AWC 1: Principles of Ayurveda will lay the foundation for the entire AWCP program. We will introduce the primary working theories of Ayurveda, particularly the inner teachings of an Ayurvedic lifestyle as a grounding for those living an Ayurvedic life. The profound principles of the Vedic 5 Element and Tridosha Theories will be expanded upon and used throughout subsequent courses, so it is crucial that we master them now. Students will be introduced to Ayurvedic anatomy and physiology, the 15 subdoshas, the science of prakriti, our body constitution, the transformative power of agni in digestion and consciousness, how to maintain digestive balance, the seven tissues, the role of ama, or toxins in our health, and ojas, the sacred sap of life and longevity. The intention of this overview course is self-knowledge (vidya) and an enlightened self-care (swasthavritta). We achieve that through effective self-study, yogic and Ayurvedic lifestyle integration, pure sattvic living, living true to ourselves (sadvritta), and the exquisite uniqueness of our own constitutional nature, karmas, and health journey. Wellness begins with self-knowledge, new beginnings, and self-care. This is the beginning.