200-Hour Foundations of Ayurveda
The Kripalu School of Ayurveda has helped students tend to body, mind, senses, and soul through Ayurvedic education for 20 years. In our thoughtfully designed 200-Hour Foundations of Ayurveda course, you will experience a dynamic, comprehensive exploration of the philosophy, theory, and practices of Ayurveda. This robust program is deeply beneficial whether you are interested in studying Ayurveda for personal enrichment or seeking a solid base for professional certification. Come together with a community of fellow students, building lasting relationships with one another while gaining a strong fundamental knowledge of Ayurveda’s extraordinary system of health and well-being.
Kripalu’s 200-Hour Foundations of Ayurveda can be taken as a standalone program or applied toward Kripalu’s 300-hour Ayurvedic Yoga Teacher Training and/or our 650-Hour Ayurvedic Health Counselor track.
200-Hour Foundations of Ayurveda | ONLINE
September 18, 2024–March 26, 2025
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Kripalu's 200-Hour Foundations of Ayurveda training makes Ayurveda an exciting exploration that results in you feeling more connected to yourself, others, and seasonal rhythms while giving you the confidence to integrate this ancient wisdom into your daily life. The integrated curriculum of Foundations of Ayurveda is derived from the classical texts of Ayurveda, presented in a modern way that is accessible and relevant to contemporary students. Our faculty teaches from years of practice and experience—they are dedicated to inspiring students to access the truth of themselves, even in this fast-paced world. By connecting back to the elements, nature, and Ayurvedic science and philosophy, you will create significant changes in your life while gaining the essential tools, knowledge, and framework to positively influence those around you.
TEXTBOOKS AND MATERIALS
In addition to the complimentary manual students receive on the first day of training, the following texts are required for this training.
- The Everyday Ayurveda Cookbook: A Seasonal Guide to Eating and Living Well by Kate O’Donnell
- Textbook of Ayurveda, Volume 1: Fundamental Principles of Ayurveda by Dr. Vasant Lad
- Ayurveda and the Mind: The Healing of Consciousness by Dr. David Frawley
Information Sessions
Register for one of our free, online information sessions to learn more.
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DISCOVERING THE BUILDING BLOCKS OF THE DOSHAS AND TISSUES
Dive into the three doshas and the 15 subdoshas as you learn the functional integrity of their interplay in maintaining physical health.
FOOD AS MEDICINE
This course offers interactive cooking classes and explores the six tastes in Ayurveda, the stages of digestion, and how spices can support robust digestion.
SELF-CARE AND DAILY LIFESTYLE PRACTICES
Discover nourishing ways to cleanse the sense organs, support restful sleep, and reduce stress for improved health and resilience.
THE ROOTS OF AYURVEDA
Ayurveda is rooted in Vedic philosophy, which originated in India thousands of years ago. Discover how these ancient teachings can guide our lives today and help us connect to our true nature.
AYURVEDA AND THE MIND
This course not only investigates Ayurvedic psychology, but also examines the importance of practices such as meditation, pranayama, and yoga in helping us recognize the habits of our minds.
SANSKRIT
As Sanskrit is the original language of the practices you will be exploring, you will learn basic Sanskrit, including the alphabet and pronunciation.
AYURVEDA-INSPIRED YOGA PRACTICE
Yoga and Ayurveda seek to balance the flow of vital force, prana, in our bodies. Integrating Ayurveda into your yoga practice can help you learn to skillfully adjust your daily sadhana to be a balancing agent for your constitution.
ONLINE TRAININGS
Is the curriculum different for the online versus the on campus training?
There is no difference in the curriculum.
What will I need to take an online training?
Online classes are held via Zoom video calls, and students must have access to a reliable internet connection and a computer or tablet to support active participation in an online classroom (e.g., computer, webcam, computer mic and speakers, and Zoom app). Word processing capabilities are also required.
How will the trainings be shared?
All sessions of the training will be held by Zoom video call. Links, passwords, and more information will be shared once you are registered for the training.
Are online programs live or delivered asynchronously by recording?
Online programs are taught almost completely live, and students are expected to be present and participate during Zoom video calls. Recordings of classes will also be saved in an online video library for students to review when studying.
HYBRID TRAININGS
How are hybrid trainings conducted?
Students enrolled in hybrid trainings complete a portion of the program online and a portion of the program on campus. Online classes are held via Zoom video calls, and students must have access to a reliable internet connection and a computer or tablet to support active participation in an online classroom (e.g., computer, webcam, computer mic and speakers, and Zoom app). Word processing capabilities are also required. Please refer to the Online Trainings FAQ section for additional information regarding the virtual classroom, and the On Campus Trainings FAQ section for additional information regarding on campus sessions.
ON CAMPUS TRAININGS
What should I do to prepare for my training?
Your days will be full when you arrive at Kripalu. Since you will be practicing yoga each morning, we recommend that you begin a gentle yoga practice if you are not doing so already. It is also suggested to begin to get into a rhythm similar to that of the daily schedule listed below in order to get acclimated to student life at Kripalu prior to your arrival, paying particular attention to waking, meals, and bedtimes.
6:30–7:30 am Sadhana (This is mainly yoga, pranayama, and meditation.)
7:30 – 8:30 am Breakfast
8:30 am–12:00 pm Program Session
12:00–2:00 pm Lunch
2:00–6:00 pm Program Session
7:00–9:00 pm Occasional Program Session
Be sure to look for a letter in your email inbox six weeks prior to the start of the program with a welcome letter, list of required readings, and written homework assignments.
Will I have an opportunity to participate in yoga classes and other activities during the training?
The training schedule is very full; however, there is some time to participate in the midday Kripalu R&R and evening programs. You will generally have a break every day from 12:00–2:00 pm. In addition, you will have some evenings free.
Is financial assistance available?
Kripalu Schools are committed to supporting individuals interested in enhancing their life and realizing their full potential through yoga, yoga therapy, Ayurveda, and mindful outdoor leadership regardless of background or financial status. Scholarships are made possible by the generous support of Kripalu’s patrons and donors, and financial assistance is offered when funding is available. Click here to learn more about current scholarship availability and eligibility.
What are my housing options?
Kripalu offers accommodations ranging from dormitories with a shared hall bath to private rooms with a private bath. Prices vary depending upon the accommodations selected. Find out more information about accommodations here, or call 413.448.3152. Early registration is recommended, as some housing fills up quickly.
GENERAL INQUIRIES
Are the Kripalu School of Ayurveda (KSA) trainings academically rigorous?
Yes. Ayurveda is an ancient system of healing and preventive health that requires a good deal of study and commitment in order to become competent in the science and art of the practice. Sessions are taught by distinguished faculty, and there are also required reading and homework assignments throughout the program.
What kind of academic support will I receive from the KSA?
KSA staff is available for support and provides feedback and mentoring for each homework assignment. KSA staff is also available to meet for virtual office hours.
Is this training in panchakarma and Ayurvedic massage?
No. Panchakarma is a series of detoxifying, cleansing practices that restore proper functioning to the body. Because these practices have become widely known in this country as Ayurvedic spa services, many people might associate them with training as an Ayurvedic Health Counselor. In most states, in order to offer Ayurvedic body treatments, you must be a licensed massage therapist.
Will there be a graduation that my family and friends can attend?
As Foundations of Ayurveda is an immersion program, not a certification program, there is a program closing event, but there is no formal Foundation of Ayurveda graduation. There will be a formal graduation ceremony for graduates at the completion of the Ayurvedic Health Counselor program. Students who are enrolled in the 300-Hour Ayurvedic Yoga Teacher Training will have a formal graduation at the completion of their final required module.