Book excerpt: This book is a companion to Āyurvedic studies. It discusses the history and evolution of Ayurveda, its philosophy, and its practical uses in everyday life—from medicine to mental wellbeing. It harks back to the traditional Indian concept of four aspects of lifelong learning. These were instruction by the teacher, individual effort, learning from companions and lastly, wisdom gathered over a lifetime. Print edition not for sale in South Asia (India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Bhutan)