IT’S WORLD AYURVEDA DAY

Today is World Ayurveda Day - a time to celebrate the ancient knowledge of the ‘science of life’. It’s the 9th year celebrating World Ayurveda Day since its conception by the Indian government's Ministry of Ayush - responsible for developing education, research and propagation of traditional medicine and alternative medicine systems in India.

The day highlights the importance of living in harmony with nature. Ayurveda’s holistic system of health encompasses not just physical health but also mental and spiritual wellbeing. According to the Ministry of Ayusha, this year's observance is set to be the most expansive yet, with over 150 countries joining in the celebrations under the theme ‘Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health’ - raising awareness of Ayurveda’s potential to address global health challenges.

World Ayurveda Day is observed every year on Dhanvantari Jayanti (Dhanteras) to honour Lord Dhanvantari. Lord Dhanvantari is revered as the God of Ayurveda and healing: his name in Sanskrit literally means "moving in a curve" which describes the sun's arc or curve across the sky from sunrise to sunset. Considered the physician of the Gods and the founder of traditional Indian medicine, in Hindu mythology Lord Dhanvantari is often depicted holding a pot of amrita (nectar of immortality) and medicinal herbs which symbolises the abundance of natural remedies available for healing. Devotees pray to him for good health, longevity and the wisdom to navigate life's challenges through Ayurveda.

The calendar date of Dhanvantari (and now World Ayurveda Day) falls in either October or November (as per the lunar calendar), and marks Diwali’s 5 day festival of light and knowledge and the Hindu new year. 

The teachings of Dhanvantari resonate more than ever in today's fast paced world. Whether through herbal remedies, yoga or mindfulness practices, the natural healing and preventive care principles of Ayurveda guide us toward sustainable wellbeing and empower us to take charge of our health.