Posted on May 13, 2008 in Principles of Ayurveda
The word Trigunas is composed of two words- Tri: three and Gunas- qualities. Ayurveda classifies human temperaments into three basic qualities.
These three qualities are the essential components of the mind as Vata, Pitta and Kapha are regarded as essential components of the body.
These three Gunas are present in all human beings, in different proportions. The psychological constitution of the human mind depends on the predominant Guna among the three. The proper balance of the three Gunas is a necessary requirement for maintaining the balance between the mind and the body.
Satvik
Satvik qualities are those qualities essential for goodness and happiness. The essential characteristics of Satvik nature are:
- Lightness
- Awareness
- Delight
- Purity and Clarity
Rajasik
The most active among the Gunas, Rajasik is the one responsible for movements. The essential characteristics of Rajasik nature are:
- Motions
- Stimulations
- Wishes
- Aspirations
Tamasik
This Guna is considered to be that of darkness, which causes disturbances in the way of perception of human mind. The attributes associated with Tamasik quality are:
- Heaviness
- Apathy
- Laziness or drowsiness
- Hallucinations
There is a constant interplay among these three qualities in determining the mental constitution of a human being and keeping the balance in the Gunas is quintessential for the individual health.
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