Welcome to the Ayurveda Sanctuary

My introspective journey began in 1976 when I learned how to experience a blissful meditation state of pure awareness through the Transcendental Meditation Technique. This profound  life changing experience of deep quiet and release of stress inspired me to formally study Vedic Science at Maharishi International University right after high school.  

Part of my Vedic Studies included Sanskrit, research into the structure of Veda, and extended practice of meditation as an exploration of consciousness and states of awareness.  The experiential aspect integrated the intellectual aspect of learning the Veda.This included attending a 10-month in residence meditation teacher training class in Canada taught by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.

It was during this time that I learned about Ayurvedic Health Care and went through a 7-day Ayurveda Cleanse and Rejuvenation Therapy called Pancha Karma that was facilitated by Ayurvedic physician and renowned Pancha Karma Expert, Dr. Kasture.  I fell in-love with the body treatments, herbal formulas, and deep knowledge of health.  I was trained over many years as a panchakarma technician and Ayurveda Educator taking continuing education classes with a variety of Ayurvedic physicians. 

In 1991 I was invited to attend a formal Ayurveda Physician Training Course in Vlodrop Holland at Maharishi European University and studied in depth with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, Dr. Brihapati Tri Guna, and other Ayurvedic experts. This was a course of a lifetime. We went in depth to the very core and source of Ayurveda and Vedic Literature. It was on this course that the Ayurveda Self-Pulse Course was created and deep understanding and experience unfolded. 

Years later, In 1997, I met and personally studied with internationally renowned Ayurvedic Healer, Vaidya Ramakant Mishra who later initiated me into his family lineage and certified me as one of his instructors and practitioners.  Everything that I now offer regarding diet, Transderdermal Marma Therapy, Mantra Therapy, and Herbal Medicine is attributed to his lineage, Shaka Vansya Ayurveda.

I consider myself a life-long student of Ayurveda  -I am constantly learning from colleagues and teachers as well as offering my experience and expertise through classes, counseling, and mentoring.  I started Ayurveda Amritanam Learning Circle to offer what I have learned  to those interested in learning in depth the gifts of preventive health care.  I bring this knowledge at a curriculum at Northeastern Illinois University and  starting June 6, 2020.  Other courses in the future include Ayurvedic Bodywork, and Weekend Knowledge and Experience Courses.
I also offer Depth Counseling and Coaching and received my masters degree in Clinical Counseling from Pacifica Graduate Institute. My experience includes John Bradshaw's Inner Child Work at the Center for Creative Growth in Berkeley, CA, Transpersonal Therapy at JFK Counseling Center, Oakland CA and Trauma and Substance Abuse work in Ashland, OR.  I often integrate both Ayurveda and Counseling for a more holistic approach to emotional and mental well-being online and in person in the Chicago area. I am also continuing as an Executive Function Coach with Beyond Booksmart.