200-Hour Foundations of Ayurveda
For over 20 years, the Kripalu School of Ayurveda has empowered students to nurture their body, mind, senses, and soul through transformative Ayurvedic education. In our immersive 200-Hour Foundations of Ayurveda training, you will embark on a vibrant and comprehensive journey into the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda—a holistic system for health, balance, and well-being.
Designed for both personal growth and professional aspirations, this dynamic program offers a deep dive into the principles, philosophy, and practical applications of Ayurveda. Whether you seek to enrich your own life or lay the groundwork for advanced certification- your journey in the Ayurveda School begins here. You will join a supportive community of like-minded learners, forging meaningful connections while mastering foundational Ayurvedic knowledge.
A Pathway to Growth
The 200-Hour Foundations of Ayurveda course can stand alone as a complete training or serve as the first step toward advanced programs, including Kripalu’s 300-Hour Ayurvedic Yoga Teacher Training or the 650-Hour Ayurvedic Health Counselor track.
Foundations of Ayurveda | HYBRID
April 23–July 4, 2025
On Campus: May 30–June 6, 2025 & June 27–July 4, 2025
AWAKEN TO THE RHYTHMS OF LIFE
This training brings the principles of Ayurveda to life, helping you cultivate a deeper connection to yourself, others, and the natural world. By aligning with seasonal rhythms and the elements, you will develop the confidence to incorporate Ayurvedic wisdom into your daily routine.
Rooted in classical Ayurvedic texts and presented in a modern, accessible format, the curriculum seamlessly bridges ancient traditions with contemporary relevance. Taught by experienced faculty who embody the teachings, this program inspires profound personal transformation. Through a blend of theory, hands-on practices, and real-world applications, you will gain essential tools and insights to create positive change in your life and the lives of those around you.
Reconnect with your habitat, rediscover your inner harmony, and unlock the potential of Ayurveda with Kripalu’s Foundations of Ayurveda training. Start your journey today and experience the enduring power of this ancient science.
TEXTBOOKS AND MATERIALS
In addition to the complimentary manual students receive on the first day of training, the following texts are required for this training.
- The Everyday Ayurveda Cookbook: A Seasonal Guide to Eating and Living Well by Kate O’Donnell
- Textbook of Ayurveda, Volume 1: Fundamental Principles of Ayurveda by Dr. Vasant Lad
- Ayurveda and the Mind: The Healing of Consciousness by Dr. David Frawley
Information Sessions
Register for one of our free, online information sessions to learn more.
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DISCOVERING THE BUILDING BLOCKS OF THE DOSHAS AND TISSUES
Explore the three doshas and their 15 subdoshas to understand how their dynamic interplay sustains physical health and balance. This foundational knowledge is key to unlocking the functional integrity of the body’s systems.
FOOD AS MEDICINE
Engage in interactive cooking classes and uncover the secrets of Ayurveda’s six tastes, the stages of digestion, and the transformative power of spices in promoting robust health and digestion.
SELF-CARE AND DAILY LIFESTYLE PRACTICES
Learn nourishing techniques to cleanse the sense organs, improve sleep quality, and reduce stress. These daily practices are designed to enhance your overall resilience and vitality.
THE ROOTS OF AYURVEDA
Delve into the ancient Vedic philosophy that forms the foundation of Ayurveda. Discover timeless teachings that help you connect with your true nature and bring balance to your life in today’s modern world.
AYURVEDA AND THE MIND
Study Ayurvedic psychology and explore practices like meditation, pranayama, and yoga to understand and shift habitual mental patterns. These tools empower you to cultivate mental clarity and emotional harmony.
SANSKRIT
Gain a basic understanding of Sanskrit, the original language of Ayurveda. Learn the alphabet, correct pronunciation, and key terms to deepen your connection to Ayurvedic practices.
AYURVEDA-INSPIRED YOGA PRACTICE
Integrate Ayurvedic principles into your yoga practice. Learn to balance the flow of prana (vital force) and adapt your daily sadhana to support your unique constitution and enhance overall well-being.
ONLINE TRAININGS
Is the curriculum different for online versus on-campus training?
No, the curriculum is the same for both formats.
What do I need for online training?
To participate in online classes, you’ll need:
- A reliable internet connection.
- A computer or tablet equipped with a webcam, microphone, and speakers.
- The Zoom app installed.
- Basic word processing capabilities for assignments.
How are the trainings delivered?
All online sessions are conducted live via Zoom. Once registered, you’ll receive links, passwords, and detailed instructions to join the sessions.
Are online programs live or recorded?
The majority of online classes are taught live, and active participation is expected. Recordings of each session will also be available in an online library to support your study and review.
HYBRID TRAININGS
How are hybrid trainings conducted?
Hybrid programs combine online and on-campus components. The online portion is delivered live via Zoom, with the same technical requirements as fully online trainings. Please refer to the respective sections of this FAQ for additional details about online and on-campus training.
ON CAMPUS TRAININGS
How should I prepare for on-campus training?
Your time at Kripalu will be immersive and full. To prepare:
- Begin or maintain a gentle yoga practice if you’re not already doing so.
- Adjust your daily routine to align with the training schedule, paying particular attention to wake-up times, mealtimes, and bedtime.
Sample Daily Schedule:
6:30–7:30 am Sadhana (yoga, pranayama, and meditation.)
7:30 – 8:30 am Breakfast
8:30 am–12:00 pm Program Session
12:00–2:00 pm Lunch and free time
2:00–6:00 pm Program Session
7:00–9:00 pm Occasional Evening Program
You will receive a welcome email a few weeks before the program begins, including required readings, assignments, and other important details.
Will there be time for yoga and other activities?
The schedule is intensive, but you will generally have a midday break from 12:00–2:00 pm and some free evenings to participate in Kripalu’s R&R or evening programs.
Is financial assistance available?
Yes. Kripalu Schools offer scholarships made possible through the generosity of patrons and donors. Financial assistance is awarded based on availability of funds. Click here to learn more about scholarships and eligibility.
What housing options are available?
Kripalu offers a variety of accommodations, from dorm-style rooms with shared baths to private rooms with private baths. Pricing depends on the option chosen, and early registration is recommended as spaces fill quickly. Learn more about accommodations here or call 413.448.3152.
GENERAL INQUIRIES
Are Kripalu School of Ayurveda trainings academically rigorous?
Yes. Ayurveda is a profound and complex system of healing that requires dedicated study and practice. Courses are led by expert faculty and include required readings, assignments, quizzes/exams, and active participation.
What academic support is available?
KSA provides comprehensive academic support, including feedback and mentoring on assignments. Faculty and staff are available for virtual office hours to support students throughout their studies.
Does the program include panchakarma or Ayurvedic massage training?
No. Panchakarma involves specialized detoxification treatments, often associated with Ayurvedic spa services. Offering these treatments typically requires a massage therapy license in most states.
Will there be a graduation ceremony?
There will be a closing event for graduating students; however, this is not a formal graduation and is not open to guests outside of the graduates.