History - No Comments » - Posted on March, 23 at 5:56 pm
Whatever we eat is converted into life giving particles that in turn are converted into the three basic elements or Tridhatu, known as Kafa, Pitta, Vata. These elements are the basis of a body may it a human being or otherwise. Since there is no single term to describe these three in English the Sanskrit words are used.
The elements are known as Tridosha when they are not in balance. During the process of formation of the elements they lose the balance and attain it again if the body is in good health. Thus the word Tridosha and Tridhatu are used alternatively for the same elements.
The elements can be understood in relation to the basic biological functions. Kafa is the energy needed to lubricate and rejuvenate, Vata is the energy of movement and Pitta is the energy of digestion and metabolism. A body generally has more of one of the three elements or a combination of two. The wellbeing of the body depends on the balance of these three. Any disease, mental or physical can be traced down to the imbalance of Vata, Pitta and Kafa. The cosmos is the interplay of the energies of five elements Prithvi-earth, Apa-water, Teja-fire, Vayu-air, Akasha-space. The three elements – Kafa, Vata, Pitta, are permutations and combinations of these five elements.
Kapha is formed from earth and water. It is the energy that forms the body’s structure – bones, muscles, tendons – and provides the substance that holds the cells together. It supplies the fluid for all bodily parts and systems. It lubricates joints, moisturises the skin, and maintains immunity. In balance, Kapha is expressed as love, calmness and forgiveness. Out of balance, it leads to attachment, greed and envy.
Vata is made of Space and Air. It is the subtle energy associated with movement. It governs breathing, blinking, muscle and tissue movement, pulsation of the heart, and all movements in the cytoplasm and cell membranes. In balance, Vata promotes creativity and flexibility. Out of balance, Vata produces fear and anxiety.
Pitta is made up of fire and water and expresses as the body’s metabolic system. It governs digestion, absorption, assimilation, nutrition, metabolism and body temperature. In balance, Pitta promotes understanding and intelligence. Out of balance, Pitta arouses anger, hatred and jealousy.