Why Ayurveda & Yoga Practitioners Should Learn Sanskrit?
- Dec 27, 2025
- 2 min read
Based on a lecture by Dr Aparna Dandekar
In a world where Ayurveda and Yoga are gaining global popularity, there's a growing concern about cultural dilution and mispronunciation of ancient terms. Dr. Aparna Dandekar, in her introductory class on Sanskrit for Ayurveda and Yoga Practitioners (from the Learn-Ayurveda YouTube channel), addresses this head-on. This session highlights why learning basic Sanskrit is essential for anyone seriously practicing or teaching these traditions.
In her introductory class on Sanskrit for Ayurveda and Yoga Practitioners (Learn-Ayurveda YouTube channel), Dr. Aparna Dandekar explains why mastering basic Sanskrit is vital for authentic practice.
Key Benefits for Ayurveda and Yoga Practitioners
Correct Pronunciation: Avoid errors like "Ayu-vā" instead of "Āyurveda," which change meaning and potency.
Deeper Insight: Read original texts directly and understand complex concepts.
Course Overview: 30–75 hours of flexible learning, focusing on ~300 essential terms and personal glossary-building.
Preserve Authenticity: Prevent cultural dilution in modern trends.
The Divine Roots of Sanskrit
Dr. Dandekar describes Sanskrit as the "language of the devas" (divine beings), originating from the mouth of Narayana (a form of Vishnu). It's considered the mother language of the universe, deeply connected to the sacred sound "Om." Unlike modern languages, Sanskrit's structure, sounds, and vibrations carry profound energy—key to understanding mantras, sutras, and Ayurvedic principles. Sanskrit which is spoken by higher entities and Angels (who we call Devas) is linkged to the primal sound "Om." Its precise sounds and vibrations carry deep energetic power, essential for mantras and Ayurvedic texts.
She contrasts the traditional Indian view with Western Indological perspectives, noting that early studies were often influenced by missionary agendas. This historical context underscores the need to return to authentic sources.
Practical Benefits for Yoga and Ayurveda professionals
For Ayurveda students and professionals:
Accurate Pronunciation: Common errors, like saying "Ayu-vā" instead of "Ayu-rveda," alter meaning and vibration. Proper Sanskrit helps preserve the integrity of terms.
Deeper Understanding: Access root texts directly, grasp complex sutras, and follow lectures more effectively.
Course Structure: This elective course offers 30 hours for counselors and 75 hours for practitioners, including asynchronous learning. Practitioners learn ~300 key words and build a personal glossary.
Authenticity in Practice: Respecting origins prevents dilution (e.g., trends like "goat yoga").
Learning Sanskrit enhances the vibrational power of mantras and aligns practice with Ayurvedic philosophy.
Invocation to Lord Dhanvantari
The class opens with a beautiful invocation mantra to Dhanvantari, the divine physician:
Om Dhanvantaraye Namaha (and extended verses praising him as the remover of diseases and mental afflictions).
Dr. Dandekar explains its meaning and rhythmic quality, which aids memorization and sets a reverent tone.
Introduction to Key Concepts
Diacritical Marks: A brief overview for accurate pronunciation (with more details promised in future sessions).
Purusharthas (Four Aims of Life): Dharma (duty/righteousness), Artha (prosperity), Kama (desire), and Moksha (liberation from rebirth)—the foundational goals in Ayurvedic living.
The true mastery of Ayurveda and Yoga goes beyond techniques— it requires honoring their linguistic and cultural roots. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned practitioner, starting with Sanskrit enriches your journey and ensures these ancient sciences remain vibrant and authentic.
