Ayurveda is an ancient medical system from India that has developed over the last 5,000 years. It means the science, or knowledge, of life. Ayurveda helps people to achieve greater health, vitality, and well-being through education and guidance in diet and lifestyle, the use of herbal medicine, and a series of therapies called panca karma (five actions). Dietary, lifestyle, and herbal recommendations are given to each person based on his or her unique constitution and current health concerns. It is through these simple measures that people can support their health, prevent disease, and reverse the momentum of current imbalances.

Thomas Hughes is a student and practitioner of Ayurveda as well as a student of tai chi, and hatha yoga. He graduated from the beginning and advanced levels at the Ayurvedic Institute in Albuquerque, New Mexico, under the instruction of Dr. Vasant Lad. He also completed Dr. Lad's Gurukula program in Pune, India. In addition to Dr. Lad, Thomas has greatly benefited by the teaching of Dr. Claudia Welch and Dr. Robert Svoboda.

Thomas studied tai chi and Chinese calligraphy for six years under Y.C. Chiang of the Wen Wu School in El Cerrito, California, and has been practicing Shadow Yoga for the last four years with Scott Blossom and Shandor Remete.

"Through the eyes of Ayurveda" Two free lectures on the art and science of ayurveda at the Piedmont Yoga Studio.
(3966 Piedmont Avenue, Oakland, CA 94611)

Friday, September 17th, 7-9 pm
In the first class we will discuss the ayurvedic understanding of life, health, and disease, while covering the fundamental principles of ayurveda, such as the 5 elements (mahabhutas), the three dosas (vata, pitta, and kapha), and the concept of constitution (prakrti).

Sunday, October 10th 7-9 pm.
We will review the fundamental principles of ayurveda and introduce practical ayurvedic approaches to the prevention and treatment of disease through diet and lifestyle practices.