Definition of Health in Ayurveda

Agni, Doshas / / By
girl, sea, horizon-2193272.jpg
“Samadosha, samagnischa samadhatumala kriyaha prasanna atmenindriya manaha swasthya ityabhidheeyate”
–Charaka & Vaghbhata (Sanskirt definition of health)

Meaning

Sama Dosha – Balanced Doshas

The Doshas that are present in the body and mind, namely Vata, Pitta and Kapha, must be in a balanced state in order to keep a person healthy. When the balance of the doshas is disturbed, either aggravated or decreased (vitiated) it produces a state of Dosha Vaishamya, which is called disease.

Vata, Pitta and Kapha are the three functionalities, which govern all the physiological, psychological and spiritual aspects of one’s life. They each have five subdivisions, delicately intertwined. Ayurveda describes in great detail as to how they function and how to keep them in balance and also how to bring them into balance when they are out of balance.

Sama Agni – Digestive Fire

Agni can be equated to the word metabolism. This includes the digestion, absorption, assimilation. Conversion of the assimilated food into various  Dhatus, such as Plasma, blood, muscle, bone, fat, seminal fluid in men and Artava in women (There is no equivalent term in English for Artava) and finally Ojas or the vital force of the body.

fire, bonfire, night-123784.jpg

Sama Dhatu Mala Kriya – Tissues and Excreta

According to Ayurveda there are seven Dhatus namely Rasa (Plasma), Rakta (Blood), Mamsa (muscle), Medas (fat), Asthi (bones), Majja and Shukra (sperm/ovum). And the excreta or Malas – purisa (feces), Mutra (urine), Sweda (sweat). The dhatus of the body must function properly and so also the malas of the body.

Excretory functions: Ayurveda puts great emphasis for the excretory functions to be in perfect order to be in perfect health. This would prevent diseases. Keeps one in good health, spirit and gives long life. Ayurveda elaborately describes how one should maintain one’s lifestyle.

massage, back, deep tissue massage-3795691.jpg

Prasanna Atmendriya Manaha – The Five Senses

In Ayurveda the functions of the sensory and motor organs and mind have been given special importance. When these are not in equilibrium and not discharging there functions properly, it will lead to a state called disease. Even though the above a functioning properly the bodily activities must not vitiate (decrease) the above. The state of mental health is more important than that of the physical health of a person.

ear, auricle, listen-2972890.jpg

Swastha or the healthy state

Is maintained from birth and the three Doshas remain in a balanced state, then the person achieves a well balanced constitution, attractive appearance, good muscular strength and complete peace of mind.

Pleasantly disposed contented spirit, senses and mind. Ayurveda’s definition of health is all encompassing. Social well being can only be possible when all these criteria are met.

statue, roman, sculpture-99696.jpg
“Health is a state of complete physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”
World Health Organization (WHO)

Thousands of years ago, Ayurveda defined health so perfectly that it reflects in the definition of health by WHO.

Signs of Health

  • A balanced appetite, hungry for wholesome food at mealtimes, with no cravings.
  • Even skin tone, with glowing skin.
  • Falling asleep easily with a sound and and restful sleep, consistently.
  • Excellent digestion of food, feeling full of energy after eating.
  • Clear sparkly eyes.
  • Easy elimination of a healthy amount of wastes including sweat, urine, feces, menses and tears.
  • Good memory and sharp mind.
  • Energy levels remain even throughout the day.
  • Steady and balanced weight with the right proportion of muscle and fat tissue for your build.
  • Excited to wake up each morning with an enthusiasm for life.
  • Pain-free body with a naturally strong immunity.
  • Peace, contentment and calm and a sense of confidence.

To Conclude

One is in perfect health when the Three Doshas ( Vata, Pitta and Kapha) Digestive fire ( digestion, assimilation and metabolism) all the body tissues & components (Dhatus)(the entire physical body) all the excretory functions (the physiological functions of urination and defecation) are in perfect order with a pleasantly disposed and contented mind, senses and spirit.

Visit a Holistic Ayurvedic Coach

Talk to a Holistic Ayurvedic Coach to see how you compare to the Ayurveda Definition of Health and how simple diet and lifestyle changes can improve it.

Free 60 Minute Consultation

Completely free of charge, 60 Minute Consultation

Dietary Advise

Advise on dietary choices based on Doshas and the six tastes

Daily Routines

Create daily and nightly routines based on constitution, age and the seasons

Ayurvedic Principles

Ayurvedic principles including the holistic view of health, the elements, Doshas

Location

Online meeting, phone call or in person at coffee shop/park nearby Charlottesville, VA

Yoga Advise

Recommend yoga and yogic practices for improved health, including pranayama/breathwork

Book Appointment

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let's Talk
Let's Talk

Start typing and press enter to search

Find out your Dosha

Want to take the quiz now?

Dosha Ayurveda

17125
Scroll to Top