Organizing Team
Dr. Shekhar AnnambhotlaOrganizing Director
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Sudha BulusuCommunication Director
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Michelle CostantiniOrganizing Secretary
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About the Conference
20.0 PACE (Professional Ayurvedic Continuing Education) Credits from AAPNA (Association of Ayurvedic Professionals of North America, Inc. USA
- Ayurveda for Women
Featured Speakers
Tentative Conference Schedule
Featured Speakers
Nancy A Smith, BA, LMT, RAP, RYT, New Jersey, USA - Nancy Smith L.M.T. is the founder and director of Essence of Self Ayurveda Spa for Massage, Yoga and a Healthy Lifestyle. Nancy is also a Nationally Board Certified and Approved CEU Provider in addition to operating her Spa, teaching classes, taking advanced courses, and volunteering her services. She is a NJ licensed massage therapist with an Integrated Massage certification from the Lehigh Valley Healing Arts Academy (PA). She became a Panchakarma Massage Specialist at Greens Ayurvedic Hospital, Mahe, Kerala, India in 2007. This experience allows her to apply the essence of authentic Indian panchakarma massage modified for the optimal American experience. Nancy has been actively practicing and teaching Yoga and Ayurveda since 1999. She received her Yoga and Ayurvedic certifications from the Kripalu Schools of Ayurveda and Yoga (MA). She is a Registered Advanced Ayurvedic Practitioner through the Association of Ayurvedic Professionals of North America (AAPNA) and received her Marma certification (Ayurvedic Acupressure) from the Ayurvedic Institute (NM). She continues advanced Ayurvedic and Yoga studies. Nancy is a Level III Holy Fire Reiki Master Practitioner and 1000 Hour Yoga Therapist. She has been a dedicated Yoga Instructor and Reiki Master Teacher since 2001. In addition to running her Ayurveda Spa, Nancy gives massages for students at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck. She teaches for the yoga club at Ramapo College and special need yoga at Lakeland High School. She also ministers as a Seton Associate through the Sisters of Charity of St. Elizabeth in Convent Station, NJ providing services to people with AIDS, cancers and Special needs.
Practical Demonstration: Yoga for Your Body Type
Practical Demonstration: Yoga for Your Body Type
Pandit Neil Sahil Parmeswar, Pennsylvania, USA - Vedic Pandit, has been studying scripture for many years. He has more than 10 years experience in Vedic understanding and chanting, Traditional Yoga as revealed by the ancient sages, and meditation techniques, studying under his gurus. He has also had experience in scriptures from other faiths, including the Bible and the Quran. He performs poojas & yajnas (Vedic prayer ceremonies) and teaches mantra recitation as well as traditional yoga.
Topic: Mantra Yoga: The Yoga of Vibration
Abstract: Mantra Yoga is the ancient practice of healing through sound. Specific sounds, or mantras, were revealed by the saints and sages for the benefit of healing both ourselves and those around us. The sages recommend various practices for healing, including niyama (observances), prayschitta (atonement), and upavasa (fasting); the practice of mantra is unique in that it can be practiced as a complete practice by itself or in addition to / in combination with other practices. Mantra uses the vibrations of the sound to heal the mind and cleanse the subtle energy channels in the body. The Vedas contain a wealth of knowledge that can be used to heal both the inner and the outer self.
Topic: Mantra Yoga: The Yoga of Vibration
Abstract: Mantra Yoga is the ancient practice of healing through sound. Specific sounds, or mantras, were revealed by the saints and sages for the benefit of healing both ourselves and those around us. The sages recommend various practices for healing, including niyama (observances), prayschitta (atonement), and upavasa (fasting); the practice of mantra is unique in that it can be practiced as a complete practice by itself or in addition to / in combination with other practices. Mantra uses the vibrations of the sound to heal the mind and cleanse the subtle energy channels in the body. The Vedas contain a wealth of knowledge that can be used to heal both the inner and the outer self.
Shekhar Annambhotla, BAMS, MD-Ayu, RAAP, RDAM, ERYT-500, LMT, FAAPNA, Pennsylvania, USA - who was trained in India for 9 years ayurvedic medical education and has been practicing and teaching ayurveda worldwide since 1988. Ayurveda is not just a system of alternative system of healing, but is actually a comprehensive and ancient science of health. It is Shekhar’s belief that due to the open nature of ayurveda and its timeless principles, it is a boon to those of us living in the modern, stressful world. Shekhar’s mission is to educate and help people live healthier lives with Ayurveda. Shekhar has the opportunity to serve at Maharishi Vedic Schools and Universities in The Netherlands, Austria, Hungary, Italy, Germany, France, Switzerland, Great Britain, Ireland, Scotland, Portugal, Spain, Belgium, Trinidad, Guadeloupe, Jamaica (Caribbean Island), Colombia (South America), Bahamas, Peru, Bermuda, Costa Rica, Canada, Mexico and the U.S.A. He has taught ayurveda courses in many prestigious universities in the United States including University of Pennsylvania (UPENN), University of Medicine & Dentistry in NJ (UMDNJ), Hershey Medical School, Jefferson Medical School, University of Penn Nursing School, and others.
Topic: Ayurvedic Management of PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome)
Topic: Ayurvedic Management of PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome)
Lisa D Bryan, MA, ERYT-500, Pennsylvania, USA - is a Kripalu Professional Level Yoga Teacher (E-RYT 500), Spiritual Director, and Reiki Level III practitioner (master). Offering wellness practices for 18 years, her passion is to integrate holistic health & spirituality from India & the West. Her group Yoga classes and individual sessions are comprehensive, nurturing, and spiritually uplifting. They focus on combining the prana/energy of the present moment to the timeless skills of the past. Kripalu methodology is her primary style with influence from kundalini, Bikram, and Iyengar lineages.
Lisa is currently teaching at area churches, and at studios in the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania: Westend Yoga and Open Heart Yoga. Currently, she is a member of the Kripalu Yoga Teachers Association, Yoga Alliance, and Spiritual Directors International. In 2013, Lisa completed her MA Holistic Spirituality and certificate in Spiritual Direction from Chestnut Hill College. As part of her studies, she immersed in the Thirty Day silent retreat according to St. Ignatius of Loyola (Roman Catholic Jesuit spirituality). She has also studied Ayurveda (medical science related to Yoga) at a clinic in India and avidly practices and coaches students on ayurveda in daily living. In 2017, she pilgrimaged to sacred sites of the Kripalu lineage with Yoganand Michael Carroll (Dean of Kripalu Yoga). Lisa also holds a BA from Bates College (Music with French concentration) and was adjunct faculty at DeSales University for fourteen years (Hatha Yoga/PE260).
Practical Demonstration: Yoga and Relaxation
Lisa is currently teaching at area churches, and at studios in the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania: Westend Yoga and Open Heart Yoga. Currently, she is a member of the Kripalu Yoga Teachers Association, Yoga Alliance, and Spiritual Directors International. In 2013, Lisa completed her MA Holistic Spirituality and certificate in Spiritual Direction from Chestnut Hill College. As part of her studies, she immersed in the Thirty Day silent retreat according to St. Ignatius of Loyola (Roman Catholic Jesuit spirituality). She has also studied Ayurveda (medical science related to Yoga) at a clinic in India and avidly practices and coaches students on ayurveda in daily living. In 2017, she pilgrimaged to sacred sites of the Kripalu lineage with Yoganand Michael Carroll (Dean of Kripalu Yoga). Lisa also holds a BA from Bates College (Music with French concentration) and was adjunct faculty at DeSales University for fourteen years (Hatha Yoga/PE260).
Practical Demonstration: Yoga and Relaxation
Michelle Costantini, Pennsylvania, USA - Michelle received her Ayurveda Food & Nutrition Consultant certificate from the International University of Yoga & Ayurveda, Florida, USA. She studied for the Ayurveda Lifestyle Consultant certificate at the Centro Ayurveda in Genoa, Italy and at the Ayurveda & Yoga Retreat Hospital in Connor, Tamil Nadu, India. Michelle is an Ayurveda Food & Nutrition Consultant at the Twin Ponds Integrative Health Center in Breinigsville, PA. She offers consultations on food choices and cooking alternatives, and suggests simple lifestyle changes that will improve your health by allowing your body to better digest the food you eat and thus assimilate its nutrients. Michelle also offers cooking demonstrations and workshops for individuals or small groups.
Topic - Osteoporosis - Natural Management
Abstract -
Topic - Osteoporosis - Natural Management
Abstract -
Suzanne Ickes, RD, LDN, Pennsylvania, USA - My expertise is the ability to help people understand complex nutritional concepts and then empower them to improve the quality of their lives. I have worked in hospitals, nursing homes, worksite wellness programs, private practice, government agencies, dialysis centers and with food service. I study both western and eastern nutrition. (I was introduced to Ayurveda 24 years ago at this very location.) I have worked with thousands of people and have the background and desire to present information in an engaging and fun manner. I currently work at Lehigh Valley Health Network as a clinical dietitian specializing in gastrointestinal disorders, intensive care patients, enteral and parenteral feedings.
Topic: Diet and Menopause - Smooth the Transition
Abstract - Menopause is a time of change. Your constitution will play a large role in how you be affected and what will be your most effective tools for navigating through this transition. Join me as I address many of the common symptom of Menopause and what dietary and herbal interventions can be applied. Some of topics we will address are hot flashes, vaginal dryness, depression, anxiety, weight gain and mood swings. Ayurveda techniques along with some western medicine techniques will be provided in this presentation. The goal of this presentation is make Menopause less miserable and more manageable. If you or someone you care about is going through or about to experience Menopause, you will not want to miss this presentation.
Topic: Diet and Menopause - Smooth the Transition
Abstract - Menopause is a time of change. Your constitution will play a large role in how you be affected and what will be your most effective tools for navigating through this transition. Join me as I address many of the common symptom of Menopause and what dietary and herbal interventions can be applied. Some of topics we will address are hot flashes, vaginal dryness, depression, anxiety, weight gain and mood swings. Ayurveda techniques along with some western medicine techniques will be provided in this presentation. The goal of this presentation is make Menopause less miserable and more manageable. If you or someone you care about is going through or about to experience Menopause, you will not want to miss this presentation.
Prashanth Acharya, PhD (Ayu), Bengaluru, India - A pioneering entrepreneurial medical practitioner, he is the Founder and Medical Director of ARTH Group, spearheading the fortunes of many Ayurveda ventures primarily in Karnataka with franchises in different parts of the globe. A staunch proponent of ‘Scientific Ayurveda’ based on evidence based practices; Dr. Prashanth is essentially an Ayurveda doctor in his heart. He secured his Bachelor’s degree in Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) from Government Ayurvedic Medical College, Bangalore University, and did his Master’s degree in the surgical specialty of Ayurveda - Shalya Tantra - from the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore. Dr. Prashanth S Acharya is one of the rare holders of a PhD in the non-surgical management of Slip Disc in India from Tilak Ayurved Mahavidyalaya, Pune University, Pune. ARTH AYURVEDA, through him, has achieved significant strides on occupational health hazards like Ano Rectal Conditions Computer vision syndrome, Carpel tunnel syndrome, Slipped Disc etc., caused by the sedentary lifestyles of today’s working professionals.
Topic: Ayurveda for Breast Care in Women
Abstract - The rampant usage of chemicals in almost all the products of the world both consumed internally and external applications from milk to vegetables to meat and from face wash to cosmetics has impacted hugely on the hormonal balance of the females ranging from children to the aged. The breast care is an absolute integral part of the women health care. The care of Breasts is important for the general well-being too of the women. Proper care can prevent issues like simple fibrocystic changes to a complicated cancerous lump. The cosmetic includes from sagging to adverse effects of the implants. A good care of the same with the principles of ayurveda can prevent all these and have healthy breasts.
Topic: Ayurveda for Breast Care in Women
Abstract - The rampant usage of chemicals in almost all the products of the world both consumed internally and external applications from milk to vegetables to meat and from face wash to cosmetics has impacted hugely on the hormonal balance of the females ranging from children to the aged. The breast care is an absolute integral part of the women health care. The care of Breasts is important for the general well-being too of the women. Proper care can prevent issues like simple fibrocystic changes to a complicated cancerous lump. The cosmetic includes from sagging to adverse effects of the implants. A good care of the same with the principles of ayurveda can prevent all these and have healthy breasts.
Pushpa Soundararajan, MBA, RDA, LDN, CAP, CYI, Illinois, USA - has been a registered dietitian for over 30 years and currently has an integrative nutrition virtual private practice in Chicago. She specializes in Renal nutrition, digestive disorders, vegetarian nutrition and chronic illnesses. She is a certified Yoga instructor and Ayurvedic practitioner. She is an international speaker and has given several talks on integrative nutrition and renal nutrition to a varied audience. She has a YouTube channel vpk nutrition: Mind body healing with Pushpa sharing her knowledge for self-healing. She has co-authored 2 books, A Primer on Ayurveda, a practical guide for dietitians and Ayurveda and Yoga: a path to health and healing. She has also co-created an Ayurvedic nutrition course for dietitians to integrate Ayurvedic principles in practice. She is passionate about Ayurveda, yoga and integrating these with modern medicine for holistic health and wellness. She believes that the body heals itself when given the right diet and lifestyle.
Topic: Integrative Approach to Kidney Disease
Abstract: The CDC says 10% of the population worldwide is affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD). The prevalence among women is slightly more than in men. Long term uncontrolled Diabetes or Hypertension leads to kidney disease and 9 out of 10 people with CKD are not even aware of having it. Majority of my practice deals with CKD stages 3-5 pre-dialysis patients and with proper diet and lifestyle, they can slow down the progression of the disease, prevent complications and live a relatively healthy life. In my talk I will give you some of the current recommendations for protein and other nutrients based on current guidelines, review food groups and studies showing plant based nutrition to be very beneficial. I will touch upon Ayurvedic approach to kidney disease, doshas involved and how Ayurvedic diet and lifestyle principles can be incorporated in the management of CKD.
Topic: Integrative Approach to Kidney Disease
Abstract: The CDC says 10% of the population worldwide is affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD). The prevalence among women is slightly more than in men. Long term uncontrolled Diabetes or Hypertension leads to kidney disease and 9 out of 10 people with CKD are not even aware of having it. Majority of my practice deals with CKD stages 3-5 pre-dialysis patients and with proper diet and lifestyle, they can slow down the progression of the disease, prevent complications and live a relatively healthy life. In my talk I will give you some of the current recommendations for protein and other nutrients based on current guidelines, review food groups and studies showing plant based nutrition to be very beneficial. I will touch upon Ayurvedic approach to kidney disease, doshas involved and how Ayurvedic diet and lifestyle principles can be incorporated in the management of CKD.
Manish Bhagat, PhD, New Jersey, USA - Manish did PhD in organic Chemistry, R&D Principal Scientist at Johnson & Johnson Skillman NJ from 2008. Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor (AWC)
Currently Learning advance Ayurveda, Growing ayurvedic herbs at New Jersey, Brungaraj, Ashwagandha, Apamarga, Vasa, Brahmi, Bhumyamalaki etc.. Prepare simple ayurvedic formulations for family use Example: Hair oil, Mahashadbindu Oil, Yograj Guggal, Vanarivati, Sankh bhasma etc..
Topic: Common Ayurvedic Herbs for Women and How to Grow your own herbal garden at home
Abstract - Take a step toward self sufficiency with your own medicinal herb garden! Growing herbs and medicinal plants is a sustainable practice to support the health and wellness of your family and garden. There are ways to use Ayurvedic medicine to support ourselves in a world that can be uncaring. Ayurveda has a strong history of strengthening women’s bodies, and we can turn to this ancient wisdom to find health in the modern era.
Currently Learning advance Ayurveda, Growing ayurvedic herbs at New Jersey, Brungaraj, Ashwagandha, Apamarga, Vasa, Brahmi, Bhumyamalaki etc.. Prepare simple ayurvedic formulations for family use Example: Hair oil, Mahashadbindu Oil, Yograj Guggal, Vanarivati, Sankh bhasma etc..
Topic: Common Ayurvedic Herbs for Women and How to Grow your own herbal garden at home
Abstract - Take a step toward self sufficiency with your own medicinal herb garden! Growing herbs and medicinal plants is a sustainable practice to support the health and wellness of your family and garden. There are ways to use Ayurvedic medicine to support ourselves in a world that can be uncaring. Ayurveda has a strong history of strengthening women’s bodies, and we can turn to this ancient wisdom to find health in the modern era.
Laxmi Parmeswar, MA, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Pennsylvania, USA - Laxmi Parmeswar (a psychotherapist, & approved clinical supervisor/trainer) is a reputed educational and mental health consultant in the US/India. She is currently the President/CEO of Positive Outcomes,
Inc., a counseling, consulting and training company specializing in corporate training, organizational development for social service / educational organizations, and school based family counseling programs. Her current clientele includes public schools, social service organizations, educational institutions and small businesses in the US (including in the metro New York City, Chicago, Atlanta, and Philadelphia / South Jersey area) and India. In 2007, Laxmi launched a state-of-the-art, first of its kind, school-based, independent Counseling Center in India. In November 2005, Laxmi was awarded a Proclamation from the City of Roswell, Georgia, recognizing her record of distinguished service to the community - November 30, 2005 was designated as “Laxmi Parmeswar Day”. Laxmi is also the former Executive Director of the North Fulton Child Development Association / North Fulton Human Service Center (NFCDA) and led the organization to achieve NAEYC accreditation from the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs. Under her leadership, NFCDA also won the Audrey Nelson National Award for outstanding community development. Prior to joining the Child Development Association in 1999, Laxmi was the Vice President of Family Service of Burlington County a large non-profit counseling organization serving adults, children and families in New Jersey.
Laxmi has over 30 years of experience in service organizations & educational institutions throughout USA. She has worked in social/educational organizations in many roles, ranging from direct service to senior level management to leadership & strategic planning. Laxmi has also served on prestigious boards
such as the Mental Health Outpatient Directors’ Coalition in New Jersey, the New Jersey Association of Community Providers, and the Atlanta Fulton Family Connection. Laxmi has a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Emporia State University, Kansas and another Masters in Applied Psychology from the University of Bombay, India. Laxmi is also a Licensed Professional Counselor in several states and nationally certified in USA by NBCC, a national board. Laxmi
is also a Distance Credentialed Counselor. Laxmi is married, and has two adult, married sons. Her husband, Ravi Parmeswar is a senior executive/consultant in several multinational corporations.
Topic: Trauma Recovery and Healing
Abstract - how emotional trauma is expressed within our bodies and how it reveals itself through physical / psychological symptoms and ailments. Ayurvedic
medicine teaches us about the connections between the body, mind, heart, energy, and soul. This lecture will help you understand your traumas and teach you strategies and practical tips to make peace with your wounds and move on to live a more harmonious & healthier life.
Inc., a counseling, consulting and training company specializing in corporate training, organizational development for social service / educational organizations, and school based family counseling programs. Her current clientele includes public schools, social service organizations, educational institutions and small businesses in the US (including in the metro New York City, Chicago, Atlanta, and Philadelphia / South Jersey area) and India. In 2007, Laxmi launched a state-of-the-art, first of its kind, school-based, independent Counseling Center in India. In November 2005, Laxmi was awarded a Proclamation from the City of Roswell, Georgia, recognizing her record of distinguished service to the community - November 30, 2005 was designated as “Laxmi Parmeswar Day”. Laxmi is also the former Executive Director of the North Fulton Child Development Association / North Fulton Human Service Center (NFCDA) and led the organization to achieve NAEYC accreditation from the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs. Under her leadership, NFCDA also won the Audrey Nelson National Award for outstanding community development. Prior to joining the Child Development Association in 1999, Laxmi was the Vice President of Family Service of Burlington County a large non-profit counseling organization serving adults, children and families in New Jersey.
Laxmi has over 30 years of experience in service organizations & educational institutions throughout USA. She has worked in social/educational organizations in many roles, ranging from direct service to senior level management to leadership & strategic planning. Laxmi has also served on prestigious boards
such as the Mental Health Outpatient Directors’ Coalition in New Jersey, the New Jersey Association of Community Providers, and the Atlanta Fulton Family Connection. Laxmi has a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Emporia State University, Kansas and another Masters in Applied Psychology from the University of Bombay, India. Laxmi is also a Licensed Professional Counselor in several states and nationally certified in USA by NBCC, a national board. Laxmi
is also a Distance Credentialed Counselor. Laxmi is married, and has two adult, married sons. Her husband, Ravi Parmeswar is a senior executive/consultant in several multinational corporations.
Topic: Trauma Recovery and Healing
Abstract - how emotional trauma is expressed within our bodies and how it reveals itself through physical / psychological symptoms and ailments. Ayurvedic
medicine teaches us about the connections between the body, mind, heart, energy, and soul. This lecture will help you understand your traumas and teach you strategies and practical tips to make peace with your wounds and move on to live a more harmonious & healthier life.
Michelle DeFranco, Pennsylvania, USA - a 200-hour Certified Kundalini yoga teacher who works in the insurance industry by day. Born and raised in Suburban Philly I’ve also lived in Southern NH where I began my yoga path. Yoga has helped me deal with challenges in life and I fulfilled a long time dream of getting certified as a teacher 2 years ago. I enjoy the outdoors, spending time with family and friends (including my tuxedo cat fur baby) and traveling.
Practical Demonstration: Experiential Kundalini Yoga
Abstract - We will move through a transformative yoga experience including warm ups, yoga Kriya, pranayama and mantra meditation. Kundalini yoga is specifically designed to awaken the Kundalini energy at the base of the spine and move it up the chakras. This energy travels through the crown of the head to connect with the Universal mind where all possibilities exist and we experience the true nature of time.
Practical Demonstration: Experiential Kundalini Yoga
Abstract - We will move through a transformative yoga experience including warm ups, yoga Kriya, pranayama and mantra meditation. Kundalini yoga is specifically designed to awaken the Kundalini energy at the base of the spine and move it up the chakras. This energy travels through the crown of the head to connect with the Universal mind where all possibilities exist and we experience the true nature of time.
Priyaa Balamurugen, BAMS, LMT, New Jersey, USA - is an Ayurvedic doctor practicing Ayurveda in the US and India for the past twenty years. She completed her (B.A.M.S) Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine & Surgery degree from the prestigious Dr. M.G.R Medical University, Tamil Nadu, India. She has a graduate degree in Psychology from the University of Madras, India and a Diploma in Yoga & Naturopathy. She also studied Acupuncture in Beijing, China. Priyaa's unique approach to health integrates the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, marma (energy points), Acupressure, Siddha with naturopathic cleansing, healing and relaxation through yoga & meditation. She is affiliated to SKY-Simplified Kundalini Yoga, New Jersey chapter, is the Membership Director of AAPNA-Association of Ayurvedic Professionals of North America and volunteers teaching Sushumna kriya yoga through her Non-profit Ashram center for wellbeing to the community.
Topic: Meditation for Modern Times
Abstract - Meditation is an important part of the holistic wellness approach that helps strengthen our resilience to stress – by encouraging a positive approach to life, increasing self-love, being aware of negative emotions and cultivating equanimity along with a healthy lifestyle of nutritious diet, adequate sleep and physical exercise. It supports every step of the way throughout womanhood for a joyous experience of life itself. Kriya yoga is considered the most potent of techniques because it combines hand gestures, breathing, sound syllable and focused attention. In today's session we will be learning Sushumna Kriya meditation, a simplified form of kriya yoga specifically tailored to today’s fast paced lifestyle. It is suitable for all age groups without any restrictions.
Topic: Meditation for Modern Times
Abstract - Meditation is an important part of the holistic wellness approach that helps strengthen our resilience to stress – by encouraging a positive approach to life, increasing self-love, being aware of negative emotions and cultivating equanimity along with a healthy lifestyle of nutritious diet, adequate sleep and physical exercise. It supports every step of the way throughout womanhood for a joyous experience of life itself. Kriya yoga is considered the most potent of techniques because it combines hand gestures, breathing, sound syllable and focused attention. In today's session we will be learning Sushumna Kriya meditation, a simplified form of kriya yoga specifically tailored to today’s fast paced lifestyle. It is suitable for all age groups without any restrictions.
Aruna Ramesh, AWS, New Jersey, USA - is an Ayurvedic Practitioner, pursuing her Ayurvedic Doctor (AD) degree with Kerala Ayurveda Academy. She has been a Practitioner at Ayurvedashram in New jersey USA for the past 5 years. Aruna has completed Panchakarma Technician Program and advises clients in Purva, Pradhana and Paschat Karma. She has worked extensively with a lot of cases ranging from pediatric to geriatric with very successful outcomes. She has a graduate degree in Commerce from the University of Madras, India and has completed several certifications in the areas of Information Technology and Accounting. Her passion is to serve the community and has been involved in several service initiatives and Projects at Sri Sathya Sai organization and Senior Community Centers in New Jersey.
Topic: Ayurvedic Management of Menopause
Abstract - According to Ayurveda menopause is not a disease or a disorder, but a period of transition. It is an important phase in a woman’s life where she has to prioritize her health and wellbeing physically, mentally, emotionally, sexually and spiritually. She is transitioning from grihastha ashrama to vanaprastha and sanyasa ashrama which ayurvedically means moving from pitta to vata stage of life. We will be discussing how to gracefully transition to menopause holistically through food, life style, balancing the doshas and strengthening the dhatus and preserving the ojas. We will discuss some herbs and formulations and shodhana therapies that can support menopause.
Topic: Ayurvedic Management of Menopause
Abstract - According to Ayurveda menopause is not a disease or a disorder, but a period of transition. It is an important phase in a woman’s life where she has to prioritize her health and wellbeing physically, mentally, emotionally, sexually and spiritually. She is transitioning from grihastha ashrama to vanaprastha and sanyasa ashrama which ayurvedically means moving from pitta to vata stage of life. We will be discussing how to gracefully transition to menopause holistically through food, life style, balancing the doshas and strengthening the dhatus and preserving the ojas. We will discuss some herbs and formulations and shodhana therapies that can support menopause.
Priest Ganesan, Pennsylvania, USA - Pandit Ganesan comes from the city of Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, India. Beginning at the tender age of nine, he attended the Veda Padasalai at Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu. He received further training at the Sankaramadam associated with the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam at Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu. After nearly ten years of formal training at the above institutions, he was a practicing priest at Coimbatore for nearly twenty years. He joined the Gurukulam as a priest in 1997. While a student at the Vedic school associated with the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam, Pandit Ganesan had innumerable chances to be in the presence of Holiness Jagadguru Chandrasekarendra Saraswati Swamigal of Kanchi. The one moment he cherishes is the honor of receiving a shawl and a prize from the Acharya Swamigal on completion of his course of study at the school.
Topic: Dhanwantari Homam (Fire Ceremony) - Practical Demonstration
Abstract: Dhanwantari an Avatar of Lord Vishnu and the King of Varanasi. He appeared during the Samudra Manthan (Great Churn) holding the Amrit Kalash (elixir). He is mentioned as the God of Ayurveda in the Puranas. Dhanvantari is also referred as the Hindu God of Medicine by the great Indian expert of medicine, Sushruta. Devotees worship Dhanvantari to seek His blessings for good health during Dhanteras.Traditionally, Dhanvantari is depicted as Lord Vishnu with four hands, carrying the Amrit-Kalash, Shankh, Chakra, and Jalauka (leech). Some texts also show him as holding a conch, medicinal herbs, Amrit Kalash, and Ayurveda Granth (Book).
Dhanvantari Homam is an important Homam performed to Lord Dhanvantari offering obeisance to him. Dhanvantari is invoked in a Kalash and Ahutis offered in the sacred fire. When you perform Dhanvantari Homam, it is believed to reverse the health problems.
Dhanvantari Puja is performed to attain health, wealth and success by invoking the blessing of Lord Dhanvantari who is known as the celestial healer. The Puja is performed to cure illnesses making mind and body strong and thereby return to full health.
Dhanvantari Homam is performed by chanting Dhanvantari Mantra using 108 different medicinal herbs during the Prayog. These medicinal herbs when burnt release gases with medicinal properties in the atmosphere thereby cleansing the air and alleviating the ailments.
The father of Ayurveda, Lord Dhanvantari is believed to have appeared on the day of Dhanteras with the pot of elixir. Hence, Dhanvantari Puja and Yagna are performed on Dhanvantari Trayodashi, celebrated two days before Diwali Puja. The day marks the appearance of Lord Vishnu in His divine avatar of Lord Dhanvantari.
Dhanvantari Homam is considered a very beneficial Homam in Hinduism and is the best way to get relief from any kind of serious illness.
Dhanvantari Puja Mantras:|| ऒं नमॊ भगवते वासुदॆवाय धन्वंतरये अमृतकलश हस्ताय |
| सर्वमायविनाशनाय त्रैलॊक्यनाथाय श्री महाविष्णवे नमः ||
|| OM namO Bhagavate vAsudEvAya dhanvaMtaraye amRutakalasha hastAya |
| sarvamAyavinAshanAya trailOkyanAthAya SrI mahAviShNave namaH ||
Topic: Dhanwantari Homam (Fire Ceremony) - Practical Demonstration
Abstract: Dhanwantari an Avatar of Lord Vishnu and the King of Varanasi. He appeared during the Samudra Manthan (Great Churn) holding the Amrit Kalash (elixir). He is mentioned as the God of Ayurveda in the Puranas. Dhanvantari is also referred as the Hindu God of Medicine by the great Indian expert of medicine, Sushruta. Devotees worship Dhanvantari to seek His blessings for good health during Dhanteras.Traditionally, Dhanvantari is depicted as Lord Vishnu with four hands, carrying the Amrit-Kalash, Shankh, Chakra, and Jalauka (leech). Some texts also show him as holding a conch, medicinal herbs, Amrit Kalash, and Ayurveda Granth (Book).
Dhanvantari Homam is an important Homam performed to Lord Dhanvantari offering obeisance to him. Dhanvantari is invoked in a Kalash and Ahutis offered in the sacred fire. When you perform Dhanvantari Homam, it is believed to reverse the health problems.
Dhanvantari Puja is performed to attain health, wealth and success by invoking the blessing of Lord Dhanvantari who is known as the celestial healer. The Puja is performed to cure illnesses making mind and body strong and thereby return to full health.
Dhanvantari Homam is performed by chanting Dhanvantari Mantra using 108 different medicinal herbs during the Prayog. These medicinal herbs when burnt release gases with medicinal properties in the atmosphere thereby cleansing the air and alleviating the ailments.
The father of Ayurveda, Lord Dhanvantari is believed to have appeared on the day of Dhanteras with the pot of elixir. Hence, Dhanvantari Puja and Yagna are performed on Dhanvantari Trayodashi, celebrated two days before Diwali Puja. The day marks the appearance of Lord Vishnu in His divine avatar of Lord Dhanvantari.
Dhanvantari Homam is considered a very beneficial Homam in Hinduism and is the best way to get relief from any kind of serious illness.
Dhanvantari Puja Mantras:|| ऒं नमॊ भगवते वासुदॆवाय धन्वंतरये अमृतकलश हस्ताय |
| सर्वमायविनाशनाय त्रैलॊक्यनाथाय श्री महाविष्णवे नमः ||
|| OM namO Bhagavate vAsudEvAya dhanvaMtaraye amRutakalasha hastAya |
| sarvamAyavinAshanAya trailOkyanAthAya SrI mahAviShNave namaH ||
Suddhatma Chaitanya, Pennsylvania, USA - Since completing his course of Vedanta study in Bombay from 1980 to 1983, Suddhatma has served on the staff in all three Rishikesh, Coimbatore and Saylorsburg Gurukulams. He is well known for his perfect and resonating Vedic Chanting, and is currently teaching Vedic chanting and Sanskrit at the Gurukulam and co-ordinates Gita Vichara study group classes in Stroudsburg, PA . He is also in charge of the Gift-for-a-day program, Special events, housing and kitchen at the Gurukulam.
Topic: Spirituality in Day to Day Life
Topic: Spirituality in Day to Day Life