In the broad landscape of Ayurveda, where the art of healing converges with individual journeys, Leslie Clohan demonstrates dedication and compassion. Leslie Clohan, a clinical specialist in Ayurveda and proud graduate of the California College of Ayurveda (CCA), brings a unique perspective to the world of Ayurveda. She actively contributes to the CCA community as a member of the Faculty of Distance Education, herbal technician in the university's herbal pharmacy, and internal Ayurvedic supervisor. His multifaceted roles speak volumes about his commitment not only to his personal growth but also to training the next generation of Ayurvedic practitioners.

Hailing from Northern California, Leslie finds solace and inspiration in the embrace of nature. Her connection to the natural world goes beyond admiration; she fuels your understanding of the powerful healing she provides. In this interview, we delve into Leslie's unique journey and the profound impact of Ayurveda on people's holistic well-being.

Can you share your personal journey on how you came to practice Ayurveda? What sparked your interest and what motivated you to pursue it as a career?

My journey into Ayurveda began before I knew anything about Yoga or Ayurveda. When I was very young, my father started practicing yoga and I watched him and practiced with him from time to time. My concepts of health and wellness were first developed by my father; He often said things like “You are what you eat,” “You decide how you feel,” and “You are in charge of your health.” When I was young, I sometimes thought these ideas were a little crazy and I wanted to eat and do the same things my friends did, but as an adult, I came to appreciate his example. Later in my life, my husband developed serious and debilitating back problems that forced him to remain in bed for many months. Under the care of Western doctors, he was prescribed some powerful painkillers, which caused even more side effects. Frustrated, we decided to try yoga to help with his healing. It wasn't easy, but over time it worked much better than prescriptions and she was eventually able to stop taking all the medications. Although he still has moments of pain, he can manage them with the practices and principles of Yoga and Ayurveda. He is once again an active, vibrant and capable person who enjoys many sports and activities. This experience was eye-opening. I was able to see the “magic” of yoga and finally decided to become a yoga instructor. I studied at Kripalu Yoga and Health Center in Stockbridge, MA. Although it was quite far from my home in California, this style of yoga spoke to me with its “meditation in motion” philosophy. It was in Kripalu that I first learned about Ayurveda.

Once I learned about the program offered at The California College of Ayurveda (CCA) and the extensive curriculum, workshops, trainings, and internships offered, I knew this was the right school for me. I enrolled and completed my academic studies and internship to become an Ayurvedic clinical specialist. I also signed up for most of the workshops and the Ayurvedic Herbalist Apprenticeship. Herbal medicine is an important part of my dharma.

As an Ayurvedic teacher, what do you find most rewarding about sharing your knowledge with others?

I love seeing how Ayurveda allows each student to take control of their healing journey and how it begins to shape and transform each person into a new and better version of themselves.

For aspiring Ayurveda practitioners, what advice would you give them to make the most of their learning journey?

One step at a time. Sometimes it seems like you need to adopt all the practices that Ayurveda has to offer, all at once. This can be very overwhelming. Each of us has our own journey and we must travel it at the pace that is best for us. Prioritizing is important; This is where it can really be helpful to see a practitioner or intern while studying Ayurveda. Ayurveda is a journey, not a race. You don't have to become “perfect” or think that you have to become like everyone else. Ayurveda is about balance and knowing how to regain balance when life has done the opposite. Imbalance happens to everyone. Ayurveda is about awareness that helps us detect these imbalances sooner rather than later, making it easier to make appropriate adjustments.

What are some of your favorite daily Ayurvedic tips or practices that you personally incorporate into your life to achieve overall well-being? How have these practices positively influenced your health and lifestyle?

I really like the Guidelines for Healthy Eating. It's not just what you eat, but how you eat that allows you to digest food properly. I think these guidelines are often overlooked, but they are VERY powerful in creating a life of well-being. I have a routine to start and end the day that helps me stay balanced, but eating mindfully, consistently, and without distractions throughout the day has been what I've found helps me stay physically healthy.

Faculty Blog: Leslie ClohanFaculty Blog: Leslie Clohan

Leslie Clohan, CAS is a Clinical Ayurvedic Specialist and graduate of California College of Ayurveda (CCA). His main emphasis is on children's health. He also has a Bachelor's Degree in Human Development with an emphasis in Early Childhood Development. Leslie is a member of the CCA Distance Education Faculty, she is an herbal technician at our herbal pharmacy, and she is an internal AHC supervisor. Leslie is a native of Northern California and enjoys nature and the powerful healing it provides.

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