Therapy Integration with Ayurveda
Blending ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern therapy, we nurture the mind, body, and spirit; helping children achieve holistic well-being through balance, focus, and mindful growth.
A Holistic Pathway to
Nurturing Growth
At Teamwork Therapies, we believe in nurturing the whole child, mind, body, and spirit. Along with our evidence-based therapies such as Speech, Occupational, Physical Therapy, and Infant Development / Specialized Instruction Services, we integrate the timeless principles of Ayurveda, the ancient science of natural healing.
Ayurveda helps us understand each child’s unique constitution and works to restore balance through diet, lifestyle, and natural supports.
The Five Elements and
Balance in the Body
According to Ayurveda, all beings, including children, are made up of the five fundamental elements of nature: Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space (Ether). These elements work together to create harmony and stability in both body and mind.
When these elements are balanced, a child experiences calm, focus, and overall well-being. However, when one or more elements become disturbed, it can affect development, sensory regulation, digestion, communication, and emotional balance.
In children with neurodiverse profiles, particularly those on the autism spectrum, Ayurveda observes that the Air (Vayu) and Space (Akasha) elements often become excessive or imbalanced. This may manifest as restlessness, sensory sensitivities, irregular sleep patterns, or challenges in communication and focus.
Ayurveda also explains that many neurodiverse children experience a disturbed Agni — the body’s digestive fire — which can lead to inconsistent digestion, food sensitivities, stomach discomfort, or difficulty processing certain foods. When digestion isn’t strong, it can affect energy, mood, and overall well-being.
How Ayurveda Helps
Restore Balance
Ayurveda aims to bring the elements back into harmony by supporting the body and mind through gentle, natural methods. At Teamwork Therapies, we incorporate Ayurvedic insights into individualized care that complements our modern therapy programs.
Our Holistic Approach Includes:
Dietary Guidance
Using warm, nourishing, and grounding foods to balance Air and Space elements, support digestion, and stabilize energy levels.
Daily Routine
Establishing consistent rhythms and calming routines to create predictability and a sense of security.
Physical Therapy
Provide hands-on coaching and practical strategies you can confidently use at home.
Sensory-Calming Therapies
Ayurvedic bodywork, such as Abhyanga (warm oil massage), helps ground the senses, reduce anxiety, and improve body awareness.
Lifestyle and Environment
Encouraging connection with nature, mindful play, and reduced overstimulation to help restore internal balance.
Supporting Motor and
Sensory Development
Ayurvedic massage (Abhyanga) with carefully selected child-friendly oils can aid circulation, muscle tone, and sensory awareness. For children in Occupational and Physical Therapy, this can enhance coordination, proprioception, and body awareness, helping them participate more effectively in sessions.
Encouraging Speech and
Communication
Ayurvedic routines that focus on respiratory strength, oral-motor flexibility, and balanced nutrition can complement Speech Therapy goals. By improving breath control and vitality, children may find it easier to express themselves and communicate with greater confidence.
Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. By working closely with families, teachers, and communities, we ensure progress is sustainable, meaningful, and shared.
Fostering Emotional and
Behavioral Balance
Ayurveda emphasizes balance in every aspect of life, body, mind, and environment. By nurturing emotional stability and reducing sensory overload, these holistic practices can help children with autism and developmental delays respond more positively to structured therapy and social interaction.
Nurturing
the Whole Child
We’re happy to offer a complimentary 30-minute consultation for clients. Book your session with our Ayurvedic Practitioner, Rakesh Balakrishnan, using the link below:
To learn more, please contact our front office.
Meet Rakesh Balakrishnan,
Ayurvedic Practitioner
At the heart of Teamwork Therapies’ holistic philosophy is Rakesh Balakrishnan, an Ayurvedic Practitioner dedicated to integrating ancient wisdom with modern therapeutic care. Rakesh holds a Master’s Degree in Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine from Maharishi International University, where the foundation of study emphasizes Self-awareness, meditation, and grounded living as essential to healing. 
M.S. (Ayurveda & Integrative Medicine)
A Philosophy of
Balance and Self-Healing
Rakesh believes that true healing begins from within. His approach focuses on restoring harmony in the body and mind by aligning with nature’s rhythms. Through the timeless principles of Ayurveda, he helps children and families rediscover balance and resilience — physically, emotionally, and energetically.
Holistic Approach to
Wellness
Rakesh’s practice centers on three key pillars of well-being:
Diet & Lifestyle
Personalized routines and mindful nutrition to nurture stability, focus, and calm.
Natural Herbal Support
Gentle, plant-based remedies used thoughtfully to restore balance and vitality.
Therapeutic Integration
Complementing occupational, speech, and physical therapies with Ayurvedic principles that support the nervous system
Bridging Tradition and
Modern Care
Rakesh’s expertise extends beyond academic study. He has continued his learning under renowned Ayurvedic teachers in Kerala, India, who have over three decades of experience working with neurodiverse children. This deep traditional training has enriched his understanding of the five elements — Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space — and how imbalances, particularly in Air and Space, can influence sensory, behavioral, and developmental challenges.
A Compassionate
Integrative Path
At Teamwork Therapies, Rakesh unites the wisdom of Ayurveda with evidence-based therapeutic practices, empowering families through education, mindfulness, and natural care. His goal is to make holistic healing accessible, practical, and compassionate — helping every child move toward balance, connection, and well-being.
