Yoga, Spirituality & Ancient Wisdom

What is an Ayurvedic Health Counselor?

Smiling woman with arms lowered and eyes closed standing in the woods.

Ayurveda, defined as the science of life is India’s traditional system of medicine still being practiced today. Spanning 5,000 years, the oldest texts codified into English are 2,500 years old- it is from the wisdom of these texts that the faculty of the Kripalu School of Ayurveda teach from. Although here in the states you will not go to Ayurveda medical college like you would in India, the Ayurveda Health Counselor (AHC) plays a vital role in bringing this ancient wisdom into modern life. By heeding the call you play a vital role in your community in guiding individuals toward balance and optimal health through Ayurvedic principles. 

If you are passionate about holistic health, enjoy helping others, and want to bring the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda into modern life, becoming a Kripalu Ayurveda Health Counselor might be the perfect path for you. Whether you seek personal transformation or a career shift into the wellness field, this certification provides the tools, knowledge, and community support to guide you on your journey. 

The Kripalu School of Ayurveda offers a comprehensive and immersive training experience, blending ancient wisdom with practical application. Graduates leave with not only the credentials but also the confidence to support others in their health and wellness journey. 

But what does this role truly entail, and what opportunities open up with a Kripalu AHC certification? 

What is a Kripalu Ayurveda Health Counselor? 

The educational journey begins with the Foundations of Ayurveda – a 200 hour immersion into the principals and practice of Ayurveda. Here is one of our most recent graduates of the Foundations of Ayurveda had to say: 

I just want to tell you that you run a fantastic program. Definitely, all of you are teachers’ teachers. I’ve done so many certifications at this point, and none compare in quality to the education I’m receiving at Kripalu. Just to say I have a newer yoga student that was sent to me by another practitioner (my acupuncturist) because I was studying Ayurveda with Kripalu. She has an interest and while attending my classes these last few months she loved so much what I was sharing with my class and how I was bringing what I’m learning to my teaching that she decided to take FOA herself beginning in April! So I just wanted to share that with you because great teachers just need way more high fives! ~ Jen Goodine, Foundations of Ayurveda graduate March 2025 

The Foundations of Ayurveda is designed for those who want a deep dive into the theory and practice of Ayurveda and for those wanting a professional track. The journey of Ayurveda begins with incorporating the foundational practices in your life for meaningful transformation. The curriculum is robust full of experiential sessions, homework to support learning and regular quizzes along the way. Community is built and the Foundations of Ayurveda really builds a new foundation for you to stand on. 

The Ayurveda Health Counselor (AHC) is someone who wants to become a trained professional who supports clients in cultivating sustainable lifestyle habits based on the principles of Ayurveda. The school prepares its graduates to understand their clients through the lens of the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether), the doshas (vata, pitta, and kapha), geographical location, stage of life,  and current self-care practices. Once they complete a full assessment, an AHC helps create a plan with their clients to find a life that is vibrant, balanced, with easeful digestion and a resilient nervous system. 

What Can You Do with a Kripalu Ayurveda Health Counselor Certification?

Earning a Kripalu AHC certification opens the door to various career and personal growth opportunities. Although Ayurveda is not a recognized licensed medical system in the US, there are lots of opportunities to create meaningful work. 

Wellness Coaching and Private Practice 

Many AHC graduates establish their own private practices, offering one-on-one consultations to support clients in making lifestyle changes. You can help individuals with digestion, sleep, stress, and overall vitality through personalized Ayurvedic food, lifestyle and herbal recommendations. 

Integrative Health and Wellness Careers 

Ayurveda Health Counselors often integrate their knowledge into careers as yoga instructors, massage therapists, health coaches, nutritionists, or holistic wellness practitioners. Ayurveda complements many healing modalities, making it a valuable addition to existing practices. 

Teaching and Workshops 

As an AHC, you can educate others through workshops, retreats, and online courses. Many counselors lead Ayurveda-inspired cooking classes, seasonal detox programs, international retreats and self-care workshops. 

Corporate and Community Wellness Programs 

With the increasing focus on well-being in workplaces and communities, Kripalu’s AHC grads are offering wellness programs in corporate settings. From teaching stress-reducing practices to guiding employees in healthy eating habits, Ayurveda brings valuable insight into corporate wellness initiatives. 

Continued Studies in Ayurveda 

For those who want to deepen their studies, the AHC certification can continue on to advanced Ayurvedic training. Many graduates go on to become Ayurvedic Practitioners, further expanding their scope of practice and ability to support clients with deeper imbalances. 

Are you ready to embark on this transformative path? Learn more about the Kripalu Ayurveda Health Counselor program and begin your journey with the Foundations of Ayurveda.

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