HEALING & CURING CENTER

(NATURAL WAY)
 CONTEXT
INTRODUCTION
TIMELINE
TRADITIONAL MEDICINE
BOTANICAL/ HERBAL MEDICINE
TRADITIONAL MEDICINE IN EUROPE, USA AND OTHER DEVELOPED
COUNTRIES
ROLE OF TRADITIONAL MEDICINES IN TRADITIONAL HEALING
CHINESE, JAPANESE AND INDIAN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE,
UNANI OR YUNANI
NATURE CURE
3.1GLOBAL HISTORY OF NATURE CURE SYSTEMS
NATUROPATHY
4.1HISTORY OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE & TREATMRNTS
AYURVEDA & TREATMENTS
YOGA & MEDITATION
7.1CLASSICAL PERIOD
.2 POST CLASSICAL PERIOD
5.3 MODERN PERIOD
6. HOMEOPATHY
7. AYUSH
8. ARCHITECTURAL APPROACH TO NATURAL HEALTH CARE
8.1ROLE OF SPACES
8.2ROLE OF NATURE
8.3ROLE OF LIGHT
8.4BUILT FORM
8.5HOUSING
CASE STUDIES
10.1SWASWARA
10.2CARNOUSTIE
11. BIBLIOGRAPHY
1.INTRODUCTION
The INDIAN BOARD OF ALTERNATE MEDICINE defines alternate medicine as means
any form of medicine that is outside the mainstream of western medicine or conventional
medicine as practiced a majority of doctors today.

1.1 TIMELINE

3,000-1,500 BC: Ayurveda – originated as an oral tradition, later recorded in the Vedas, four
sacred Hindu texts. A holistic system that strives to create harmony between body, mind and
spirit, Ayurvedic regimens are tailored to each person’s unique constitution (their nutritional,
exercise, social interaction and hygiene needs) – with the goal of maintaining a balance that
prevents illness. Yoga and meditation are critical to the tradition, and are, of course,
increasingly practiced worldwide.

3,000 – 2,000 BC: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) - one of the world’s oldest
systems of medicine, develops. Influenced by Taoism and Buddhism, TCM applies a holistic
perspective to achieving health and wellbeing, by cultivating harmony in one’s life.
Approaches that evolved out of TCM, such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, qi gong and tai
chi, have become core, modern wellness – and even Western medical – approaches.

500 BC: Ancient Greek physician Hippocrates – is possibly the first physician to focus on
preventing sickness instead of simply treating disease, and also argued that disease is a
product of diet, lifestyle and environmental factors.

50 BC: Ancient Roman medicine emphasized disease prevention, adopting the Greek belief
that illness was a product of diet and lifestyle. Ancient Rome’s highly developed public
health system (with its extensive system of aqueducts, sewers and public baths) helped
prevent the spreading of germs and maintained a healthier population.

1.2 TRADITIONAL MEDICINE

Traditional medicine, indigenous medicine or folk medicine etc. are used to describe such
practices. These medicines date back hundreds or even thousands of years depending on the
country and culture concerned.

There are more than 100 systems of alternative medicines still in practice all over the world.
Every country, region, or area has its own traditional system of health and medical care’s
such as for the Chinese it’s acupuncture, for the French, magnetic healing; the German’s,
heilpraxis; for the English herbalism for India Ayurveda with siddha, being widely practiced
in southern part of the country: for japan shiatsu etc.

Some popular forms of alternative medicine are Ayurveda, homeopathy, naturopathy, yoga,
acupuncture, acupressure, magneto therapy, shiatsu, herbalism, meditation, aromatherapy,
Bach flower remedies, chromo therapy, diet therapy, and hydrotherapy.

1.3 BOTANICAL / HERBAL MEDICINE

Traditional medicine has been used in communities for thousands of years. According to the
World Health Organization, herbal treatments are the most popular form of traditional
medicine. In developing countries, 80% of the population depends exclusively on medicinal
plants for primary healthcare. NDs use herbal preparations in the form of teas, tinctures,
poultices, balms, baths, elixirs, compresses, oils, syrups, suppositories, and capsules.
The ND prescribes and prepares herbal remedies based on the uniqueness of each patient and
their presenting symptoms. Organic and wild harvested herbs are used if available. A
growing body of research supports the efficacy and safety of various herbs for preventing and
treating many health conditions.
Herbal medicine, or “phyto-medicine,” refers to the
practice of using plant material for medicinal
purposes. Herbal medicine has a long tradition of use
outside of conventional medicine, its earliest evidence
of human use being recorded during excavations of
Neanderthal sites, such as the Shanidar caves in
northern Iraq. Many herbal medicines have evolved
through traditional use within a specific cultural
context. For some cultures, the traditional use is
documented in written texts, and for others the
traditional knowledge and its use have been passed
down orally from one generation to the next.
Several herbal drugs have yielded important modern
therapeutic agents e.g., aspirin, taxol and the Vinca
alkaloids. Herbal medicines also play a significant and
increasingly important role in global healthcare, where
they are finding new and expanding markets as health
foods and preventative medicines.

The sources of the supply of medicinal plants are wild

harvested and cultivated materials, and there are increasing demands for a sustainable supply
of quality material. The worldwide annual market for herbal products approaches US $60
billion. The global “functional food” and dietary supplement markets are growing at a
significant pace and have requirements for increasing quantities of high quality herbal
materials.

1.4 TRADITIONAL HERBAL MEDICINES INTO EUROPE, THE USA

AND OTHER DEVELOPED COUNTRIES
The desire to capture the wisdom of traditional healing systems has led to a resurgence of
interest in herbal medicines, particularly in Europe and North America, where herbal
products have been incorporated into so-called ‘alternative’, ‘complementary’, ‘holistic’ or
‘integrative’ medical systems. During the latter part of the twentieth century, increasing
interest in self-care resulted in an enormous growth in popularity of traditional healing
modalities, including the use of herbal remedies; this has been particularly true in the USA.

While centuries of use in traditional settings can be used as testimony that a particular Herbal
ingredient is effective or safe, several problems must be addressed as these Ingredients are
incorporated into modern practice.

1.5 THE ROLE OF HERBAL MEDICINES IN TRADITIONAL

HEALING
The pharmacological treatment of disease began long ago with the use of herbs. Methods of
folk healing throughout the world commonly used herbs as part of their tradition. Some of
these traditions are briefly described below, providing some examples of the array of
important healing practices around the world that used herbs for this purpose.
1.6 TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE
Traditional Chinese medicine has been used by
Chinese people from ancient times. Although animal
and mineral materials have been used, the primary
source of remedies is botanical. Of the more than 12
000 items used by traditional healers, about 500 are
in common used.
Botanical products are used only after some kind of
processing, which may include, for example, stir-
frying or soaking in vinegar or wine. In clinical
practice, traditional diagnosis may be followed by the
prescription of a complex and often individualized remedy.

Traditional Chinese medicine is still in common use in China. More than half the population
regularly uses traditional remedies, with the highest prevalence of use in rural areas. About
5000 traditional remedies are available in China; they account for approximately one fifth of
the entire Chinese pharmaceutical market.

JAPANESE TRADITIONAL MEDICINE

Many herbal remedies found their way from China into the Japanese systems of traditional
healing. Herbs native to Japan were classified in the first pharmacopoeia of Japanese
traditional medicine in the ninth century (Saito, 2000).

INDIAN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE

Ayurveda is a medical system primarily practised in India that has been known for nearly
5000 years. It includes diet and herbal remedies, while emphasizing the body, mind and spirit
in disease prevention and treatment (Morgan, 2002).

2. UNANI OR YUNANI:
Yunani or Unani medicine is the term for Perso-Arabic
traditional medicine as practiced in Mughal India and in
Muslim culture in South Asia and modern day Central Asia.
The term is derived from Arabic Yūnānī"Greek", as the
Perso-Arabicsystem of medicine was in turn based on the
teachings of the Greek physicians Hippocrates and Galen.
The Hellenistic origin of Unani medicine is still visible in its being based on the classical four
humors: Phlegm(Balgham), Blood (Dam), Yellow bile(Ṣafrā') and Black bile(Saudi'), but it
has also been influenced by Indian and Chinese traditional systems.

Unani classical literature consists of thousands of books. According to Unani medicine,

management of any disease depends upon the diagnosis of disease. In the diagnosis, clinical
features, i.e., signs, symptoms, laboratory features and mizaj (temperament) are important.
Any cause and or factor is countered by Quwwat-e-Mudabbira-e-Badan (the power of body
responsible to maintain health), the failing of which may lead to quantitatively or
qualitatively derangement of the normal equilibrium of akhlat (humors) of body which
constitute the tissues and organs.

This abnormal humor leads to pathological changes in the tissues anatomically and
physiologically at the affected site and exhibits the clinical manifestations. After diagnosing
the disease, Usoole Ilaj (principle of management) of disease is determined on the basis of
etiology in the following pattern: Izalae Sabab (elimination of cause) Tadeele Akhlat
(normalization of humors) Tadeele Aza (normalization of tissues/organs).

3. NATURE CURE
Nature cure is defined as the art & science of health and healing based on the principles of the
vital force and the natural laws of the universe. The fundamental principles of nature cure are
derived from the philosophical systems of ancient India. They are found in the Vedas,
Ayurvedic, and yoga. There are similarities among nature cure, Ayurveda and yoga. Real
health can be achieved only by following a certain way of life based on hygiene with proper
sanitation, fresh air, food, sunshine, etc. It is a positive state of well-being in which every
organ of the body functions in perfect condition.

Nature provides health to human beings. It is the greatest immunizing agent for keeping
health at an optimum level of functioning. Nature cure believes that a disease appears only
when laws of nature are disobeyed. Hence cure applies those methods of treating diseases,
which aid the natural forces and accelerate the defensive mechanism of the body. the
treatment consists first in eliminating the cause, then in preventing its occurrence and finally
in improving the vital force by regulating personal life and activities.

Nature cure helps us to live in tune with nature and its mode of treatment has no side-effects
unlike those of some other branches of medical science.

3.1 GLOBAL HISTORY OF NATURAL CURE SYSTEMS

The oldest written evidence of medicinal plants’ usage for preparation of drugs has been
found on a Sumerian clay slab from Nagpur, approximately 5000 years old. It comprised 12
recipes for drug preparation referring to over 250 various plants, some of them alkaloid such
as poppy, henbane, and mandrake. The Chinese book on roots and grasses “Pen T’Sao,”
written by Emperor Shen Nung circa 2500 BC, treats 365 drugs (dried parts of medicinal
plants), many of which are used even nowadays such as the following: Rhei rhisoma,
camphor, Theae folium, Podophyllum, the great yellow gentian, ginseng, jimson weed,
cinnamon bark, and ephedra. The Indian holy books Vedas mention treatment with plants,
which are abundant in that country.
Numerous spice plants used even today
originate from India: nutmeg, pepper, clove, etc.

The Ebers Papyrus, written circa 1550 BC,

represents a collection of 800
proscriptions referring to 700 plant species
and drugs used for therapy such as
pomegranate, castor oil plant, aloe, senna,
garlic, onion, fig, willow, coriander,
juniper, common centaury, etc.

In the Middle Ages, the skills of healing,

cultivation of medicinal plants, and
preparation of drugs moved to
monasteries. Therapy was based on 16
medicinal plants,
which the physicians-monks commonly
grew within the monasteries as follows: sage,
anise, mint, Greek seed, savory, tansy, etc.

4. NATUROPATHY
Naturopathy is an art and science of healthy living and a drug less system, it has its own
concept of health and disease and also principle of treatment. In today's age, Naturopathy is
Recognized and well accepted as an independent System of medicine. Naturopathy advocates
aiding human system to remove the cause of disease i.e. toxins by expelling the unwanted
and unused matters from human body for curing diseases. Nature is the greatest healer. The
human body itself has the healing power to prevent itself from disease and regain health if
unhealthy.

In Naturopathy, it is not the disease but the entire body of the patient which is caused and is
renewed. Naturopathy cures patients suffering from chronic ailments in comparatively less
time than any other form of medicine. Naturopathy treats all the aspects like physical, mental,
social and spiritual at the same time. Naturopathy treats the body as a whole. According to
Naturopathy, “Food is only the Medicine”, no external medications are used.

Some important treatments of naturopathy are: Mud pack, Mud Bath, Spinal Bath, Spinal
Spray Bath, Steam Bath, Sauna Bath, Sun Bath, Wet Sheet Pack, Chest Pack, Abdomen Pack,
Magnet Therapy, Acupuncture, Acupressure, Reflexology, Physiotherapy Treatments -
Exercise Therapy and Electro Therapy. Naturopathic doctors treat their patients holistically
i.e. taking into consideration their individual biochemistry, bio mechanics and emotional
predispositions.

The roots of naturopathic medicine go back thousands of years, drawing on the healing
wisdom of many cultures including Indian (Ayurvedic), Chinese (Taoist), Greek
(Hippocratic), Arabian, Egyptian, and European (monastic medicine) traditions. With the age
of scientific inquiry, medicine took on exciting dimensions and developed new tools for
fighting disease.
In fact, many older time-tested healing and health maintenance methods were discarded at a
rapid rate as doctors began treating disease almost solely with surgery and drugs. Some
practitioners in Europe and America, however, perceived that valuable, empirically proven
natural therapies were being lost, and struggled to retain the practice of promoting health
through stimulation of the vital force and the rational use of natural agents.

4.1 HISTORY OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE

The term naturopathy was coined before 1900 by John Scheel, combining the two streams
of health treatment, nature cure and homeopathy. The term was used by Benedict Lust (a
German name pronounced "loost"), who founded the American School of Naturopathy in
New York in 1905. Lust had been schooled in hydrotherapy and other natural health practices
in Germany by Father Sebastian Kneipp, who sent Lust to the United States to propagate
Kneipp's methods.

The American School of Naturopathy was the first naturopathic college in the United States.
Lust took great strides in promoting the profession, culminating in the passage of licensing
laws in several states prior to 1935,
including Arizona, California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington and the
founding of several naturopathic colleges (Weil 1983).

Naturopathic medicine went into decline, along with most other natural health professions,
after the 1930s, with the discovery of penicillin and the advent of synthetic drugs,
notably antibiotics and corticosteroids (such as cortisone in 1949). Contributing facts in the
post-war era were Lust's death, conflict between various schools of natural medicine
(homeopathy, eclectics, physio-medicalism, herbalism, naturopathy, etc.), the rise of medical
technology, and the consolidation of political power in conventional medicine. In 1910, when
the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching published the Flexner Report,
which criticized many aspects of medical education in various institutions (natural and
conventional), it was mostly seen as an attack on low-quality natural medicine education. It
caused many such programs to shut down and contributed to the popularity of conventional
medicine.

Naturopathic medicine never completely ceased to exist, however, as there were always a few
states in which licensing laws existed—though at one point there were virtually no schools.
One of the most visible steps towards the profession's modern renewal was the opening in
1956 of the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon. This was the
first of the modern naturopathic medical schools offering four-year naturopathic medical
training with the intention of integrating mainstream science and naturopathic principles and
practice.

Traditional’ use of herbal medicines implies substantial historical use, and this is certainly
true for many products that are available as ‘traditional herbal medicines’. In many
developing countries, a large proportion of the population relies on traditional Practitioners
and their armamentarium of medicinal plants in order to meet health Care needs.

Although modern medicine may exist side-by-side with such traditional Practice, herbal
medicines have often maintained their popularity for historical and Cultural reasons. Such
products have become more widely available commercially, especially in developed
countries. In this modern setting, ingredients are sometimes marketed for uses that were
never contemplated in the traditional healing systems from which they Emerged.

4.2 TREATMENT
1. Diet Therapy: According to this therapy, the food must be taken in natural form.
Fresh seasonal fruits, fresh green leafy vegetables and sprouts are excellent. These
diets are broadly classified into three types which are as follows:
i) Eliminative Diet (Liquids-Lemon, Citric juices) ii) Soothing Diet (Fruits, Salads,
Boiled/ Steamed Vegetables) iii) Constructive Diet (Wholesome flour, pulses, Curd)
These diets help in improving health, purifying the body and rendering it immune to
disease.

2. Fasting Therapy: Fasting is primarily the act of willingly abstaining from some or all
food, drink, or both, for a period of time. Methods of fasting are water, juices or raw
vegetable juices. During fasting, the body burns up and excretes huge amounts of
accumulated wastes.

3. Mud therapy: Mud therapy is very simple and effective treatment modality. Mud
therapy is used for giving coolness to body. It dilutes and absorbs the toxic substances
of body and ultimately eliminates them from body.

4. Hydrotherapy: It is the treatment of disorders using different forms of water.

Hydrothermal therapy additionally uses its temperature effects, as in hot and cold
baths, saunas and body wraps.

5. Masso Therapy: Massage is the practice of soft tissue manipulation with physical,
functional, and in some cases psychological purposes and goals. If correctly done on a
bare body, it can be highly stimulating and invigorating. Various oils are used as
lubricants like mustard oil, sesame oil, coconut oil, olive oil, aroma oils, these oils
also have therapeutic effects.

6. Acupressure: Acupressure is an ancient healing art that uses the fingers or any
blunted objects to press key points called as ‘Acu Points’ (Energy stored points) on
the surface rhythmically on the skin to stimulate the body’s natural self-curative
abilities.

7. Chromo Therapy: Seven colors of Sun rays have different therapeutic effects. Water
and oil exposed to sun for specified hours in colored bottles and colored glasses, are
used as devices of Chromo Therapy for treating different disorders.

8. Air Therapy: The advantage of air therapy can be achieved by means of Air bath.
Everybody should take an air bath daily for 20 minutes or longer if possible. It is
more advantageous when combined with morning cold rub and exercises.

9. Magnet Therapy: Magnet therapy is a clinical system in which human ailments are
treated and cured through the application of magnets to the body of the patients. It is
the simplest, cheapest and entirely painless system of treatment with almost no side or
after effects. The only tool used is the magnet. Also, magnetic belts are available for
different parts e.g. Abdomen, knee and for wrist.
5. AYURVEDA
The word Ayurveda derived from AYU and VEDA. AYU means life VEDA means science
or knowledge. Ayurveda means the science of life. Charaka defines "That science is
designated as Ayurveda which deals with advantage and disadvantage as well as happy and
unhappy states of life along with what is good and bad for life, its measurement and the life
itself (Charaka Sutra 1 - 4)" Ayurveda embraces all living things, human and Non-human. It
is divided into three main branches viz., Nara Ayurveda dealing with human life, Satva
Ayurveda the science dealing with animal life and its diseases, Vriksha Ayurveda the science
dealing with plant life, its growth and diseases. It is amply clear that Ayurveda is not only a
system of medicine but also a way of life for complete positive health and spiritual
attainments.

Ayurveda believes that positive health is the basis for attaining four cherished goals of life
(chaturvidh purushartha) viz., Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha. All these four goals cannot be
achieved without sound positive health.

1. SNEHAN- (Oeliation). Massage with nontoxic, herbal medicated oil is done before
every panchakarma procedure by especially trained massaures. It helps to regulate
blood circulation & relaxation to fatigue muscles.

2. WEDAN-(FOMENTATION)Fomentation of whole body or to a particular part

of body is done. this process opens up every single pore of the skin and detoxifies.

3. VAMANA-(Emesis): after careful examination of patient drugs are administered to

generate controlled bouts of vomitus so as to extract vitiated Kapha.

4. VIRECHAN(Purgation): Medicine induced purgation to throw vitiated Pitta.

5. BASTI: Enema of decoction or oil is administered under acute or chronic

vitiated vata condition.

6. NASYA: Medicated oil or ghee is put in to nostrils to correct diseases like migraine,
sinus, coryza.

7. RAKTAMOKSHAN: Letting of impure blood from body which causes diseases like
eczema, psoriasis, gout, letting is least invasive performed by means of leech, syringe.

8. SHIRODHARA: insomnia, hypertension depression, anxiety is effectively cured by

continuous pouring of fragrant medicated oil overhead.

Buddhism has contributed a great deal to the development of Ayurveda. A new branch of
medicine based on mercury was innovated by Nagarjuna while practicing
alchemy. Vagbhata another noted buddhist physician wrote Astanga Sangraha, Ashtanga
Hridaya and Ras Ratna Samucchaya. The last work viz., Ras Ratna Samuchaya exclusively
deals with the processing of mercury, minerals, metals, gems and poisonous materials to
render useful for therapeutic purposes. Some of the work of Vagbhata specially Ashtanga
Hridaya was translated in Tibetan language forming the very base of Tibetan system of
medicine "Sowa rig Pa" which is recentely recognised by the Govt. of India due to its wide
practice in Sikkim, Leh and Dharmashala.
 With the spread of Buddhism, the temples became the institutes of higher studies. They were
gradually converted to universities. Amongst these universities Takshasila, Kasi, Nalanda
have earned fame. The best account of the universities is furnished by the two Chinese
pilgrims to India. Yuan Chwang who traveled in India for 16 years i.e. 629 to 645 A.D. spent
5 years at Alana University. It Sang spent 10 years (675 to 685 AD.). Taxila University
flourished during 7th century BC. Historians claim that students from foreign countries like
Babylonia, Misra (Egypt), Syria, Arabia, China and Greece came to learn philosophy and
medicine in Indian Universities, which flourished from 450 AD to 12th century AD.

TREATMENTS
 Abhyangam
 Patra Potla / Potli
 Shirovasti
 Shirodhara
 Nasyam
 Udhwaratnam
 Kativasti
 Januvasti
 Basti and many more.

6. YOGA & MEDITATION

The term ‘Yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘YUJ’, meaning ‘to join’ or ‘to yoke’ or ‘to
unite’. As per Yogic scriptures the practice of Yoga leads to the union of individual
consciousness with that of the Universal Consciousness, indicating a perfect harmony
between the mind and body, Man & Nature.

Yoga is an Art and Science of healthy living. It is a spiritual discipline based on an extremely
subtle science, which focuses on bringing harmony between mind and body. The holistic
approach of Yoga is well established and The practice of Yoga is believed to have started
with the very dawn of civilization, Mythologically, the Lord Shiva is considered to be the
first teacher of Yoga.

Yoga & meditation is a physical, mental, and spiritual disciple, originating in ancient India.
 Yoga has recognized and accepted the unbalance of the mind.
 Yoga is a stepwise, stage wise eight-fold path to final- form pain and suffering.
 The eight steps are

1. YAMA (THE FIVE “ABSTENTIONS”): non- violence, non-lying, non- covetousness,

Non-sensuality, and non-possessiveness.
2. NIYAMA (THE FIVE “OBSERVANCES”): purity, contentment, austerity, study, and
surrender to god.
3. ASANA (LITERALLY MEANS “SEAT”): and in patanjali’s sutras refers to seated
position used for meditation.
4. PRANAYAMA (“SUSPENDING BREATH”): PRANA- breathe, AYAMA- to restrain
or to stop. Also interpreted control of the life force.
5. PRATYAHARA (ABSTRACTION): withdrawal of the sense organs from external
objects.
6. DHARANA ("CONCENTRATION"): Fixing the attention on a single object.
7. DHYANA ("MEDITATION"): Intense contemplation of the nature of the object of
meditation.
8. SAMADHI ("LIBERATION"): merging consciousness with the object of meditation.

Yoga, being widely considered as an ‘immortal cultural outcome’ of Indus valley civilization
– dating back to 2700 B.C. – has proved itself catering to both material and spiritual
upliftment of humanity. Basic humane values are the very identity of Yoga Sadhana. it brings
harmony in all walks of life and thus, known for disease prevention, promotion of health and
management of many lifestyle –related disorders.

The Number of seals and fossil remains of Indus valley civilization with Yogic motives and
figures performing Yoga Sadhana suggest the presence of Yoga in ancient India. The phallic
zed a symbols, seals of idols of mother Goddess are suggestive of Tantra Yoga. Presence of
Yoga is available in folk traditions, Indus valley civilization, Vedic and Upanishadic heritage,
Buddhist and Jain traditions, Darshanas, epics of Mahabharat and Ramayana, theistic
traditions of Shaivas, Vaishnavas, and Tantric traditions.

The practice of Yoga was started during the Indus-Sarasvati civilization in Northern India
over 5,000 years ago. It was first mentioned in Rig Veda, a collection of texts that consisted
of rituals, mantras, and songs which was mainly used by Brahmans, the Vedic priests. Yoga
was slowly developed by Brahmans who eventually documented their practices and beliefs in
the Upanishads that has over 200 scriptures.

6.1 CLASSICAL PERIOD (500 BC TO 800 AD)

A) Lord Mahavira and Lord Buddha’s teachings formed the early basis for Yoga Sadhana.
While Lord Mahavira spoke of attaining salvation and freedom through meditation,
Lord Buddha spoke of specific postures and meditation to attain enlightenment.

B) The Bhagavad Gita also came into existence in this period. This text is a dialogue
between Lord Krishna (universal consciousness) and Prince Arjuna (human consciousness).
Here, the Lord explains the concepts of Dharma, Karma yoga (generous actions), Bhakti yoga
(dedicated and caring actions) and Jnana yoga (knowledge).

In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna says, “Samatvam Yoga Uchyate”– equanimity in the
mind is a sign of yoga. Yoga is that ability to remain centered in adverse situations. Whatever
takes us back to our original, joyous and harmonious nature is yoga.

C) Some verses of the Mahabharata dating to 300-200 BC also mention terms described by
Sage Patanjali, such as vichara (subtle reflection), and viveka (discrimination). Some of the
goals of yoga are described as the separation of self from matter,
perceiving Brahman everywhere, entering into the Brahman state and uniting the
individual atman with the universal Brahman.

D) Maharshi Patanjali, considered the Father of Yoga, was the first one to systematize the
practices of yoga in, what is believed to be, the second century BC. Through his Yoga Sutras,
he disseminated the meaning of yoga, and the knowledge it has to offer.
This yoga was called Raja yoga. He formulated the Astanga yoga or the eight limbs of yoga,
which included yamas, niyamas, asanas, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyan, and
samadhi.

1. KARMA YOGA – The path of action or activity.

2. BHAKTI YOGA – The path of devotion.
3. JNANA YOGA – The path of inquiry.
4. RAJA YOGA – The path of introspection.
5. HATHA YOGA – The path of balancing the physical, mental and pranic layer in
the body.

6.2 POST-CLASSICAL PERIOD

In this era, many sages and philosophers such as Adi Shankaracharya contributed to the
development and continuation of Raja Yoga and Jnana yoga, adopting and building upon the
teachings and techniques of yoga. With his teachings, and yogic rituals, like the Jnana Yoga,
one can achieve Nirvana or liberation. Additionally, meditation was also considered vital to
help clear the mind.
Tulsidasa and Purandaradasa also contributed to the science of yoga. Hatha yoga was
popularized in this period. Most of the asanas that we practice today are part of Hatha yoga.

6.3 MODERN PERIOD (1700 AD TO 1900 AD)

Swami Vivekananda was largely responsible for the spread of yoga to western societies.
Here, there was much focus on physical well-being. Raja yoga was further
developed by Ramana Maharshi, Ramakrishna Paramahansa, BKS Iyengar, K Pattabhi Jois,
Paramhansa Yogananda, and Vivekananda. Yoga spread to the West in the mid-nineteenth
century. Vedanta, Bhakti and Hatha yoga flourished at this time.

7. SIDDHA:
Siddha system of medicine is settled since the ancient human civilization in India, around
10,000 BCE–4000 BCE. Like Ayurveda, it is developed through everyday skills of utilizing
natural resources for maintaining good health and remains as an oldest medicinal practice in
South India. This practice of medicine is based Saiva philosophy, one out of six branches of
Hindu religion. The word “Siddha” indicates “holy harmony” or “attaining excellence” or
“recognized fact” and the “Siddhars” were supernatural beings who obtain intellectual
powers by constant practice of such type of medicine. Siddha system of medicine is believed
to be established by 18 “Siddhars;” Thirumoolar, Ahappe, Agathiyar, Sunthara ananthar,
Bogar, Machchamuni, Konganar, Korakkar, Therayar, Karuvoorar, Nandi Devar, Idaikkadar,
Iraamathevar, Sattamuni, Kuthampai, Paampaatti, Aluhanna, and Kahapusundar.
This medicinal practice believes preserving the human well-being is crucial to succeeding the
eternal bliss and the philosophical idea includes “food is medicine, medicine is food” and
“sound mind makes a sound body. The philosophy and the principles of this system are
similar to Ayurveda. Siddha system of medicine also reflects human body as an accumulation
of seven basic materials, three humors and the discarded products.
It is assumed that when the normal equilibrium of the three humors —Vaadham, Pittham and
Kabam — Is disturbed, disease is caused. The factors assumed to affect this equilibrium are
environment, climatic conditions, diet, physical activities, and stress. Under normal
conditions, the ratio between Vaadham, Pittham, and Kabam are 4:2:1, respectively.
According to the Siddha medicine system, diet and lifestyle play a major role in health and in
curing diseases. This concept of the Siddha medicine is termed as pathiyam and apathiyam,
which is essentially a list of "do's and don'ts".
TREATMENT:

The treatment in siddha medicine is aimed at keeping the three humors in equilibrium and
maintenance of seven elements. So proper diet, medicine and a disciplined regimen of life are
advised for a healthy living and to restore equilibrium of humors in diseased condition.

8. HOMEOPATHY
Homeopathy is a healing system that was created over 200 years ago by a German physician,
Samuel Hahnemann. It is based on a central theory known as The Similia Principle.
Substances made from plants, minerals or animals, which are known to cause symptoms
similar to a certain disease, are given to patients in an extremely diluted form. Homeopathic
remedies are believed to stimulate auto-regulatory and self-healing processes.
Remedies are selected by matching a patient's symptoms, based on taking a finely-detailed
history, with symptoms produced by the substances in healthy
individuals. Homeopathy is extensively used worldwide by
homeopaths, MDs, DOs, NDs and DVMs. Across Europe,
approximately a quarter of the population uses homeopathy, and
depending upon the country, from 20% to 85% of all general
practitioners either use homeopathy in their practices or refer
their patients to homeopaths.
There are over 200 clinical trials testing the efficacy of
homeopathic treatments, many of which have led to positive
results. However, an inconsistency in methods, limitations in
sample sizes, as well as a lack of testing for single conditions, restricts pooling these results.
A review evaluated the effectiveness of homeopathy in the fields of immunoallergology and
common inflammatory diseases.
Collectively, the evidence demonstrates that in some conditions homeopathy shows
significant promise, e.g. Galphimia glauca for the treatment of allergic oculorhinitis.
Classical individualized homeopathy showed potential for the treatment of otitis,
fibromyalgia, and possibly upper respiratory tract infections and allergic complaints.
A general weakness of the evidence is scarcity of independent confirmation of reported trials
and conflicting results. The authors concluded that, considering homeopathic medicines are
safe, they are a possible treatment option for upper airway infections, otitis, allergic rhinitis,
and asthma.
Several other clinical trials on homeopathic medicines show promise as well. One trial
evaluated homeopathic medicines for minimizing the adverse effects of cancer treatments,
and found preliminary data in support of the efficacy of topical calendula ointment in the
prevention of radiotherapy-induced dermatitis, and Traumeel S mouthwash for
chemotherapy-induced stomatitis.
The medicines did not cause any serious adverse effect or interact with conventional
treatment. A Norwegian multi-center outcomes study found that 7 out of 10 patients visiting a
homeopath reported a meaningful improvement in their main complaint 6 months after the
initial consultation. Given these positive findings, as well as the rich history and wide-spread
use of homeopathy, further research in this area is indicated.
Indian traditional medicine has its origin in India that
evolved through a continuous process of
transformation from its Vedic period and a single drug
or blends in crude shape are favoured over many fold
formulations. In spite of the fact that the starting points
and advancement times of these traditional medication
process are different, however, there is a common
background through this foundation, is in their basic
standards and practices by utilizing the plants and
plant-based preparations in the medicinal services.

9. AYUSH
Department of Indian Systems of Medicine and Homoeopathy (ISM&H) was established in
March,1995. Its name was changed to Department of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani,
Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) in November, 2003. The Department is working
constantly for up gradation of AYUSH educational standards, quality control and
standardization of drugs. It is also working on improving the availability of medicinal plant
material, research and development and awareness generation about the efficacy of the
systems domestically and internationally.

India has a rich, centuries old heritage of medical and health knowledge. Various traditional
systems of health care have been in use and even today these are being extensively used. The
Department of AYUSH deals with these traditional and alternate systems of medicine namely
Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy i.e., the systems which
originated in India as well as outside but got adopted and adapted here in the course of time.
The Ministry of AYUSH is formed in 9th November 2014 for providing more healthcare to the
public. The Department of Indian Medicine and Homeopathy (ISM&H) was created in March
1995 and renamed as Department of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and
Homoeopathy (AYUSH) in November 2003, with a view to providing focused attention to
development of Education and Research in Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha
and Homoeopathy systems.

The strength of the AYUSH system lies in promotive, preventive and rehabilitative health care,
diseases and health conditions relating to women and children, mental health, stress
management, problems relating to older person, non-communicable diseases etc. While
AYUSH should contribute to the overall health sector by meeting National health outcome
Goals.

NATUROPATHS IN THE WORLD: According to the survey, there are currently over
100,000 naturopathic practitioners worldwide, practicing in over 30 countries.
Qualification of a naturopath need is the bachelor of applied science (specialising in
naturopathy) is the ideal qualification. A good naturopath must also be a member of an
association, such as ANTA or ANPA and be actively engaged in ingoing education.
There are nearly 27-30 courses offering bachelors on naturopathy & yogic sciences in 24
colleges / universities / institutions in India.

The health care business has historically grown at 12 percent per annum and is expected to
grow faster in the coming years. One of the initiatives include AYUSH. The Department of
Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy, abbreviated as AYUSH,
is a governmental body in India purposed with developing, education and research in
Ayurveda (Indian traditional medicine), yoga, naturopathy, unani, siddha, and homoeopathy.
Ayurvedic medicaments and their by-products constitute an important part of the Indian
Foreign Trade. A continuously growing trend had been observed in India’s foreign trade with
respect to Ayurvedic related items with respect to export, import and net value addition.
Indian herbal market is nearly Rs. 5000 crores, which has an annual growth of 14%. 100
crores worth of herbal product, ingredients, and extracts are being exported. Balanced
modalities of integrated medicine, if well implemented, would make India a global leader in
health matters.

EDUCATION IN YOGA AND NATUROPATHY:

Various degree, diploma and other courses are offered in Yoga and Naturopathy. The
diploma courses are offered are generally of one-year Duration. Degree courses have a
duration for three years. Yoga is also Offered as a subject in the Bachelor’s Degree courses in
many of the Universities. Ph. D program in yoga therapy is offered for two to three Years.
The degrees that can be attained in Yoga and Naturopathy Are N.D, B.N.M.S, H.S.C,
D.N.M.S and C.N.M.S.N.D.- (Doctor in Naturopathy) -This degree program is of a 3-year
duration and is taught in many Colleges and institutes.
B.N.M.S- (Bachelor in Naturopathy Medicine Science)- It is 5½ years degree course offered
by the Indian Institute of Yoga and Naturopathy in Nagpur. There are not many institutes that
offer this course.

D.N.M.S- (Diploma in Naturopathy Medicine Science)- This degree course has a duration of
3 years and is offered by many institutes.

C.N.M.S - Certificate in Naturopathic Medicine Science. This is one-year program offered by

various institutes. Besides this many other courses are offered in Yoga and Naturopathy in
institutes throughout the country. M.D. courses are also offered in this stream. A list of
various institutes providing various courses in Yoga & Naturopathy.

These colleges are affiliated to Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore, MGR
Medical University, Chennai and University of Health and Sciences, Vijayawada
respectively. The approach of this Medical Education Course encompasses Yoga and
Naturopathy philosophy, emphasizes the clinical tools and modalities necessary to establish a
successful practice.
10. ARCHITECTURAL APPROACH TO HEALING & CURING
CENTER:
A physical healing environment that supports patients and families through the stresses that
develop a result of illness. The physical healthcare environment i.e. physically healthy and
psychologically appropriate can make a difference in patient’s recovery.
The physical aspects (i.e. day lighting, window design, thermal conditions, healing
landscapes, etc. Should be designed without compromising the functionality of the building.
Due to the space quality, the users must utilize their mental construct in dealing with
challenging space so that they can have more opportunity in healing senses with this kind of
built environment.
Exercising the mind in this way is an important way to stay mentally sharp and healthy, while
also giving a distraction to their ailment. The language of forms in architecture also has a co-
relation to the feeling one obtains from the space.
The architecture of healing must reinterpret and imitate the qualities of natural behavior into
built form although right angles are endlessly being used on common architecture.
This is because, organic imitation on the space create no constrained than rectilinear space.
The fluidity of organic space seems less detrimental and more eyes comforting.
The integration of all the senses helps complete the highest potential of an environment to
allow for healing to emerge. the sound of moving water is one aspect of a space that can elicit
emotions for relaxation and tranquillity. Thus, the architecture can integrate the water as an
aspect of the design to allow for a healing environment to emerge. Lighting design in
healthcare environments is a major factor in creating healing situations. It is proven that
people who are surrounded by natural light are more productive and live healthier lives.
When patients are sick, and surrounded by medical equipment and white walls, the last thing
they need is a dark, stuffy room. These is why it is important for every room to have a
window for natural light to come in.
Also by bringing nature indoors, it has many psychological benefits. Plants are soothing and
restful. Plants represent life, growth, and hope. They can provide interest and diversion.
Plants are used as a therapeutic tool.

10.1 ROLE OF SPACES

Environment psychology research has identified that architecture can affect human health
through stimulation. Architectural stimulation describes the amount of information in a space
that is imposed upon users.

Human beings function optimally with moderate levels of stimulation. Lack of stimulation
or, insufficient stimulation and too much of stimulation can cause a sense of deprivation or
distraction.
For moderate or appropriate stimulation, layout, circulation, control, flexibility and
responsiveness are key architectural factors. Insufficient spatial resources, inflexible spatial
arrangements and lack of climatic controls, all threaten individual needs to effectively
interact with the space.

However, the stimulation brought by an open space, must be moderate. The space must be
flexible to embrace individual needs and social interactions. The built environment and the
spaces it creates should not be seen as only a physical surrounding, but as an interconnection
between conscious and subconscious.

The physical surroundings have a direct relationship with how a person reacts and behaves.
Humans have affect over the environment, but in tandem, the environment has affect over
humans.

When a person is experiencing a mental health issue, they feel like there is no supporting
ground or reason for their existence – metaphorically speaking, a disorder in lived space.

It is said that the phenomenology of the unconscious mind plays a vital role in psychotherapy
because several underlying issues lay within sub consciousness.
If repeated flashes of ideas, memories or skewed interpretations of physical reality can in fact
result in poor mental health, then it can be assumed that repeated exposure to physical spaces
that create a positive subconscious response can be used to better mental well-being.

In order to physically get from one room to another, one must go through a doorway or a
corridor or a combination or series of both.

The aim is to create spaces that will take the user through a journey and provide an
experience through the sequential relationship of the spaces.

10.2 ROLE OF NATURE

The project aims at creating architecture that enhances healing by acting as a medium
between human mind and nature. The design strives to articulate an architectural language
that serves as a catalyst for the built environment to carry its occupants to a greater existence.

It only makes sense that spiritual centre’s should be designed with architecture that not only
becomes one with the earth, but embraces and enhances it – a loving experience of wholeness
and harmony, creating balance and sense of oneness.
Restorative design elements include experimentation with light, creating a healing
atmosphere, blending nature with design. Certain types of settings that are designed with the
intent to uplift the human spirit, and promote healing offers opportunities to combat stress by
providing recovery or rest.

Of all the healthy design strategies that can be used, plants are the most important in bringing
nature back. Open spaces draw people outwards to interact with nature thereby creating a
healing environment for the users. Providing diverse architectural & landscaped elements will
encourage the users to discover the environment as part of their treatment.

Open spaces should make a place for art, design order and quality of space. Foci in space
marks a place of significance. Foci can visually dominate and, make a place distinct from its
context and visually label each space for its users. It can be used for recreational activities or
as an assembly point. A meditation or recreational space constructed from materials native to
the site can be made the focus of the open space – built form integrated with the open spaces.
In order to spread the therapeutic healing elements of the garden into the indoor spaces, the
design will incorporate the landscape with the indoor spaces. Built spaces disturbed by
courtyards will break the sequence of a series of built spaces and will hence prevent
monotony of space. A sequence of open spaces can connect a variety of places and integrate
these areas into a holistic system. The axial design makes circulation quick and easy and also
connects different parts of the centre together. Circulation space organizes spaces with
surrounding buildings.
Courtyards surrounded by buildings produce natural stimulation via offering scenery and
views for surrounding buildings. Window views can effectively facilitate restoration for
indoor users. Moreover, visual connection with open spaces would lead to active use of open
spaces. An open space that connects different areas of a campus by an axial street forms a
strong spatial structure in a campus.

10.3 ROLE OF LIGHT

Temperature and light are two key elements for a microclimate. Natural lighting minimizes
the need for artificial lighting in buildings and reduces electrical lighting loads, which can
assist with cooling the temperature of buildings because electrical lighting releases heat as a
by-product.
Natural lighting can potentially increase the operational efficiency of both buildings and their
occupants. According to Dr. Alan Lewis, a lecturer in architecture at Manchester University,
light has a physiological impact on people. Research has shown that visible light helps the
human body to regulate the production of the hormone melatonin, which in turn helps to
regulate our body clock, affecting sleep patterns and digestion.

Visible light also helps to stimulate the body's production of the neurotransmitter serotonin,
which can reduce the symptoms of depression. Open to sky spaces allow light to pour into the
surrounding rooms without glare. Spaces around the courtyard stay well-lit during the
daytime without artificial lighting. Natural ventilation imports external air to benefit the
occupants of buildings.

DESIGN PRINCIPLES (ARCHITECTURE WITH ENVIRONMENT

 Merging architecture in landscape.
 Combination or link of the object with the garden space or the environment.
 Use of nature symbolism to create relations between architecture and its cultural context.
 Environmental technology studies which create an ecologically responsible and
sustainable architecture basis.
 Environmental design and construction techniques that support the acceptance of the new
“green architecture” and integrating objects in the context.
 Urban planning ideas keeping in mind future development and foreseeing future social
and cultural patterns which may influence construction techniques and environmental
policy.

10.4 HOUSING
Shelter has been man’s basic need since the origin of mankind. The importance of housing
was universally accepted from the dawn of history. The Neolithic man who lived between
10,000 and 2000 B.C. built durable habitation like pit dwellings, lake dwellings and beehive
huts. However, its functions increased manifold over the years. Primitive men sought some
kind of protection against wild animals and natural calamities. India is the home to more than
1.3 billion people.

The climatic features such as natural resources, geographical location and topography play a
significant role in vernacular constructions. Indian vernacular architects have developed
methods of climatic responsive architecture in the construction of their structures. The houses
are made from local materials and they are inspired by traditions and techniques of local
people.
When the institutions of private property came to be recognized, housing received a big boom
in the investment sector. The high rate of growth of urban population and its accumulative
nature with a population over one lakh has led to increasing problem of housing, reducing
privacy and over-crowding in small house, steady growth of slums and unplanned settlements
and severe effect on civic services in urban areas.

Dwelling conditions continue to worsen due to inadequacy of water, supply of housing by the
combined efforts of private and public. Majority of the houses in India are constructed by the
people themselves with their own resources. A major task facing housing development in
India relates to the provision of required housing to all, mainly to economically weaker
sections of the society.

With modern materials and technology, the buildings of present architectural style result in
high energy consumption in an attempt to provide thermal comfort indoors. On the other
hand, the vernacular architecture at any place has evolved through the ages with efforts to
produce efficient solutions. It has evolved over time to reflect the environmental, cultural,
technological, economical and historical context in which it exists.
11. CASE STUDIES

11.1 SWASWARA
LOCATION: located at OM Beach near Gokarna (Karnataka, India) over 26 acres of beach
front green hillock.

THE CONCEPT:
Swaswara is a retreat conceptualized to give an opportunity to guests to go back to
their mind, body and soul. Four core offerings of the retreat are Yoga & Meditation,
Ayurveda, Painting & Sculpting and Cuisine.
ARCHITECTURAL / CONSTRUCTIONAL EFFICIENCY

Naturally lit and naturally ventilated areas provide an elegant and eco-friendly solution to
energy conservation.
The restaurant, library and the meditation room at Swaswara are naturally lit and naturally
ventilated.
In keeping with the eco-friendly theme, the Swaswara provides guest rooms that are naturally
lit during the day and naturally ventilated.
PROS
a. Buildings covered with thatched roofs
b. Used durable material like cane to make furniture
c. Rainwater harvesting
d. Open to sky spaces – natural light & ventilation
e. Environmental initiatives
No. of users :200
Area per user :40
Total built area:8000 sq.m
11.2 CARNOUSTIE
LOCATION:
Set on the shores of the Arabian sea, just 8 kms away from the world famous backwaters of
Alappuzha, the luxurious Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort

1) FACILITIES
• The Resort comprises of a variety of exclusive and luxurious villas, fine dining
and a spa, all set within a tropical verdant beachside location.
• There is a full facility Ayurveda spa with really treatment rooms.
• All the villas at Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort are a fusion of traditional
and modern Kerala architecture.
• Jute, Rattan mats, and bamboo are used everywhere possible.
• A fusion bamboo framework with traditional thatched roof is unique.
• The Landscape is locally sourced either from the same site or nearby locations.
• The resort is evocative of the location and the culture.
12. BIBLIOGRAPHY
 https://main.ayush.gov.in/ayush-systems/homoeopathy/
 magazine.org/the psychology of spaces
 Healing Spaces by Esther M Sternberg
 thedaylightsite.com
 https://www.ayurveda.com/resources/articles/ayurveda-a-brief-
introduction-and-guide
 https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2012/429103/
 https://docplayer.net/49422286-Yoga-and-naturopathy.html
 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_alternative_medicine
 http://www.yogamdniy.nic.in/WriteReadData/LINKS/File577a4a83f0
b-996b-4119-842d-60790971e651.pdf
 https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/readersblog/dr-dhruva-
prasaf/discover-the-oldest-surviving-medical-system-in-the-world-
ayurveda-4611/
 https://www.nhp.gov.in/ayush/naturopathy
 http://bharatvidya.org/Yoga/myweb/history_of_naturopathy.htm