About Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda:
The Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), established in 2020, is the culmination of over fifty years of Ayurvedic education and research. It was formed by merging three esteemed institutions with deep-rooted legacies in Ayurveda:
- Institute of Post Graduate Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (IPGT&RA), established in 1956, served as a pioneering center for advanced Ayurvedic studies and research.
- Shree Gulabkunverba Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, founded in 1946, is one of the oldest Ayurvedic colleges in India, dedicated to undergraduate education in Ayurveda.
- Indian Institute of Ayurvedic Pharmaceutical Sciences, a leading institute in Ayurvedic pharmaceutics and drug research.
These institutions together represent a rich history of Ayurvedic tradition and innovation. By integrating their resources and expertise, ITRA has become a globally recognized center for Ayurvedic education, research, and healthcare, designated as an Institute of National Importance by the Indian Parliament.
In 2018, I attended the Three-Month Introductory Course at what was then Gujarat Ayurveda University, now integrated into ITRA, which became the foundation for my deep connection with Ayurveda. This course is specially designed for foreign nationals, providing an introduction to the vast science of Ayurveda. The structured curriculum ensures a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Aims and Objectives of the Course:
The course was aimed at providing foundational knowledge in Ayurveda, covering the following subjects:
- Basic Principles of Ayurveda: Including Swasthavritta (hygiene and positive health).
- Materia Medica and Pharmaceutics: Fundamentals of Dravyaguna (herbal pharmacology), Rasa-Shastra, and Bhaishajya Kalpana (medicine preparation).
- Diagnosis and Pathogenesis: Introduction to Nidan (diagnosis and disease progression).
- Treatment and Panchakarma: Basics of Chikitsa and demonstrations of various massage therapies and internal purification techniques.
- Rasayana (Geriatrics and Rejuvenation Therapy): Understanding age-related and rejuvenative therapies.
- Surgery Fundamentals: Practical exposure to Ksharasutra (alkaline thread cauterization), Agnikarma (cauterization), and Jalaukavacharana (leech therapy).
- Techniques of Treatment: Practical demonstrations of Ayurvedic therapies.
- Preparation of Herbal Medicines: Hands-on learning of herbal formulation.
- Prenatal and Postnatal Care: Health care for women and children.
Faculty and Guidance:
The course was conducted under the leadership of exceptional faculty members, including Dr. Mandip Goyal, who served as the course in-charge. Her profound knowledge, dedication, and ability to explain intricate concepts with clarity made her an inspiring guide throughout the course. The teachers were not just knowledgeable but also deeply passionate about Ayurveda, always willing to help and guide us, making the learning process truly enriching.
In addition to completing the Three-Month Introductory Course in Ayurveda in 2018, I also had the privilege of attending the Three-Month Yoga Introductory Course at the Maharshi Patanjali Institute for Yoga Naturopathy Education and Research (MPIYNER). This institute, now part of ITRA, offers specialized training in Yoga and Naturopathy, integrating ancient practices with modern therapeutic approaches.
The Yoga course enriched my understanding of holistic wellness by exploring the synergy between Ayurveda and Yoga. It provided practical exposure to asanas, pranayama, and meditation, complementing the Ayurvedic principles of health and balance.
Inspired by these courses, I returned to Jamnagar and spent the next two years participating in specialized courses offered by the university’s esteemed professors. These advanced studies allowed me to deepen my understanding and practical skills in Ayurveda, further solidifying my passion for this ancient science.
The introductory course at The Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda was a life-changing experience. It provided me with a comprehensive understanding of Ayurveda’s foundational principles and practical applications. The serene environment of the campus, the dedication of the faculty, and the hands-on exposure to treatments and medicine preparation made this journey unforgettable.
The Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda stands as a testament to the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda, and its faculty embodies the spirit of this ancient science. For anyone passionate about understanding Ayurveda, this course is the perfect starting point. It not only offers profound knowledge but also inspires a lifelong journey into holistic health and wellness. My time at the university has left me with a deep respect for Ayurveda and the dedicated teachers who pass on its wisdom to future generations.
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