52. How to Find the Right Ayurvedic Practitioner for Your Health Needs

In this episode of Everyday Ayurveda with Kate, Kate O’Donnell sits down with Ayurvedic doctor and podcast host Sasha Bershadsky for an eye-opening look at how Ayurveda is taught, practiced, and evolving in the United States.

Many listeners ask:

• What’s the difference between an Ayurvedic health counselor, practitioner, and doctor?
• How do you know who to see—and for what kind of health concerns?
• What kind of training do Ayurvedic doctors in the U.S. actually receive?
• Will insurance ever cover Ayurvedic care?

Sasha shares her remarkable journey from the corporate advertising world in New York City to eight years of Ayurvedic study, culminating in her doctoral certification with Kerala Ayurveda Academy. She explains the sacrifices and courage it took to commit fully to Ayurveda, and why she believes integration with Western medicine is the future.

This conversation is a must-listen if you are:

• Considering a career in Ayurveda
• Wondering what level of practitioner is right for you
• Curious about how Ayurveda is being standardized in the U.S.
• Seeking guidance on what to look for when choosing an Ayurvedic professional

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The differences between counselors, practitioners, and Ayurvedic doctors
• What Ayurvedic education looks like today in the U.S.
• How Sasha balanced freelance corporate work while studying Ayurveda
• The role of courage, faith, and sacrifice in following a calling
• Practical tips for finding the right Ayurvedic practitioner
• How Ayurveda could integrate with Western medicine in the future

Connect with Sasha Bershadsky:

• Website: https://www.ojasoasis.com
• Podcast: Ojas Oasis : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ojas-oasis-ayurvedic-wisdom-and-healing/id1615242839
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sashabershad/

Suggested Resources & Links:

• National Ayurvedic Medical Association (NAMA) Practitioner Directory: https://www.ayurvedanama.org
• Kerala Ayurveda Academy: https://www.keralaayurveda.us
• California College of Ayurveda: https://www.ayurvedacollege.com

Health Disclaimer

The information shared on Everyday Ayurveda with Kate is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or wellness routine.

Connect with Kate: https://www.healwithkate.org

Ayurvedic Living Institute Membership: https://ayurvedicliving.institute/membership

Cleanse Leader Training: https://ayurvedicliving.institute/cleanse-leader-training

Deep Winter Self-Care Workshop: https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/courses/self-care-workshop-deep-winter Women's Health Collection: https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/collections/womens-healthhttps://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/products/courses/copy-of-fall-community-cleanse-2024 Gift Guide: https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/products/digital_downloads/gift-guide