Svastha
Sanskrit for 'health,' Svastha is an Ayurvedic term for the state of being in which body, mind, soul, and senses are in blissful equilibrium. Svastha is determined primarily by assessing the balance between the three doshas (functional energies), the seven dhatus (bodily tissues), Agni (digestive fire), and the pathways of elimination.
As two Sanskrit roots: swa (self) and stha (abide). It can be understood as a self-abiding state in which body and mind are at ease in natural equilibrium. In Ayurveda, health is determined not only by the physical body; mental, emotional, spiritual, and energetic tendencies must also be considered.
An individual must have the following qualities to achieve Svastha:
- An established sense of Self
- Balance between the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha
- Properly formed dhatus
- Efficient elimination of malas (waste products)
- Well-functioning bodily processes
- A blissful mind, soul, and senses
As such, the Ayurvedic perspective on health is truly holistic, treating body, mind, spirit, and senses as inextricably interconnected. Ayurvedic treatments, take all of these aspects into account when working towards Svastha.
One who has optimal musculature and build, whose senses are sharp and receptive, one who can withstand sickness with ease and tolerate hunger, thirst, excessive sun, cold, and exercise, whose food digests and assimilates optimally, and who develops optimal physical stature is considered
'Svastha.'
