Ayurveda that prevent disease and manifest optimum health. These principles are elaborated in an area of study called Swasthavritta, literally translated as the 'path to health'. Vedika’s emphasis on Swasthavritta to prevent disease contrasts significantly with conventional medical education where disease is managed only after it has occurred.
A leap in consciousness
To transform their studies from merely acquiring information to igniting a leap in consciousness, students in the first year itself, are asked to begin living the principles and eating the Ayurvedic way.
First two months : a wonderful initiation into hands-on daily practices
There is extensive cooking, and eating of amazing healing foods in every class, and passing around of foods so they are experienced at the subtle levels of aroma, touch and taste. Yogic exercises are demonstrated. Pranayama practice is taught and each student shown the right way. Mantras are pronounced. Self care practices for the body are shown. Balancing practices for the mind are taught from the principles of Ayurvedic psychology, and concepts in spirituality are introduced from the philosophies of Ayurveda, Yoga and Vedanta. Active participation in class is solicited.
A renewed self confidence through self care
Thus, students will apply, test and validate Ayurvedic knowledge in their own lives before applying it for the well being of others. Through elevation of their own consciousness, students will gain confidence. They witness the leaps of progress in their own lives, manifesting healthier, more balanced bodies and increased mental purity, all leading to serenity, clarity and power of the soul. Throughout the year, students watch their own selves and discuss frequently with the teacher and group by participating in circles. Therefore, the focus of the first year of study in Vedika Gurukula is purposefully dedicated towards Self Healing.
The detailing process
With each advancing year, deeper texts and teachings unfold in Yoga and Vedanta. The more esoteric principles of Ayurveda are taught, for example, on psychology and the spiritual journey of self realization. Students begin to understand how and why disease occurs, its path or progress and how it can be arrested and even reversed. In later years, the teacher identifies and recommends areas of development for each student. All students ultimately have the required knowledge for deeper shifts in consciousness.
Bringing alive the ancient Swasthavritta teachings
The students are not merely told about the benefits of Swasthavritta in a lecture. They are shown via live demonstrations, group practices and Vedika's communal kitchen where Ayurvedic food is cooked daily. Students hear living testimonials from fellow students. By seeing the principles modeled by teachers who live by them, students are encouraged to experience the benefits in their own life. This makes all the difference.
Motivation for deeper studies emerges from self validation of the science
The personal benefits of following a Swasthavritta regimen motivates further study and curiosity amongst the students. The knowledge of Ayurvedic anatomy, physiology, pathology, diseases and drugs becomes more exciting to new students after first experiencing a year of immersion in Swasthavritta training. Practicing Swasthavritta in the first year convinces incumbent students of the value of Ayurveda, and motivates them to study further and aspire to help others.
A quantum leap from self care to community care
Thus, a quantum leap from personal care to becoming trained health providers is facilitated at Vedika. Students move forward with personal conviction in the science. Only after this self evolution, can students be Ayurveda's true ambassadors with pride in their knowledge and learning.
A daily curriculum
Students at Vedika have a daily curriculum for improving personal health. They incorporate practices such as Dinacharya (daily regimen), Ritucharya (seasonal regimen), guidelines for Ahara (food), Nidra (sleep or rest), Brahmacharya (mindful self restraint).
This wisdom is part of the curriculum for Gurukula students, to be practiced, lived, and actualized. Simply memorizing information for tests is not considered learning; knowledge must be actually lived and practised.
