Ayurvedic practitioner in Altadena, California with Teri Ortt

The California College of Ayurveda is pleased to introduce you to our Ayurvedic Health Practitioner Interns 2013-2014. Our Interns have completed their academic studies and are now working under the supervision of our experienced clinical instructors. The talented group of interns comes from throughout the United States, Canada and United Kingdom.

Our Ayurvedic Health Practitioner (AHP) interns work on supporting their patients to adopt a healthy lifestyle that is in harmony with their constitution. When you see an Ayurvedic Health Practitioner, you will learn your constitution as well as the nature of any imbalances. You will also receive support to adjust your diet and lifestyle accordingly and to normalize your digestion and elimination. As part of your program, an intern can include ayurvedic herbal medicines, aromatherapy, color therapy, sound and mantra, and Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy. This is is the best of preventative health care! If you are have a specifc condition and are looking for clinical management through Ayurvedic Medicine, you should consider having a consultation with an Clinical Ayurvedic Specialist intern or graduate. 

Interview with Teri from Southern California

1)  What inspired you to study Ayurvedic Medicine?

I have been a long time practitioner and student of yoga. My yoga studies led me to the practice of ayurveda which complemented my interest in natural healing methods. During a trip to India I met with an ayurvedic doctor and experienced my first ayurvedic consultation along with restorative therapies. When I returned to California I began to see a local practitioner. I was amazed by the results I experienced. Since then ayurveda has become a guiding light in my life.

2)    What do you think makes Ayurveda attractive to the public?

As members of the 21st century we all experience varying degrees of stress. Stress reduction and healthy living are goals that we strive for. Ayurveda is a perfect match for the challenges of this time. It is a complex, yet ultimately simple system that is accessible to all. With its focus on diet and lifestyle, it provides the tools for bringing balance back to our lives.
 

3)    What do you think about the future of Ayurveda in the United States?

The future of Ayurveda is promising. As people continue to embrace holistic approaches to healing and pursue avenues that encourage self awareness and global responsibility ayurveda will continue to grow in popularity.

4)    What is your favorite therapy in this traditional system of medicine from India?

My favorite therapy is dinacharya, or my daily routines. It’s not the most luxurious therapy, but it provides me with a sense of groundedness that I can rely on day to day. Even in my most stressful times, these daily routines keep me feeling steady and anchored.

5) What does your path to Ayurveda look like?

I grew up in Minnesota, but have lived in California for the past 25 years. I completed my undergraduate studies at Santa Clara University where I majored in Political Science and Spanish. I have a M.S. in Educational Leadership and an M.A. in American Studies from Pepperdine University. I am a credentialed teacher and have taught elementary school through middle school. I am also a certified yoga instructor. One of my favorite projects has been the establishment of yoga programs in public schools that serve at risk youth. I am married with two children along with a huge Bernese Mountain dog who brings us much joy. In my spare time I love to spend time outdoors with my family skiing, hiking, going to the beach and traveling to new places. I also value my own time when I can practice yoga, read, garden and write. I am looking forward to this new chapter in my life as I embark on my journey as an ayurvedic practitioner.

Contact Information