MANAS SHARIR (MIND-BODY AXIS): ROLE OF SATVA, RAJAS, AND TAMAS IN STRESS PHYSIOLOGY

Dr. Surajsing Gumansing Pardeshi*

ABSTRACT

The concept of Manas Sharir in Ayurveda represents the intricate connection between the mind and body, emphasizing their interdependence in maintaining overall health. Central to this theory are the three Gunas — Satva (purity and balance), Rajas (activity and agitation), and Tamas (inertia and ignorance) — which govern mental states and influence physiological processes, particularly in stress response. Modern science corroborates the impact of these psychological states on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, autonomic nervous system, and inflammatory pathways. This article explores the physiological correlation between Ayurvedic principles of Manas Sharir and contemporary stress physiology, offering insights into holistic stress management.

Keywords: Manas Sharir, Satva, Rajas, Tamas, Mind-Body Axis, Stress Physiology, Ayurveda.