Ayurvedic practitioner in Wagoner, Oklahoma with Lisa Bracken

The California College of Ayurveda is pleased to introduce the Ayurvedic Health Practitioner Interns 2016. Interns have completed their academic studies and work under the supervision of experienced clinical instructors. This semester’s talented group of interns comes from throughout the United States, Canada and United Kingdom.

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

Interview with Lisa from Oklahoma

1)  What inspired you to study Ayurvedic Medicine?

I have had the good fortune of studying yoga for the past 12 years with an instructor that infused the wisdom of Ayurveda into his teachings. It was simply part of the curriculum and when the topic turned to Ayurveda, I often felt as though I were in the room with a long, lost friend. I couldn’t get enough of the conversation. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to put the science of Ayurveda to the test on a few specific conditions in my own life. With the guidance of extraordinary (and inspiring) practitioners, my body has been able to return to its’ natural state of balance, thus allowing me to avoid surgeries and pharmaceuticals.

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

Ayurveda appeals to our current cultural climate for many reasons, the three I’ve listed below stand out as particularly attractive: 

  • 1) Treating the whole being – body, mind and spirit. As our society continues to speed up, moving at a frenetic pace, we seem to be losing sight of spirit. One need only look to packed yoga studios and meditation centers to observe the collective hunger for spiritual healing.
  • 2) Food as medicine. The use of food, spices, and herbs appeals to a population that grows weary of pharmaceuticals that often serve only to perpetuate current imbalances while creating more. 
  • 3) Seeing the uniqueness of each individual. People are no longer interested in a one-size-fits-all health care system. Ayurveda brings back personalized medicine. 

 

3)    What do you think about the future of Ayurveda in your country?

I believe the practice of Ayurveda has taken off in America and is going to continue to soar. As Americans discover how healing and balancing the ancient practice is, it will become more and more accepted in mainstream medical practices. And that is exactly where it belongs. Ayurveda can work right alongside Western medicine to increase disease prevention and assist with disease management. It can help alleviate chronic stressors that lead to serious illness, and it can assist with patient care when disease is present. With its emphasis on a healthy diet and lifestyle, Ayruveda can help Americans prevent disease by teaching us how to live in better harmony with our environment, our body and our mind.

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

My favorite therapy is pranayama – it is the most efficient and effective tool we have to change the way we feel (physically, physiologically, emotionally, and mentally). It is readily available as it sits at the tip of the nose and can be implemented in just about any setting. There is no paperwork to fill out, no need to wait on the phone for an appointment, or stand in line at the pharmacy; it is truly the most cost-effective therapy available today.

5) Biography:

Together with my husband Sam, I own and operate The Canebrake – a destination hotel and spa in beautiful, northeast Oklahoma. Created from a 400-acre family ranch, The Canebrake is the first eco-certified property in Oklahoma, giving us the opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to environmental sustainability and natural healing. In addition to designing a space of comfort and intention, I’ve had the good fortune of teaching yoga and meditation for the past 10 years in The Yoga Barn at The Canebrake as well as at Northeastern State University, Oklahoma School for the Blind, and Axis Boys’ Home. A back injury lead me to study yoga therapy in earnest while pursuing a Master’s degree in Kinesiology; I am fascinated with the ‘why and how’ our bodies move (or more oftentimes don’t). I offer open classes, public workshops, and enjoy working with students privately. In addition to currently seeing clients as an Ayurvedic Health Practitioner Intern through the California College of Ayurveda (CCA), I am also certified as a Pancha Karma Specialist (PKS) and have completed the Ayurvedic Massage and Bodywork Therapies (AMBT). I have a passion and gift for introducing yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda to the minds and bodies of a wide variety of students and am thrilled to be part of the healthcare solution!

 

Contact Information

Website:  https://www.thecanebrake.com
Email address:  Lisa@TheCanebrake.com