Today we’d like to introduce you to Anjali Deva.
Anjali, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I grew up here in Hollywood with Ayurveda, traditional Indian medicine, in my household. But, being the stubborn and rebellious American teen that I was, I thought of Ayurveda and Yoga as too alternative, too hippy-dippy.
In my early 20’s, I suffered from awful digestive issues and anxiety that western medical doctors could not help me with. I turned to my roots and asked my father, an Ayurvedic practitioner, for help. He being the wise man that he is, recommended a book to me – “Ayurveda: Life, Health and Longevity” by Robert E. Svoboda. I was so enthralled with the mind-body connection and how it was so beautifully explained in the natural world with elements and metaphors that I dropped out of college and began an Ayurveda school. I needed to learn about this beautiful science that has influenced lives for over 5,000 years.
My studies in Ayurveda led me on many trips to India and all over the US for different workshops and retreats. When I came back to LA, I met Dr. Omid Naim, an integrative psychiatrist. We immediately shared an understanding of the mind-body connection that created a beautiful synergy for working together with clients who were looking for more effective approaches for reducing anxiety and depression. My passion has been digestion and women’s health issues. Fast forward to 8 years later where I am an Ayurvedic practitioner at La Maida Institute!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I have been very fortunate to have the support of many others who have helped me navigate the bumpy transition into practitioner-dom. The largest obstacle has been taking the leap of faith to quit my day-job and pursue my dream of becoming a full-time Ayurvedic practitioner. Prior to the leap, I was splitting my time between Director of La Maida Institute and Ayurvedic practitioner. There have been times when it was easy to feel discouraged, or that I made the wrong decision.
The support and love from my colleagues and clients has been overwhelming and I am so grateful to have made this decision.
Rooted Rasa – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Rooted Rasa is the name of my Ayurvedic practice which means ‘rooted in nourishment.’ I counsel clients on diet, lifestyle, yoga and meditation from the lens of Ayurveda, an ancient healing tradition from India.
In Ayurveda, we believe there are ‘doshas’ or individual constitutions that help us better understand ourselves – if we tend more towards an airy-ethereal, fiery-passionate, or grounded-laid back personality. This gives us insight into patterns we might also hold in our digestive systems or mental processes which can help us better understand the connection between our food and our mood. Additionally, I use the tools of yoga and meditation to help a sense of calm and restoration to the nervous system. I blend these approaches together in comprehensive wellness visits to help bring clients back into balance.
I practice Ayurveda within an integrative mental health team meaning that my clients get the benefit of having their case discussed with other health care professionals so that I can be sure you are getting the most caring and supportive care.
My specialties are women’s health issues like painful menstruation, PCOS and menopause, and digestive issues like IBS.
Unlike other Ayurvedic practitioners, I blend current neuroscience with Ayurveda to create integrative approaches to modern-day issues. I meet clients where they are in their healing journey, and we work together to create a comprehensive plan for the most nourishment.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success: a calm mind, a feeling of ease in the body, the moments when you can find beauty in whatever is around you, the ability to stay calm and compassionate in the face of stressors, and the ability to travel and see new places!
Mary Oliver asks in one of her poems, “Do you love this world? Do you cherish your humble and silky life? Do you adore the green grass, with its terror beneath?” I believe if we can wholeheartedly answer these questions with a ‘yes’ we are successful.
Pricing:
- Initial consultation $150
- Wellness Visits $100
Contact Info:
- Address: 11159 La Maida St.
North Hollywood, CA 91601 - Website: rootedrasa.com
- Phone: 323-538-1778
- Email: anjali@rootedrasa.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/anjali
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/rooted-rasa-los-angeles
- Other: lamaida.org
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
