Spa+Clinic Team 
Ayurveda, the Indian science of healing, has been practiced for more than 5000 years, has a holistic approach to health that is designed to help people live long, well-balanced lives.Pronounced ‘are-you-veda’, it literally means knowledge of life.
It has gained huge popularity in the West in recent years, for its aesthetic as well as therapeutic benefits. Inner health meets outer beauty.
The philosophy of Ayurveda holds that our bodies are made up of the elements of water, fire, earth, air and ether and an imbalance of one of these can affect our health. Cure is based on the premise that by adjusting the imbalance through herbs internally and externally, diet and gentle form of exercise the body is capable of balancing itself to perfect harmony.
‘Ayurvedic skincare and haircare follows this philosophy,’ says Yasmin Sadikot, who founded Australia’s OmVeda range of Ayurvedic skin and hair care in 1997.
‘There are many ways to keep the body in balance. People are generally so very careful about what they eat and drink – organic food, vitamins and minerals – but ignore what they `feed’ their skin.
‘It is the largest organ of the body, and it is one place that we do not give much thought to from the point of view of what goes on it. ‘Our philosophy is very simple: `If you cannot eat it, do not put it on your skin’.
‘What is put on the skin should be filled with nourishment, naturally occurring vitamins and minerals safe enough to be taken internally. OmVeda uses pure herbs specifically selected to balance the body, mind and soul.’
Yasmin explains that by analysing what type of dosha, or body type a person has (there are three in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta and Kapha) it can then be determined what products will be appropriate to balance their skin.
With more and more people seeking holistic therapies for wellness and beauty, Yasmin believes Ayurvedic therapies would be a valuable addition to the offering of any spa, salon or clinic.
To that end she runs regular three-day OmVeda workshops that teach the basic science of Ayurveda, with both practical and theoretical components, how it enhances the skin – and can refresh your business.
‘We show how Ayurveda can slow the ageing process, boost skin regeneration and repair and the amazing detoxifying effects of herbs to combat acne, cellulite, eczema and other conditions,’ Yasmin says.
‘The workshops also cover signature rituals and specialised massage techniques for both face and body.’ Yasmin explains that attendees will learn enough from the course to be able to start implementing treatments in their business straight away, with OmVeda offering support and advice to help clients grow their Ayurvedic following.
The next OmVeda Ayurveda workshop is being held June 7-9, with bookings closing his Friday, May 23.
