One of the fundamental tenets of Ayurveda is that man is a microcosm of the world he inhabits. This implies that humans and the world are composed of the same elements, known as the five Mahabhutas: Akasa (ether), Vayu (air), Agni (fire), Jal (water), and Prithvi (earth). Ayurveda postulates that all living and non-living beings are made up of these elements in varying degrees specific to each form, matter, and species, according to a predetermined ratio that cannot be changed. These five elements combine to form the three humors—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—collectively known as the Tridoshas, which are the cornerstone of Ayurvedic philosophy.

HUMAN COMPOSITION: DOSHAS, DHATUS, AND MALAS

The human body is composed of three fundamental categories: Doshas (three types), Dhatus (seven types of body tissues), and Malas (waste products). The three Doshas are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Their psychological correlates, which influence human behavior, are the Trigunas: Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas. These attributes are present in all living beings and even in the food we eat and the elements in our environment, each having a predominance of one or another characteristic (Guna/Prakriti), giving each matter its unique quality. The Tridoshas are composed of all five Mahabhutas, but one is usually predominant.

DOMINANCE AND BALANCE

For instance, Vata Dosha is composed of Akasa and Vayu, Pitta Dosha of Tejas (Agni) and Ap, and Kapha Dosha of Ap and Prithvi. A person is said to be dominated by one Dosha when the other two are suppressed, but this does not imply the absence of the other Doshas or ill health. This dominant Dosha represents the individual’s natural state, or Prakriti. An imbalance, or Vikriti, in these Doshas can lead to health issues. The three Gunas—Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas—promote different temperaments based on their dominance. Proper balance among the Tridoshas is essential for good health. The continuous presence and balance of all five Mahabhutas are crucial to sustaining life. To sum up, Ayurveda emphasizes the interconnectedness of the elements within the human body and the world, advocating for balance among the Doshas and Gunas to maintain health and well-being. Proper understanding and application of these principles are crucial for achieving harmony in life.