A demonstration of a more holistic definition of health beyond the absence of disease, illness, condition or diagnosis
When we think of good health, we often think of the absence of a disease, illness, condition, or diagnosis. But is this a complete state of health?
One of the great contributors to Āyurveda and also considered to be the father of surgery, Suśruta defined a complete state of health via this śloka (verse):
Samadoṣahaḥ samāgniśca samadhātumalakriyaḥ |
Prasannātmendriyamanāḥ svastha ityabhidhīyate || Su. Sū. 15/41
This is perhaps one of the most famous ślokas of Āyurvedic literature and provides the most comprehensive understanding of what comprises a complete state of health, known as svastha. This śloka defines svastha, as being:
Sama doṣa = equilibrium of all three doṣas (vāta, pitta & kapha).
Sama agni = equilibrium of all digestive processes.
Sama dhātu = equilibrium of all seven supportive tissues of the body (fluid, blood, muscle, adipose, bone, bone marrow, and reproductive).
Mala kriya = proper function, action and elimination of all three waste products (stool, urine and sweat).
Prasanna ātma, indriya, manas = content state of the soul, senses and mind.
This definition provides a framework to assess and measure one’s health. Through this śloka and the assessments that come with it, an Āyurvedic professional can determine where on the scale of health or deviation from health an individual stands. It also demonstrates a more holistic definition of health beyond the absence of disease, illness, condition or diagnosis.
Take a moment to review each of these as a self-reflection and contemplation of your health status. Is there a part of your being that needs attentive care?
