Principles
Now that we have a better understanding of what comprises life, let's look at
some of the principles of Ayurveda and how they might affect us.
In Ayurveda we view a person as a unique individual made up of five primary
elements. The elements are ether (space), air, fire, water, and earth. Just as
in nature, we too have these five elements in us. When any of these elements
are present in the environment, they will in turn have an influence on us. The
foods we eat and the weather are just two examples of the presence of these
elements. While we are a composite of these five primar y elements, certain
elements are seen to have an ability to combine to create various physiological
functions. Ether and air combine to form what is known in Ayurveda as the Vata
dosha. Vata governs the principle of movement and therefore can be seen as the
force which directs nerve impulses,
circulation, respiration, and elimination. Fire and water are the elements that
combine to form the Pitta dosha. The Pitta dosha is the process of transf
ormation or metabolism. The transformation of foods into nutrients that our
bodies can assimilate is an example of a pitta function. Pitta is also
responsible for metabolism in the organ and tissue systems as well as cellular
metabolism. Finally, it is pr edominantly the water and earth elements which
combine to form the Kapha dosha. Kapha is what is responsible for growth,
adding structure unit by unit. Another function of the Kapha dosha is to offer
protection. Cerebral-sp inal fluid protects the brain and spinal column and is
a type of Kapha found in the body. Also, the mucousal
lining of the stomach is another example of the Kapha dosha protecting the
tissues. We are all made up of unique proportions of Vata, Pitta and Ka pha.
These ratios of the doshas vary in each individual; and because of this,
Ayurveda sees each person as a special mixture that accounts for our diversity.

Ayurveda gives us a model to look at each individual as a unique makeup of the
three doshas and to thereby design treatment protocols that specifically
address a persons health challenges. When any of the doshas ( Vata, Pitta or
Kapha ) become accumulated, Ayurveda will suggest specific lifestyle and
nutritional guidelines to assist the individual in reducing the dosha that has
become excessive. We may also suggest certain herbal supplemen ts to hasten the
healing process. If toxins in the body are abundant, then a cleansing process
known as Pancha Karma is recommended to eliminate these unwanted toxins.
Conclusion
This understanding that we are all unique individuals enables Ayurveda to
address not only specific health concerns but also offers explanation as to why
one person responds differently th an another. We hope that you will continue to
explore Ayurveda to enhance your health and to gain further insights into this
miracle we call life.


Dr.ANU V.S
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