Overview of Ayurveda
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Figure 5: the sanskrit character AUM

In this philosophical model, the one “absolute truth” divides into two natures – non-manifest energy (purusha) and manifested nature (prakritti). Life is believed to form through the interaction of these two principles via the medium of “universal breath” (prana). These principles may equate with the Chinese model of yang (energy), yin (matter) and the role of qi. The three theoretical states of creation, maintenance and destruction are supported by the primal prana and provide a triadic structure which is basic to Indian philosophy and medicine. Vedanta, the philosophical foundation of Ayurveda, presents this triadic nature in the symbol AUM which precedes most classical Sanskrit verses.

Ayurveda recognises three subtle qualities (guna) which manifest in health as pleasurable, neutral or painful experiences, and which form a foundation to the three dosha (kapha, pitta and vata). The three dosha represent influences produced by the interaction Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Ether (see Figure 6). Illness is a sign that the three dosha are vitiated. The prime directive of Ayurveda therefore is “to gain a balance of the dosha and thus return the patient to health” (Thakkur, 1974, p 2).

Dosha	Constitution	Effects
Vata	Ether and Air	Neurological movements - activities of body and mind
Pitta	Fire and Water	Digestion - metabolism and temperature regulation
Kapha	Earth and Water	Stability - builds body tissue and gives protection

Figure 6: The three dosha relationships within the five basic elements