Distinctive thoughts on Health & Wellness in the Indian System

Sure! Let’s break this down into simple terms.

Understanding Health & Wellness in the Indian System

Namaste! In this chapter, we will explore some interesting ideas about health, wellness, and
psychology from an Indian perspective.

What is the Goal of Indian Health & Wellness?

In Indian tradition, health is not just about curing diseases. It is about achieving a balanced and
happy life by fulfilling four main life goals:

1. Dharma – Doing what is right.

2. Artha – Earning wealth and resources.

3. Kama – Fulfilling desires and enjoying life.

4. Moksha – Reaching spiritual freedom and peace.

To achieve these goals, good health is essential. Without health, we cannot work towards these life
goals.

This idea is beautifully explained in an ancient Sanskrit verse from Ashtanga Hridaya (a classic
Ayurvedic text):

"Health is the foundation for Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha. Illness destroys them all and
affects life."

This means that if we are healthy, we can live a good life, but if we are sick, we struggle in every
aspect of life.

Ayurveda vs. Modern Medicine

Modern medicine (like allopathy) treats diseases in the same way for everyone. For example, if two
people have a fever, both are given the same medicine.

But Ayurveda is different! It says that every person is unique because of their Prakriti (natural
constitution or body type). This means:

 Some people naturally have more heat in their bodies, while others feel cold quickly.

 Some digest food quickly, while others take time.

 Some are energetic, while others are calm.

Because of these differences, one treatment does not fit everyone. Ayurveda gives personalized
treatments based on a person's unique body type and needs.

Prevention is Better Than Cure

One of the most special things about Ayurveda is that it focuses on both preventing diseases and
curing them.

 In modern medicine, the main focus is on curing diseases after they appear.

 In Ayurveda, about 60% of its teachings focus on preventing illnesses by following a healthy
lifestyle, while the rest focus on treatments.

A famous Ayurvedic principle says:

"The goal of Ayurveda is to maintain the health of a healthy person and to cure diseases in the
sick."

This means that Ayurveda not only helps sick people get better, but also helps healthy people stay
healthy.

Why Should We Know About Our Own Nature?

Since every person is different, it is important to understand your own body type and nature. If we
know:

 What kind of food suits us,

 What kind of lifestyle is good for us,

 What type of exercise is beneficial,

Then we can stay healthy and prevent diseases. Ayurveda helps us learn what works best for our
own body so that we can live a balanced life.

Conclusion

The Indian system of health and wellness is unique because:

1. It connects health with life goals (Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha).

2. It understands that every person is different and needs personalized care.

3. It focuses on both prevention and cure, not just treatment after sickness.

4. It helps people understand their own body and mind to stay healthy naturally.

In the next lesson, we will learn more about Ayurveda’s approach to health and its different
methods of healing.

Dhanyavada (Thank you)! 😊

 Āyurveda - Approach to health

Āyurveda – Approach to Health (Simplified Explanation)

Welcome back! In the last lesson, we talked about the unique approach of Indian health and
wellness and how Ayurveda focuses on both preventing and curing diseases. Now, let’s dive into
how Ayurveda approaches health and the ideas behind it.

Where Does Ayurveda Get Its Knowledge From?

To understand Ayurveda deeply, we must know that it borrows ideas from two ancient Indian
schools of philosophy:

1. Sankhya Philosophy

o Sankhya explains that everything in the universe, including human beings, is made
up of 24 elements.

o Ayurveda uses this knowledge to study human anatomy (body structure) and
psychology (mind and emotions).

o Example: The famous Ayurvedic surgeon Sushruta based his teachings on Sankhya
principles.

2. Vaisheshika Philosophy

o Vaisheshika explains that everything in this world falls under six categories
(Padarthas):

 Dravya (Substances)

 Guna (Qualities)

 Karma (Actions)

 Samanya (Similarity)

 Vishesha (Uniqueness)

 Samavaya (Inseparable connection)

o This philosophy also identifies nine fundamental substances (Dravya), including the
five great elements:

1. Prithvi (Earth)

2. Ap (Water)

3. Tejas (Fire)

4. Vayu (Air)

5. Akasha (Space)

6. Kala (Time)
 7. Dik (Direction)

8. Atma (Soul)

9. Manas (Mind)

How Does Ayurveda Use These Philosophies in Health?

 Ayurveda believes that our body, mind, and soul are deeply connected.

 The five elements (Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space) are present in everything, including
our bodies. They form the three Doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), which control our health.

 A good Ayurvedic doctor must understand these philosophies because they help in
diagnosing (understanding a disease) and treating a patient properly.

 If an Ayurvedic doctor ignores these aspects, they are not practicing Ayurveda correctly.

Conclusion

1. Ayurveda is based on deep philosophical knowledge from Sankhya and Vaisheshika schools.

2. The Sankhya system explains human anatomy and psychology using 24 elements.

3. The Vaisheshika system explains how the world works using six categories and nine
substances.

4. Understanding these ideas is essential for an Ayurvedic doctor to give the right treatment.

What’s Next?

In the next lesson, we will learn about the definition of health in Ayurveda, which is an important
topic to understand.

Dhanyavada (Thank you)! 😊

Āyurveda -Definition of health

Āyurveda – Definition of Health (Simplified Explanation)

Welcome back! In the last lesson, we learned how Ayurveda is influenced by Sankhya and
Vaisheshika philosophies. Now, we will discuss a very important topic:

👉 What is the true meaning of health?

What Do People Normally Think About Health?

When asked, people usually give different answers:

1. Some say a person with a strong and fit body is healthy.

2. Others say a person with a strong mind is healthy.

But Ayurveda gives a much deeper definition of health that includes both body and mind.

Ayurvedic Definition of Health

Ayurveda defines health with this Sanskrit verse from Sushruta Samhita:

samadoshah samagnisca sama dhatu mala kriyah |

prasanna atmendriya manah svastha abhidhiyate ||

This means:
A healthy person is one who has a balanced body, a good digestive system, proper functioning of
tissues and waste removal, along with a happy mind, soul, and senses.

This definition includes both physical and mental well-being, which modern science only recognized
much later!

Breaking Down the Ayurvedic Definition

1. Samadosha (Balanced Doshas)

o The body is governed by three Doshas (energies):

 Vata – controls movement (air & space elements).

 Pitta – controls digestion & metabolism (fire element).

 Kapha – controls structure & immunity (water & earth elements).

o When these three are in balance, a person remains healthy. If imbalanced, diseases
arise.

2. Samagni (Balanced Digestive Fire)

o Agni (digestive fire) helps in digestion and metabolism.

o If digestion is good, nutrients are absorbed properly, and the body stays healthy.

3. Sama Dhatu (Balanced Tissues)

o There are seven important body tissues (Dhatus), such as blood, bones, and
muscles.

o If all tissues function properly, the body remains strong and disease-free.

4. Mala Kriya (Proper Waste Removal)

o The body must eliminate waste (urine, stool, sweat) properly.

o If waste builds up in the body, it leads to toxins and diseases.

 5. Prasanna Atma, Indriya, Manah (Happy Soul, Senses, and Mind)

o True health is not just about the body; it includes a peaceful mind, proper
functioning senses, and a content soul.

o If a person is mentally disturbed, even a healthy body cannot bring true well-being.

Comparison with Modern Medicine

 Before 1948, the World Health Organization (WHO) only defined health as physical well-
being.

 In 1948, WHO added mental well-being to the definition.

 But Ayurveda understood this holistic (complete) approach thousands of years ago!

Conclusion

According to Ayurveda, health is not just about looking strong or having no disease. A truly healthy
person has:
✅ Balanced body energies (Doshas)
✅ Good digestion (Agni)
✅ Strong body tissues (Dhatus)
✅ Proper waste removal (Mala Kriya)
✅ A happy and peaceful mind, soul, and senses

In the next lesson, we will explore this concept in even more detail.

Dhanyavada (Thank you)! 😊

Tri-doṣas

Understanding Tri-Doshas in Ayurveda

What Are Doshas?

In Ayurveda, the body is made up of three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These doshas control
different functions in our body and are made up of five basic elements:

1. Vata → Air + Space

2. Pitta → Fire + Water

3. Kapha → Water + Earth

Each person has a unique balance of these doshas, and maintaining this balance is important for
good health.
The Role of Each Dosha

1. Vata (Air + Space)

o Controls movement in the body (blood flow, breathing, muscle movement, etc.).

o If balanced, it gives energy and proper functioning of organs.

o If too high, it can cause joint pain, weakness, or constipation.

o If too low, it can lead to exhaustion, dizziness, or speech problems.

2. Pitta (Fire + Water)

o Controls digestion, body temperature, and metabolism.

o If balanced, it ensures good digestion, clear vision, and mental sharpness.

o If too high, it can cause acidity, burning sensations, and excessive hunger.

o If too low, it can cause indigestion, coldness, and weakness.

3. Kapha (Water + Earth)

o Gives stability, strength, and lubrication to joints.

o If balanced, it maintains body structure and patience.

o If too high, it can cause laziness, indigestion, and heaviness in the body.

o If too low, it can lead to loose joints and weakness.

When Do These Doshas Dominate?

 In the body:

o Kapha → Head to chest (affects lungs, cold, cough issues).

o Pitta → Chest to navel (affects digestion, acidity, and liver).

o Vata → Below the navel (affects joints, movement, and intestines).

 In different ages:

o Childhood → Kapha is dominant (children often suffer from colds, coughs).

o Young age → Pitta is dominant (more energy, digestion issues like acidity).

o Old age → Vata is dominant (joint pain, weakness, and digestive problems).

 In different times of the day:

o Morning → Kapha is dominant.

o Noon → Pitta is dominant.

o Evening → Vata is dominant.

  At night:

o First part of the night → Kapha is active.

o Midnight → Pitta is active (some people feel burning sensations at night).

o Early morning → Vata is active.

What is a Balanced Dosha?

A balanced dosha doesn’t mean they are equal in percentage. It means they are in the right
proportion based on a person’s natural body type.

 Balanced Vata → Good energy, smooth movements, and proper digestion.

 Balanced Pitta → Strong digestion, good appetite, and sharp intelligence.

 Balanced Kapha → Strong body, stable joints, and patience.

When doshas go out of balance, they lead to different health problems. Ayurveda helps bring them
back to balance through diet, lifestyle, and treatments.

In the next lesson, we will discuss Agni (digestive fire) and its importance in health.

Dhanyavada! 😊

Role of Agni in health

Understanding the Role of Agni in Health

In the last discussion, we learned about the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—and how keeping
them balanced is essential for good health. Now, let's talk about Agni, which is another important
factor in maintaining health.

What is Agni?

In Ayurveda, Agni means "fire," but it is not an actual flame. Instead, it is a form of energy inside
our body that helps in digestion. Agni is present in the body through Pitta dosha, which is made of
fire (Agni) and water.

Why is Agni Important?

Agni is responsible for:

✅ Digesting food: Whatever we eat is broken down and turned into energy and nutrients because of
Agni.
✅ Absorbing nutrients: It helps in making essential tissues in the body.
✅ Maintaining balance: If Agni is balanced, a person feels healthy, strong, and energetic.

What Happens When Agni is Too Low or Too High?

  If Agni is low (weak digestion):

o Food takes longer to digest, just like cooking on a low flame.

o This can cause constipation, bloating, and heaviness.

o People may feel tired and sluggish.

 If Agni is too high (overactive digestion):

o Food gets digested too quickly, making a person feel hungry all the time.

o If food is not available, the body starts burning essential tissues.

o This can cause weakness, acidity, and even weight loss.

What Happens If Agni Stops?

If Agni completely stops functioning, the body can no longer digest food or create energy, leading to
serious illness and even death.

Keeping Agni Balanced

To stay healthy, we must keep our Agni in perfect balance. This means:
✅ Eating fresh and warm food at the right time.
✅ Avoiding overeating or skipping meals.
✅ Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with good sleep and exercise.

Now that we understand Agni, we have covered two important health factors:
1️⃣ Balanced Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha)
2️⃣ Balanced Agni (Digestive Fire)

In the next discussion, we will learn about Dhatus (body tissues) and their role in health.

Stay healthy! Dhanyavada! 🙏

Sapta-dhātavaḥ - Seven Tissues

Understanding the Seven Dhatus (Tissues) in Simple Words

In the previous discussions, we learned about:

✔ Balanced Doshas (Sama-Dosha) – Keeping Vata, Pitta, and Kapha in balance.
✔ Balanced Agni (Sama-Agni) – Keeping digestion and metabolism in balance.

Now, let's talk about Sama-Dhatu, which means balanced body tissues.

What are Dhatus?

The human body is made up of seven main tissues, which are called Sapta-Dhatus. These are:
1️⃣ Rasa (Plasma) – The liquid part of the body, which carries nutrients.
2️⃣ Rakta (Blood) – The life-giving fluid that carries oxygen.
3️⃣ Mamsa (Flesh/Muscles) – Provides structure and movement.
4️⃣ Medas (Fat) – Stores energy and keeps the body warm.
5️⃣ Asthi (Bones) – Gives strength and shape to the body.
6️⃣ Majja (Bone Marrow) – Produces blood and strengthens bones.
7️⃣ Shukra (Reproductive Tissue/Semen & Ova) – Supports reproduction and vitality.

How Does Food Get Converted into Dhatus?

When we eat food, Agni (digestive fire) breaks it down, and the nutrients go through a process
where:
🔸 Food first turns into Rasa (plasma).
🔸 Some of this Rasa is then converted into Rakta (blood).
🔸 Blood then helps in forming Mamsa (flesh/muscles).
🔸 Mamsa further transforms into Medas (fat tissue).
🔸 Medas then nourishes Asthi (bones).
🔸 Bones produce Majja (bone marrow).
🔸 Finally, Majja helps in forming Shukra (semen and reproductive fluids).

This process is like boiling milk to make ghee. Just as milk is refined step by step to become ghee
(which is rare and valuable), our food is refined in the body to create vital energy called Ojas. Ojas
gives immunity, strength, and a long, healthy life.

What Happens If Dhatus Become Imbalanced?

🔹 If a Dhatu increases too much, it can cause problems like obesity, extra bone growth, or skin
diseases.
🔹 If a Dhatu decreases, it can lead to weakness, bone loss, or fatigue.

Examples:
✔ If Rasa (plasma) increases, it leads to Kapha-related issues like excess mucus.
✔ If Rakta (blood) increases, it can cause skin diseases and inflammation.
✔ If Asthi (bones) decrease, teeth may fall, or bones become weak.
✔ If Shukra (reproductive tissue) is weak, it affects energy, fertility, and vitality.

Importance of Balance in the Body

Along with Doshas, Agni, and Dhatus, another important factor is Mala (waste removal).
✅ Urine, sweat, and stool should also be in the right balance.
✅ If there is excessive sweating or constipation, it means something is wrong in the body.

Now, we have understood:

✔ Balanced Doshas
✔ Balanced Agni
✔ Balanced Dhatus
✔ Balanced Mala (Waste Removal)

In the next discussion, we will talk about a happy and healthy mind (Prasanna-Atma, Indriya,
Manah).

Stay healthy! Dhanyavada! 🙏

Psychological aspects of health

Understanding Psychological Aspects of Health in Simple Words

Welcome Back! 😊

In the last discussion, we talked about the first part of the verse:
✔ Sama-Dosha (Balanced Doshas)
✔ Sama-Agni (Balanced Digestion)
✔ Sama-Dhatu (Balanced Tissues)
✔ Sama-Mala-Kriya (Balanced Waste Removal)

Now, let’s talk about Mental and Emotional Health, which is mentioned in the second part of the
verse:

👉 ‘Prasanna-Atmendriya-Manah Swastha Ityabhidhiyate’

This means: A person is truly healthy only when they have:

1️⃣ A happy soul (Atma)
2️⃣ Healthy sense organs (Indriya)
3️⃣ A peaceful and balanced mind (Manas)

What is Manas (Mind)?

The mind is not something we can see, but we can feel its presence.
✔ It helps us experience emotions like happiness or sadness.
✔ It decides what is good or bad for us.
✔ It plays a big role in our freedom (moksha) or suffering.

If the mind is not controlled, our sense organs (eyes, ears, etc.) will also behave in an uncontrolled
way.

Example:
🔹 If I don’t control my eyes, I might keep watching unnecessary things.
🔹 If I don’t control my ears, I might keep listening to gossip or noise that affects my peace.

That’s why controlling the mind is very important for good health!

Three Gunas – The Nature of the Mind

According to Sankhya philosophy, the mind is made up of three qualities (Gunas):

1️⃣ Sattva – Brings peace, clarity, and wisdom.
2️⃣ Rajas – Creates movement, activity, and energy.
3️⃣ Tamas – Causes laziness, sleep, and ignorance.

These three gunas must be balanced for a healthy mind!

🔹 Too much Rajas = Anger, greed, desire.

🔹 Too much Tamas = Laziness, dullness, excessive sleep.
🔹 Too much Sattva = Rishis and sages stayed awake for years because they had very high Sattva and
very little Tamas!

Even the food we eat influences these Gunas. For example:

✔ Sattvic food (fresh fruits, vegetables, milk) = Peaceful mind.
✔ Rajasic food (spicy, fried food, coffee) = Hyperactive mind.
✔ Tamasic food (stale, heavy, processed food) = Lazy mind.

How Psychological Disorders Happen?

When Rajas and Tamas become too strong, they cause mental health issues like:
❌ Anger, anxiety, and aggression.
❌ Greed and too many desires.
❌ Laziness, depression, and lack of motivation.

Charaka’s Advice for a Healthy Mind

The great Ayurvedic scholar Charaka said that mental and physical diseases happen due to:
1️⃣ Wrong use of time, intelligence, and sense organs.
2️⃣ Excessive use of something.
3️⃣ Completely avoiding something.

Example (Hearing Sense – Ears 👂)

✔ Not using it at all → Over time, you may lose the ability to hear.
✔ Using it wrongly → Listening to extremely loud sounds damages the ears.
✔ Using it too much → Constant use of earphones or Bluetooth devices harms hearing.

This rule applies to all sense organs and even the mind.

How to Keep the Mind Healthy?

✔ Control your thoughts and emotions.

✔ Eat the right food for a balanced mind.
✔ Avoid overuse, misuse, or complete neglect of your senses.
✔ Practice meditation and mindfulness.

Conclusion

Now, we have understood the basics of psychological health in Ayurveda. A person is not truly
healthy unless their mind and emotions are balanced along with their body.

In the next discussion, we will talk about disease management in Ayurveda.

Till then, stay happy and healthy! 😊 Dhanyavada! 🙏

Disease Management Elements

Managing Diseases in Ayurveda – Simple Explanation

Ayurveda is an ancient medical system that focuses on keeping the body in balance. If someone falls
sick, Ayurveda follows a specific process to understand the disease and treat it properly.

1. How Does Ayurveda Manage Diseases?

The Charaka Samhita, an important Ayurvedic text, says that a doctor should first identify the root
cause of the disease before looking at symptoms. In modern medicine, doctors often treat just the
symptoms, but Ayurveda believes in removing the actual reason behind the illness.

For example, if a person has a fever, the doctor will check whether it is caused by Vata (air
imbalance), Pitta (heat imbalance), or Kapha (mucus imbalance) before giving the right treatment.

2. The Four Important Elements in Disease Management

To treat a disease successfully, Ayurveda considers four key factors:

1. Patient – The patient should provide complete details about their health problems to the
doctor.

2. Attendant (Caregiver) – The person taking care of the patient must maintain hygiene and
follow the doctor’s instructions properly.

3. Doctor – The doctor should be well-trained, knowledgeable, and experienced.

4. Medicine – The medicine used should be effective, safe, and easily available.

3. Why Do People Get Sick?

One of the biggest reasons for illness is suppressing natural urges. There are some urges that should
not be stopped, and some that should be controlled.

✅ Urges That Should NOT Be Suppressed:

These are natural bodily functions. If stopped, they can cause serious health problems:

 Yawning – Can cause headache, tremors, and numbness.

 Tears (Crying) – Suppressing crying can lead to heart problems, eye issues, and emotional
stress.

 Sneezing – Holding in sneezes may cause facial paralysis.

 Urination & Bowel Movements – Holding them in can lead to constipation, piles, and urinary
infections.

🚫 Urges That Should Be Controlled:

These are negative emotions and behaviors that can harm health:

 Anger

 Lust

 Greed
Suppressing bodily urges can make a person physically ill, while not controlling negative emotions
can affect mental and emotional health.

4. How Do Doctors Examine a Patient in Ayurveda?

When a patient visits an Ayurvedic doctor, they follow specific methods to check their condition:

1. Observation (Darshana Pariksha) – Looking at the patient’s overall appearance.

2. Touch (Sparshana Pariksha) – Feeling different body parts to check for pain or swelling.

3. Questioning (Prashna Pariksha) – Asking about symptoms, diet, lifestyle, and medical
history.

4. Pulse Examination (Nadi Pariksha) – Checking the pulse to understand body imbalances.

5. Urine Test (Mutra Pariksha) – Analyzing urine for any health issues.

6. Stool Test (Mala Pariksha) – Checking stool health to detect digestive problems.

Doctors also check:

 Body Constitution (Prakriti) – The natural balance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.

 Mental Condition (Sattva) – The person’s emotional and psychological health.

 Digestive Power (Agni) – How well the patient’s body processes food.

 Exercise Ability (Vyayama Shakti) – Their physical strength.

5. Panchakarma Therapy – Cleansing the Body

Before giving medicine, sometimes the body needs cleansing to remove toxins. This is done through
a process called Panchakarma.

👉 Step 1: Preparation – Applying oils and making the body sweat to loosen toxins.
👉 Step 2: Cleansing/Purification – Using different methods to remove toxins from the body.
Example:

 Bloodletting (Rakta Mokshana) – Using leeches to remove impure blood.

 Virechana (Purgation) – Cleansing the intestines.

 Basti (Enema) – Removing toxins from the colon.

👉 Step 3: Recovery – Special diet and lifestyle changes to maintain health after cleansing.

⚠️Misunderstanding of Panchakarma
Many people think all five procedures should be done together, but this is incorrect. The doctor
decides which one is needed based on the patient’s condition.

6. Importance of Diet & Lifestyle in Healing

After treatment, it is essential to follow a proper diet (Pathya). For example, if the intestines are
cleaned through therapy, one should not immediately eat heavy foods like pizza and burgers.
Instead, they should start with light foods like ghee, rice, and soups before returning to normal
meals.

Ayurveda also recommends lifestyle changes like:

 Waking up early

 Exercising daily

 Eating at the right time

7. Massage Therapy & Vital Energy Points (Marma Therapy)

Ayurveda also uses medicinal oils for massage therapy. The human body has 107 vital energy points
(Marma points) where muscles, nerves, and bones meet.

 Special oils are chosen depending on the patient’s condition.

 The wrong oil (e.g., mustard oil for someone with high Pitta) can cause harm.

Conclusion

 Ayurveda focuses on finding the root cause of diseases instead of just treating symptoms.

 Four elements (Patient, Attendant, Doctor, Medicine) are important in treatment.

 Suppressing natural urges can cause illness.

 Panchakarma therapy helps cleanse the body before medication.

 Proper diet and lifestyle are crucial for long-term health.

In the next discussion, we will learn about Dinacharya – the ideal daily routine for good health.

Dhanayavad! 🙏

Dinacaryā - Daily regimen for health & wellness

Ayurvedic Daily Routine (Dinacharya) Explained Simply

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, provides a daily routine (Dinacharya) to help
people stay healthy and balanced. Many people think following an Ayurvedic lifestyle is difficult, but
in reality, small changes can make a big difference. Let’s understand this step by step.

1. What is Dinacharya?
Dinacharya is a daily schedule that guides us on what to do from the moment we wake up to when
we go to bed. It helps in maintaining a healthy body and mind by following nature’s rhythm.

2. Why Wake Up Early?

Ayurveda says we should wake up during Brahma Muhurta, which is about 1.5 hours before sunrise
(around 4:30 AM).

Benefits of Waking Up Early:

 The air is fresh, which improves mental clarity and energy.

 It helps in smooth bowel movements (good digestion).

3. First Activity – Check Your Body & Mind

 After waking up, close your eyes and observe your body.

 Think about how you feel – energetic or tired?

 Mentally plan your day.

 Some people pray to start their day positively.

4. Drinking Water in the Morning (Usha-Pana)

Before brushing your teeth, drink about 1 liter of warm water (8 handfuls).

Why?

 Helps in cleansing the stomach and removing toxins.

 Promotes smooth bowel movement.

5. Brushing & Tongue Cleaning

Instead of toothpaste, Ayurveda suggests using herbal sticks like neem or babul for brushing.

Tongue cleaning (Jihva-Nirlekhana) is also important.

 Guava leaves were used in the past to clean the tongue and heal mouth ulcers.

 It removes bacteria and bad breath.

6. Eye Care with Natural Kajal (Sauviranjana)

Applying antimony-based collyrium (natural kajal) keeps the eyes clean and healthy.

7. Oil Massage (Abhyanga)

Daily oil massage is great for the skin and body, but if you are busy, apply oil at least on these three
parts:

1. Head – For brain health

2. Ears – For hearing and nervous system

3. Feet – For relaxation

8. Exercise & Bathing

 Light exercise or yoga is recommended daily.

 Bathing cleanses the body and refreshes the mind.

9. Seasonal Care in Ayurveda

Apart from the daily routine, Ayurveda also suggests changes based on seasons:

 Udvartana – Herbal powder massage for glowing skin.

 Karna-Purana – Putting warm medicated oil in the ears to prevent infections.

 Dhumapana – Medicated herbal smoking for clearing nasal passages.

 Wearing Fragrant Garlands (Gandhamalya) – Keeps the body fresh.

 Betel Leaves Chewing – Helps in digestion.

 Using an Umbrella & Wearing Footwear – Protects from heat, cold, and infections.

10. Avoiding Unhealthy Habits

 Avoid bad habits that harm the body and mind.

 Follow the Ayurvedic routine at the right time for maximum benefits.

Conclusion

By making small changes in our routine, we can stay healthy, active, and stress-free. Ayurveda’s
Dinacharya is not hard to follow—it only requires a little discipline.

So, why not start today? 😊

In the next part, we will discuss the importance of sleep and how it affects health. Stay tuned!

Importance of Sleep
Importance of Sleep in Ayurveda (Nidra) – Explained Simply

We have already learned about the daily routine (Dinacharya) in Ayurveda, which includes waking
up early, drinking water, cleaning the body, and doing exercise. But there is one more important
thing that many people ignore – Sleep (Nidra).

In today's fast and competitive world, people believe that sleep is not important. Some think that
sleeping too much is bad, while others believe that they can survive with very little sleep. But
Ayurveda teaches that sleep is one of the three main pillars of health, along with food (Ahara) and
self-discipline (Brahmacharya).

1. Why is Sleep Important?

Ayurveda says that good sleep brings happiness, energy, and health, while lack of sleep causes
sadness, anger, weakness, and diseases.

Sleep affects:
✅ Body weight – Poor sleep can cause weight gain or weight loss.
✅ Energy levels – Proper sleep gives us strength and freshness.
✅ Brain power – It improves memory and focus.
✅ Immunity – Good sleep helps fight diseases.
✅ Emotions – Lack of sleep can make us irritated, angry, or sad.

2. Problems Related to Sleep

(A) Insomnia (Sleeplessness)

Some people have trouble falling asleep or wake up frequently at night. This is called insomnia.

Causes of Insomnia:

🚫 Stress and overthinking

🚫 Too much screen time before bed
🚫 Drinking tea or coffee at night
🚫 Sleeping in a noisy or uncomfortable place

Effects of Insomnia:

❌ Headaches and body pain

❌ Laziness and tiredness
❌ Poor digestion
❌ Mood swings and anxiety

Ayurvedic Solutions for Insomnia:

✔️Oil massage (Abhyanga) before bed

✔️Using a clean and comfortable bed
✔️Aromatic oils (like sandalwood or lavender) for relaxation
✔️Drinking warm milk with turmeric or nutmeg
✔️Avoiding gadgets before sleep
(B) Excessive Sleep

Some people sleep too much, which is also unhealthy. Ayurveda says that excessive sleep is due to
imbalance in Kapha and Pitta doshas.

Causes of Excessive Sleep:

🚫 Overeating heavy foods

🚫 Lack of physical activity
🚫 Emotional distress

Effects of Excessive Sleep:

❌ Feeling lazy and slow

❌ Poor digestion and weight gain
❌ Weak immune system

Ayurvedic Solutions for Excessive Sleep:

✔️Light exercise or yoga in the morning

✔️Avoiding heavy or oily food at night
✔️Drinking herbal tea (like ginger or tulsi tea)

3. Six Types of Sleep in Ayurveda

Ayurveda describes six types of sleep, based on their cause:

1️⃣ Tamo-bhava Nidra – Sleep caused by eating heavy or stale food (leftover food from the previous
day).
2️⃣ Sleshma-samudbhava Nidra – Sleep caused by Kapha dosha, which makes the body feel dull and
heavy.
3️⃣ Manah-sharira-shrama-samudbhava Nidra – Sleep caused by mental or physical exhaustion.
4️⃣ Agantuki Nidra – Sleep due to external factors like strong medicines, massages, or certain scents.
5️⃣ Vyadhya-anuvartini Nidra – Sleep caused by diseases, like fever or infections.
6️⃣ Ratri-svabhava-prabhava Nidra – Natural sleep at night, which is the best and most healthy form
of sleep.

4. The Best Sleep – Natural Nighttime Sleep

Among all types of sleep, the best one is Ratri-svabhava-prabhava Nidra – the sleep that naturally
comes at night. This is the healthiest form of sleep, and it restores our body and mind.

For better sleep, Ayurveda suggests:

✅ Sleeping and waking up at the same time every day
✅ Avoiding heavy food before bedtime
✅ Keeping the bedroom clean and peaceful
✅ Doing meditation or deep breathing before sleep
5. Conclusion

Now we understand why sleep is crucial for health. Good sleep keeps us happy, healthy, and active,
while lack of sleep leads to stress, tiredness, and diseases.

In the next topic, we will learn about how to eat food correctly according to Ayurveda and some
natural Ayurvedic medicines. Stay tuned! 😊

Food intake methods and Drugs

Food Intake Methods and Ayurvedic Medicines – Explained in Simple Words

Now that we have learned about daily routines (Dinacharya) like waking up early, maintaining
hygiene, and the importance of sleep, let’s talk about food and medicines. Many health problems
happen because of eating the wrong food or eating too much. Ayurveda gives clear guidelines on
how to eat properly and how food and medicine are connected.

How to Eat Food the Right Way?

We usually think that eating food is a simple task, but it actually has some important rules. Just
eating anything, anytime, and in any quantity is not good for health. Let’s see the important points:

1. Types of Food:

o Guru (Heavy) Food – Difficult to digest. Examples: food made of refined flour
(maida), cheese, fried foods.

o Laghu (Light) Food – Easy to digest. Examples: properly cooked rice, fresh fruits, and
vegetables.

2. Effects of These Foods:

o Guru Food: Can give strength and promote growth, but if eaten in excess, it causes
tiredness and increases body waste.

o Laghu Food: Helps in reducing weight, healing wounds, and improving digestion.

3. How Much to Eat?

o Guru (Heavy) Food: Eat only half of your hunger. If you eat too much, it will be
difficult to digest.

o Laghu (Light) Food: You can eat until your stomach is full but not overeat.

4. Fresh Food is Important!

o Ayurveda says that food should be eaten within three hours of cooking. If it crosses
this time limit, it becomes tamasic (stale) and can cause laziness, sleepiness, and
indigestion.
 o For example, if you cook rice at 9 AM, you should eat it before 12 PM. If you eat it at
2 PM, it is not fresh anymore and can harm digestion.

Ayurvedic Medicines (Drugs)

Ayurveda says that there is no big difference between food and medicine. In fact, food itself is
medicine when consumed correctly. However, some food items are processed in special ways to
make them more powerful for treating diseases.

Types of Ayurvedic Medicines:

1. Rasayana (Herbal Tonics)

o These are special herbal formulas that improve overall health, digestion, and
immunity.

o Example: Chyawanprash – a popular tonic made of Amla (Indian Gooseberry) and

other herbs.

o Even if you don’t eat Chyawanprash, you can get similar benefits by consuming Amla
and Ashwagandha regularly.

2. Bhasma (Metal and Mineral Powders)

o These are fine powders made from purified metals and minerals using Ayurvedic
methods.

o Example:

 Swarna Bhasma (Gold Powder) – Used for immunity and strength.

 Rajata Bhasma (Silver Powder) – Used for brain health.

 Mercury-based Bhasma – When properly purified, it is considered one of

the best Ayurvedic medicines.

3. How Are Bhasmas Made?

o Metals and minerals are purified using herbs and heated at high temperatures to
create a fine, safe powder.

o These medicines have been studied and documented in The Ayurvedic Formulary of
India, which lists 560 Ayurvedic formulas, including 22 Bhasmas and 55 Rasas
(special formulations).

Conclusion:

 Food and medicine are not separate things – the right food prevents diseases, while
medicine is used when the body is imbalanced.

 Eating the right way and following Ayurvedic food rules can keep us healthy without needing
medicines.
  Ayurvedic medicines like Rasayanas and Bhasmas are made using natural methods and can
be very effective for improving health.

In the next topic, we will learn about how to live a healthy life the Ayurvedic way!

Approach to lead a healthy life

Approach to Leading a Healthy Life – Explained Simply

Welcome back! In the previous topic, we learned about food intake methods and Ayurvedic
medicines. Now, let’s understand the best approach to live a healthy life.

Different Medical Systems: Ayurveda vs. Allopathy

Many people wonder which medical system is the best. The truth is, no medical system is wrong—
each has its own benefits and limitations.

What is Allopathy?

 Modern medical system that mainly treats diseases after they occur.

 When you have fever, cold, or cough, a doctor checks your symptoms and gives medicines
like paracetamol or antibiotics to treat the disease.

 Antibiotics kill microorganisms (bacteria and viruses) that cause diseases.

 The focus is on curing the disease quickly with medicines.

What is Ayurveda?

 Ancient system focused on prevention, health maintenance, and natural treatment.

 Ayurveda believes that diseases happen due to an imbalance in the body and mind.

 Instead of just treating symptoms, Ayurveda corrects the imbalance and strengthens the
body through:

o Herbal medicines

o Lifestyle changes

o Healthy diet

o Daily routine (Dinacharya)

Main Difference Between Ayurveda and Allopathy:

Ayurveda Allopathy

Focuses on the cause of the disease and removes it Focuses on treating the disease quickly by
from the root. giving medicines.

Helps in preventing diseases by following a healthy

Treats diseases after they occur.
lifestyle.

Uses synthetic medicines, antibiotics, and

Uses natural herbs, food, and lifestyle changes.
surgeries.

Works slowly but heals completely. Works fast but may have side effects.

How to Stay Healthy Using Ayurveda?

To live a healthy life, Ayurveda suggests the following:

1. Follow a Daily Routine (Dinacharya)

o Wake up early (before sunrise).

o Drink warm water to cleanse the body.

o Exercise and practice yoga.

o Eat fresh, healthy food.

o Sleep early and avoid late nights.

2. Eat the Right Food

o Eat freshly cooked food within three hours of preparation.

o Avoid junk food, processed food, and overeating.

o Follow a balanced diet with a mix of Guru (heavy) and Laghu (light) foods.

3. Adapt to Seasonal Changes

o Adjust diet and lifestyle based on seasons (for example, eat warm food in winter and
cooling food in summer).

4. Regular Exercise & Yoga

o Physical activity improves blood circulation, digestion, and mental well-being.

o Yoga and meditation help in reducing stress and keeping the mind calm.

Conclusion: Which System is Better?

 Both Allopathy and Ayurveda have their own strengths and weaknesses.

 For quick relief, Allopathy is helpful.

 For long-term health and disease prevention, Ayurveda is more effective.

  Ayurveda has existed for over 5000 years—this shows its effectiveness!

By following Ayurveda’s approach, we can lead a healthy and balanced life. In the next topic, we will
learn about Indian psychology and mental health. Till then, stay healthy! 😊

Indian Approach to Psychology System

Indian Approach to Psychology – Explained Simply

Hello everyone! Welcome to this lesson on health and wellness from an Indian perspective.

So far, we have talked about physical health—how to stay fit and prevent diseases. But health is not
just about the body. According to Sushruta, health includes:

 Body (Sharira)

 Mind (Manas)

 Senses (Indriya)

 Soul (Atma)

Now, let’s shift our focus from physical health to mental and emotional health. To understand this
better, we need to explore psychology—the study of the mind and behavior.

What is Psychology?

Psychology is the science of the mind and behavior. It studies how people think, feel, and react to
different situations.

Compared to sciences like Physics, Chemistry, or Biology, psychology is a relatively new subject. The
psychology we commonly study today comes mostly from Western countries (Europe and America).

Western Psychology vs. Indian Psychology

Western psychology mainly follows a positivistic approach. This means:

 Everything must be measured with numbers.

 If something cannot be measured, it is often ignored.

 Some experts even say "let’s study only the brain, not the mind," because brain activity (like
brain waves) can be measured.

However, Indian psychology takes a different approach.

Why Western Psychology Doesn't Fully Apply to India?

Western psychology focuses on universal rules for human behavior. But behavior is influenced by
culture.

 Example: People from different cultures react differently to the same situation.

o In Western cultures, people may openly express emotions.

o In Indian culture, people may control their emotions and express them differently.

Since human behavior depends on culture, psychology should also be culture-sensitive. That’s why
applying Western psychological theories directly to Indian society may not always work.

What is Indian Psychology?

Indian psychology is based on Indian traditions, philosophy, and spiritual wisdom. It focuses on:

1. Mind and Consciousness (Not just the brain) – Indian psychology believes that mind and
soul exist beyond the physical body.

2. Inner Well-being (Not just external behavior) – It emphasizes self-awareness, meditation,

and yoga to develop mental health.

3. Holistic View of Life – Instead of focusing only on diseases or disorders, Indian psychology
teaches balance, self-discipline, and self-realization.

4. Culture-Specific Approach – It studies people based on Indian values, traditions, and

spiritual beliefs.

Conclusion

 Psychology studies the mind and behavior.

 Western psychology mainly measures brain activity and behavior.

 But psychology should also consider cultural differences.

 Indian psychology focuses on mind, soul, self-awareness, and holistic well-being.

In the next lesson, we will explore more concepts of Indian psychology. Till then, stay mindful and
healthy! 😊

Basic Tenets of Indian Psychology

Understanding Indian Psychology in Simple Terms

Indian psychology is quite different from Western psychology because it looks beyond just the
physical body and measurable things. It also considers the mind, senses, and soul (atma) when
talking about health and wellness.
What is Psychology?

Psychology is the study of the mind and behavior—how we think, feel, and act. Modern psychology,
as studied in the West, focuses mostly on scientific methods and things that can be measured (like
brain activity). Some researchers even avoid the word "mind" because it cannot be directly
measured, and instead, they focus only on the brain.

But Indian psychology takes a broader approach. It believes that our thoughts, emotions, and inner
experiences are just as important as physical actions.

Why is Indian Psychology Different?

Western psychology is based on numbers and scientific experiments. Most of it comes from Europe
and America. Indian psychology, however, understands that human thoughts and behaviors depend
on culture and traditions.

For example:

 People from different cultures react differently to the same situation.

 Indian psychology believes that our inner world (mind, soul, emotions) is just as important
as the outer world (body, actions, surroundings).

This means we cannot blindly apply Western psychological ideas to Indian society without making
changes that fit our culture.

Key Ideas in Indian Psychology

1. It goes beyond the physical

o Western psychology mainly focuses on things that can be seen and measured.

o Indian psychology includes spiritual and self-growth aspects too.

o It does not separate the mind, body, and soul—it sees them as connected.

2. It is based on ancient Indian wisdom

o Many ideas in Indian psychology come from Indian scriptures (like the Vedas,
Upanishads, and Yoga texts).

o But it is not religious—anyone can follow these ideas, regardless of their religion.

3. The goal is to reduce suffering and find happiness

o The main question Indian psychology asks is:

"How can we be truly happy and free from stress and suffering?"

o The ultimate goal is to achieve moksha (liberation), but even in daily life, these ideas
help people feel calmer and more focused.

4. It accepts different viewpoints

 o Just like Indian philosophy has different schools of thought, Indian psychology also
has different views:

 Some believe in the soul (Atman), while others don’t.

 Some see consciousness as separate from the body, while others see it as
part of nature.

o You can choose the approach that suits you best.

5. It recognizes both the inner and outer world

o The outer world is the world we see and interact with.

o The inner world includes our thoughts, emotions, and consciousness.

o Western science studies the outer world using senses (seeing, hearing, touching,
etc.) and tools.

o Indian psychology says that the inner world can only be understood through
meditation, intuition, and self-reflection.

Basic Principles of Indian Psychology

1. Who are we?

Indian psychology describes a human being as Sat-Chit-Ananda:

 Sat (Existence) – We are real, and we exist.

 Chit (Consciousness) – We are aware and can think.

 Ananda (Bliss) – Our true nature is happiness and peace.

This means that happiness is already within us, but we forget this because of distractions, stress,
and daily life.

2. The purpose of Indian psychology

 To remove ignorance so we can experience our true nature (Sat-Chit-Ananda).

 It does not aim to change us—it just helps us realize what we already are.

3. Every human is divine

 Indian psychology believes that each person has infinite potential.

 Everyone can achieve peace, happiness, and success if they remove distractions and focus
on their true self.

4. It focuses on self-improvement

 Indian psychology helps us become mentally strong and disciplined.

 It teaches self-control, so we do not get easily distracted or stressed.

 It encourages people to help others without expecting anything in return.

How Can Indian Psychology Help in Daily Life?

Even though the ultimate goal of Indian psychology is spiritual liberation, it also helps in practical
ways:

 Improves mental health – Helps reduce stress and negative emotions.

 Increases focus and discipline – Makes it easier to complete tasks and achieve goals.

 Encourages selfless actions – Helps develop kindness and detachment from unnecessary
worries.

 Promotes meditation and self-awareness – Helps people understand themselves better and
find inner peace.

Conclusion

Indian psychology is a holistic approach to understanding the human mind and behavior. Unlike
Western psychology, it does not just focus on what can be measured but also considers spirituality,
emotions, and consciousness. The goal is to help people remove ignorance, realize their true nature
(Sat-Chit-Ananda), and find lasting peace and happiness.

Would you like me to simplify any part further or explain any concept in more detail? 😊

The triguṇa system & A holistic picture of the individual

The Triguṇa System & A Holistic View of the Individual

Indian psychology believes that at our core, every human being is the same—we are all made of Sat
(truth/existence), Chit (consciousness), and Ananda (bliss). But when we look around, we see that
people are very different. Some are patient, while others are short-tempered. Some people are full
of energy, while others are slow and relaxed. How do we explain these differences?

One way to understand this is through the Triguṇa (three qualities) system, a concept from the
Sankhya philosophy. This system explains how different combinations of three qualities—Sattva,
Rajas, and Tamas—shape our personalities, actions, and even the objects around us.

Understanding the Three Guṇas

1. Sattva (Purity & Knowledge)

o Represents calmness, wisdom, and happiness.

o People with more sattva are peaceful, kind, and full of knowledge.
 o They have a strong desire for spiritual growth and truth.

o Example: A wise teacher or a spiritual leader.

2. Rajas (Energy & Passion)

o Represents action, ambition, and desire.

o People with more rajas are energetic, restless, and always want to achieve
something.

o Too much rajas can lead to stress, anger, and competition.

o Example: A successful businessperson or an athlete.

3. Tamas (Inertia & Ignorance)

o Represents laziness, confusion, and resistance to change.

o People with more tamas tend to be sluggish, avoid effort, and lack motivation.

o Too much tamas can lead to depression, procrastination, and ignorance.

o Example: Someone who keeps delaying their work until the last minute.

How Do These Qualities Affect Us?

 Everyone has all three guṇas in different proportions.

o A "sattvic person" is not 100% sattva but has more sattva than rajas or tamas.

o A "rajasic person" has more rajas, and a "tamasic person" has more tamas.

 Balance is key.

o We need rajas to take action and tamas to rest, but too much of either can be
harmful.

o Increasing sattva helps us become wiser and more peaceful.

Can We Change Our Dominant Guṇa?

Yes! We can move from tamas or rajas toward sattva through:

✔ Good food (sattvic diet: fresh, vegetarian, simple foods)
✔ Moral discipline (practicing honesty, kindness, non-violence)
✔ Mental discipline (meditation, self-study, and self-control)

But change is slow and gradual. Just eating healthy won’t make someone sattvic overnight. It
requires a complete transformation of the body, mind, and emotions.

Final Goal: Going Beyond the Guṇas

While increasing sattva is good, Indian philosophy teaches that true enlightenment comes when we
go beyond all three guṇas. At this stage, a person is not affected by emotions, desires, or laziness—
they experience pure peace, wisdom, and freedom.

Next, we will explore another framework that helps us understand the inner world of human beings
beyond just the physical body.

Prakṛti and its evolution and nature of individual

Sure! Let's break it down into simple terms.

Understanding the Human Being in Indian Psychology

Indian psychology looks at a person as more than just the physical body. It sees a human being as
made up of three layers:

1. Gross Body (Sthula Sharira) – The physical body made of the five elements (earth, water,
fire, air, and space). This includes things like your bones, muscles, skin, and organs.

2. Subtle Body (Sukshma Sharira) – The invisible layer that includes:

o Sense organs (like the ability to see, hear, taste, smell, and touch).

o Mind (Manas) – Acts like a central processor, handling information from sense
organs.

o Chitta – A memory storage system that helps recognize things based on past
experiences.

o Ahankara (Ego) – The sense of "I" that claims experiences as personal.

o Buddhi (Intellect) – The decision-maker that helps us understand things clearly.

o Vital energies (Pranas) – Five types of energy that keep the body alive and
functioning.

3. True Self (Atman) – The consciousness or the real "I" that is beyond the body and mind. It is
pure awareness and is said to be unchanging and eternal.

How We Perceive the World

When we experience something (like seeing a curtain), here’s what happens step by step:

1. The stimulus comes from the outside world (light reflecting from the curtain).

2. Our physical body receives it (eyes capture the light).

3. Sense organ processes it (not the eye itself, but the ability to see).

4. Mind (Manas) sends it to the memory bank (Chitta) to check if we recognize it.

5. Chitta recalls past experiences and says, "Yes, this is a curtain."

 6. Ego (Ahankara) claims the experience – "I am seeing this curtain."

7. Buddhi confirms what it is – "It’s definitely a curtain, not a board or cloth."

8. The brain sends signals to the motor organs – "Move the curtain."

9. Hand moves the curtain – This is an action performed by the gross body.

The Role of Consciousness (Self/Atman)

 Everything we see, think, or do is happening for and because of the true self (Atman).

 It is like the power source behind all actions but remains separate, just watching.

 The body and mind work because of this consciousness, but it itself is not affected by
anything.

Conclusion

 We are not just our physical body; we have a subtle body that processes experiences.

 Our real self is beyond all of this—it is pure awareness.

 Indian psychology sees a person holistically, including physical, mental, and spiritual aspects.

This is the basic idea. Let me know if anything needs more clarification! 😊

The paṇca-koṣa framework

The Pancha-Kosha Framework Explained in Simple Words

In simple terms, the Pancha-Kosha framework explains that our true self (pure consciousness) is
hidden under five layers, just like how an object can be wrapped in multiple covers. These five layers
are called koshas (sheaths or coverings). Each kosha is something that we mistakenly identify as our
true self, but actually, our real self is beyond all of them.

The Five Layers (Koshas)

1. Annamaya Kosha (The Physical Body)

o This is our gross body, made of food and physical elements (bones, skin, flesh, etc.).

o Many people think their body is who they are, but that’s just the outermost layer.

o Example: If you call a car "the driver," you are making a mistake. The driver is inside
the car, just like our real self is inside the body.

2. Pranamaya Kosha (The Energy Body)

o This is the layer of prana (life force), which includes breath and vital energy.

o Some people believe that life is just about breathing and energy, but our real self is
beyond this.
 o Example: A fan moves because of electricity, but electricity itself is not the fan.

3. Manomaya Kosha (The Mind and Emotions)

o This layer includes our thoughts, emotions, and feelings.

o Many believe they are their thoughts or emotions (e.g., "I am happy" or "I am sad"),
but these keep changing, so they cannot be our true self.

o Example: Clouds change shape, but the sky behind them remains unchanged. Our
thoughts change, but our real self does not.

4. Vijnanamaya Kosha (The Intellect and Knowledge)

o This is the layer of intelligence, wisdom, and decision-making.

o Some people identify themselves with their intellect ("I am a scientist" or "I am
knowledgeable"), but even intelligence is temporary.

o Example: A light bulb glows because of electricity, but the bulb is not the source of
power.

5. Anandamaya Kosha (The Blissful State)

o This is the layer of deep joy and peace, which we feel in moments of happiness.

o It is very close to our true self but still a covering.

o Example: A person in deep sleep feels peaceful, but that sleep is not their ultimate
reality.

The Real Self – Beyond All Layers

Our true self (Atman) is beyond all these five layers. Just like the sheath of a sword is not the sword
itself, these koshas are just coverings. The real self is like pure light or consciousness, which cannot
be seen directly but can be known through experience.

Key Takeaways

1. You are not just your body, energy, thoughts, intellect, or even blissful feelings.

2. Your true self is beyond all these layers and does not change.

3. By practices like self-reflection, meditation, and deep thinking, we can move beyond these
layers to experience our true self.

This is one of the ways ancient Indian wisdom helps us understand who we truly are. 😊

The four states (avasthās) of Consciousness

Alright! Let's break this down into simple terms.

The Four States (Avasthās) of Consciousness

In Indian philosophy, consciousness is understood through four different states. Out of these, three
states are commonly experienced by everyone, while the fourth one is more of a deeper realization.
By understanding these states, we can get closer to understanding our true nature.

1. Waking State (Jagrat Avastha)

 This is the state you are in right now—awake and aware of the world around you.

 In this state, both your physical body (gross body) and your mind (subtle body) are active.

 You see, hear, feel, think, and respond to the world.

 However, in this state, our mind is constantly distracted by external things, making it hard to
experience our true self.

2. Dream State (Swapna Avastha)

 This is the state when you are asleep and dreaming.

 Your physical body is at rest, but your mind is still active, creating a world of its own.

 You might be flying, talking to someone who isn’t there, or experiencing impossible
situations.

 Since the external world is cut off, you are slightly closer to your true self than in the waking
state, but your mind is still busy creating illusions.

3. Deep Sleep State (Sushupti Avastha)

 This is when you are in a deep, dreamless sleep.

 Here, both your physical body and your mind are inactive.

 You don’t experience anything—no dreams, no thoughts—just complete rest.

 But even though you are unaware, your consciousness still exists. That’s why, when you wake
up, you say, "I slept so well!" Even though you don’t remember what happened, you know
you were asleep.

4. The Fourth State – Pure Consciousness (Turiya Avastha)

 This is the state beyond the first three. It is pure awareness, the ultimate truth of our
existence.

 It is always present in the background, but we usually don’t experience it fully because we
are caught up in our physical and mental experiences.

 In this state, there are no distractions—neither from the external world nor from our own
mind.

 It is a state of full self-awareness, where we experience our true nature without any
interruptions.

Key Takeaway

Your true self is not just your waking, dreaming, or deep sleep experiences. It is something beyond all
these states—something that is always present, even when you are not aware of it. Understanding
this can help us connect with our deeper consciousness and true nature.
In the next part, we will see how Indian traditions have tried to study this consciousness in different
ways. 😊

Consciousness Studies - Indian Approach

Sure! Let me simplify everything for you.

Understanding Indian Psychology (or Consciousness Studies)

Western psychology is mainly about studying the mind and human behavior. But in the Indian
tradition, psychology is about understanding consciousness—the deeper, true self that observes
everything, including our thoughts and mind. So, instead of calling it "psychology," it makes more
sense to call it Consciousness Studies in the Indian context.

How is it Different?

In Indian psychology, the focus is not on studying the mind as an object. Instead, it is about
understanding the one who is aware of everything happening inside and outside.

Normally, when we study something, there is:

1. The object being studied (Vishaya)

2. The person studying it (Vishayin)

But when we study consciousness, both are the same! You are studying yourself—not your mind, but
something beyond the mind. This makes it very different from regular scientific studies, where the
observer and the object are separate.

How Do We Gain Knowledge of Consciousness?

Usual ways of gaining knowledge—like seeing (perception) or logical reasoning (inference)—don’t

work here because we are studying the self, which is beyond these methods.

Instead, Indian tradition relies on Shabda Pramana (knowledge from reliable sources like ancient
texts and teachers). Just like when you ask for directions in a new city, we trust wise teachers and
scriptures (like the Upanishads) to guide us toward understanding our true self.

This process has three steps:

1. Shravana (Listening/Reading): First, we listen to or read about what wise teachers say about
the true self.

2. Manana (Thinking/Reflecting): Then, we deeply think about it, remove doubts, and try to
understand it logically.

3. Nididhyasana (Experiencing/Meditating): Finally, we meditate and try to directly experience

what they are talking about.

Two Types of Knowledge

  Apara-Vidya (Ordinary Knowledge): Knowledge of the external world—like science, math,
history, etc.

 Para-Vidya (Higher Knowledge): Knowledge of the true self, which can only be understood
through direct experience.

Many people say that the self cannot be fully explained in words. The Upanishads only give hints—
real understanding comes when you personally experience it.

The Role of Practice and Detachment

Two important qualities help in this journey:

1. Abhyasa (Practice): Regularly practicing meditation, self-inquiry, and other methods to purify
the mind.

2. Vairagya (Detachment): Developing an attitude of letting go of distractions and material

attachments, so we can focus inward.

Going Beyond Language and Thought

The deeper we go into knowing the self, the harder it becomes to describe it in words. For example,
we can explain the body (Annamaya-kosha) or the breath energy (Pranamaya-kosha) in words. But
the more subtle levels of consciousness cannot be fully expressed in language—only experienced.

Eventually, through continuous practice and detachment, one reaches a point where arguments,
logic, and even words fail. At that moment, the person experiences the self—pure consciousness
that connects everything in the world.

Conclusion

 Indian psychology is not about the mind but about consciousness—the true self that is
aware of everything.

 The study of consciousness is different from science because the observer and the observed
are the same.

 Normal ways of knowing (seeing, reasoning) don’t work, so we rely on teachings from wise
people and personal experience.

 The goal is not just knowledge but direct experience of the self.

 Practice (Abhyasa) and detachment (Vairagya) are essential for this journey.

 As we go deeper, words and logic fail—only experience remains.

This is why Indian psychology is more about experiencing than just studying. It offers a very
different approach compared to Western psychology, and it is still growing as a field.

Would you like me to simplify any part further? 😊