Ayurveda is a science of self-healing that dates back over two thousand years. Its essential philosophies have remained unchanged for all this time while its healing potential has been proven across time and space. Ayurveda is a holistic, natural and all–encompassing system of healing which recognizes the mind as the root of all imbalances; therefore working to heal the mind is of primary consideration. A healthy mind is defined as having clarity regarding our life purpose, a strong connection to the Divine, and a reservoir of inner peace and joy within us.
Ayurvedic psychology recognizes three basic states of mind that we all experience throughout our lifetime. These qualities are rajas, tamas and sattva. Rajas, made of wind (air), manifests in the mind as turbulence, activity, restlessness, agitation and lack of clear purpose. Like a constantly moving, unpredictable lake on a windy day, when rajas prevails it drives us to do more and more. But without a sense of purpose behind our actions, we eventually become exhausted, burned-out and overwhelmed.
The second quality, called tamas, is made of earth and water, manifesting in the mind as dullness, lethargy, heaviness, and lack of motivation, like a dirty, stagnant pond. We can’t see the beauty in and around us, and we are disconnected from our inner truth. We don’t have faith or trust in a higher purpose to our lives. With tamas in the mind, we withdraw from life-giving activities and people. When either rajas or tamas dominates in the mind, there is little clarity or peace, our connection to the Divine is impalpable, and imbalances begin to take root.
Finally then is the quality called sattva. Sattva is like a clean, still pond into which you can see your reflection. When this quality permeates the mind, we have clarity, inner peace and stillness. This is the starting point for correcting imbalances, re-establishing our connection to the Divine, and receiving clarity for our life purpose and mission. In this place, we tap into our inner reservoir of healing, joy, peace and inner-knowing. To cultivate sattva in the mind is the highest goal of Ayurvedic Healing.
The existence of rajas, tamas or sattva in the mind directly affects our health and well-being. It is only sattva that can break through the stagnancy of tamas and calm the waters of rajas, providing the environment for lasting healing, happiness, and fulfillment.
Each of us can benefit from cultivating more sattva in the mind. To do so, here are just a few simple things you can do each day to gently increase the quantity of sattva, the ground of healing.
- Meditate daily. 5 – 10 minutes is great to start.
- Find a body/mind practice you enjoy such as tai chi, qigong, yoga.
- Spend time in nature, learn to appreciate beauty in and around you. Read inspirational or spiritual writings/poetry each day. Undertake creative outlets such as writing, drawing, singing or dancing.
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