the ayurvedic wellness counselor · pdf filecharaka samhita 2. sushruta samhita 3. ashtang...

KAA 101: Ayurvedic Philosophy and Anatomy (Tarka Sankhya and Sharir)

The Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor Program

Ayurveda: The Science of Life

Ayurveda is a word in the Sanskrit language of Indiathat literally translates to the science [or wisdom] oflife. Ayur translates to life and Veda translates towisdom, knowledge or science. Since its originthousands of years ago, Ayurveda has a continuous

What Makes Ayurveda Special?� It respects the uniqueness of the individual.

� It considers all the levels of the individual – Body,

mind and spirit.thousands of years ago, Ayurveda has a continuoustradition of professional practice, research andeducation. It has become an inseparable part of theculture and daily lifestyle of traditional families inIndia. During the last thirty years, many originalAyurvedic Sanskrit texts have been translated intovarious European languages, including English. Thishas gradually led to the current popularity ofAyurveda in the West.

mind and spirit.

� It offers natural ways of treating dis-

eases and promoting health.

� It emphasizes prevention.

� It empowers everyone to take

responsibility for their own well-

being.

� It is cost-effective.

� It works.

Origin and Background

Ayurveda is a part of the Vedic system of knowledge. Among thefour Vedas—Rig Veda, Yajur Veda, Sama Veda and AtharvaVeda—Ayurveda is a part of the Atharva Veda.

Between 1000 – 700 BC, Ayurveda developed into eightbranches or specialties and two schools: Atreya (the school ofphysicians) and Dhanvantari (the school of surgeons).physicians) and Dhanvantari (the school of surgeons).

The chanting of mantras and the religious aspect of medicine inthe Vedas was gradually supplemented by observations based onscientific thinking. The material scattered throughout the Vedaswas collected, subjected to rigid tests for efficacy and thenrearranged. Such compilations are called Samhita when writtenin Sanskrit:

1. Charaka Samhita2. Sushruta Samhita3. Ashtang Hridaya Samhita

These are the three oldest, most authentic and most respectedSamhitas. They are called the Brihat Trai, or Great Trio.


� A classical text book of Internal Medicine (Kayachikitsa).

1. The Charaka Samhita

� Considered the prime work on the basic concepts of

Ayurveda.

� Represents the Atreya Sampradaya, or Atreya School of

Physicians.

� A systematic work divided into eight sections which are

further divided into 120 chapters.


� Represents the Dhanvantari School of Surgeons and isconsidered in Ayurveda to be the father of surgery.

2. The Sushruta Samhita

� Contains sophisticated descriptions of surgicalinstruments and various procedures such as plasticsurgery.

� Contains descriptions of the marmas—vital points inthe body that are comparable to the system ofacupuncture meridians in Chinese Medicine.

� Hastam eva pradhan yantram. The word surgerycomes from the Greek word meaning manualoperation. Sushruta emphasizes that among all surgicalinstruments, the hand is the most important becauseall other instruments are useless without it.


� Vagbhata wrote the Asthang Hridaya in poetic verse.

� Broken into two sections: The Ashtanga Sangraha and

3. The Asthang Hridaya

� Broken into two sections: The Ashtanga Sangraha andAshtanga Hridaya.

� The Ashtanga Sangraha is the third importantcomposition of the great triad. It is divided into 150chapters that deal with all eight branches of Ayurveda(Ashtanga: eight, Sangraha: collection).

� The Ashtanga Hridaya is more concise than AshtangaSangraha and is written in verse—a beautiful poetryform; this makes it easier for a student to rememberimportant subjects in a concise form.

Asthanga Ayurveda: 8-Fold Classification

1. Kayachikitsa | Internal Medicine

� Deals with the prevention, etiology, prognosis and management of disease.

2. Shalya Tantra | Surgery

� Various surgeries are described. The first plastic surgery was described in the Sushrut Samhita.Various surgeries are described. The first plastic surgery was described in the Sushrut Samhita.

3. Shalakya Tantra | Ear, Nose, Throat and Eye Diseases

� The Ayurvedic branch of ophthalmology and Oto-rhinolaryngology - diseases of eye and ear, nose and throat.

4. Kaumarbhritya | Pediatrics

� Deals with prenatal and postnatal baby care and with the care of the mother before conception and during pregnancy. Various childhood diseases and treatments come under this branch.

� Ayurveda describes several methods for conceiving a child.

Asthanga Ayurveda: 8-Fold Classification

5. Agada Tantra | Toxicology

� This branch deals with the toxicity and purification of herbs as well as mineral and animal products.

6. Bhuta Vidya | Psychiatry

� Ayurveda is equally concerned with mental diseases and their treatment. Treatment methods include not only diet and herbs, treatment. Treatment methods include not only diet and herbs, but also yogic methods for improving the state of mind. There is ample material for research on this branch in the Atharva Veda and other Ayurveda chapters.

7. Rasayana| The Science of Rejuvenation

� This therapy is used to prevent disease and promote healthy living.

8. Vajikarana | The Science of Aphrodisiacs

� This branch deals with the means of increasing sexual vitality and efficiency. For achieving healthy and intelligent progeny, the therapy of Rasayana and Vajikarana are closely interrelated. Vajikarana medicines also act as rejuvenatives.

Ayurveda: The Philosophical Foundation

There are six fundamental systems of

philosophy derived from the Vedas or Vedic

Systems often referred to as Shatdarshana.

The word shat translates to six andThe word shat translates to six and

darshana translates to philosophy or

understanding. These systems include the

Sankhya, Nyaya, Vaisheshika,

Yogadarshana, Mimamsa and Vedanta.

They are considered the most important

philosophies derived from the Vedic texts.

Sankhya PhilosophyThe 24 Basic Principles of Existence

� One of the oldest philosophical

theories.

� The word sankhya is derived from sat

meaning truth and khya meaning to

realize.realize.

� Another definition of Sankhya is a

number that is related to the 24

elemental building blocks (principles)

which constitute the Sankhya view of

the universe (See diagram to the

right)

Sankhya Philosophy

Purusha | Pure Consciousness

� The origin of creation

� Conscious ground for creation � Conscious ground for creation

� Passive in Creation

� Reflects in each and every

living being

� Male energy

Artwork by Bonnie Lanz, 2007

Sankhya Philosophy | Step 1

1. Prakriti| The First Step of Creation

� The entire universe is created from Prakriti

� Contains prime attributes behind all things as forms

of perception of perception

� Has three qualities called Gunas: Sattva, Rajas and

Tamas� Sattva Guna is knowledge, clarity, and purity

� Rajas Guna is action, mobility and stimulus

� Tamas Guna is ignorance, inactivity, heaviness and

darkness

� Prakriti and its three Gunas are responsible for the

diversity in the universe while the existence of

Purusha is responsible for unity.

Sankhya Philosophy | Step 2 – 3

2. Mahat | Cosmic Intelligence

� The First Manifestation of Prakriti

The cosmic intelligence, intuition

3. Ahankara| The Cosmic Ego

Ahankara represents the power of

differentiation or diversification, the awareness� The cosmic intelligence, intuition

and/or wisdom

� Buddhi is individual intelligence

� In every cell of an individual there is

inborn intelligence. This intelligence

puts everything in its proper place.

differentiation or diversification, the awareness

of the self, or the feeling I am.

The three Gunas manifest here in the form of

Sattvic Ahankara, Rajasic Ahankara and

Tamasic Ahankara.

Sankhya Philosophy | Step 4

4. Manasa| Mind

Manasa represents the formulatingManasa represents the formulating

principle of emotions and ideas, as well as

the individual consciousness projected by

Rajas Ahankara. It connects the inner and

outer worlds.

1. Ears

Sankhya Philosophy | Step 5 - 9

5 – 9. Panchagyanendriyani| The Five Sense Organs

The five sense organs are derived from Sattvic

2. Eyes

3. Skin

4. Tongue

5. Nose

The five sense organs are derived from Sattvic

Ahankara. They perceive sound, vision, touch, taste

and smell respectively. The entire knowledge of the

universe is obtained through these sense organs.

Therefore they are called Gyana Shakti, or the

knowledge of all that is.

1. Vocal Chords

Sankhya Philosophy | Steps 10 - 19

10 – 14. Panchakarmendriyani

The Five Organs of Action

The Five Organs of Actionderive from Rajas

15 – 19 Tanmatras

The Five Causal Elements

The Five Causal

Elements derive1. Shabda (Sound)

2. Feet

3. Hands

4. Urethra

5. Anus

derive from RajasAhankara. As organs ofaction, Rajas is calledKriya Shakti, whichtranslates to the actionsdirected toward all that is,or the nine powers ofaction.

Elements derive

from Tamas

Ahankara and

represent the

unmanifested

forms of the five

elements.

2. Sparsha (Touch)

3. Rupa (Vision)

4. Rasa (Taste)

5. Gandha (Smell)

Sankhya Philosophy | Steps 20 – 24

20 – 24.Panchamahabhutas | The Five Elements

All matter is created by the combination of these five material elements. Therefore Tamas is

called Dravya Shakti, which translates to the power of substance.

Nyaya Philosophy

� Founded by the sage Gautama

� First written between the 3rd and 4th

century BC and called the Nyaya Sutras

� Divided into five chapters

1. Pratyaksha | Direct Perception

� Observed via the senses and the mind. The

mind is the instrument for acquiring

knowledge, happiness, sorrow, desire and

The Four Pramanas | Means of Knowledge

� Deals with the logic for achieving truth

� Accepts four means of knowledge or

proofs, called Pramanas, which

Ayurveda has accepted in the process

of obtaining practical information

about the health of a patient or client

(See right)

knowledge, happiness, sorrow, desire and

in the planning of action.

2. Anumana | Inference

� Where there’s smoke, there’s fire.

3. Upamana | Analogy

� Racing mind, swan pulse, snake pulse.

4. Shabda | The word spoken by an authority (Apta-

Upadesa | Authoritative Instruction)

� Teachers, books

� Originated by Kanada.

� Deals with the creation of

1. Dravya | Substance (Herbs, fruits, wood)

2. Guna | Quality (Cold, hard, heavy)

The Seven Prameyas | Categories of Knowledge

Vaisheshika Philosophy

� Deals with the creation of

the universe and explains

the seven categories of

knowledge or objects of

cognition (Prameyas).

3. Karma | Action (Digestive, laxative, nervine)

4. Samanya | Similarity (Like increases like)

5. Vishesha | Dissimilarity (Opposites cure or neutralize)

6. Samavaya| Unbreakable Relation (Ginger and heat have a

samavaya relationship)

7. Abhava | Absence or Non-Existence (In Amalaki or garlic, the

salty taste is absent, so there is an Abhava of salty taste.

Another example: Kapha has an Abhava of heat.)

Akash (Space) � Vayu (Air) � Tejas (Fire) � Aap (Water) � Prithvi (Earth)

The Sequential Flow of the Elements

Panchamahabhutas | The Five Elements

. . . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..

. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .

. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..

…………………………

…………………………

…………………………

………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………

……………………..…………………………………

……….………………………………………………

………………………………………………………

Panchamahabhuta Qualities

Akasha (Ether/Space)Subtle, soft, clear, smooth,

expanding

Vayu (Air)Rough, dry, light, cold,

mobile

Teja (Fire) Hot, sharp

Flowing, wet, dull, soft, . . . .

. . .

. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..

.. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..

. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .

. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..

.. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..

…………………………

…………………………

…………………………

…………………………

…………………………

………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………

………………………………………….

� Akasha is the most subtle element

while Prithvi is the grossest.

� The elements are nothing but the

different densities of Akash.

� The denser elements have subtler

elements infused within them.

Aap (Water)Flowing, wet, dull, soft,

cloudy

Prithvi (Earth)Gross, heavy, static, hard,

dense

Akash | The Principle of Space

Panchamahabhutas | Akash

Main Quality Non-Resistance

Sense Sound

� Bhoutic Composition: Akasha

� Nothingness is the quality of space. Akash serves as the medium in which the other bhutas are able

to manifest.

� Sound is born from and propagates through space.

� For example: The breaking of chalk, our voice, the quality of wood.

� A close relationship exists between each bhuta and sense organ. Akash's corresponding sense organ

is the ear. The ear is a hollow, spacious structure containing very thin, light bones and is responsible

for transmitting sound from the environment into our neural impulses.

Vayu| The Principle of Movement

Panchamahabhutas | Vayu

Main Quality Movement

Sense Touch

� Bhoutic Composition: Akasha + Vayu

� Subtle vibrations create Vayu which gives direction to all motion and change and to all processes

and functions in creation.

� Vayu impulses blood to move through our arteries and veins, food to move through our digestive

tract and nerve impulses to be carried at lightning speed to and from the brain.

� Sense of touch arises from Vayu.

Tejas| The Principle of Conversion, Heat and Light

Panchamahabhutas | Tejas

Main Quality Conversion,

Illumination

Sense Sight

� Bhoutic Composition: Akasha +Vayu + Agni

� Light and heat are produced from the friction inherent in movement.

� The sun offers the most striking example of this principle. The sun's heat is directly and indirectly

responsible for conversion (metabolic processes). Without it, there would be no transformation and

no life.

� Conversion is the key concept in defining Agni’s role in creation.

� Sense of sight is intimately associated with the element of Agni. Without Agni and light creation would

not be possible. Agni allow us to see form, degrees of dark and light and various frequencies of color.

Aap| The Principle of Liquidity and Cohesion

Panchamahabhutas | Aap

Main Quality Cohesion

Sense Taste

� Bhoutic Composition: Akasha + Vayu + Agni + Aap

� Agni condenses to form Aap (Water), e.g. steam, which, when it cools becomes water

� Governs a substance's ability to change shape without separating or losing its integrity.

� Water is the most common manifestation of Aap Mahabhuta on this planet and is the major component of all life.

� In the sap of the plant or tree, water acts as a medium through which Vayu carries nutrients to leaves and branches.

� In the blood it performs the same function, binding nutrients and oxygen within itself so that Vayu can move them throughout the body.

� As saliva and digestive secretions, it binds nutrients together, which are broken down by agni.

� In the form of Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), it surrounds and protects brain and spinal cord.

� Aap protects the mucous membranes of the body and lubricates the joints so that solid structures can move or flow more freely over one another.

� Sense of taste arises out of Aap Mahabhuta. The ability to taste is dependent upon the liquidity that exists within the mouth in the form of saliva.

Prithvi| The Principle of Form and Structure

Panchamahabhutas | Prithvi

Main Quality Stability

Sense Smell

� Bhoutic Composition: Akasha + Vayu + Agni + Aap + Prithvi

� Aap (Water) dries and forms Prithvi (Earth). A substance or particle with shape indicates the

presence of Prithvi Mahabhuta.

� All structures whether an atom, molecule, rock, mountain, planet, solar system or galaxy, is

determined by Prithvi.

� Governs the shape and structure of every branch, leaf and flower in plants and every organ, tendon,

muscle and bone in animals and humans.

� Sense of smell arises from Prithvi Mahabhuta.

The Importance of the Panchamahabhutas in Health

Panchamahabhutas

All natural things are comprised of Panchamahabhutas.

For example: Fruits, vegetables, grains, plants, herbs, animals and humans areFor example: Fruits, vegetables, grains, plants, herbs, animals and humans are

comprised of different combinations of the Mahabhutas, which is why herbs can

be digested by the body while synthetic medicines cannot.

Mahabhutas with opposite qualities are used in treatment with the goal of

maintaining or restoring balance. For example, to lose weight (heaviness is a

quality of the earth element) we use lighter foods (popcorn is predominantly

comprised of the air element). In lightheadedness we use grounding, heavy

foods such as particular nuts and seeds (soaked overnight in water) or root

vegetables.

In Pitta aggravation (heat), we use bitter and astringent herbs (cooling) and use

cooling foods such as salads, fruits or grains.

Panchamahabhutas & Tanmatras

� Sound cannot exist without space and lack of

resistance, qualities of Akasha.

� Touch depends on vibration or movement, aspects

of Vayu.of Vayu.

� Sight occurs because of light and heat,

characteristics of Agni.

� Taste cannot function without the liquid and

cohesive nature of Aap.

� Smell needs Prithvi's solidity and form.

The Garden of the Five Senses, New York

Using the Mahabhutas and Their Senses as a Diagnostic Utility

Panchamahabhutas & Tanmatras

� The Sense of Sound

� By auscultating certain parts of the body, the physician understands the quality of the organ.

� We can hear an asthmatic person breathe heavily.

� Gurgling sounds in the stomach is a sign of bloating.Gurgling sounds in the stomach is a sign of bloating.

� The Sense of Touch

� Nadi Vigyan-pulse diagnosis is the most exceptional diagnostic tool in Ayurveda

� Palpation of abdomen gives idea about different digestive organs – tenderness, enlargement, bloating etc.

� Palpating Joints, tender area on the body etc gives more information about the underlying cause

� The Sense of Sight

� Visual inspection of the client also important.

� It gives idea about person’s Prakriti or Vikriti

� The Sense of Smell

� Body odor, foul smell, smell of the urine are examples

� Ancient texts identify twenty types of diabetes based on the specific degeneration of the tissues giving specific smell to urine.

We do not use the sense of taste in Diagnosis

Panchamahabhutas and Tanmatras

The Relationship of Sense Organs, Organs of Action, Bhuta and Tanmatra

Panchamahabhuta Sense Organ Tanmatra Organ of ActionAkasha (Ether) Ear Shabda (Sound) Vocal Cords

Vayu (Air) Skin Sparsha (Touch) HandsVayu (Air) Skin Sparsha (Touch) Hands

Teja (Fire) Eyes Rupa (Sight) Feet

Aap (Water) Tongue Rasa (Taste) Urogenital System

Prithvi (Earth) Nose Gandha (Smell) Anus

The Tridoshas | Actions and Qualities

The Tridoshas are thethree energies governingall the functions in thebody. While modernmedicine is based on the

Dosha Composition Description Qualities

Vata Air + Ether

The energy of action,

transportation and

movement.

Dry, rough, light,

cold, subtle and

mobile.body. While modernmedicine is based on thestructure of the body,Ayurveda is based on theenergies behind thatstructure. The fiveMahabhutas give rise tothree doshas, or Tridoshas:Vata, Pitta and Kapha:

Pitta Fire

The energy of

transformation,

conversion and

digestion.

Oily, sharp, hot,

light, moving, liquid

and has acidic smell.

Kapha Water + Earth

The energy of

construction,

lubrication and

nourishment.

Moist, cold, heavy,

dull, soft, sticky and

static

Vata | That Which Gives Energy

Quality Actions

DryReduces wetness, dampness. Helps reduce mucus,

congestion, water retention and swelling.

Light

Makes body light, helps release weight and create a

feeling of being energized while reducing lethargy and

Bhoutic Composition: Air + Ether

In nature, Vata is like the wind. It is constantly moving

and scattering things around. Vata is called the King of

the Doshas mainly because it is the moving force behind

everything, including Pitta and Kapha.

Light feeling of being energized while reducing lethargy and

ama buildup.

ColdBalances heat and reduces burning and excessive

acidity.

Rough Breaks sliminess, congestion and reduces toxin buildup.

SubtleHelps reach the microscopic (very narrow) channels of

the body.

MobileBalances static; moves energy, nerve impulses. Makes

movement possible.


Location

Main Location: Abdominal cavity

below the umbilicus.

Actions and Functions

� All movements and functions of the body andmind

� Sensory and motor nerve regulation and

Other Locations: Colon, pelvis and

pelvic organs, thighs, legs, skin, ears,

brain and nervous system, lungs

� Sensory and motor nerve regulation andpropagation of impulses

� Voluntary and involuntary actions� Breathing� Removal of wastes� Speech (movement of vocal cords)� Pumping of the heart� Sense of touch� Kindles digestive fire� Absorbs nutrients� Openings of the cell walls and energy channels� Development and delivery of the fetus

Management

� Vata-balancing diet and lifestyle.

� Shodhana: Snehana, Swedana, Basti

� Shamana: Vata-balancing herbs


Causes of Aggravation Signs of Aggravation

� Fall and early part of winter.� Eating too many dry, bitter, pungent,

astringent, light, cold, stale or processedfoods.Drinking too cold drinks or food

� Dry: Skin, hair, eyes, ears, lips, joints, stools,bloating, gas, dehydration.

� Light: Light-headedness, restless mind,ungroundedness, dizziness, thinness, weightfoods.

� Drinking too cold drinks or food� Drugs.� Exposure to cold and wind, dark (less light).� Listening to loud noise, bright light, too

much TV.� Erratic work or life-style schedule.� Fasting, wrong dieting, less sleep,

interrupted sleep.� Excessive exercise, running, staying up late,

holding natural urges.� Stress, fear, anxiety, insecurity, worry.� Excessive bleeding, excessive cleansing.� Sexual overindulgence.

ungroundedness, dizziness, thinness, weightloss.

� Cold: Cold body, poor circulation, musclespasm, constriction, tightness, pain, asthma.

� Rough: Breaking of skin and lips, varicose veins.� Subtle: Tremors, twitching, fear, anxiety,

insecurity.� Mobile: Racing mind, restlessness, fast actions,

chatter, fidgeting, obsessive compulsive,bipolar, manic depression, muscle twitchingand palpitations.

� Clear: Racing mind, agitated mind

Pitta | That Which Produces Heat or Anger

Quality Actions

Oily

Balances dryness, maintains luster of the skin,

emulsifies food; mixes food with digestive enzymes

for proper digestion.

Sharp

Breaks down food chains into tiny particles, cooks

food, digests foods (especially those with heavier

qualities), penetrates through blockages, and

Bhoutic Composition: Fire

In nature, Pitta is like the sun’s heat, giving light and

transforming things. It is the heat or transformative energy in

the body. Pitta helps us to think, discriminate, be confident,

have clear vision, speak to the point, and see different things

and colors, digest food, maintain body temperature, protect

from excess heat and cold, and give luster to skin.

Sharp qualities), penetrates through blockages, and

sharpens memory and thinking. Helps in planning and

gives confidence.

HotKeeps us alive, maintains acidity of digestive enzymes

and maintains body temperature.

Light Illuminates mind, intelligence and life.

AcidicGives acidic smell to sweat and bile, emulsifies and

digests fatty foods.

Spreading Helps the flow, mixes and moves food.

LiquidMakes food liquid, helps digestion and overall flow in

the body.

Location

Small intestine, lower part of stomach,

Rasa Dhatu, Rakta Dhatu, sweat

glands, skin, eyes, liver, spleen,


� Digestion

� Assimilation


glands, skin, eyes, liver, spleen,

pancreas.� Absorption

� Transformation

� Maintenance of body temperature and

luster of the skin

� The creation of thirst

� Discrimination, intelligence and leadership

� Clarity of speech, boldness, vision (physical

and mental)

Management

� Pitta-balancing diet and lifestyle

� Shodhana: Snehana, Swedana, Virechana

� Shamana: Pitta balancing herbs


� Summer

� Eating very sour, salty or pungent

food; Too much yogurt, sour juices,

� Oily: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, oily skin, acne,

skin blisters.

� Sharp: Gastritis, ulcers, acid reflux, heartburn,

irritability, anger, sharp pain, sharp headaches.


food; Too much yogurt, sour juices,

junk food.

� Smoking, alcohol, hallucinogenic or

excessive medicinal drugs.

� Outdoor activities in the afternoon,

exposure to sun.

� Anger, irritability, sexual indulgence.

� Excessive competition, intellectual

stimulation.

irritability, anger, sharp pain, sharp headaches.

� Hot: Fevers, infections, inflammations, excessive

perspiration, red hot eyes, desire for cool drinks,

thirst, burning, hyperacidity and insomnia.

� Light: Dizziness, sensitivity to heat and light,

ringing in ears.

� Acidic: Acidic smell to feces, sweat and urine, skin,

breath, jaundice, yellow hue to the skin, skin

infections.

� Mobile: Vertigo, dizziness.

� Liquid: Excessive perspiration, thirst, urination.


Personality

Vata people are generally slim and slender, either short or tall with prominent bones and less

muscles. Their other physical characteristics are oval face, small eyes (many times roll eye balls

often), dry skin, thin hair, small joints (may crack often), and long fingers. Variability is Vataoften), dry skin, thin hair, small joints (may crack often), and long fingers. Variability is Vata

nature. Their metabolism and sleep pattern is always changing.

They talk a lot, walk a lot and complain a lot. They do lot of hand gestures almost like they talk

with their hands. They are good in attracting people with their talking and expressions. They are

very intuitive, imaginative and artistic. They are good in writing poems, creating art, or dancing.

They love to travel, or be constantly on the go.

The Vata mind is like a busy bee, constantly buzzing around, moving in circles. They are born

worriers- worry about everything and anything. Often feel anxious, nervous and worried. Many

times their mind is in the future, not enjoying the present moment. They are good at playing

“what if” game. Vata slogan is “Can I change my mind?”

Personality

Pitta people are medium built and height, with strong muscles. Sharpness is the main

characteristic of Pitta personality - Sharp nose, sharp eyes and sharp chin and

(unfortunately) sharp tongue. They tend to have receding hairline or get early graying or

balding.


balding.

Pitta people are good speakers. They speak to the point (no beating around the bush).

They are very precise, goal seeking, orderly and tidy. Pitta people are list makers; they

can’t do anything unless planned. They are always “on time” machine.

The Pitta mind is like a bull. Once set on the goal, it is difficult to change. Many times it

is in the present so Pitta people are generally witty. Many times they are also

opinionated, criticizing others or telling people what is right and wrong (that is why they

create enemies). Pitas get irritable or angry quickly, especially when things don’t

happen their way. Pitta’s metabolism is very sharp. They are always hungry and angry.

Their slogan is “Do it my way or the highway”.

Kapha | The One that Helps to Connect or Adhere

Quality Actions

MoistLubricates the whole body and joints, reduces dryness, friction

and facilitates the function of any and all tissues.

Cold

Protects the body against too much Pitta, such as heat,

burning and acidity, maintains alkaline medium or pH of body,

acts as a cooling energy.

Helps to create stability and/or groundedness in the body and

Bhoutic Composition: Water + Earth

In nature, Pitta is like the sun’s heat, giving light and

transforming things. It is the heat or transformative

energy in the body. Pitta helps us to think, discriminate,

be confident, have clear vision, speak to the point, and

see different things and colors, digest food, maintain

body temperature, protect from excess heat and cold,

and give luster to skin.

Heavy

Helps to create stability and/or groundedness in the body and

mind, increases weight by nourishing the Dhatus, builds the

tissues.

StaticProvides stability, counterbalances and/or protects against the

hyperactivity of Vata, protects Dhatus.

StickyProvides insulation; protects Dhatus, protects against the

hyperactivity of Vata.

SoftKeeps the tissues supple, helps protect against too much

action and/or friction. Maintains tissue consistency.

CloudyProvides insulation against sharpness of Pitta, protects

Dhatus.

Slow Slow sluggish movement, slow thinking.

Smooth Smooth surface of the organs, smooth movements.

Location

Above the diaphragm.

Main location: Stomach, lungs,

lymphatic, mucus membrane,


� Supports the body

Maintains body's lubrication


lymphatic, mucus membrane,

peritoneal cavities, joints, mouth,

brain and spinal cord (cerebral spinal

fluid).

� Maintains body's lubrication

� Moistens joints

� Develops and strengthens the tissues

� Gives strength and stamina

� At the subtle level it creates forgiveness,

love, compassion, calmness, happiness,

contentment

Management

� Kapha-balancing diet and life style

� Shodhana: Snehana, Swedana, Vamana

� Shamana: Kapha balancing herbs


� Late Winter, Spring, the rainy season.

� Moist: Clammy skin due to too much oil

� Cold: Cold body, colds, cough, congestion,

sinus problems, pale color


� Eating too much sweet, sour or salty

food, junk food such as candies, ice-

creams, desserts, donuts, oily fried

food, red meat, excessive milk and

cheese products.

� Excessive eating and drinking.

� Excessive sleep, lack of exercise or

physical activity.

sinus problems, pale color

� Heavy: Heaviness, obesity, lethargy, weak

Agni, indigestion, Candida, food allergies

� Static: Laziness, excessive sleep, lethargy

� Soft: Excessive saliva in the mouth, white-

coated tongue

� Liquid: Water retention, swelling on the body,

swollen joints, ascitis, heavy mind, slow

thinking

Personality

Kapha people are well built, full-bodied people. Their features are rounded – Round

face, round big eyes, roundish nose, and sweet looks. They have long and thick hair.


Kapha people are loving, nurturing, caring and are peacemakers. They want

everybody to be happy. Their slogan is “Don’t worry be happy.” They have good

endurance and strong immune system. They are good listeners and speak very little.

At times they tend to be shy. Kaphas tend to gain weight very easily and retain water,

causing swelling. Bit lazy, Kaphas like to rely on others and like to follow others.

Kapha mind tends to get heavier, many times stays in the past – day dreaming about

past incidences. Kapha people get attached quickly and have a hard time letting go.

The Twenty Tattvas | Qualities

Heavy/Light | Guru/Laghu

Cold/Hot | Shita/Ushna

Wet/Dry | Snigdha/Ruksha

Dull/Sharp | Manda/Tikshna

Attribute V P K Attribute V P K

Heavy ↓ ↓ ↑ Light ↑ ↑ ↓

Dull ↓ ↓ ↑ Sharp ↑ ↑ ↓

The Tattvas and Doshas

Dull/Sharp | Manda/Tikshna

Smooth/Rough | Slakshna/Khara

Dense/Flowing | Sandra/Drava

Soft/Hard | Mridu/Kathina

Static/Mobile | Sthira/Chala

Gross/Subtle | Sthuia/Sukshma

Cloudy/Clear | Picchila/Vishada

Dull ↓ ↓ ↑ Sharp ↑ ↑ ↓

Cold ↑ ↓ ↑ Hot ↓ ↑ ↓

Oily ↓ ↑ ↑ Dry ↑ ↓ ↓

Smooth ↓ ↑ ↑ Rough ↑ ↓ ↓

Dense ↓ ↓ ↑ Liquid ↑ ↑ ↓ Eventually

Soft ↓ ↑ Hard ↑ ↓ ↓

Static ↓ ↓ ↑ Mobile ↑ ↑ ↓

Gross ↓ ↓ ↑ Subtle ↑ ↑ ↓

Cloudy ↓ ↓ ↑ Clear ↑ ↑ ↓

The Twenty Tattvas | 1 – 4

Tattva Bhoutic

Composition

Notes/Description Examples

Guru (Heavy) Prithvi and Aap Build the tissues and create

heaviness in the body.

Generally, all sweet, sour and salty

tastes are heavy

Foods: Grains, cheese, yogurt,

candies, ice cream, salty junk food,

red meat

Herbs: Ashvagandha, Bala,

Shatavari, muesliShatavari, muesli

Laghu (Light) Akash, Vayu Help to reduce weight and increase

energy.

Food: Popcorn, corn flakes, rice

flakes, rice cakes, leafy vegetables

Herbs: Neem, Aloe Vera, Brahmi,

Jatamansi

Manda (Dull) Prithvi, Aap Create dullness, sluggishness, and

lead to slow action. Neutralize

excessive acids in the body and help

prevent acidity and burning, etc.

Foods: Milk, grains, cheese

Teekshna (Sharp) Teja Help to break down food chains and

digest foods. Hot and pungent foods

have this quality. Their main action

is transformation and cleansing

(Shodhana).

Foods: Sharp cheese, jalapeño,

garlic, chilies, salts

Herbs: Chitrak, Pippali, Ginger,

black pepper


Tattva Bhoutic

Composition


Sheeta (Cold) Aap, Vayu Substances which are cold or

create coldness in the body.

Generally, sweet, astringent and

bitter tastes are cold.

Foods: Cold water, ice-cream,

Cucumber, watermelon

Herbs: Turmeric, Neem, Chirata,

Ashok

Ushna (Hot) Teja Increases Agni, helps digest,

promotes expansion, perspiration

(swedana) and creates anger and

irritability.

Includes substances with a

pungent taste and hot potency or

temperature.

Foods: Ginger, chili, spicy food,

hot water

Herbs: Guggul, Chitrak

Snigdha (Oily) Aap Produce lubrication, moisture

(kledana), smoothness, love and

compassion.

Foods: Oils, butter, ghee, animal

fats

Herbs: Castor oil

Ruksha (Dry) Vayu Dry itchy skin, dandruff and dry

stools are examples of the effects

due to dry substances.

Foods: Dry toast, popcorn, dry

fruits, millet, barley, bitter melon

Herbs: Kirata, Patol, Neem


Tattva Bhoutic

Composition


Shlakshna (Smooth) Aap, Akasha Create smoothness, moisture and

lubrication (Ropana).

Foods: Oils, ghee, and aloe gel

Herbs: Amalaki, Draksha,

Shatavari

Khara (Rough) Vayu Helps reduce cholesterol and

blockages in the channels. Also

Herbs: Guggul, shilajeet, Vacha,

Karanja blockages in the channels. Also

causes dryness, cracks and

fissures.

Karanja

Sandra (Dense) Prithvi Increases viscosity and promotes

cohesiveness and solidity

(prasadana).

Foods: Butter, ghee, oil, mango,

milkshakes, yogurt

Herbs: Anant, Bala, Ashvagandha

Drava (Liquid) Aap Has a liquefying (vilodana) action.

Helps to carry nutrients to

different tissues and carries waste

products from the tissues.

Foods: Water

Herbs: Licorice


Tattva Bhoutic

Composition


Mrudu (Soft) Aap, Akasha Causes looseness (Shlathana) and

suppleness in the tissues.

Foods: Ghee, butter, oils, yogurt

Herbs: Chandana, Amalaki

Kathina (Hard) Prithvi Creates strength, rigidity and

hardness (drudhikarana). Makes

Foods: Cheese

Herbs: Khadirahardness (drudhikarana). Makes

the bodily tissues stable and

strong but may cause

constipation.

Herbs: Khadira

Sthira (Stable)

Prithvi Has a strengthening, stabilizing

(dharana) and enduring action.

Produces support and firmness.

Foods: Meats, grains, Lentils,

beans

Calcium

Chala (Mobile) Aap, Vayu Has a laxative, stimulating

(prerana) action. Promotes

movement.

Herbs: Triphala, Castor oil


Tattva Bhoutic

Composition


Sthoola (Gross) Prithvi Creates bulkiness. Covers the

other tissues (samvarana). Causes

obesity and decreases Agni.

Foods: Meat, fatty substances

Sookshma (Subtle) Akasha, Vayu, Teja Can pass through minute channels

and break obstructions easily. Can

Foods: Alcohol, various illegal

drugsand break obstructions easily. Can

pervade (vivarana) the entire body

quickly.

drugs

Herbs: Neem, kirata, camphor,

chitrak

Picchila (Cloudy) Prithvi, Aap Has the action of adhering

(lepana) or causing cloudiness.

Creates sliminess, heaviness and

coating.

Foods: Okra, psyllium, black gram,

basil seeds, natural gums

Vishada (Clear) Teja, Vayu, Akasha Removes cloudiness (Kshalana),

heaviness and creates clarity. For

example: Clarity of thought and

mind; Clear vision.

Herbs: Neem, Chitrak, Turmeric

The End

the ayurvedic wellness counselor · pdf filecharaka samhita 2. sushruta samhita 3. ashtang...

Documents