AYURVEDA 99™ Connecting Health to Nature

AYURVEDA 99™

According to the Charaka Samhita, which is one of the foundational texts of Ayurveda, the definition of Ayurveda is stated as follows.

आयुःस्वास्थ्यम् आरोग्यं धनं मूक्षं च इति अयुर्वेदः।

Translation: Ayurveda is the knowledge that imparts longevity, well-being, freedom from diseases, and wealth.

Ayurveda emphasizes the holistic nature of health, considering the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of an individual. It recognizes the interconnection between the individual and the environment, emphasizing the importance of living in harmony with nature.

Principles of Ayurveda

The Panchamahabhutas and Tridosha are the fundamental principles in Ayurveda.

As per panchamahabhutas principle , all matter is composed of five basic elements known as Panchamahabhutas. They are air, fire, water, earth, and ether. Each element has its qualities and influences the doshas and bodily functions.

Tridosha describes the three fundamental energies or doshas that govern the functioning of the human body. These doshas are known as Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Here's an overview of each dosha:
  • Vata: Vata is composed of the elements of air and space (ether). It is associated with movement, communication, and creativity. Vata governs bodily functions related to motion, including respiration, circulation, nerve impulses, and elimination. When in balance, Vata promotes vitality, flexibility, and creativity. However, an imbalance in Vata can lead to conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues, and joint problems.
  • Pitta: Pitta is formed by the elements of fire and a small amount of water. It represents transformation, metabolism, and energy production. Pitta governs processes related to digestion, metabolism, body temperature, and hormonal balance. When Pitta is balanced, it promotes intelligence, courage, and a strong digestive system. However, an excess of Pitta can manifest as anger, inflammation, acidity, and skin conditions.
  • Kapha: Kapha is composed of the elements of earth and water. It represents structure, stability, and lubrication. Kapha governs bodily functions related to stability, growth, and nourishment. It provides strength, endurance, and emotional grounding. When Kapha is balanced, it promotes stability, calmness, and strong immunity. An imbalance in Kapha can lead to weight gain, congestion, lethargy, and attachment.
The balance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha is essential for maintaining good health. Each individual has a unique combination of these doshas, known as their Prakriti or constitutional type. Understanding one's Prakriti helps in tailoring diet, lifestyle, and therapeutic interventions to maintain doshic balance. In Ayurvedic diagnosis and treatment, the aim is to identify any imbalances in the doshas and restore harmony through various approaches like diet, herbs, lifestyle modifications, cleansing therapies, and mind-body practices. The goal is to achieve optimal health and well-being by balancing the Tridoshas.