Ayurveda has many unique concepts, like the relation between microcosm (Pind) and macrocosm (Brahmand). Both are made up of five basic elements (Pancha Mahabhoota), individual unique Prakruti, three pillars responsible for health and illness of body and mind called Doshas, seven types of Dhatus (body tissue) and much more.
Ayurveda tells us that everyone has a unique body type or nature called Prakriti. Ayurveda considers three Doshas, which are Vata, Pitta and Kapha. The domination and different proportion of these Doshas in an individual is known as Prakriti. As per Prakriti, some individuals are naturally hyperactive and energetic, few are calm and steady and others are more aggressive and angrier.
Ayurveda recognises six Rasas (tastes): astringent, pungent, sweet, sour, salty and bitter. Each taste has specific qualities and effects on the Doshas. Including these different tastes in balance in one’s diet according to the Prakriti helps in maintaining health.
Ayurveda gives great importance to the Agni (digestive fire). This Agni is also dependent on Prakriti and is responsible for the proper digestion and metabolism of food and waste product elimination. A strong Agni results in good health and a weak Agni leads to disease.
A holistic medical treatment called Panchakarma is a part of Ayurveda, which is individualised for everyone based on their Prakriti and disease. It involves different cleansing techniques (Shodhanas) to cleanse one’s physical, mental and emotional state.
An Ayurvedic diet is based on the principle of Ashtavidha Ahara Vidhi Visheshayatana, which refers to the eight factors that determine the effects of food on an individual’s body and mind. Ayurveda advises to eat foods that match your Prakriti and disease. If someone feels cold, warm soups or spices like ginger make them feel better. If someone feels hot easily, cooling foods like cucumber help.
Simple lifestyle habits (Vihar), like waking up early in the morning and sleeping early at night, Vaamkukshi (resting on the left side after a meal), etc. can make a big difference. Ayurveda advises these as per your individual body type to make you healthy.
Ayurveda tells us to notice small signs like dry skin, tiredness or mood changes, as these are different for different individual body types and accordingly taking action early helps prevent problems in the early stage.
These principles are the basic foundation of Ayurveda along with the prevention and treatment of disease. Ayurvedic doctors practice different techniques, including herbal remedies, diet, lifestyle advice and yoga as per Prakriti to restore balance to the Doshas and maintain a healthy physical, mental and emotional state.
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