Yoga Journal Review
— January 2011
Ayurveda: The Light of Understanding
Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine and well-being, gives you the tools to skillfully manage your life and your practice. Although it is a complex (and, to Western minds, sometimes seemingly obscure) science, its principles are accessible to all. Learning them is like finding the key to self-management — and self-understanding.
A good place to start is Ayurveda: The Light of Understanding, by Eileen Press, a retired surgical pathologist and biotech researcher and a certified Ayurvedic practitioner. In this slender, easy-to-read volume, Press skillfully tackles esoteric concepts such as ojas (vital essence), tejas (transformative energy), agni (internal fire), prana (life-force energy), gunas (qualities), and vayus (winds) in a way that's straightforward and comprehensive without simplifying or overcomplicating.
The real beauty of this book is in the author's skillful presentation of the doshas, the three primal energies that govern our world and experiences: vata (air), pitta (fire), and kapha (earth). Everyone has all three energies in a unique
combination; most of us have one that predominates. Understand your unique doshic balance, and you get a new handle on yoga — from the poses that are right for you to the meditative pursuits that are the most appropriate. With this fundamental knowledge, you can manage your energy and effort to yield better balance, improved health, greater ease, and spiritual well-being. You'll know how and why to practice in particular ways.
Press, who has studied at the American Institute of Vedic Studies in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and at Kanyakumari Ayurveda in Michigan, has practiced Ayurveda for 30 years. Exceptionally clear in her description of dosha imbalances, she provides excellent, practical advice for managing your habits and your diet to promote optimal health. You may have to go out of your way to find this self-published work, but it's worth the effort. Overall, this is an excellent sourcebook for self-care — one that will be of lifelong use to any yogi interested in Ayurveda.
H.D.
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