Traditional Medicine Program, Ayurveda - Volunteer Kerala
Location
India: Kerala, Trivandrum
Description
Our traditional medicine program is our trademark program and the most unique program volunteers from all across the world, will ever come across. It involves working with a Traditional practitioner of Ayurveda to treat patients and at the same time help in preserving this traditional science.
Ayurveda is the traditional medicine of India, which originated there over 5,000 years ago and is considered to be one of the oldest organized systems of medicines in the world. Ayurveda emphasizes re-establishing balance in the body through diet, lifestyle, exercise, and body cleansing, and on the health of the mind, body, and spirit. In India up to 80% of the population living in rural areas rely on traditional medicine for their primary health care needs. Ayurveda stresses the use of plant-based medicines and treatments. Hundreds of plant-based medicines are employed, including cardamom and cinnamon. Some animal products may also be used, for example milk, bones, and gallstones.
Volunteers spend the first few days with the Ayurveda practitioner (or a Vadhiyar as he is called locally) learning the practices in Ayurveda, art of recognizing medicinal plants, medicine making, use of medicines, understanding learning the treatment process and helping the Vadiyar in treating patients. Once the volunteers gain more confidence they then directly get onto treating patients under the guidance of the Vadhiyar.
Its a great program where volunteer get a chance to learn and experience the ancient science of healing and at the same time practice it for community service.
The program is based in the State of Kerala, known as the birthplace of Ayurveda. One of the most visited states in India Classical art forms, colorful festivals, exotic cuisine are some of the cultural marvels that await traveler. Ayurveda,the ancient Indian system of medicine and Panchakarma, the rejuvenation therapy in Ayurveda have also helped Kerala to gain a pan-global reputation as a worth-visit destination.
This program does not need any prior education or experience with medicine but volunteers are required to sensitive and have open-minded approach towards alternate methods of treatment.
Highlights
* Comprehensive Program
our program includes everything from arrival at the Bangalore intentional airport to drop. We understand that 90% of the volunteers who come to India are first time travelers to India, which makes traveling in India alone for the first time a bit of struggle. We therefore cover all aspects of volunteer placement in India, from arrival at the International airport to transfer to Project location to drop back at the airport.
* Most unique experience
By participating in this program volunteers get a once in a lifetime experience. Most of the volunteers have either taken Ayurvedic massages or medicine but would have never had a chance to learn the science behind it and use the same help the local community. Volunteers do not only learn the techniques to help the locals but at the same time use them in their daily life.
* Yoga Lessons
Yoga is one of India's mot famous traditions. Our glimpse India program includes 5 days a weeks yoga lessons. Lessons are in Hatha yoga and beginner level. The basic aim of taking yoga lesson is to give volunteers and introduction of Yoga and get them to feel and experience in benefits so that they can learn and practice this ancient tradition begin back home.
* India Cooking
Indian cuisine is famous the world over and there is not better way to enjoy the Indian food than being able to cook it yourself. Classes are offered by the home stay family and are aimed at teaching basic Indian dishes and giving an introduction to Indian cuisine, the species used and the techniques.