Clinicians trained in the art can assess a patient's type be observing such clues as the pulse rate and the shape of the eyes, nose and teeth. Indian physicians who are masters of Ayurveda can even read the entire medical history of a patient and make recommendations based on pulse reading, says Peterson, who worked with such an expert, Dr. S.B. Triguna. He was able to tell with great accuracy what diseases and illnesses the patient had in the past, and even how long ago. Triguna also assessed the current state of health and prescribed treatment, Peterson recounts. More than 900 studies document the effectiveness of the physical approach of Ayurveda.
Meditation induces a state of deep rest that lessens the effects of stress on the body.
Studies show it can lower blood pressure, reduce the use of alcohol and tobacco and have beneficial effects on general health. Ayurveda clinicians also may recommend specific daily and seasonal routines based on the individual's mind-body type, Peterson adds. And there are environmental and societal practices which claim to have a positive effect on world consciousness. But a person need not undertake the entire spectrum to benefit from parts of it, he says. Peterson and his wife, Victoria, have lived in Muncie since 1977.