KRIYA SHARIRA BASIC CONCEPTS | AYURVEDA PHYSIOLOGY CHAP 1 | CHALK TALK

Introduction to Kriya Sharir

Overview of the Lecture Series

• The speaker, Dr. Yuvraj, introduces a lecture series on Kriya Sharir, which is part of the BAMS first professional curriculum.

• The series will follow the NCISM syllabus and aims to clarify basic concepts before delving into detailed topics.

Understanding Ayurveda

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding Ayurveda as a foundational aspect of studying Kriya Sharir.

• Ayurveda is derived from "Ayush" (life span) and "Veda" (knowledge), indicating it is knowledge about life.

Definition and Importance of Ayurveda

Key Definitions

• Ayurveda is defined as not just a medical science but also a science of life that imparts knowledge about longevity.

• A crucial verse defining life (Ayur) according to Acharya Charak includes aspects like beneficial (Hita), harmful (Ahita), happiness (Sukha), and suffering (Dukha).

Four Types of Life

• The four types of life discussed are Hitaayu, Ahitayu, Sukhaayu, and Dukhaayu, each representing different ways individuals can live their lives.

Detailed Explanation of Life Types

Classification of Life

• Life is categorized based on how one spends their time from birth to death; this classification helps in understanding one's lifestyle choices.

Hitaayu

• Hitaayu refers to living for the benefit of oneself and others; examples include social workers or environmentalists who contribute positively to society.

Ahitayu

• Ahitayu represents those who engage in harmful activities throughout their lives, negatively impacting themselves and others.

Sukhaayu

• Sukhaayu individuals focus on pleasure for themselves and others; they prioritize enjoyment in life while promoting collective well-being.

Dukhaayu

• Dukhaayu encompasses those who cause distress both to themselves and others; often associated with criminal behavior leading to mutual harm.

Conclusion: Significance of Ayurvedic Knowledge

Importance in Education

• Understanding these classifications within Ayurveda provides insights into what actions promote longevity versus those that detract from it.

• This foundational knowledge is essential for students as it frequently appears in examinations.

Understanding Ayu: Definition and Significance

What is Ayu?

• Ayu is defined as the time between birth and death, essentially representing the lifespan of an individual. This concept is rooted in Ayurveda, which categorizes it into four beneficial types.

• The term "Ayu" translates to "living time," emphasizing that it refers to the duration of life itself. This definition highlights its importance in understanding human existence.

Key Components of Ayu

• According to Acharya, Ayu consists of the union of body (sharira), senses (indriya), mind (sattva), and soul (atma). Each component plays a crucial role in defining one's lifespan.

• The senses are divided into two categories: knowledge senses (jnanendriya) and action senses (karmendriya). Knowledge senses gather information from the environment, while action senses enable interaction with it.

• The relationship between these components is vital; if any one element is removed, Ayu ceases to exist. For instance, if the body or mind fails, life cannot continue. This interdependence underscores the holistic view of life in Ayurveda.

Synonyms for Ayu

Four Synonyms Explained

1. Dhari: Refers to that which sustains the body; as long as Ayu exists, the body remains intact and does not decay. When Ayu ends, physical deterioration begins immediately.

2. Jivitam: Indicates that as long as there is life force present within an individual, they are considered alive; thus, Ayu equates to being alive or living energy itself.

3. Nityak: Means eternal or ever-present; this term signifies that Ayu accompanies us at every moment throughout our lives until it departs from us at death. It emphasizes continuity during one's lifetime.

4. Anubandha: Represents a connection or bond; this synonym reflects how all elements—body, senses, mind, and soul—are interconnected through their shared existence in defining life span or Ayu.

Conclusion on Understanding Ayu

• The comprehensive definition of Ayu encompasses various aspects of human existence by integrating physical form with sensory perception and mental consciousness.

• Recognizing these components helps appreciate how Ayurveda views health and longevity holistically rather than merely focusing on physical well-being alone.

This structured approach provides clarity on what constitutes 'Ayu' according to Ayurvedic principles while linking each concept back to its significance in understanding life itself.

Understanding Ayurveda and Its Purpose

Definition of Life in Ayurveda

• The concept of life, referred to as "Ayur," is described as a continuous presence, hence the term "Nityak" (eternal).

• Ayurveda defines life through the term "Anubandha," which signifies the connection between the physical body and its subtler aspects.

• The text emphasizes that Ayurveda encompasses knowledge about four types of life, including their benefits and detriments.

Objectives of Ayurveda

• According to Acharya, the primary purpose of Ayurveda is twofold:

• To protect the health of healthy individuals ("Swasthasya Swasthya Rakshanam").

• To address ailments in sick individuals ("Aturasya Vikara Prashamanam").

• The focus on maintaining health suggests that preventing illness is a key goal within Ayurvedic practice.

Understanding Health in Ayurveda

• A critical aspect discussed is defining who qualifies as a healthy person. This definition extends beyond merely being free from disease.

• The holistic view includes social well-being, physical fitness, and mental wellness as integral components of health.

Ayurvedic Definition of Health

• Acharya provides a specific definition: "Sam Dosha Sam Agni" indicates balance among bodily doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), dhatus (body tissues), and proper functioning of bodily systems.

• Memorizing this definition is encouraged for better understanding and performance in examinations.

Components Influencing Health

• Three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—are essential for maintaining balance within the body; they are fundamental concepts in Ayurveda.

• Seven dhatus (body tissues)—Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle), Meda (fat), Asthi (bone), Majja (marrow), Shukra (reproductive tissue)—form the structural basis of human physiology.

Balance and Disease

• The importance of maintaining balance among these elements is emphasized; imbalance leads to disease.

• When doshas deviate from their balanced state, they can cause pollution or toxicity within the body leading to various ailments.

Understanding the Balance of Elements in Health

The Role of Oil in Machinery and Its Analogy to Body Doshas

• The discussion begins with an analogy comparing machine oil to bodily doshas, emphasizing that just as oil is essential for machinery, the balance of doshas is crucial for health.

• If the oil level fluctuates too low or too high, it can lead to machine malfunction; similarly, imbalances in doshas can cause diseases in the body.

Importance of Maintaining Balance

• A healthy individual maintains a balance among the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), akin to how a machine operates optimally when its components are balanced.

• The concept of "Agni" (digestive fire) is introduced, highlighting that maintaining a constant body temperature (around 37.5°C) is vital for health.

Understanding Dhatus and Malas

• Seven dhatus (body tissues: Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Meda, Asthi, Majja, and Shukra) must also be in equilibrium for optimal health.

• The discussion includes malas (waste products), which consist of feces (purisha), urine (mutra), and sweat (sweda); their proper elimination indicates good health.

Characteristics of a Healthy Person

• A healthy person exhibits balanced doshas and agni while also ensuring proper mala functions; this reflects overall well-being.

• Additionally, mental states such as happiness and contentment are essential attributes contributing to one's health.

Defining Health According to Ayurveda

• The definition of a healthy person encompasses balanced doshas, agni, dhatus, malas along with a joyful state of mind.

• This holistic view emphasizes that all aspects—physical and mental—must be aligned for true health.

The Concept of Panchamahabhuta

Introduction to Panchamahabhuta Theory

• Transitioning into the theory of Panchamahabhuta which states that everything in existence is composed of five great elements: Akasha (space), Vayu (air), Agni (fire), Jala (water), and Prithvi (earth).

Significance in Ayurveda

• Ayurveda posits that all substances are derived from these five elements; understanding this helps comprehend both physical matter and medicinal properties.

Identity and Existence

• The term 'bhuta' signifies entities with identity and existence; they are fundamental building blocks not created from anything else but themselves.

Application in Medicine

• All medicines are also composed of these five elements; thus understanding them aids practitioners in utilizing natural resources effectively for healing purposes.

This structured approach provides clarity on key concepts discussed within the transcript while allowing easy navigation through timestamps.

Introduction to Ayurveda: Part A and Part B

Overview of the Lecture Series

• The lecture series will cover Paper One and Paper Two, focusing on the Ayurvedic portions in Part A and modern concepts in Part B.

• Emphasis is placed on discussing key Ayurvedic concepts relevant to the syllabus.

Understanding 'Kriya' and 'Sharir'

• The term "Kriya" refers to actions or activities performed, which are essential for any task. It is defined as the effort made towards accomplishing a goal.

• "Sharir" (body) is explored through its definition and synonyms, clarifying common confusions regarding its meaning. The relationship between Kriya and Sharir is established as foundational for understanding Ayurveda.

Types of Doshas: Physical and Mental

Exploring Doshas

• Discussion includes types of doshas—physical (Shariirik) and mental (Maanasik)—and their significance in Ayurvedic practice. Understanding these helps clarify how they affect health.

• The mutual relationship between Triguna (three qualities), Tridosha (three doshas), and Panchamahabhuta (five great elements) will be examined further in subsequent lectures.

Defining Kriya: Actions in Ayurveda

Conceptualizing Kriya

• Kriya encompasses all efforts made towards completing a task; it can also be referred to as Pravrutti, Karma, Yatna, or Karya Samaarambha depending on context. This highlights its versatility within Ayurvedic terminology.

• Activities performed are categorized under Kriya, emphasizing that every action taken contributes to this concept within Ayurveda's framework of duties and responsibilities.

Understanding Sharir: Body in Ayurveda

Definition of Sharir

• "Sharir" refers to the subject matter concerning the body; it signifies a field of study focused on bodily knowledge within Ayurvedic texts. This definition aids students in grasping what constitutes this area of study effectively.

• The etymology of Sharir is discussed with emphasis on its importance for academic purposes; students should remember that it relates directly to subjects dealing with bodily functions and structures.

Types of Sharirs: Rachana Sharir vs Kriya Sharir

Differentiating Between Types

• There are two main types of bodies discussed: Rachana Sharir (structural body) which focuses on anatomy, while Kriya Sharir emphasizes physiological functions—this distinction is crucial for understanding different aspects of human biology from an Ayurvedic perspective.

• Definitions provided for both types highlight their relevance; Rachana deals with structural composition while Kriya pertains more to functional dynamics within the body systems studied under Ayurveda principles.

Understanding the Concepts of Rachana Sharira and Kriya Sharira

Introduction to Rachana Sharira

• Rachana Sharira, or anatomy in Ayurveda, is a favorite subject among students. It focuses on the structure of the body.

• The definition of Rachana Sharira is "Rachana Pratipadakam Shariram," emphasizing its role in understanding bodily structures.

Exploring Kriya Sharira

• Kriya Sharira refers to the branch of body science that studies bodily functions and activities. It includes how various actions relate to doshas (faults), dhatus (tissues), and malas (wastes).

• The three main components studied in Kriya Sharira are dosha, dhatu, and mala, which are essential for understanding bodily functions.

Importance of Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala

• Dosha, dhatu, and mala are considered fundamental elements of the body; their balance is crucial for health.

• The study of these three components is also referred to as "Dosha Dhatu Mala Vigyan," highlighting their significance in Ayurvedic physiology.

Modern Perspectives on Physiology

• In modern terms, Kriya Sharira aligns with physiology. This connection helps clarify concepts from both traditional Ayurveda and contemporary science.

Definition and Nature of Body According to Ayurveda

• The term 'Sharir' derives from "Shyate," meaning something that undergoes continuous decay or change. This reflects the dynamic nature of the human body.

• Metabolism plays a key role in this process; it consists of anabolism (building up processes) and catabolism (breaking down processes).

Understanding Metabolic Processes

• Anabolism involves reactions that create new substances while catabolism involves degradation processes where substances are broken down.

• The concept emphasizes that while anabolic processes may slow down under certain conditions, catabolic processes continue consistently.

Insights into Body Composition

• Acharya Charaka defines the body as a combination of consciousness (cognition), material elements (panchamahabhuta), and their transformations.

• The body's essence lies in its balance between these elements; any imbalance can lead to deterioration.

Significance of Balance in Health

• Maintaining equilibrium among doshas, dhatus, and malas is vital for sustaining health; disruption leads to illness.

Understanding the Definition of Body in Ayurveda

The Concept of Body as a Union

• The body is defined as a union of consciousness (Atma) and the five great elements (Panchamahabhuta), which are essential for its existence. This definition is crucial for examinations.

• The body maintains balance through the three doshas, seven dhatus, and excreta; any imbalance can lead to disease or suffering.

• The essence of the body lies in being a shelter for consciousness and a combination of various elemental disturbances.

Insights from Acharya Sushruta

• Acharya Sushruta provides detailed insights into how the body forms, paralleling modern concepts like fertilization and fetal development.

• He explains that when sperm (Shukra) and ovum (Shonita) unite in the uterus, it marks the beginning of life, leading to the formation of a fetus.

Formation Process Explained

• Upon conception, when Shukra and Shonita combine within the womb, it signifies the arrival of Atma (soul), marking this entity as 'garbha' or embryo.

• Once consciousness enters this form, various elements begin their functions: air facilitates division, fire aids digestion, earth provides structure, while space allows growth.

Developmental Stages

• As development progresses within the womb with these elemental interactions, limbs such as hands and feet emerge; thus forming what we recognize as a human body.

Structural Components According to Sushruta

• Acharya Sushruta identifies six parts or components in human anatomy: branches representing different bodily functions akin to tree branches extending outward.

• He emphasizes that just like branches on a tree extend outward from its trunk, our bodies have extensions that serve specific purposes.

Understanding the Structure of the Body

Branches of the Body

• The body is compared to a branch with two arms and two legs, totaling four branches referred to as "shakha" in Sanskrit.

• These four branches consist of two hands and two feet, which are essential parts of our physical structure.

Central Body

• The central part of the body is termed "madhya sharir," encompassing both the thoracic and abdominal regions. This area serves as the trunk of the body.

• In summary, there are four branches (two hands and two feet) plus one central body, making a total of six components known as "shadanga sharir."

Components of Shadanga Sharir

• The term "shadanga" translates to a body with six parts: four branches (hands and feet), one central trunk, and one head ("shir"). Thus, it emphasizes that our body consists of these six integral components.

Synonyms for the Body

Various Names for the Body

• The transcript discusses different synonyms for "body," including:

• गात्रम (gātram)

• संघनन (saṅghanaṇa)

• शरीरम (śarīram)

• वर्म (varma)

• विग्रह (vigraha)

• काय (kāya)

• देह (deha)

• क्लीव (klīva)

• बंसो (baṃso)

• श्रीिया मूर्ति तनु (śrīyā mūrti tanu)

• It suggests memorizing at least three or four synonyms for examinations related to bodily definitions.

Importance in Ayurveda

• Understanding these synonyms is crucial in Ayurveda; they help articulate concepts about health and anatomy effectively during discussions or exams.

Definitions Related to the Body

Etymology and Meaning

• The term "शरीर" derives from शर्यतेति शरीरम, indicating something that undergoes continuous change or decay.

• Conversely, "देह" relates to nourishment ("दह उपचय धातु"), emphasizing its connection with anabolism—growth through sustenance intake.

Conceptual Distinctions

• The word "काय" refers specifically to what nourishes itself through food intake.

• Additionally, “पुरुष” can refer not only to males but also signifies any entity residing within a form—highlighting its broader application beyond gender distinctions in Ayurvedic texts.

Types of Bodies According to Ayurveda

Classification by Composition

• There are various types of bodies classified by their composition; notably:

• धातुज पुरुष: This type comprises solely one element—consciousness ("चेतना धातु"). It indicates that this classification focuses on spiritual essence rather than physical attributes.

Significance in Ayurvedic Philosophy

• Maharishi Charaka identifies consciousness alone as sufficient for defining this type; thus reinforcing that true identity transcends mere physicality into spiritual realms within Ayurvedic philosophy.

What is the Nature of the Soul and Its Relation to Health?

Understanding the Soul and Health

• The soul is described as pure and unaffected by disease, indicating that it cannot be treated or harmed in a conventional sense.

• A "metallic person" (धातु पुरुष) cannot undergo treatment because they do not experience illness; they are inherently pure.

The Concept of Shad-Dhatuja Purusha

• The term "Shad-Dhatuja" refers to a being composed of six elements, where "Shad" means six in Sanskrit.

• This being consists of five great elements (Mahabhuta: space, air, fire, water, earth) plus consciousness (Chaitanya), making it susceptible to diseases.

Treatment Possibilities

• Unlike the metallic person, the Shad-Dhatuja can develop illnesses due to its composition; thus, it is treatable within Ayurvedic practices.

• The focus on treating this type of individual emphasizes their status as a 'therapeutic person' capable of receiving medical care.

Exploring Chaturvanshati Dhatuja Purusha

• Moving forward to Chaturvanshati Dhatuja Purusha which translates to 24 elements ("Chatur" meaning four and "Vanshati" meaning twenty).

• This entity includes ten senses (five knowledge senses and five action senses), contributing significantly to its complexity.

Elements Involved in Chaturvanshati

• Each sense has specific needs or 'arthas'; for example, eyes seek form while tongue seeks taste.

• Collectively these components lead to a total of 24 elements forming this complex being known as Chaturvanshati Dhatuja Purusha.

Summary of Key Concepts

• Three types of beings discussed include:

• Metallic Person (अचिकित्सीय)

• Shad-Dhatuja Person (चिकित्सीय)

• Chaturvanshati Person (complex with 24 elements).

Understanding Nature and Its Concepts

Definition of Nature

• Nature is defined as that which creates or produces something. For example, God is considered the creator of the universe, but He is not termed as nature itself.

• A potter making a pot exemplifies nature; the potter (the creator) represents nature because he creates something from raw materials.

Distinction Between Nature and Deformation

• The term "vikriti" refers to deformation, meaning something that is created but also originates from another source. Thus, it signifies a dual relationship in creation.

• Vikriti involves elements like ego and five material components, indicating that while it can create, it also has origins in other substances.

The Concept of Purusha (Soul)

• Purusha or the soul does not engage in creation; it exists in a state of relaxation and does not produce or originate anything itself. This concept aligns with Sankhya philosophy discussed by Sushruta.

Understanding Doshas (Imbalances)

• Doshas are factors that can contaminate both mind and body; they are categorized into physical doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and mental doshas (Rajas, Tamas). Both types affect overall health significantly.

• Physical doshas include three main types: Vata (air), Pitta (fire), and Kapha (water/earth). Mental doshas consist of Rajas and Tamas only. Mental qualities differ from doshas where Sattva represents purity without disturbance to the mind.

Elements Constituting Doshas

• Each physical dosha corresponds to specific elements:

• Vata: Primarily consists of air.

• Pitta: Dominated by fire.

• Kapha: Composed mainly of water and earth elements.

Relationship Between Doshas and Mahabhutas

• Vata is primarily associated with air and space elements according to various scholars including Vagbhata.

• Pitta's primary element is fire as agreed upon by multiple authorities in Ayurveda.

• Kapha combines water with earth elements for its constitution, highlighting how these fundamental components interact within bodily systems.

Overview of Dhatus (Tissues)

• Seven dhatus exist within the body:

• Rasa: Water element dominant.

• Raktha: Contains both water and earth.

• Mamsa: Earth element predominant due to its solid nature.

• Other tissues like Meda (fat), Asthi (bone), Majja (marrow), Shukra (reproductive fluid) have their own elemental compositions involving combinations primarily with water or earth elements based on Ayurvedic texts such as Chikitsa Sutra by Chakrapani.

This structured overview provides insights into key concepts related to nature, creation processes, imbalances affecting health through doshas, their elemental relationships, and tissue compositions according to Ayurvedic principles discussed in the transcript provided above.

Understanding the Trigunas and Their Relation to Nature

The Essence of Trigunas

• The concept of Trigunas (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas) is fundamental in understanding nature. Each element has a predominant quality that influences its characteristics.

• The entire universe is composed of these three qualities, which are essential in the creation and manifestation of existence according to Sankhya philosophy.

• Sattva represents purity and knowledge; it is associated with clarity and enlightenment, leading to a peaceful state of mind.

• A person dominated by Sattva exhibits traits such as wisdom, tranquility, and detachment from desires like lust, anger, or greed.

Characteristics of Rajas

• Rajas is characterized by attachment and desire. It leads individuals towards action but can also result in restlessness due to constant craving for more.

• Individuals influenced by Rajas tend to be driven by ambition and possessiveness; they often have an insatiable appetite for experiences and achievements.

• This quality can lead to various negative emotions such as greed, jealousy, and egoism when not balanced properly.

Understanding Tamas

• Tamas embodies inertia and ignorance. It signifies a lack of awareness or motivation, often resulting in laziness or depression.

• People under the influence of Tamas may exhibit traits like confusion, apathy towards life’s responsibilities, or even engage in unethical behavior due to ignorance.

Interrelation Between Trigunas and Doshas

• The relationship between Trigunas (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas) and Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha):

• Vata is primarily influenced by Rajas,

• Pitta aligns with Sattva,

• Kapha corresponds with Tamas.

Mahabhutas Connection

• Each Mahabhuta (elements: Ether/Akasha, Air/Vayu, Fire/Agni, Water/Jal, Earth/Prithvi) also reflects these qualities:

• Akasha embodies Sattva,

• Vayu contains Rajas,

• Agni holds both Sattva and Rajas,

• Jal predominantly shows Sattva,

• Prithvi illustrates Tamas through its heaviness.

Introduction to the Subject

Overview of the First Lecture

• The first lecture is brief, focusing on basic concepts as the syllabus begins with simpler points.

• Important verses (श्लोक) have been highlighted for memorization, which will be beneficial during exams.

Subject Accessibility

• The subject is described as easy; understanding and memorizing key concepts are essential for success.

• It is emphasized that this subject could become a favorite due to its foundational nature and lack of overly complex details.

Study Strategies

• Students can pass easily if they grasp basic concepts and focus on important definitions rather than memorizing excessive verses.

• Key verses related to definitions or specific actions (कर्म) should be prioritized for memorization, while unnecessary details can be avoided.

Importance of Verses in Exams

• Memorizing verses provides an advantage in exams, impressing examiners and potentially leading to higher scores. However, if students struggle with memorization, they can still write based on their understanding.

Coverage of Syllabus Points

• The lecture covers fundamental topics such as action (क्रिया), body (शरीर), five great elements (पंचमहाभूत), doshas (दोष), and gunas (त्रिगुण). Additional basic points beyond the syllabus were also discussed.