Prof. Dr. Chander Shekhar Sharma, MD, NDDY - Punjab, India

Abstract of the presentation

Bridging Traditions: The Synergy of Ayurveda and Cognitive Science in Understanding Personality Traits and Mental Disorders

Branch: Ayurveda

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, is a personalized and holistic approach to health that emphasizes both prevention and cure. Rooted in the belief that the universe and the human body are composed of five elements—space, air, fire, water, and earth—Ayurveda describes human constitution through the concept of Prakriti. This constitution, shaped at conception by the balance of three biological energies or Tridoshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), determines an individual's physical, physiological, and psychological traits. When these doshas are in balance, they support health and homeostasis; when imbalanced, they contribute to disease.

The Ayurvedic concept of Prakriti offers a detailed framework for understanding personality, susceptibility to disease, and individualized treatment. Rather than focusing solely on disease, Ayurveda emphasizes the type of individual more prone to certain conditions, offering a personalized lens for health and wellness. This approach enhances the understanding of the intricate link between an individual’s unique constitution and their mental and physical well-being.

A distinguishing feature of human beings is their advanced cognitive capabilities. In Ayurveda, Buddhi (intellect) is essential for interpreting and responding to the environment. It processes sensory input and integrates it with memory and imagination to generate knowledge and guide decision-making. The cognitive process involves multiple faculties: the Indriyas (sense organs) engage with external stimuli, and through the coordination of Manas (mind) and Atma (soul), the mind processes information through stages like Chinta (thinking), Grahana (grasping), Dharana (retaining), and Vichara (thought). Ultimately, Buddhi synthesizes this input into decisive understanding and action.

Ayurveda thus provides a comprehensive view of human cognition, personality, and health, integrating physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions into a unified framework.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Prakriti, Cognitive science, Personality, Mental disorders

Please note that some of the texts also include machine-generated translations.