About Sattvic Roots Āyurveda

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"Every moment is now. Surrender to what is. Only what is will transform you." -Dr. Vasant Lad 

In many ways, my love of Āyurveda started at the age of 8. A beloved neighbor, professor at NYU, yogini, & dear friend introduced me to Indian culture & Āyurveda. I would beg my parents to go over and see Nila so that I could rummage through her pantry filled with exotic spices & jars upon jars of dried fruits, nuts, grains (all of which I sampled any chance I could get). I would try on all of her jewelry, bangles, saris & shoes. She painted my face in beautiful red & white dots and dressed me as an Indian bride (both one year for Halloween & also on an occasional Friday night, all year round). I would walk from room to room gazing at paintings of Krishna, Ganesha, Shiva & Durga and I would ask to hear the story behind the painting "one more time". She would make my sister & I mildly spiced Indian food and let us eat with our hand(s). She taught us asana & the importance of steadying our breath. She used cilantro 

& cucumber in the summer & made us mint tea; In winter, she would make spiced milk and add a little extra spice in our aloo tikki to "keep our bellies warm." There was a wisdom that I was not yet aware of...but it took seat in my heart and never left.

It was many years, many adventures, and many winding paths in life (including heartbreak & loss) before I came back to Āyurveda in a very intentional way. Now, after 7 years of studying, practicing, and living Āyurveda (and still counting), it is my heart's desire to bring what I know to my family, friends, community, and the world at large. I have come to understand that I am a vessel through which this ancient art of living can pour and it is part of my dharma to share the wisdom of Āyurveda to the best of my ability. I am a testament to the power of this path, this way of life, this deep understanding of one's self and the world in & around us. It was, after all, my own health challenges that lead me through the doors of Kripalu for my first Āyurvedic training. From there, much like a lotus rising up out of the darkness, I was able to blossom & bloom back into health, long lasting happiness, & deep, deep reverence for this way of life. 

The path that Āyurveda has lead me down has brought so many blessings into my life. I have studied under and alongside some of the brightest, most beautiful, intentional souls. It lead me to the Āyurvedic Institute  & Dr. Lad whose lineage I study under. I have healed and helped others heal. I found the lineage that speaks to my heart & teachers who foster my curiosity, challenge me, inspire me, understand me. I will forever be a student of Āyurveda and it is with pureness of heart that I might share this wisdom with you in the hope that you may remember your true Self.

In Loving Wellness,

Melissa

"There is a multi petal lotus inside all our hearts that longs to open to the Divine & she longs to be with us. We long to be together in Divine Unity." -Mitesh Raichada