Abstract

AYURVEDIC APPROACH FOR PREVENTION OF LIFE STYLE DISORDERS BY KNOWING ONE'S UNIQUENESS (PRAKRITI)

Gahalawat Manpreet*, Gahalawat Preeti and Kumar Krishan

.

Abstract

Constitution (Prakriti) is the unique nature of every individual. Prakriti is formed at the time of conception. The predominance of Doshas, elements and Gunas once formed remains constant for every individual for his entire lifetime. Every individual has different physical, physiological and psychological functions as everyone has a different Prakriti. This fact can be easily observed in group of individuals having same race, sex, age, height and weight. Even siblings have a different Prakriti. Tolerance to food, environment depends on the type of Constitution. This can’t be decided by the analytical study of the body tissues. The knowledge of Prakriti helps in understanding predominant doshas in body. The disease arising out of Vriddhi and Kshaya of any of the doshas can be prevented by knowing individual’s prakriti. For example the persons with vata predominant constitution will be prone to diseases like Joints disorders, sciatica, paralysis, constipation, flatulence etc. Pitta predominant constitution will be prone to diseases like hyperacidity, peptic ulcers, jaundice, anaemia, skin diseases etc. and kaphaja predominant constitution will be prone to diseases like Diabetes mellitus, hypertension,asthma, cold, cough, obesity, atherosclerosis etc. To avoid these possible diseases and to remain healthy different modalities related to diet, exercise, behaviour and occupation are given in ayurvedic texts according to specific Prakriti. Application of all these modalities in daily routine is key to health. Thus this can be an opportunity to practice preventive health by adopting modalities opposite to one’s constitution. This study highlights this knowledge and its use in day today life.

Keywords: Prakriti, Kshaya-Vriddhi, Life style disorders.