The following interview took place on Tuesday, September 20th.

I set an appointment with Tejal

Swami of Swami Ayurveda to 1) Understand the field of Ayurveda from a certified
student/practitioner in the field and 2) to complete the Unit 7 assignment in preparation for our
final assignment. Additionally, I asked Tejal about specific ayurvedic principles relating to
maintaining energy throughout the day.

Question 1 - What are the profession's historical foundations?

The foundations of Ayurvedic medicine begin with the 5 elements of our world, earth, water, fire,
air, and space. Ayurveda began and is still a practice focusing on bringing a balance between
the doshas.

Question 2 - Do you think an understanding of the religious foundation of

Ayurveda is required for acceptance into western medicine?

Tejal says “No.” She believes an understanding of the 5 elements and 3 doshas is sufficient.
Along with the concept of bringing each dosha into balance.

Question 3 - How has the profession developed over time?

Parts of Ayurveda have been accepted piecemeal into western society and medicine. This is
not necessarily bad as Ayurveda integrates with many primary care conventions. Massage for
example is a common therapy I offer. The effects can still be gleaned even without an
understanding of the religious aspect.

Question 4 - What is your current scope of practice or the primary ailment you
address with your patients?

My main scope of practice is digestive issues. Most ailments people have when they see
me are related to their digestive health. For example, many people dealing with lower back pain
will find relief after we alter their diet to reduce bloating and gas…not a common connection, but
it happens fairly frequently.

Question 5 - What common therapies are utilized in a treatment session?

Massage is a common therapy because “who doesn’t want a good massage right?!?”
Also, face and neck manipulation therapies.

Question 6 - What is the average cost of a session, and is it accessible to a wide

population?

The first session is $80; follow-on sessions are $40

 Question 7 - (Tejal question to me) What drew you to ayurvedic medicine?

Studying the topic for school and I’ve realized that many parts of Ayurveda are already
in my fitness regime. Now, I want to know the theory and understand the specifics from a
practitioner of Ayurveda.