Ah, starting Ayurveda online is actually a great option, especially if you’re keen to dive deeper without an in-person course near by. It’s totally possible to gain a solid foundation online, but yeah, the authenticity of courses can be a bit mixed. You’ve got the right idea to be cautious.
So, first up, check out courses from accredited institutions like Kerala Ayurveda Academy or California College of Ayurveda. Those are pretty reputable and actually offer varying levels of depth—you can dip your toes in or go all the way to practitioner level. When looking at a course, think about its curriculum. Are they covering core texts like Charaka Samhita or Sushruta Samhita, and importantly do they focus on both theory and practical application?
One thing…it’s true, the pricing can be all over the place. Usually, a well-rounded course that aims at professional certification will cost more, but that also means they have a stronger structure, with live classes, mentorship, and practical assignments. Free or cheaper classes might be good for an intro or supplement, but they’ll often lack depth.
About the hands-on stuff like massages or herbal prep? Annoyingly, that’s tricky online. You might find some hybrid programs that offer occasional in-person workshops, which is really the best way to get that tactile learning.
And yes, you can go quite far with an online education. Some schools offer certification and you can become a practitioner, especially for counseling or lifestyle coaching. Just don’t expect to master every technique digitally. If you’re uncertain about live vs pre-recorded classes, most schools’ll provide a breakdown of their class formats, so check that.
Ultimately, as long as you start with passion and choose courses that value authenticity and depth, you can definitely get a comprehensive foundation in Ayurveda online. If you choose to go professional someday, a good online program should prepare you for further in-depth, in-person training when you’re ready.
