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Ayurveda
translates into English as the Science of Life (Ayur
- life, veda - science). Considered to be the oldest
healing science in the world, this ancient medicine
is practiced extensively in Sri Lanka and India. This
curative art was passed down from time immemorial
through an oral tradition, through old masters to
their disciples.
Ayurveda is a holistic system of curative and preventive
medicine, focusing on the prevention of disease through
a deeper connection between the mind and the body.
It concentrates on a state of total health based on
vigour, energy and balance. The concept of balance
is important in Ayurveda - the balance of body, mind
and consciousness based on each person's individual
constitution. |
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Ayurvedic
Concepts
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According to Ayurveda the human body is
composed of five elements known as the Panchamahabhuta (Pancha
- five, Maha - great, Bhuta - elements). These five elements
are apo (water), theejo (fire) vayo (air) patavi (earth) and
akasa (space or ether).
The Ayurvedic
concept of creation focuses on four interrelated factors.
These are Body, Mind, Consciousness (or Soul) and the Panchamahabhuta
(or five elements). These four elements blend into three bio-energetic
forces that govern the health and determine the physical constitution
of living
beings. They are called Va (or Vata - air and space), Pith
(or Pitta - fire and water) and Sem (or Kapha - water and
earth).Ayurveda
refers to three other forces, which control mental and spiritual
functions. They are Sattva, Rajas and Tamas. Mental disturbances
are caused by imbalances of these three properties, in the
same way that the five elements influence the body. |
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Individual
Constitution
The
three bio-energetic forces Vata, Pitta and Kapha are present
in every human being. Vata is considered to be the energy
of movement. Pitta the energy of digestion and Kapha is the
energy of lubrication and structure. Although all three forces
are found in the human body one is usually prominent.
Vata
People with Vata dosha tend to be thin, light and quick in
their thoughts and actions. Change is an important aspect
of their lives. When Vata is balanced they are creative, flexible,
enthusiastic and lively. However, if Vata becomes excessive,
we may develop anxiety, insomnia, or irregular digestion.
Pitta
People
with Pitta dosha are vivacious, smart and determined. If Pitta
is balanced they tend to be warm, understanding and intelligent.
Excessive Pitta can however, create irritability, jealousy
and aggressiveness.
Kapha
Those
with Kapha dosha tend to be leisurely and stable. When balanced,
Kapha creates calmness, sweetness and loyalty. When excessive,
Kapha can result in greed and attachment.
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