Ayurveda and Health 
This column is presented by Dr. Vishnu, the resident doctor of the Sivananda Institute of Health, located at the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Ashram - Neyyar Dam.
Ayurvedic Evaluation of
Body Constitution
Ayurveda is all about healthy living by creating a harmony between life forces; both inside and outside the body.Prakriti in Ayurveda means the characteristic personality of an individual. It is usually determined by the following life forces called Doshas:- Vata
- Pitta
- Kapha
An individual can do self-evaluation of their body type. The distinct and unique combination of the three doshas is responsible for one person being different from others.Benefits of knowing your Body type (Prakriti) in Ayurveda
Personal analysis of prakriti helps you understand your body type and its requirements.- Knowing your body type will certainly help you to choose the right kind of food, job, colors and habits that are in harmony with your prakriti. - It will help you to maintain a balanced personal, family and professional life.- Helps you to plan a lifestyle that will suit your body type. - It can help you to know how an imbalance is likely to occur in your body and will educate you to adopt a preventive way of life. Different Body Types in Ayurveda
The three doshas in Ayurveda make for ten different combinations. They are:3-Single Dosha types (Ekadoshaja)6- Combination of two Dosha types (Dwandwaja)1 -Combination of all three Dosha type (Tridoshaja)Self Evaluation In Ayurveda
In Ayurveda determination of prakriti and dosha is based on assessment of body weight and height, bone structure, texture of skin, hair color& appearance, shape of face, eye & eyelashes and their blinking nature, cheeks, nose, teeth and gum, lips, nails, appetite, preference of tastes, hunger, thirst, evacuation of bowels, digestion, sleep, speech, physical and mental activities, emotions and memory power, faith, environment, lifestyle, ability and motivation, sexual desire, problem solving abilities, job/fashion preferences, and fragrance choice.Determination of prakriti serves as a tool for diagnosis and treatment. The imbalances in the three doshas are also evaluated by clinical examination including nadi pareksha (pulse examination). Treatment is aimed at correcting the imbalances to remove the root cause of the illness. Thus a permanent solution is found for the ailment.Ayurveda Test for Body Type - Prakriti Analysis
Clinical examination and their conclusions play an important role in the diagnosis of the disease in Ayurveda. Self body test is an effective diagnostic tool which helps you understand your Prakriti. Knowing your Prakriti can help you maintain optimal health of body and the mind through a preventive lifestyle,diet regimen and exercise.