Ayurveda Lifestyle Course – at Pavithram Ayur Yoga Ashram
At Pavithram Ayur Yoga Ashram, we believe that true learning happens when the body is active, the mind is free, and knowledge is absorbed naturally through experience and practice. Our Ayurveda Lifestyle Course is designed to help you integrate ancient wisdom into modern living—without exhausting yourself with long hours of rigid lectures.
Ayurveda Lifestyle Course is a unique blend of Ayurvedic theory and hands-on practice. It includes Marma massage training with key points, self-massage techniques, Ayurvedic nutrition, and a short term South Indian-inspired cookery course. The program also integrates traditional martial arts with an introduction to Marma points, Kalarlakattai (Mudgar) training for strength and fitness, yoga philosophy, and meditation for inner peace. Additionally, it offers a structured lifestyle routine along with Kalari exercise forms, making it a comprehensive and holistic training experience.
What You Will Learn ?
Ayurveda (Theory & Practical), Holistic Anatomy and Physiology Fitness – Kalaripayattu workout & Mudgar ( strength training ), Cooking, Meditation & Phillosophy, Herbal Products making with Ayurvedic Formulation.
Ayurveda (Theory & Practical)
Ayurveda is the science of life, guiding us to live in harmony with nature through balanced routines, food, and healing practices. In our Ayurvedic Lifestyle course, you will learn both theoretical foundations and hands-on applications to integrate Ayurveda into your daily life.
Theory
At Pavithram, we see Ayurveda as a complete way of living, not just a system of remedies. Our theory classes provide the foundational knowledge needed to understand your body, mind, and environment through an Ayurvedic lens. By learning the principles of elements, doshas, tastes, and seasonal care, students gain the wisdom to make informed lifestyle choices for lasting health and balance.
Theory:
- Understanding the five elements and how they shape our body and mind
- Learning about the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and their influence on health
- The six Ayurvedic tastes and how they affect digestion, energy, and balance
- Fundamentals of detox routines and seasonal self-care
Practical
At Pavithram, we believe that Ayurveda is more than a theoretical framework—it’s a living science that thrives through practical application. Our Ayurveda practical courses are designed to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern lifestyles, empowering students to incorporate this holistic approach into their daily routines.
Practicals:
- Marma therapy – applying pressure on vital energy points for healing
- Massage therapy – learning Ayurvedic self-massage techniques for relaxation and longevity
- Ayurvedic cooking – preparing meals that nourish based on dosha balance
- Diet & detox routines – experiencing practical cleansing techniques to rejuvenate the body
Ayurveda is not just learned but lived, bringing lasting transformation to your health and well-being. At Pavithram, we ensure this by providing a strong theoretical foundation that helps you understand your body, mind, and environment through an Ayurvedic lens. By learning the principles of elements, doshas, tastes, and seasonal care, you gain the wisdom to make informed lifestyle choices for balance and vitality.
Ayurveda is a living science—its true power lies in experience, not just theory. Balancing doshas, detoxifying the body, and enhancing mental clarity become meaningful only when applied in daily life. At Pavithram, we emphasize hands-on learning, ensuring students embody Ayurvedic wisdom through practical techniques. Whether you’re a yoga practitioner, holistic health enthusiast, or simply curious, our courses welcome all—no prior knowledge needed.
Choose Your Path – Basic & Advanced course
Our Ayurveda Lifestyle Course is designed for all levels, offering both Basic and Advanced tracks to suit your learning needs.
Basic Ayurveda Lifestyle Course
Ideal for beginners, this course provides a strong foundation in Ayurvedic principles and their practical applications.
(1 Month) → Covers foundational topics.
Topics Covered:
1. Introduction to Ayurveda
- Sankhya Philosophy: Understanding Purusha and Prakruti, Mahad (Creative Intelligence), Ahamkara, Sattva, Rajas, Tamas
2. Five Elements & Tri-Dosha
- The Five Elements (Pancha Mahabhutas) and Their Attributes (Gunas)
- Relationship Between Gunas & Doshas
- Understanding Tanmatras (Subtle Elements)
- Basics of Vata, Pitta, Kapha and Your Unique Body Type (Prakruti)
- Characteristics of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha Individuals
3. Doshas & Their Subtypes (Locations, Functions, Imbalances, and Management)
- Vata Subtypes: Prana, Udana, Samana, Apana, Vyana
- Pitta Subtypes: Pachaka, Ranjaka, Sadhaka, Alochaka, Bhrajaka
- Kapha Subtypes: Kledaka, Avalambaka, Bodhaka, Tarpaka, Shleshaka
4. Agni & Ama: Digestive Fire & Toxins
- Role of Agni in Digestion & Five Elements
- Stages & Levels of Disease Development
- Disorders Due to Suppression of Natural Urges & Their Management
5. Ayurvedic Nutrition & Food Therapy (Ahara Chikitsa)
- Principles of Digestion & Nutrition
- Ayurvedic Cooking Techniques & Food Preparation
- The Six Tastes (Shad Rasa) and How to Balance Them in Daily Diet
- understanding foods and herbs
- Digestive Disorders, Food Combining & Fasting
- Seasonal Eating Guidelines
6. Lifestyle & Healing Practices
- Daily Routine (Dinacharya): Ayurvedic self-care rituals, including menses care.
- Basics of Herbalism & Ayurvedic Formulations
- Science of Mudras (Hand Gestures) & Color Therapy for Doshas
- Aromatherapy for Doshas
- Swedakarma (Fomentation treatment)
- Fasting
- Hydrotherapy
- Mud therapy
- Nasya
- DHOOMPAN (AYURVEDIC SMOKE THERAPY)
- Asanas, Pranayama & Meditation for Doshas
- Full body Marma Therapy & Massage (Abhyanga)
- Types & Benefits of Ayurvedic Oils
- Supplements – for immunity and longevity
Advanced Ayurveda Lifestyle Course
Designed for those who want to deepen their understanding of Ayurveda, this course explores advanced concepts of health, disease management, and Ayurvedic therapies.
(2 Months) → Includes everything from the Basic course + additional advanced topics.
Topics Covered:
1. Vital Energies & Dhatus
- Ojas, Tejas, Prana: Their Role in Vitality & Immunity
- Sapta Dhatu (Seven Bodily Tissues):
- Rasa Dhatu (Plasma)
- Rakta Dhatu (Blood)
- Mamsa Dhatu (Muscle)
- Meda Dhatu (Fat)
- Asthi Dhatu (Bones)
- Majja Dhatu (Bone Marrow & Nervous System)
- Shukra/Artava Dhatu (Reproductive Tissue)
2. Srotas: The Bodily Channels & Systems
- Channels of Intake: Food, Water, and Prana (Life Force)
- Channels for Maintenance & Circulation
- Channels of Elimination
- Mano Vaha Srotas: The Mental Pathways
3. Disease Development & Diagnosis
- Samprapti (Stages of Disease Development) & Pathway of Disease
- Dosha Gati: Movement & Spread of Doshas in the Body
- Methods of Examination: Ayurvedic Diagnostic Techniques
- Assessment of Agni & Ama (Digestive Fire & Toxins):
- Normal Functions of Agni
- The Relationship Between Doshas & Agni
- The Four Varieties of Agni
- 40 Main Types & Subtypes of Agni
- Signs & Impact of Ama (Toxins)
4. Disorders & Their Management
- Disorders of Doshas, Dhatus & Malas (Excretory Waste Products)
- Diseases Related to Channel Blockages (Srotas Disorders)
- Effects of Suppression of Natural Urges & Their Management
5. Rasayana Therapy & Herbal Preparations
- Introduction to Rasayana (Rejuvenation & Longevity Therapy)
- Practical Cooking Techniques: Preparing Organic & Healing Meals, Snacks, Herbal Teas, & Juices
- Panchakarma therapy – Various Ayurvedic Treatments Different Panchakarma Treatments
- Vamana (Induced Vomiting)
- Virechanam (Induced Purgation)
- Vasti (Medicated Enema)
- Nasya (Nasal Medication)
- Raktamoksha (Blood Letting
- PRACTICALS –
- Kati Vasti
- Janu Vasti
- Greeva Vasti
- Hrid Vasti
- Shiro Dhara
- Hands-on Ayurvedic Product Making:
- Preparation of Hair oils & MASSAGE OILS
- Preparation of Hair packs.
- Preparation of Tooth powder
- Preparation of Mouth wash.
- Preparation of Anjana/ Collyrium.
- Preparation of different Lepa used in cosmetics.
Kalaripayattu – The Ancient Art of Strength & Flow
Kalaripayattu is a dynamic and powerful martial art from South India that builds strength, flexibility, coordination, and awareness. Every movement in Kalari is designed to enhance agility and activate Marma points, the vital energy centers of the body. It is a complete physical practice that improves endurance, control, and reflexes while aligning the body’s energy flow.
Kalaripayattu is not just a fight—it is a flow, a discipline, and a way to awaken your body’s full potential. Every session pushes your limits while keeping you connected to your breath, focus, and inner power.
Who Can Learn Kalaripayattu?
Kalaripayattu is suitable for both men and women of all ages, from beginners to advanced practitioners. We recommend starting the practice from the age of 12, though it is open to anyone with a desire to learn and grow. Whether you are a young adult or an older individual, Kalaripayattu can offer benefits for all age groups.
How Kalaripayattu Affects Your Body ?
Kalaripayattu works by improving muscle memory, joint flexibility, and coordination. The dynamic movements enhance circulation, detoxify the body, and increase energy flow. The practice involves a mix of controlled force, fluidity, and agility, which enhances both endurance and flexibility over time.
By continuously pushing the limits of your body’s capabilities, Kalaripayattu gradually improves strength, flexibility, and balance. Additionally, it fosters a deeper connection between the mind and body, leading to greater mental clarity and focus.
Benefits of Kalaripayattu
- Increased Strength and Flexibility: Regular practice of Kalaripayattu improves muscle tone, flexibility, and endurance.
- Mental Clarity: Focused movements and deep breathing enhance mental concentration, reduce stress, and increase mindfulness.
- Self-Defense Skills: Kalaripayattu teaches effective self-defense techniques, using both hand-to-hand combat and weapons training.
- Body Awareness: You’ll gain greater awareness of your body’s movements, which helps prevent injury and improves posture.
- Boosted Confidence: With time, Kalaripayattu cultivates mental resilience and confidence, helping you face challenges both in and outside the training hall.
- Holistic Health: The combination of physical activity and mental discipline creates a balanced approach to overall wellness.
What You Will Practice:
- Kalari Postures (Vadivu) – Animal-inspired stances that develop balance and agility
- Body Movements (Chuvadu) – Swift, flowing sequences for speed and precision
- Combat Techniques – Kicks, strikes, and defensive maneuvers for strength and control
- Flexibility & Coordination Drills – Enhancing mobility for effortless movement
- Marma Activation in Movements – Understanding how each motion connects to vital energy points
Mudgar/Karlakattai Traditional Strength Training Course
At Pavithram, we take pride in reviving the ancient Indian art of strength and agility training through Mudgar or Karlakattai. These traditional wooden club exercises are deeply rooted in South Indian martial arts and Ayurvedic principles, offering a holistic approach to physical fitness, mental clarity, and spiritual growth.
What is Mudgar/Karlakattai?
Mudgar (or Karlakattai in Tamil) is one of the oldest strength training methods, historically practiced by warriors and yogis to enhance their endurance, flexibility, and muscular strength. Using uniquely shaped wooden clubs, this practice promotes natural body movements, improves joint health, and builds functional strength.
Why Choose Mudgar/Karlakattai Training?
- Build Functional Strength: Develop strength that supports everyday movements and martial arts.
- Enhance Flexibility: Achieve better mobility in joints and muscles through dynamic movements.
- Improve Posture: Align your spine and enhance overall posture for better health.
- Strengthen Grip: Gain unparalleled grip strength, a key element for martial artists and athletes.
- Boost Mental Focus: Cultivate mindfulness through rhythmic and meditative movements.
- Restore Balance: Balance your body’s energy and improve core stability.
Course Highlights
- Foundational Techniques: Learn the traditional stances, grips, and basic movements of Mudgar.
- Strength and Conditioning: Build stamina and strength with dynamic routines tailored to your fitness level.
- Integration with Yoga: Combine Karlakattai training with yoga for flexibility and holistic health.
- Philosophy of Movement: Understand the cultural and historical significance of this ancient practice.
- Personalized Guidance: Individual attention to help you master the art at your own pace.
Who Can Join?
Our Mudgar/Karlakattai course is ideal for:
- Yoga practitioners seeking enhanced physical strength.
- Martial artists and athletes looking for functional fitness training.
- Individuals interested in traditional and sustainable fitness practices.
- Beginners who want to explore a unique and holistic strength-building regimen.
Yoga Phillosopy – A Path to Inner Transformation
Yoga philosophy is the foundation of a yogic lifestyle, guiding us beyond physical postures into a deeper understanding of the mind, self, and existence. It explores the purpose of life, the nature of consciousness, and the path to inner peace and self-mastery.
Why Study Yoga Philosophy?
- Develops mental clarity and emotional resilience
- Provides tools for self-discipline and inner peace
- Enhances understanding of suffering and detachment
- Helps cultivate compassion, kindness, and forgiveness
- Deepens spiritual awareness and connection to higher consciousness
- Guides the mind toward stability, focus, and ultimate liberation
At Pavithram Ayur Yoga Ashram, our philosophy course is designed as a lecture-based exploration of ancient yogic wisdom, guiding students through ethical principles, meditation, self-discipline, and the nature of existence.
Course Topics
Introduction to Yogic Philosophy – The concept of God
Introduction to Meditation – Its importance and techniques
Sufferings and Their Reasons
Understanding the Yamas (Ethical Restraints)
-
- Ahimsa (Non-violence) & Satya (Truthfulness)
- Asteya (Non-stealing) & Brahmacharya (Moderation)
- Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness)
Healthy Detachment
Triguna & Saucha – The three qualities of nature and purity
Understanding the Niyamas (Self-Disciplines)
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- Tapas (Discipline) & Svadhyaya (Self-study)
- Saucha (Purity) & Santosha (Contentment)
- Ishwarapranidhana (Surrender to the divine)
Pranayama & Pratyahara – Breath control and sense withdrawal
Dharana – Concentration techniques
Compassion, Kindness & Forgiveness
Agni Deva – The transformative power of fire
Death & Samadhi – Understanding liberation and the ultimate state of yoga
This course is designed for seekers, teachers, and practitioners who wish to deepen their understanding of yoga as a philosophy for life.
Meditation – The Ultimate Health and Medicine for Body and Mind
At Pavithram Ayur Yoga Ashram, we explore 10 diverse meditation techniques, offering a fresh practice along with its variations. This dynamic approach ensures that students experience a wide range of meditative practices, deepening their understanding and helping them discover techniques that resonate with their unique needs.
Each technique is carefully chosen to address different aspects of the mind, body, and spirit, providing tools to cultivate mindfulness, inner peace, and self-awareness. By alternating practices and incorporating variations, we create an immersive and engaging learning environment that encourages exploration and growth.
Why Practice Meditation?
- Balances the nervous system and reduces stress
- Enhances mental clarity, emotional stability, and focus
- Promotes deep relaxation and self-healing
- Strengthens self-awareness, compassion, and inner peace
- Encourages a harmonious and joyful life
- Guides one towards a peaceful and celebrative transition in life and death
Meditation is the only true cure for the social and environmental threats humanity faces today. As individuals become more conscious and self-aware, they naturally adopt healthier, more sustainable lifestyles. Meditation opens the heart to compassion, guiding people to make choices that not only support personal well-being but also promote the well-being of the planet. At Pavithram Ayur Yoga Ashram, we believe that meditation has the power to bring about not just personal transformation, but collective healing as well.
Topics Covered
- Introduction to Meditation – Purpose, importance, and benefits
- Types of Meditation – Breath awareness, mantra, sound, and silence
- Meditation & The Mind – Understanding thoughts and emotions
- Sitting in Stillness – Postures, breath, and alignment
- Techniques of Pratyahara – Withdrawing the senses inward
- Dharana (Concentration) – Training the mind to focus
- Mantra & Sound Meditation – The power of vibrations
- Breath & Energy Awareness – Expanding life force (prana)
- Compassion & Forgiveness – Healing through mindfulness
- Death & Samadhi – The ultimate goal of meditation
- Yoga Nithra
This course combines lectures with guided meditation techniques, ensuring a deep, experiential understanding of meditation. Each session includes theory, technique demonstrations, and guided practice, allowing students to integrate meditation into their daily lives.
Cooking Course
“Food is Medicine, When Prepared with Awareness.”
At Pavithram Ayur Yoga Ashram, our Ayurvedic Cooking Course is designed to help you understand food beyond just taste—it is about healing, balance, and nourishment. Ayurveda teaches that the right food can prevent disease, improve digestion, and bring harmony to body and mind.
In this course, you will learn to prepare simple, sattvic, and nutritious meals that align with your unique body type (Dosha). We use traditional Indian ingredients, fresh herbs, and healing spices to create meals that detoxify, energize, and restore balance.
What You Will Learn
✔ Herbal Teas & Healing Drinks – Learn to make teas that aid digestion, boost immunity, and calm the mind.
✔ South Indian Ayurvedic Cooking – Easy, flavorful, and healthy traditional recipes.
✔ Quick & Healthy Breakfast Recipes – Idli, dosa, upma, pongal, and other nutritious starts to the day.
✔ Sattvic Food Preparation – Clean, light, and nourishing meals that promote mental clarity.
✔ Simple Indian Meals & Chutneys – How to make traditional dal, vegetable curries, coconut chutney, and more.
✔ Easy Cooking for Busy Lives – Meals that are quick, wholesome, and healing.
✔ Spice Therapy – Understanding the medicinal properties of turmeric, ginger, cumin, coriander, fenugreek, and other essential Indian spices.
Pavithram’s Daily Flow
Morning – Free Time (Make the Most of Rishikesh!)
6:00 – 7:30 AM – HATHA YOGA ASANA CLASS
🌅 7:30 – 12:00 PM (Optional Activities Before Our Program Starts)
- Drop-in Yoga or Pranayama Classes at various schools
- Sunrise Walk to Lakshman Jhula or Ram Jhula
- Ganga Dip & Prayers for a refreshing start
- Chai & Breakfast at a local café (Try Ayurvedic teas, Masala Chai, or South Indian dosa!)
- Exploration & Temple Visits (Neelkanth Mahadev, Kunjapuri Temple for a sunrise trek)
- Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan (Highly recommended!)
- Ayurvedic or Sound Healing Sessions (Drop-in at nearby healing centers)
- Read, journal, or meditate by the Ganga ghats
- Visit Ayurvedic bookstores or shops for herbs
- Explore Rishikesh markets for spiritual books, malas, herbal products
Pavithram Training Schedule
06:00 – 7:30 am Hatha yoga asana
12:30 – 1:30 PM Ayurveda Theory
01:30 – 3:00 PM Ayurveda Practicals
03:00 – 4:00 PM Rest / nap Break
04:00 – 5:00 PM
05:00 – 6:00 PM tea break
06:00 – 7:00 PM Philosophy & Meditation
07:00 – 8:00 PM Kalari Exercises & Mudgar Strength Training