The Sanskrit word ‘Prakruti’ means nature. In Ayurveda, it denotes the nature or constitution of the individual’s body, mind, and soul. Prakruti is an important factor for the evaluation of an individual’s physical as well as mental characteristics. The system of Ayurveda is based on the principle that the basic constitution of our body, our Prakruti is determined at the time of conception based on factors that existed during conception. Ayurveda’s basic concept is that this elemental imprint remains unaltered all through our lives. By knowing our Prakruti, we can be aware of the potential health problems we may have and can devise a preventive lifestyle.
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How Prakruti is determined
Prakruti, the physical and psychological constitution of the individual is determined on the basis of three doshas referred to as Tridoshas in Ayurveda. Vata, Pitta, and Kapha are the three doshas, the functional units or dynamic forces that are responsible for the individual’s well-being. The proportion of these units present in each individual is different from one another. The combination of these three factors during the time of conception determines the individual’s Prakruti. The differences between individuals are based on the various combinations of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha that existed at the time of their conception. The predominant of the three forms is the individual’s Prakruti based on which Ayurveda has determined seven different body types. Thus Prakruti is unique to every individual just like his or her DNA and fingerprint and explains why individuals react differently in the same circumstances. Today a computerized diagnostic system can be used to determine your Prakruti.
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Your Prakruti is your Ayurvedic profile that brings out your characteristics that are physical and behavioral. According to Ayurveda, the human body is a combination of different components such as Atma, Budhi, Dhatu, Dosha, Indriya, and Manas. Since the combination of these factors differs with each individual, one is distinctly different from the other. This is the reason behind the difference in behavioral patterns or dietary preferences, and capabilities in two individuals.
Factors that Determine Your Prakruti
- The condition of sperm and ovum are known as Sukra-Shonit Prakruti
- The condition of the Uterus called Kala-garbhasaya Prakruti
- The diet followed by the mother during pregnancy known as Matu-ahar Prakruti
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Benefits of knowing your Prakruti
You can lead a healthy lifestyle and prevent any possible illness by taking preventive steps if you know your Prakruti, your body constitution, and your psychological profile. Here are some ways you can better your life
- Follow the right lifestyle based on your physical attributes
- Eat the diet that suits your biological profile
- Detect signs of sickness and prevent them
- Know your strengths and weaknesses and make choices based on that
- Interact in a better way with family, friends, and at the workplace
- Achieve improved marital relationship
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Prakruti plays a pivotal role in Ayurveda and by knowing our Prakruti you can understand your emotions, thoughts, climates, activities, colors, and the fruits, foods, and herbal medicines that suit you. You can follow a preventive and healthy lifestyle with this knowledge.