The Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor Program. KAA 102: Ayurvedic Physiology (Dosha Dhātu Mala Vigyan)

Transcription

1 The Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor Program KAA 102: Ayurvedic Physiology (Dosha Dhātu Mala Vigyan)

2 Dosha, Dhātu, Mala: An Introduction The human body is a mirror of our physical surroundings. The space we inhabit, the air we breathe, the water we drink, the heat of the sun and the earth underneath our feet are each an example of the physiological structures outside our bodies which are reflected in our own elemental composition. In Ayurvedic Philosophy, you were introduced to the three Doshas and the principle of Prakriti and its underlying tenets. Ayurvedic Physiology takes Philosophy a step further. It describes the specific operations of these major energies and laws as the physiological energies, structures and byproducts in the body and mind. Human physiology can be summarized into three categories: Governing energies (Dosha), organs and structures (Dhātu) and wastes (Mala). Name Dosha Dhātu Mala Translation When imbalanced, causes disorder. That which holds together. That which spoils or decays the body. No. of Types Types 3 Vāta, Pitta, Kapha 7 Rasa, Rakta, Māmsa, Meda, Asthi, Majja, Shukra/Artava 3 Purisha, Mutra, Sweda

3 The Subdoshas Subdosha: Secondary Governing Energy Each of the doshas have five (5) Subdoshas with specific actions within the physiological structure. They affect and govern the emotional and mental faculties as well as specific organ functions and operations.

4 The Subdoshas The Subdoshas can be found acting in every part of the body. They are distributed according to the organs and actions that take place at each respective location.

5 The Subdoshas Vāta Vāta and its Subdoshas create and sustain physiological functions related to Vāta, such as action, transportation, movement, inspiration and buoyancy.

6 The Subdoshas Vāta 1. Prāna Vayu Location Action Movement Signs of Imbalance Balancing Herbs Brain, lungs, heart, throat, tongue, nose and ears. From outside to inside Tulsi, Aswagandha 2. Udāna Vayu Sensory perception, inhalation, nervous control of heart, ingestion of food, coughing, spitting, sneezing, belching, thinking and mind control: Joy, happiness. Weakened senses & confusion, physical & psychological imbalances. Location Action Movement Signs of Imbalance Balancing Herbs Mainly in the chest; Moves from the navel to the heart, lungs, throat and brain. Energizes mind, awakens intelligence, controls speech, self-expression, exhalation, memory recall. Gives strength to the body and glow to the skin. Upward Stuttering, congestion, difficulty in exhaling. Indecisiveness, difficulty in responding. Licorice, Dashamoola

7 The Subdoshas Vāta 3. Vyāna Vayu Location Action Movement Signs of Imbalance Balancing Herbs In the heart; circulates throughout the body. Represents the seat of life, consciousness and unconditional love. Circulates Rasa Dhātu (nutrients), Rakta Dhātu (blood), thoughts, emotions and energy to the rest of the body. Releases sweat, controls muscular contraction and relaxation. Regulates motor nerve impulses. Governs physiological and psychological functions of the Anahata or Heart Chakra. From the center to the periphery. Circulation problems, heart palpitations, Tachycardia, Bradycardia, Angina pectoris, murmurs, panic attacks, anxiety attacks. Arjuna, Ghokshula, Sthira

8 The Subdoshas Vāta 4. Samāna Vayu Location Action Movement Stomach, small Kindles Agni (helps digestion), separates nutrients and wastes from the food From the and large juice. Absorbs nutrients and water, maintains peristalsis, and controls the periphery intestine, liver, secretion of digestive enzymes. Converts the intelligence in the food into our to the pancreas and consciousness. Represents the meeting point of Prāna and Apāna. Governs the center spleen. physiological and psychological functions of the Manipura or Solar Chakra. 5. Apāna Vayu Signs of Imbalance Malabsorption Diarrhea Constipation Indigestion Balancing Herbs Cumin, Coriander, Ajamōda Location Action Movement Colon, pelvic Supports and strengthens intestinal walls. Maintains the tone of the tissues Downward cavity and pelvic and muscles in the pelvis. Absorbs nutrients, eliminates urine and feces, organs. starts menstrual flow, ejaculation of semen and sperm and assists with conception. Induces labor, contracts uterus and assists with childbirth. Nourishes the other Vayus. Governs physiological and psychological functions of Muladhara or Root Chakra and Swadhisthan or Sacral Chakra. Signs of Imbalance Constipation, bloating, distension, lower abdominal pain. Irritable bowel syndrome, incontinence, hyperactive bladder. Prolapsed uterus, vagina, rectum. PMS, dryness of vagina. Sterility, miscarriage, ED. Balancing Herbs Haritaki, Ajamoda

9 The Subdoshas Pitta Pitta and its Subdoshas create and sustain physiological functions related to transformation, conversion, digestion, heat and radiance.

10 The Subdoshas Pitta 1. Sādhaka Pitta Location Action Signs of Imbalance Balancing Herbs Brain and heart Digestion of ideas, thoughts; discrimination, awareness. Controls thinking, learning, understanding. Moves in the heart as compassion and love. All thoughts like desire, goals and determination are the function of Sādhaka Pitta Sandalwood, Brahmi, Licorice

11 The Subdoshas Pitta 2. Alōchaka Pitta Location Action Signs of Imbalance Balancing Herbs All parts of the eyes Maintains visual acuity, absorbs different images, colors, and processes visual images. At subtle level it gives clarity, light and understanding Poor eye sight, foggy vision, near- or farsightedness, colorblindness, conjunctivitis Triphala, Dārvi

12 The Subdoshas Pitta 3. Pāchaka Pitta Location Action Signs of Imbalance Balancing Herbs Small intestine & lower part of stomach Creates hunger and thirst; Aap part of Pitta liquefies food and agni part cooks the food. Digests sour, pungent and bitter foods. Moves food through different parts of digestive tract with the help of Samāna Vayu; The essential part of the food is absorbed and the remaining part is passed to the colon. When the digestive fire is strong we experience contentment, strength, energy and clarity of mind. When Low: Indigestion, ama production. When High: Nausea, vomiting, acidity, ulcers, heartburn To Strengthen: Ginger, Cloves, Garlic, Ajamoda, Chitraka To Reduce: Amalaki, Guduchi, Licorice, Coriander

13 The Subdoshas Pitta 4. Bhrājaka Pitta Location Action Signs of Imbalance Balancing Herbs Skin Controls the color & luster of the skin, maintains blood flow and body temperature, controls sweat glands and absorption of sunrays to form nutrients. Absorbs medication patches. Forms the barrier between the internal and external environments. Skin inflammations, blisters, acne, rosacea, psoriasis, hives, moles, melanoma, and skin ulcers, also eats the stomach lining and causes ulcers. Chandana (cooling, blocks the sun s rays), Manjishta (balancing), Red Sandalwood (cooling)

14 The Subdoshas Pitta 5. Ranjaka Pitta Location Action Signs of Imbalance Balancing Herbs Liver, spleen, and small intestine Gives color to blood, urine and feces. In the liver, the absorbed food (Ahāra Rasa) is cooked and digested again. Represents the seat of Panchamahabhutagni where the food particles are separated into Panchamahabhutas. The liver also destroys old red blood cells, separating enzymes which are excreted through the stool, giving a yellow color to the urine and feces. Jaundice, anemia, leukemia, bleeding disorders Turmeric, Sharapunkha, Katuki

15 The Subdoshas Kapha Kapha and its Subdoshas create and sustain physiological functions related to construction, lubrication, nourishment, cohesion and stabilization.

16 The Subdoshas Kapha 1. Tarpaka Kapha Location Action Signs of Imbalance Balancing Herbs Brain and spinal cord, heart Protects nervous system, nourishes nervous tissue, lubricates brain cells, regulates the action of the nervous system, works as a shock absorber against injuries, and creates calmness, compassion, caring, love and affection. Dull mind, lack of understanding, slow learning, slow memory recall, MS Vacha (Calamus), Ginger

17 The Subdoshas Kapha 2. Bōdhaka Kapha Location Action Signs of Imbalance Balancing Herbs Mouth, tongue and salivary glands. Keeps the oral cavity moist, interprets taste, lubricates the mucus membrane, liquefies the food for better chewing, digestion (carbohydrates) and swallowing, and protects the mouth against acidity and cavities. Lubricates the throat for softer and clearer voice. Is very sensitive to emotions. When we experience anxiety, fear, depression, Bōdhaka Kapha decreases. With a smell, look or thought of good food, Bōdhaka Kapha is secreted. Irregular coating, plaque. See notes on tongue diagnosis. To Increase Kapha: Licorice To Decrease Kapha: Ginger, Cloves

18 The Subdoshas Kapha 3. Avalambaka Kapha Location Action Signs of Imbalance Balancing Herbs Thoracic cavity, lungs, pleural cavity, in pericardium, around alveoli, and bronchi Lubricates all the organs in the lungs and provides nourishment. Carries love and compassion from the heart to the rest of the body. Every thought and emotion affects Avalambaka Kapha. For a long healthy life, Avalambaka Kapha is essential. Emphysema, Asthma, Bronchitis, cough, Pleurisy, heaviness in the chest. Ginger, Bibhitaki

19 The Subdoshas Kapha 4. Kledaka Kapha Location Action Signs of Imbalance Balancing Herbs Stomach (upper part), Stomach Lining, Secretions in the Stomach Moistens food for better digestion and movement of food in the stomach. Protects and nourishes stomach lining (mucus membrane), prevents ulcers. Represents the alkaline secretion in the stomach. If Increased: Indigestion, heaviness, ama formation, mucus in stools. If Decreased: Ulcers, burning in the stomach Ginger, Pippali

20 The Subdoshas Kapha 5. Shleshaka Kapha Location Action Signs of Imbalance Balancing Herbs Joints Lubricates joints for smooth action, provides nourishment to the bones, ligaments and cartilages. Works as a shock absorber. Lubricates the skin. Arthritis, swollen joints, water retention, edema. To Decrease: Punarnava, Ginger, Guggulu To Increase: Licorice

21 Dhātu That Which Holds Together Dhāranāt Dhātavah The Universe is made up of energy and matter. Energy needs matter to mobilize and serve its function. Matter doesn t move without energy. For this purpose, the Doshas represent energy and the Dhātus represent matter. They are both close friends who cannot live or function without each other. The doshas work through the Dhātus. Each Dhātu has a primordial vibration and is an expression of consciousness. The Dhātus hold (support) the body together. The Doshas do the function and Dhātus provide the site to do the function. The Dhātus are developed from and nourished by food. There are seven Upadhatus, or secondary tissues, developed as a byproduct of Dhātu digestion. The Malas, or waste products are also produced during each Dhātu digestion. The Dhātus support the body and provide nutrition to the more subtle Dhātus. The Upadhatus support the body but do not provide nutrition. In the disorder process the Dhātus become affected, which is called Dushya. The Dhātus are measured in Anjali pramana. Anjali is a measure created by cupping the palms together to equal roughly 8 fluid ounces. The grosser Dhātus nourish the subtler Dhātus and subtler the Dhātus protect the grosser Dhātus.

22 Dhātu That Which Holds Together Dhātu Location Function Upadhatu Mala Rasa Plasma, Lymph, Serum Preenan (Nourishment) Stanya (Breast milk) Raja (Menstrual fluid) Rakta Blood Jeevana (Giving life) Kandara (Tendons) Sira (Blood vessels) Māmsa Muscle Lepana (Plastering of the body) Vasa (Subcutaneous fat) Twak (Skin) Kapha Meda Fat Snehana (Lubrication) Snayu (Ligaments) Sweat Asthi Bone Dhārana (Supporting the organs) Teeth Hair, Nails Pitta Khamala (Waste from natural openings) Majja Bone Marrow Poorana (Filling, feeling) Tears Oiliness in the eyes, skin and feces Shukra/ Artava Reproductive Fluid (Sperm or Ovum) Prajaotpādana (Procreation) n/a n/a

23 Rasa Dhātu Plasma, Serum or Lymph with the nutritive essence Rasa is the grossest of all the Dhātus; it is plasma, serum, lymph. Rasa is a juice or liquid (the juice of life) with nutrients for all the other Dhātus. Rasa takes 1 day to form after food ingestion. It measures 9 anjali. Its Upadhātu is breast milk and menstrual fluid. Its Mala is Kapha.

24 Rasa Dhātu Plasma, Serum or Lymph with the nutritive essence Composition Made up of all Mahabhutas, but primarily Aap (jala, water) Sites Pervades in the whole body but main sites are heart, lymph channels, and venous blood. Functions 1. Preenana: Nourishes all Dhātus. Due to the process of catabolism, Dhātus break down and become deficient. Rasa Dhātu replenishes those, to maintain balance. 2. Ahāra Rasa (Digested Food) is absorbed by blood vessels and carried to Liver. Liver contains Panchamahabhutagnis, which further digest Ahāra Rasa. Dhātu agnis do further digestion to develop particular Dhātus. First, Rasa is created, which has all Bhutas for other Dhātus. Thus, it provides nourishment to others. 3. The intelligence and the subtle energy of Rasa, which comes from food, gives contentment to other Dhātus. This energy maintains strength, love and compassion 4. It maintains body temperature and ph through sweat glands. Coagulates blood due to Kapha. 5. Responsible for lactation and menstruation. Signs of Rasa Sara, or Optimum Rasa 1. A person is happy, strong, healthy and has good memory 2. Skin is soft, smooth and glowing 3. The hair (on the body and head) is oily, soft and silky

25 Rakta Dhātu Red Blood Tissue Rakta Dhātu represents the Red Blood Cells in the body. It is the second Dhātu in the body. It is named due to its color. Rakta means red. Rakta Dhātu requires 6 days to form after food ingestion. It measures 8 anjali. Its Upadhātus are tendons and blood vessels. Its Mala is Pitta.

26 Rakta Dhātu Red Blood Tissue Composition All the Mahabhutas but mainly fire and water. Sites Bone marrow (red marrow), liver, spleen, red blood cells, heart and uterus. Functions 1. Jeevana: Gives life by carrying Prāna. 2. Provides strength, energy, luster, happiness. 3. Carries Prāna to all the cells. 4. Nourishes subtle Dhātus. 5. Provides enthusiasm, compassion, creativity and ambition. 6. Emotionally connected to anger, irritability, and jealousy (because related to Pitta). Signs of 1. Person is bright, brilliant, and happy. Rakta Sara 2. There is vitality and strength. 3. Skin is reddish and lustrous, eyes are bright. 4. Pink lips, nails, conjunctiva. 5. Body always feels warm and desires cooler things.

27 Māmsa Dhātu The Muscle Tissue Māmsa Dhātu represents the muscles in the body. It takes 11 days to form after food ingestion. The quantity of Māmsa Dhātu is variable depending on the individual, their Prakriti and their personal habits. Its Upadhātus are subcutaneous fat and skin. Its Mala is ear wax, nasal crust, smegma and navel discharge.

28 Māmsa Dhātu The Muscle Tissue Composition Mainly earth, fire and water Sites Muscle tissue, organs of the body; Over the bones. Functions 1. Lepana: Plastering of the body. 2. Many organs are made of Māmsa Dhātu. 3. Regulates activities, moving joints and bones, coordination, power. 4. Gives strength to our body frame. 5. Keeps skin smooth. 6. Gives confidence, courage and strength. 7. Emotions are stored in fascia and connective tissue. 8. Nourishes Meda Dhātu. Signs of 1. Muscular body, with a good tone. Māmsa Sāra 2. Great strength and stamina. 3. Strong joints and co-ordination. 4. Person looks strong, healthy, confident, rich, and intelligent.

29 Meda Dhātu The Adipose Tissue Meda Dhātu represents the fat, lipids, adipose tissue and cholesterol in the body. Its main location is in the omentum and kidneys. It takes 16 days to form after food ingestion. It generally measures 2 anjalis, depending on the individual. Its Upadhātu is ligaments. Its Mala is Sweda or sweat.

30 Meda Dhātu The Adipose Tissue Composition Water, earth and fire. Sites All over the body, under skin, belly, omentum( a fold of peritoneum connecting or supporting the abdominal structures as the stomach and liver), buttocks, breasts, around joints, around heart, kidney. Functions 1. Snehana: Keeps muscles lubricated for constant contraction and retraction; lubrication of joints. 2. Keeps body strong, and supple; soft voice; oily and lustrous hair. 3. Nourishes Asthi Dhātu. 4. Retains heat. Signs of Meda Sara 1. Well-built body, melodious voice. 2. Skin, hair, eyes, nails, lips and teeth are smooth, oily and lustrous. 3. Rounded and strong joints. 4. Person is loving, forgiving and compassionate.

31 Asthi Dhātu The Bone Tissue Asthi Dhātu is the hardest Dhātu in the body. Sthā means to stand or endure. Asthi Dhātu is one of the seats of Vāta. The junction of the bones is a Sandhi or joint, which is filled and lubricated by Shleshaka Kapha to prevent friction during movement. It takes 21 days to form after food ingestion. Its Upadhātu is teeth and cartilage. Its Malas are hair and nails.

32 Asthi Dhātu The Bone Tissue Composition Mainly earth, space and air. Sites All the bones in the body. Functions 1. Dhārana (To support): It supports the other Dhātus in the body. Provides the skeleton to the body and gives shape, and stability to the body. 1. Provides attachment to muscles. 2. Protects vital organs (brain, spinal cord, pelvic organs) within. 3. Assists in self defense and protects the body. 4. Carries sound (bones in the ears). 5. Retains memory of pain, pleasure, sadness and happiness, subconscious emotions. 6. Many bone disorders are caused by old age. Signs of Asthi Sara 7. It nourishes Majja Dhātu. 1. Long and strong bones, big and strong joints. 2. Strong nails, hair, teeth. 3. Is hardworking, energetic, and has great strength and stamina.

33 Majja Dhātu The Bone Marrow Majja Dhātu represents the Bone Marrow in the body, as well as anything within the bone, the brain, spinal cord, red bone marrow or nerve tissue of body. The nourishment of Majja begins 26 days after food ingestion. It measures 1 anjali and represents ½ anjali of the brain tissue. Its Upadhātu are lachrymal secretions or tears. Its Malās are the oily secretions in the eyes, skin and feces.

34 Majja Dhātu The Bone Marrow Composition Mainly air, water and earth. Sites Within the bones, nerve tissue and endocrine glands. Functions 1. Poorana: Filling and strengthening the bones. 2. Strengthening the body. 3. Nourish Shukla Dhātu. 4. Communication, Sensory and motor function. 5. Majja is related to feelings, thoughts, and emotions in the past, present and in the future. Signs of Majja Sara 1. Body is strong but supple. 2. Skin and voice are soft. 3. Joints are strong and well built. 4. Eyes are big and lustrous. 5. Person is strong, intelligent and respectable and lives longer.

35 Shukla/Artava Dhātu The Reproductive Tissue In males, Shukla Dhātu represents the sperm; in females, Ārtava Dhātu represents the ovum in the body -or the female seed potential. It is the most subtle Dhātu in the body. Shukla is cool, white, oily, sweet, liquid and heavy. Ārtava is hot, astringent, sour, and acidic in smell It takes 31 days to form It measures ½ anjali.

36 Shukla/Artava Dhātu The Reproductive Tissue Composition Sites Mainly water. Male/female reproductive system. Functions 1. Prajotpadana: Reproduction and procreation. 2. Provide vigor and vitality. 3. Is the seed potential of all Dhātus. Signs of Shukla Sara 1. Strength, stamina, vitality. 2. Strong bones, eyes, nails and hair. 3. Enjoys physical intimacy with a partner. 4. Many children.

37 Shukla/Artava Dhātu The Reproductive Tissue Why is Shukla Dhātu so Important? Shukla is not merely located in the reproductive system. It is located all over the body. It increases the immune system, vigor, and vitality. In spirituality, controlling all the desires (especially sexual) is very important. The goal is to facilitate the life energy to move upwards. Mental calmness and clarity is increased by Shukla. Shukla keeps body very strong and free from disorder, and the intellect very sharp.

38 Ojas- The glow, aura, radiance, vitality or immunity The essence of all the Dhātus. The Prime energy reserve of the body. The immune system. A link between the body and mind. Superior to Shukla. Qualities Cool, oily, clear, heavy, soft, static. Functions 1. Protects life. 2. Gives strength. 3. Protects against disorders. 4. Controls heart beats. 5. Regulates sense organs and organs of action. 6. Maintains the balance of all Dhātus. Types of Ojas Para Ojas It is the important ojas that is responsible for maintaining life. So its loss leads to death. It is located in the heart. Apara Ojas It is the ojas that we attain through food and life-style. It is distributed throughout the body and strengthens it. 1. Para: 8 drops ( in the heart) 2. Apara: ½ Anjali (spread throughout the body)

39 Dhātu : Relationship of Dosha & Dhātu The Relationship of Dosha and Dhātu Dosha Related Dhātu Relationship Kapha Rasa, Māmsa, Meda, Majja, Shukla Direct Pitta Rakta Direct Vāta Asthi Inverse

40 Dhātu: Tissue Nutrition After digestion by Bhutagnis, Ahāra Rasa (the essence of the food) is digested further by the Dhātuagnis to provide nutrition to each particular Dhātu. The nutrition of the Dhātus is governed in any of the following ways, depending on need: The Law of Irrigation (Kedari Kulya) The Water System in the Farm Law The Law of Irrigation represents the concept of water irrigation, which is constant through the process of circulation. Each Dhātu takes its own nutrients and then forwards it to the next Dhātu.

41 Dhātu: Tissue Nutrition The Law of Transformation (Ksheera Dadhi) The Milk to Curd Law Ahāra Rasa Rasa Rasa Rakta Rakta Māmsa Māmsa Meda Meda Majja Majja Shukra/Artava Shukra/Artava Ojas

42 Dhātu: Tissue Nutrition The Law of Selectivity (Khale Kapot) The Pit and Pigeon Law Each Dhātu goes to the river of Rasa (plasma) to get its needed (own peculiar) nutrition and takes it back to nourish its constituents (fat takes fat; bones take minerals, etc). Nutrition is step-by-step nourishment from the gross to the subtlest Dhātu.

43 Malas: That Which Spoils or Decays the Body Malas can become toxins if not removed at the right time. Malas support the body. Cleanse the body. Over-cleansing removes all the Malas and aggravates Vāta, which breaks down Kapha and Pitta and weakens the Dhātus. Doshas, Dhātus and Malas all the three support the body. There are many forms of Malas. Urine and Feces are Malas of digested food. All the Dhātus after digestion create Dhātu Malas.

44 Mutra Urine Composition Taste Odor Touch Color Transparency Quantity Sites Mainly water (and earth) Acidic, bitter, salty Odorless Warm Colorless, slightly yellowish Clear 4 anjali Mutravaha strotas. Blood, kidneys (vrukka), uretors (mutra gavini), bladder (Basti), urethra (medhra). Function 1. To maintain moistness in the body 2. To remove wastes, salts and minerals from the body. 3. Helps to maintain fluid balance, thereby controls blood pressure.

45 Mutra Urine Formation In the small intestine, the digested food is separated into Ahāra Rasa (digested food) and Malas (wastes). The digested food is absorbed in small intestine and the wastes pass on to the large intestine. The water waste is absorbed and the feces are carried into the descending colon. Water is carried with Rasa and Rakta to rest of the body and the wastes are added to this. When this blood is filtered through kidneys, urine is separated and carried through ureters into the urinary bladder. When the bladder gets full, Apāna Vayu carries the urine through urethra, out of the body. Signs of Imbalance 1. Formation of increased or decreased quantity 2. Frequency of micturition 3. Painful micturition 4. Change in color, smell or consistency of urine 5. Kidney stones Signs of Mutra 1. Pain in urinary bladder Kshaya 2. Scanty urination 3. Thirst Signs of Mutra Vriddhi 4. Dryness of mouth 1. Excessive urination 2. Increased frequency 3. Fullness or pain in the bladder

46 Purisha Feces Composition Odor Color Quantity Sites Formation Mainly earth, little water Bad smell due to fermentation of food. In many digestive disorders, the smell is worse, because food is not digested completely. Yellowish, brownish. This is due to Ranjaka Pitta. (Bile salts form liver). (In Jaundice, the stools are whitish, or gray, due to blockage) 7 anjali (roughly). In vegetarian people the quantity is greater as there is more undigested fiber from vegetables. Purishavaha strotas (caecum, ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, rectum and anus) In Vāta imbalance, if Samāna Vayu did not absorb enough water content, the stools become watery causing diarrhea, or if there is excess absorption of water then the stools become very dry and may cause constipation.

47 Purisha Feces Notes 1. Worms in stools is a disorder. The normal bacterial flora is different from the amoebae, tapeworm, round worms. 2. Sensation of defecation: Due peristalsis the feces move forward. As it starts entering in sigmoid colon, a person gets the sensation for defecation. 3. Repeated colonics causes weakness. Due to emptiness, Vāta aggravates and causes chest pain, back pain, bloating, gurgling. Function 1. Removes solid wastes from the body 2. Supports intestinal walls 3. Removes toxins from the intestinal tract 4. Slows down emptying Signs of Imbalance 1. Constipation, hard, dry stools, hemorrhoids 2. Diarrhea, loose motions, Bloody diarrhea, colitis, diverticulitis 3. Irritable bowel syndrome, dysentery, parasites

48 Sweda Sweat Composition Sites Mainly water Swedavaha strotas Function 1. Keeps the skin moist, and prevents from cracking and drying 2. Maintains the temperature of the body. In hot temperature, Bhrājaka Pitta aggravates and dilates the blood vessels in the skin. It also stimulates sweat glands creating more sweat carrying more heat in the body. In the cold environment, Vyāna Vayu aggravates and constricts the blood vessels and the sweat glands. 3. Cleansing the toxins in the skin or superficial Dhātus

49 Prakriti Body Constitution

50 Prakriti Body Constitution Prakriti, the Body Constitution, is the proportion of Doshas at the time of conception. The most important factor in Ayurveda is the determination of one s individual constitution (Prakriti pariksha). Finding the right Prakriti is critical, as preventive or treatment plans are dependent on the specific Prakriti of the individual being treated. There are Seven (7) types of Prakriti: Type Description Number of Categories Types Eka Doshaja Predominant in any one Dosha 3 V, P, K Dwandwaja Dual types; Two Doshas at relatively equal proportions with one predominating 3 VP (PV), PK (KP), KV (VK) Tridoshic or Sama Triple Type; Three Doshas at almost equal proportions 1 VPK

51 Prakriti Body Constitution Knowing Your Prakriti Helps To: Maintain physical balance Achieve harmony at the subtle levels Establish an appropriate life regime Understand disorder tendencies Suggest or prescribe proper diet and general herbs Determine the perfect exercise routine Provide safe and effective treatments Find the ideal location to live, find a suitable career Improve relationships Add life to our living

52 Prakriti Body Constitution Before finding Prakriti, remember the following pointers: Be objective. Choose characteristics which describe and overall tendency of a person rather than what is happening right now. If more than one description is applicable, weigh each and select the response that is stronger than the others. V is for Vāta, P is for Pitta and K is for Kapha.

53 Prakriti Physical Characteristics Characteristic Vāta (V) Pitta (P) Kapha (K) Physical stature Slim and slender, tall or short, tissues not well developed Moderately developed body, medium built Well built, stout, stocky Weight Light weight, hardly gain weight (Gain by ounces and lose by pounds), and if gained weight, can easily get rid of excess pounds Medium weight, average, good muscles, do not gain weight very easily Heavy, easy to gain weight (gain by pounds and loose by ounces), very difficult to lose weight Chest Thin, small, narrow, small rib cage Medium Broad, large, well developed bust Hands and Fingers Legs Small, thin, dry, cold, rough, unsteady, long thin fingers Thin, excessively long or short, prominent joints Medium, warm, pink, moist, medium pointed fingers Medium Large, thick, cool, firm, stocky fingers Large, big, stocky Complexion Dull, darkish Red, ruddy, flushed, glowing White, pale Skin Hair Thin, dry, cold, rough, cracked Thin, dry, straight, dandruff (often) Warm, moist, pink, with moles, freckles, acne Moderate, fine, brown, red or blond color, receding hairline, tendency to early balding and graying Thick, white, moist, cold, soft, smooth Oily, thick, black, very wavy, lustrous

54 Prakriti Physical Characteristics Characteristic Vāta (V) Pitta (P) Kapha (K) Shape of the Face Oval, narrow Triangular, sharp angle, sharp contours Large, round, fat, white or pale, soft contours Eyes Small, dry, thin, brown, unsteady Medium, sharp, blue or green, piercing Big, lustrous, oily, black, attractive Lips Thin, small, darkish, dry Medium, soft, nice curve Thick, large, oily, smooth, firm Joints Small, thin, cracking Medium, soft, loose Large, thick, deep seated Nails Thin, vertical ridges, dry, rough, fissured, cracked Medium, soft, pink Voice Low, weak, hoarse Sharp, loud, high pitch Speech Quick, inconsistent, erratic, talkative Definite, argumentative, convincing Large, thick, smooth, white, oily Deep, good tone, loose voice due to congestion Slow, not to the point, not very talkative (good listeners)

55 Prakriti Physiological Factors Characteristic Vāta (V) Pitta (P) Kapha (K) Appetite Variable, erratic, goes up and down Strong, sharp, can t tolerate hunger Low, can easily skip meal Bowel Movements Tend to constipate, skip days, dry stools, and produce gas Tend to get diarrhea, loose motions, and loose stools Regular, once or twice a day, well formed stools Sleep Interrupted, wake up off and on, insomnia, wake at 3:00am Light sleeper, moderate, may wake up but will fall asleep again Heavy sleep, difficulty in waking up Dreams Flying, jumping, moving, nightmares, dreams often Vivid colors in dream, passionate Romantic, sentimental, few dreams Hobbies Traveling, dancing, running, aerobics (action) Sports, politics (winning) Nature walks, reading, gardening, fun activities Activities Quick, fast, unsteady, in bursts, hyperactive Precise, orderly, thoughtful, motivated, purposeful, goal seeking Slow, steady, relaxed

56 Prakriti Physiological Factors Characteristic Vāta (V) Pitta (P) Kapha (K) Stamina/Strength Low stamina, poor endurance, get tired after some activity Medium Good endurance, keep working for long duration Weather Preference Enjoy warm and humid weather Enjoy cooler weather Enjoy dry and warm weather Resistance to Disorder Weak immune system, fall sick frequently Moderate immune system, prone to infections Strong immune system, do not fall sick very easily Disorder Tendency Pain, arthritis, mental disorders, nervous system disorders Infections, inflammatory disorders, fevers Respiratory system disorders, mucus, water retention, swelling Total V: P: K:

57 Prakriti Giving Proportions to the Humors There are many variations. There is not one standard method. Be consistent with the one you use. Count all applicable V s, P s and K s. Divide all three numbers by the smallest total. For Example Steps Vāta Pitta Kapha Total from Questionnaire Divided by Smallest Total 15/4 8/4 4/4 Total (Rounded) There is no better or worse Body Constitution. It is our responsibility to make peace with our Prakriti. It will stay with us as long as we live. Each Prakriti has particular strengths and weaknesses depending on: Culture Profession Health Disorder tendencies Evaluate as many Prakriti as possible. It is one of the most important tools offered by Ayurveda.

58 The End