This module is part of the Fundamentals of Ayurvedic Medicine programme and introduces the core principles of Ayurvedic anatomy and physiology. It can also be taken as a standalone Continuing Education module.

Module FAM-02

Basic Principles of Ayurveda: Ayurvedic Anatomy & Physiology

Understand the foundational systems Ayurveda uses to describe the structure, function and balance of the body and mind.

This two-day Continuing Education module introduces the essential building blocks of Ayurvedic physiology, including the Pañca Mahābhūtas, the 20 guṇas, the Tridoṣa system, prakṛti and vikṛti, the subdoṣas, dhātus, and ojas.

You will begin to see how these systems relate to one another and how Ayurveda uses qualities, elements and doṣic patterns to understand physiological function, constitution and imbalance.

The emphasis is on developing a clear foundational framework that can later be applied in observation, assessment and clinical reasoning.

Learning Outcomes

After completing this module, you will be able to:

• Explain the Pañca Mahābhūtas and relate the five elements to the body and mind.
• Apply the 20 guṇas to describe substances, environments and physiological states.
• Explain the functions of Vāta, Pitta and Kapha and recognize basic signs of doṣic imbalance.
• Differentiate between prakṛti and vikṛti and understand their relevance to health and imbalance.
• Describe the principal functions and locations of the subdoṣas.
• Explain the seven dhātus and the role of ojas in nourishment, resilience and vitality.
• Apply foundational Ayurvedic treatment principles, including the use of opposite qualities to restore balance.
• Observe and describe basic patterns in the body and mind using doṣa, guṇa and dhātu frameworks.

Key Topics

• Pañca Mahābhūtas — the five elements
• The 20 guṇas
• Vāta, Pitta & Kapha
• Prakṛti & vikṛti
• Signs of doṣic imbalance
• The fifteen subdoṣas
• The seven dhātus
• Ojas
• Ayurvedic principles of balance
• Opposite qualities as a treatment principle
• Structure & physiological function
• Foundational Ayurvedic observation

Format: 2-day module | Friday + Saturday + self study. Can be taken fully online live via Zoom or join us on Saturday in person at our College in The Hague.
Level: Foundational / Continuing Education
Certificate: Certificate of Continuing Education upon completion

This module may be taken individually or as part of a Sankalpa Continuing Education package.

Check our agenda for dates.