Ayurvedic massage is very popular in spas right now, but what does it mean? In the ancient language of Sanskrit, "ayus" means life and "veda" means knowledge. Ayurveda -- "the knowledge of life" -- is a holistic medical system that has been practiced in India for thousands of years. It's a system for understanding yourself and bringing mind, body and spirit into balance. If you want to know more about Ayurveda, I've put together a list of books, CDs and products that will help.
1. The Ayurvedic Year
Ayurveda can be confusing for westerners, but this small book is a great introduction to understanding the basic doshas -- kapha, vata and pitta -- with lots of practical information for bringing yourself into balance.
2. Absolute Beauty
Author Pratima Raichur says that the secret to flawless skin and ageless beauty is Ayurveda. This Ayurveda Beauty Bible is an in-depth look at how to take care of your skin, but it goes beyond that, discussing massage, breathing, meditation, even sound therapy.3. Ayurveda: The Art of Being (DVD)
This documentary takes you on a journey through the history of this holistic from of health care and natural well-being. We see Indian practitioner Brahamand Swamigal diagnose patients and and harvests plants to make his medicines, then has his assistants grind them into brightly colored powders. We also see Ayurvedic cures like mud baths, head wraps, and oil massage. Fascinating!4. Ayurveda: Art of Being (soundtrack)
Composer Cyril Morin blends Eastern melodies, traditional vocals, and instruments with modern rhythms and keyboards in this delightfully soothing soundtrack.5. Ayurveda: Moving In Time
I've been playing this CD for years. The timbres, melodies and rhythyms were created by a concert pianist and holistic therapist to help balance your dosha and return you to a state of natural harmony.6. The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies
This book by Dr. Vasant Lad has lots of practical advice on why we get sick, and how to stay healthy, with specific remedies for your dosha. it's also easier to understand than some Ayurveda books.7. Secrets Of Ayurveda CD
This CD by Dr. Shri Balaji Tambe is another musical journey to help soothe your spirit.8. Ayurvedic Cooking Made Easy
Eat right for your dosha! This cookbook by Kumuda Reddy M.D., has delicious vegetarian recipes deisgned to help bring you into balance.9. Ayurvedic Cooking for Westerners
This is a book of 200 Western recipes that utilize Ayurvedic principles. They're all prepared from ingredients easily available in the West.10. Ancient Indian Massage
If you're ready to try some Ayurvedic massage techniques at home, this book will help.