Abstract

Swati K. Chobhe and Amar N. Ande*

ABSTRACT

Definition of health is very well stated in world’s most ancient medical system Ayurveda, which do not differ with definition of health defined by world health organization (WHO). Ayurveda opines that person with equilibrium and coordination among Dosha, Agni, Dhatu and Mala along with happy state of soul (Atma), sensory organs (Indriya) and mind (Manas) is a healthy (Swastha) person.[1] World health organization has defined health as complete physical, mental and social well-being and not just absence of disease.[2] WHO has defined health in the year 1948.Modern science has started to emphasize on the concept of mind and psychosomatic disorders in last century. However Ayurveda has realized importance of concept of mind in maintaining health of individual for thousands of years. Ayurveda is the first medical science to establish existence of mind independently. Mind, soul and body are the tripod on which life depends.[3] According to Ayurveda mind occupies entire body. So channel for mind (Manovaha Strotas) is enumerated separately in Charak Samhita. Site of mind is heart[4] as well as brain.[5] Any variation in mental temperament affect body physiology immediately for ex. Anger or grief alter heart rate, cardiac output, gastric secretions and appetite. So in this article efforts are taken to take review of mind and its relation with health.