ELEMENTS: TABLE OF CONTENTS

Vol. 6(3), 2008

PERFECT HEALTH: A STATE of BALANCE

Amala Guha

Immunology and Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT

Abstract: Ayurveda defines perfect health as a state of physical, mental and spiritual balance. The balance is achieved by various components functioning in harmony, such as genetic constitution, diet, life style, daily and seasonal routine, mental stability, and suitable behavior. Therefore, ayurveda is more than a medical science it is a way of life. The following definition best describes the perfect balance and the optimal health and is now adapted by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Sam dosha, samagni, samdhatu malakriyah

Prasannatma, indriyas manah swath abhidayate

Sushruta sutra-24/41

Health is in balance when all three doshas (bioenergy) and agni (metabolic process) are in balance, and excretions are in proper order. When atman (soul), senses, manah (intellect) are in harmony with internal peace, the svastha (optimal health) is achieved.