Looking to learn Ayurveda? This ancient healthcare practice is getting more popular around the world. And not just as alternative medicine from India, but as a field of study.

The West has also embraced Ayurvedic techniques over the last 10 years. Now, curious tourists and students want to study this practice.

If you are wondering ‘how can I study Ayurveda’ or want to learn more about the centuries-old practice many follow, keep on reading. We will break down how you can study this practice in India and the different options ahead.

These options have been included based on interest levels and other lifestyle curbs.

The first place to start is right from the source. For in-depth knowledge of Ayurveda, there is no better place to turn to. If you are a student wondering how to study Ayurveda at home, start with the classic texts.

The original Sanskrit texts like the Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya are a must to get a basic understanding of Ayurveda’s philosophy. Free translations can be found easily online.

Along with the history of Ayurveda, these texts have details on fighting diseases, seasonal practices, daily practices, types of doshas, etc.

If you are more advanced, shadowing an Ayurveda Vaidya (seasoned Ayurvedic doctor) is also a great option to hone your skills.

Learning from an Ayurvedic doctor’s experience is another way to build practical training. These days, you will also find training centers and institutions run by trained Vaidyas.

Long-time practitioners of Ayurveda often suggest formal training is the best way to begin its study.

Many other Ayurvedic colleges in India offer long and short-term courses. These include diploma courses, degree courses as well as Certificate courses in Ayurvedic Science.

For Indians, the most traditional route for Ayurvedic studies is to go for a Bachelor’s of Ayurvedic Medicine & Surgery (BAMS). Other colleges also offer supporting degrees. These range from pre-Ayurvedic courses to certificate courses in Ayurvedic medicine.

For this degree program, you will have to give the All India Pre-Medical/Pre-Dental Entrance Exam. You must have studied Physics, Chemistry, Biology (and sometimes, Sanskrit) in your 12th grade.

Apart from this, some private colleges also have their own entrance exams for the BAMS program.

There are specializations within Ayurveda itself. Some of these include Internal Medicine – Kaya Chikitsa, Paediatrics – Bala Chikitsa, Surgery- Shalya Chikitsa, Psychiatry – Graha Chikitsa, Ear/Nose/Throat – Urdhvanga Chikitsa, etc.

In case you do not have a few months to spare, short-term courses in Ayurveda at yoga centers are your best bet.

These are much more practical rather than going deep into the philosophies. The faculty often includes experienced Ayurvedic doctors and practitioners with years of experience.

These are best for those who want to dive deeper into the world of Ayurveda but are crunched for time. If you are new to Ayurveda and looking to learn practical techniques, this option should work for you.

At the Aithein Healing School here in Goa, we offer courses, workshops, and retreats in Ayurveda, Massage & Bodywork. 

Check out our courses here.

Our Ayurveda Massage course is for students who want to delve into Ayurvedic practices. You will also be taught about the Ayurveda diet (know more here) and do hands-on Ayurveda therapies.

We also have a Marma Points Massage course. It is perfect if you want to learn about releasing physical and emotional toxins through the marma massage. Learn more about it here.

Our Healing courses include learning the aithein healing massage and sound healing. Whether you are looking to bring people together through the experience of gentle touch or sound therapy, we have got something to fit the bill.

Keep in mind that Ayurveda is a centuries-old practice. Any starting point is no less than the other. It is all about finding the right fit for your passion and skill level.

Want to know more about our courses mentioned above? Don’t forget to check them out here. We also offer meditation retreats so you can unwind with friends or fellow travellers.