Frequently Asked Questions

AABC offers six membership categories:

• Student Member (AABC-SM): For students currently enrolled in Ayurvedic programs
• Ayurveda Lifestyle Consultant (ALC): For wellness coaching and lifestyle guidance
• Ayurveda Health Counselor (AHC): For health assessments and therapeutic recommendations
• Ayurvedic Practitioner (AP): For comprehensive Ayurvedic practice including diagnosis and treatment
• Advanced Ayurvedic Practitioner (AAP): For advanced practice with specialized training
• Master Ayurvedic Specialist (MAS): For master-level practitioners with extensive experience

You can apply for membership through our online application form. The process includes:

• Completing the membership application form
• Providing educational credentials and transcripts
• Submitting proof of training hours
• Uploading certificates from recognized institutions
• Paying the appropriate membership fee

Your application will be reviewed by our membership committee to verify qualifications and determine the appropriate membership level.

AABC membership provides numerous benefits including:

• Professional verification and credentialing
• Listing in our practitioner directory
• Access to continuing education opportunities
• Networking with fellow practitioners
• Professional development resources
• Advocacy for Ayurvedic practice in BC
• Access to member-only events and workshops
• Professional liability insurance guidance

Education requirements vary by membership level:

• ALC: 200+ hours of Ayurveda training
• AHC: 500+ hours including foundational sciences
• AP: 1,000+ hours with clinical training
• AAP: 1,500+ hours with advanced specializations
• MAS: 2,000+ hours with master's level training or equivalent experience

All programs must be from recognized institutions and include both theoretical and practical components.

Yes, AABC recognizes education from accredited institutions worldwide, including:

• BAMS degrees from recognized Indian universities
• Programs accredited by NAMA (North American Massage Association)
• International Ayurveda institutions with proper accreditation
• European and Australian Ayurveda programs

All international credentials are evaluated on a case-by-case basis to ensure they meet Canadian standards.

Yes, AABC encourages ongoing professional development. Requirements include:

• Annual continuing education hours based on membership level
• Participation in AABC-approved workshops and seminars
• Attendance at professional conferences
• Completion of ethics and safety training

AABC offers various continuing education opportunities throughout the year to help members maintain their credentials.

The scope of practice varies by membership level and includes:

• ALC: Lifestyle coaching, dietary guidance, and wellness education
• AHC: Constitutional assessment, health counseling, and preventive recommendations
• AP & AAP: Comprehensive assessment, treatment planning, herbal recommendations, and therapeutic protocols
• MAS: Advanced treatments, supervision of other practitioners, and specialized therapies

All practitioners must work within their training level and follow BC health regulations.

AABC maintains high ethical standards through:

• A comprehensive Code of Ethics all members must follow
• An Ethics Committee that reviews complaints and concerns
• Regular training on professional boundaries and safety
• Clear scope of practice guidelines for each membership level
• Continuing education on ethical practice
• A complaint resolution process for public protection

While not legally required, professional liability insurance is strongly recommended for all practitioners. AABC members have access to:

• Group insurance rates through professional associations
• Guidance on appropriate coverage levels
• Information about insurance providers familiar with Ayurvedic practice
• Risk management resources

Insurance protects both practitioners and clients and is considered a professional standard.

Ayurveda Day 2025 is our flagship annual event celebrating Ayurvedic medicine and community. It features:

• Educational workshops and presentations
• Networking opportunities for practitioners and students
• Panel discussions with expert practitioners
• Cultural celebrations and community activities
• Vendor booths featuring Ayurvedic products and services
• Opportunities to learn about Ayurvedic lifestyle practices

The event is open to both AABC members and the general public interested in learning about Ayurveda.

Stay informed about AABC events through:

• Our Events page on the website
• Monthly newsletter updates
• Social media announcements
• Email notifications to members
• Community bulletin boards

Events include continuing education workshops, introductory classes, professional development seminars, and community gatherings.

Ayurveda is a comprehensive 5,000-year-old medical system from India that differs from other practices by:

• Focusing on individual constitution (Prakriti) and current state (Vikriti)
• Using a systematic approach to diagnosis and treatment
• Emphasizing prevention as much as treatment
• Incorporating diet, lifestyle, herbal medicine, and therapies
• Addressing the root cause rather than just symptoms
• Considering mind, body, and spirit as interconnected

Use our practitioner directory to find qualified AABC members in your area. You can search by:

• Location (city or region)
• Membership level and qualifications
• Specializations (women's health, digestive issues, etc.)
• Services offered

All listed practitioners have verified credentials and maintain current AABC membership in good standing.

While BC doesn't regulate Ayurvedic practice, proper training is essential for:

• Client safety and effective treatment
• Professional credibility and trust
• Understanding complex Ayurvedic principles
• Avoiding potential harm from incorrect practice
• Meeting professional insurance requirements

AABC strongly recommends completing formal training from recognized institutions before practicing professionally.

There are many ways to get involved with AABC:

• Apply for Student Membership while in training
• Apply for Community Membership to support our mission
• Attend public events and workshops
• Volunteer at Ayurveda Day and other events
• Subscribe to our newsletter and blog
• Follow us on social media
• Participate in community education programs