A comparative study of fundamental principles of ashtang yog and ayurved

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A comparative study of fundamental principles of ashtang yog and ayurved”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Yoga:
Yoga is a holistic practice that integrates the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of life. It comprises various disciplines aimed at achieving harmony within oneself and with the universe. The concept of Ashtanga Yoga emphasizes eight limbs, fostering personal discipline, concentration, and ultimately leading to spiritual liberation.

2) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that emphasizes a holistic approach to health, focusing on balance in the body's constitution. It seeks to prevent diseases and enhance the quality of life through a combination of diet, herbal treatment, and lifestyle adjustments, promoting longevity and well-being.

3) Samhita:
Samhita refers to the classic texts in Ayurveda that compile knowledge related to health, medicine, and the human body. Notable Samhitas like Charak Samhita and Sushrut Samhita serve as foundational texts for Ayurvedic practice and principles, providing systematic guidelines for healthcare and treatment.

4) Pratyahara:
Pratyahara is a practice in yoga that involves the withdrawal of the senses from external stimuli, fostering inward focus and self-control. This practice helps cultivate concentration by redirecting attention away from distractions, enhancing spiritual growth, and preparing the practitioner for deeper meditative states.

5) Patanjali:
Patanjali is regarded as the sage who formulated the Yoga Sutras, a key text outlining the philosophy and practices of yoga. His teachings provide a systematic approach to achieving spiritual enlightenment and mental clarity, making him a significant figure in both yoga and Indian philosophy.

6) Salvation:
Salvation refers to the liberation of the soul from the cycle of birth and death, leading to ultimate freedom from worldly suffering. In the context of yoga and Ayurveda, salvation is achieved through disciplined practices that purify the mind and body, allowing the individual to realize their true nature.

7) Samadhi:
Samadhi is a state of deep meditative absorption where the individual transcends ordinary consciousness and experiences unity with the universe. It represents the culmination of meditation practice, leading to profound insights and a sense of oneness with all of creation, often equated with divine realization.

8) Moksha (Moksa):
Moksha is the ultimate goal in many Indian philosophies, representing liberation from the cycle of life, death, and rebirth (samsara). It is achieved through self-realization and understanding one's true nature, often seen as the highest pursuit in both yoga and Ayurveda, symbolizing eternal bliss.

9) Veda:
Veda refers to the ancient sacred scriptures of Hinduism, which encompass a vast body of knowledge across various disciplines, including philosophy, rituals, and medicine. The term is derived from the root 'vid,' meaning 'to know,' reflecting the pursuit of wisdom and understanding through these texts.

10) Yama:
Yama represents the ethical guidelines or moral precepts in yoga that govern interactions with others. It includes principles like non-violence (ahimsa) and truthfulness (satya), aiming to cultivate character and harmony in social relationships, forming the foundational step in the practice of Ashtanga Yoga.

11) Life:
Life is viewed as a journey of experiences and learning, characterized by the pursuit of balance, health, and spiritual fulfillment. In the context of Ayurveda and yoga, life is an opportunity for achieving harmony between the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions through various practices.

12) Sutra:
Sutra refers to a concise statement or aphorism that conveys essential teachings in a structured form. In the context of yoga and Ayurveda, sutras serve as key references for various practices, principles, and philosophies, providing a foundational framework for understanding deeper spiritual truths.

13) Meditation:
Meditation is a practice that involves focused attention and contemplation, aimed at achieving mental clarity, emotional stability, and spiritual insight. It is an integral part of yoga, promoting relaxation and self-awareness, and serving as a pathway to attain higher states of consciousness and self-realization.

14) Siddhanta (Siddha-anta, Siddhamta):
Siddhanta denotes the fundamental principles or doctrines in Ayurveda that guide practice and treatment. These systematic theories provide a framework for understanding human physiology and health, underpinning Ayurvedic medicine's diverse applications and emphasizing the importance of balance and holistic well-being.

15) Varanasi (Varanashi):
Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world, holds great cultural and spiritual significance in India. It is known for its temples, ghats, and as a center for learning, particularly in Ayurveda and yoga, attracting practitioners and scholars seeking spiritual wisdom and healing.

16) Disease:
Disease is a pathological condition that negatively affects an individual's physical, mental, or social well-being. Ayurveda aims to prevent disease by promoting a balanced lifestyle and holistic health practices that support the body's natural healing processes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining health.

17) Shastra (Sastra):
Shastra refers to a body of authoritative texts or scriptures that outline knowledge in various fields, including philosophy, medicine, and ritual. In Ayurveda, Shastra encompasses the foundational texts that guide practitioners in the application of Ayurvedic principles and treatment methodologies.

18) Dhyana:
Dhyana is a form of meditation characterized by sustained focus and concentration on a single point or idea. It is considered a step towards achieving Samadhi, allowing practitioners to cultivate inner peace and enhanced awareness, ultimately leading to deeper spiritual insights.

19) Satva (Shatva):
Satva represents one of the three Gunas (qualities) in Ayurveda, associated with purity, harmony, and intellect. It promotes clarity of thought and emotional balance, affecting one's overall health and spirituality. Cultivating Satva is essential for achieving mental peace and spiritual growth.

20) Rishi (Rsi, Risi):
Rishi signifies a sage or seer in Indian philosophy who has attained spiritual knowledge through meditation and practice. Rishis like Patanjali are revered for their wisdom and teachings, laying the groundwork for various philosophical and medical traditions, including Yoga and Ayurveda.

21) Study (Studying):
Study encompasses the pursuit of knowledge and understanding through reading, observation, and reflection. In the context of Ayurveda and yoga, study involves engaging with ancient texts to deepen one's comprehension of holistic health practices and the principles underlying these traditional systems.

22) Guna:
Guna refers to the fundamental qualities or energies that govern human behavior and experience in Ayurveda. The three primary Gunas—Satva, Raja, and Tama—interact to influence physical health, mental states, and spiritual well-being, essential for understanding individual constitutions and promoting balance.

23) Prana (Pran):
Pran, or Prana, refers to the vital life force or energy that sustains all living beings. In Ayurveda and yoga, the breath is seen as a primary means of harnessing Pran, enhancing physical vitality, mental clarity, and spiritual growth through practices like Pranayama.

24) Surrounding:
Surrounding refers to the immediate environment and context in which an individual exists. In Ayurveda, it is acknowledged that surroundings can influence mental state, health, and lifestyle choices, making awareness of one’s surroundings vital for achieving personal balance and spiritual growth.

25) Prashamana (Prasamana):
Prashamana denotes the alleviation or pacification of diseases and discomfort. Ayurveda focuses on Prashamana through various treatments, dietary practices, and lifestyle changes aimed at restoring balance and relieving ailments, emphasizing the prevention of disease by nurturing overall health.

26) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the exchange of ideas and perspectives related to a particular subject. In the context of Ayurveda and yoga, discussion facilitates a deeper understanding of the principles and practices involved, enriching the collective knowledge and promoting collaborative learning among practitioners.

27) Similarity:
Similarity refers to the shared characteristics and principles between different philosophies or practices. The discussion of similarities between Ayurveda and yoga highlights their complementary nature, both aiming for holistic well-being and spiritual liberation (Moksha) through discipline and harmony.

28) Knowledge:
Knowledge denotes the understanding and awareness gained through study, experience, and reflection. In Ayurveda and yoga, knowledge is deemed essential for making informed decisions regarding health practices and personal growth, emphasizing the pursuit of wisdom as a pathway toward enlightenment.

29) Realising (Realizing):
Realizing involves the process of becoming fully aware of one’s true nature and existence. In yoga and Ayurveda, realizing one's essence is crucial for attaining spiritual growth and liberation, fostering a profound understanding of self and the universe, leading ultimately to Moksha.

30) Stealing (Theft):
Stealing is the unethical act of taking what does not belong to oneself, violating principles of honesty and integrity. In the context of Yama (ethical guidelines in yoga), non-stealing (Asteya) is emphasized as vital for moral development and fostering harmonious relationships with others.

31) Dharana:
Dharana refers to the practice of focused concentration on a single point or object. It is one of the steps in the path of yoga leading toward meditation (Dhyana), helping to stabilize the mind and cultivate the ability to direct attention purposefully.

32) Ayushya (Ayusya):
Ayushya relates to the concept of longevity and the duration of life within the context of Ayurveda. The Ayurvedic approach aims to promote Ayushya through balanced living, dietary practices, and holistic health measures that enhance vitality and well-being over time.

33) Svastha (Sva-stha):
Svastha signifies a state of health and well-being in Ayurveda, referring to a balanced state of body, mind, and spirit. It implies a harmonious existence, free from disease, where one is in alignment with their true self and the natural world.

34) Chintya:
Chintya means deep contemplation or reflection, often encouraged in both Ayurveda and yoga for personal growth. This reflective process aids individuals in assessing their thoughts, actions, and goals, promoting self-awareness and spiritual development in pursuit of greater knowledge.

35) Mangala (Mangal, Mamgala):
Mangala implies auspiciousness and well-being, often associated with positive outcomes and harmony in Ayurveda. It emphasizes the importance of nurturing conditions that support health and spiritual growth, ensuring that practices are aligned with the pursuit of goodness and fulfillment in life.

36) Samtosha (Samtosa, Santosa, Santosha, Santosh):
Santosh refers to contentment and satisfaction with one’s circumstances. In yoga and Ayurveda, cultivating Santosh is essential for mental well-being and tranquility, promoting inner peace and balance amid external challenges and desires, leading to a fulfilling and harmonious life.

37) Niyama:
Niyama encompasses personal disciplines and ethical observances within the yoga practices. It includes aspects such as cleanliness, contentment, and self-study, guiding practitioners toward a disciplined lifestyle that supports spiritual development and enhances overall well-being in alignment with Ayurvedic principles.

38) Shakti (Sakti):
Shakti represents the feminine energy or power within the universe, often viewed as the creative force driving all existence. In spiritual contexts, it embodies the dynamics of energy for personal transformation and empowerment, integral to achieving balance and connection in both yoga and Ayurveda.

39) Dharma:
Dharma signifies the moral and ethical duties inherent to an individual based on their role in society, guiding principles for living a fulfilling and balanced life. In yoga and Ayurveda, Dharma emphasizes the importance of living in accordance with one’s true nature and responsibilities.

40) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas refers to channels or pathways in the body through which vital substances flow, including nutrients and energies. In Ayurveda, maintaining the health of Srotas is critical for overall wellness, as blockages or imbalances in these pathways can lead to disease and distress.

41) Wisdom:
Wisdom refers to the accumulation of knowledge, experience, and reflection that allows individuals to make informed and enlightened decisions. In Ayurveda and yoga, the cultivation of wisdom is essential for understanding one’s health, guiding personal growth, and facilitating deeper spiritual insights.

42) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma, often used as a surname in Indian culture, can also signify comfort and joy. In the context of wellness and spirituality seen in Ayurveda and yoga, Sharma underscores the intention of practices that promote a sense of well-being, peace, and inner contentment.

43) Desire:
Desire refers to the innate yearning for certain experiences or possessions which can drive motivations and actions in life. In yoga and Ayurveda, understanding and managing desire is crucial for achieving balance and avoiding attachment, guiding practitioners toward a path of contentment.

44) Artha:
Artha traditionally refers to the pursuit of material wealth or prosperity, considered one of the four aims of life (Purusharthas) in Indian philosophy. Although important, it is balanced by other aims, such as Dharma and Moksha, to ensure a holistic and enriched life experience.

45) Ayama:
Ayama refers to control or extension, particularly in the context of Pranayama (breath control). It emphasizes the importance of regulating breath and energy flow to enhance vitality and well-being, making it a foundational element in both yoga and Ayurvedic practices.

46) Satya (Shatya):
Satya translates to truthfulness and honesty, representing a core value in the ethical framework of yoga. Emphasizing truth in thought, word, and action fosters trust and integrity, essential components for personal growth and harmonious relationships with others.

47) Shiva (Siva):
Shiva is a principal deity in Hinduism, symbolizing transformation, destruction, and regeneration. In the context of yoga, Shiva represents the ultimate reality and consciousness, embodying the union of opposites and guiding practitioners on the spiritual path toward enlightenment.

48) Asana (Ashana):
Asana refers to the physical postures practiced in yoga, which facilitate flexibility, strength, and balance. The practice of Asanas is essential for preparing the body for meditation, enhancing physical health, and acting as a bridge to deeper spiritual experiences.

49) Rules:
Rules are established guidelines that govern behavior and practices, often essential for maintaining order within a community or system. In yoga and Ayurveda, rules serve as frameworks for ethical conduct and personal discipline, guiding individuals toward harmonious living.

50) Birth:
Birth signifies the beginning of life and the opportunity for growth and evolution. In yogic philosophy and Ayurveda, the concept of birth is viewed in relation to the cycle of reincarnation, focusing on the journey of the soul through various lifetimes toward eventual liberation.

51) Blood:
Blood represents a vital fluid in the body that carries nutrients and removes waste. In Ayurveda, the health of blood is crucial for overall wellness, linking to the body’s energy systems and influencing physical health, emotional balance, and vitality.

52) Japa:
Japa involves the repetitive recitation of mantras or sacred phrases as a form of meditation. This practice enhances concentration, fosters a deeper connection to the divine, and cultivates inner peace, playing a significant role in spiritual development within both yoga and Ayurveda.

53) Kama:
Kama refers to pleasure, love, or desire, signifying the pursuit of enjoyment and emotional experiences as one of the four aims of life (Purusharthas). Recognizing Kama's role in life emphasizes the importance of balance in seeking fulfillment alongside duty and spiritual liberation.

54) Yogi (Yogin):
A Yogi is an individual who practices yoga and seeks to attain higher states of consciousness through discipline and self-exploration. Yogis embody the principles of yoga, committing to physical, mental, and spiritual development on the path towards self-realization and enlightenment.

55) Ayam (Ayaṁ):
Ayam translates to 'this' or 'here,' typically used to refer to the present moment or personal context. In spiritual practice, it encourages awareness of the current experience, promoting mindfulness and presence in the journey toward self-understanding and realization.

56) Mana:
Mana refers to the mind and its inner workings, encompassing thoughts, emotions, and consciousness. In yoga and Ayurveda, understanding and managing Mana is crucial for achieving mental clarity and emotional balance, essential for personal growth and spiritual development.