Ayurveda originated in India more than 10,000 years ago and is believed to be the oldest system of healing in the world. Meaning “science of life,” Ayurvedic philosophy holds that all life—people, animals and nature—are combinations of three elements: air (Vata), fire (Pitta) and water (Kapha). When these elements are balanced you are healthy; when they are not, illness arises. Dietary modifications are particularly common in Ayurvedic treatments because of a belief that if food is not properly digested it sits in the intestinal track, blocking the absorption of nutrients. As the food decays in the intestines toxins form, causing most diseases in the body. Other types of Ayurvedic treatments include yoga, herbs, massage and meditation.