Guiding Light: True Health Means Balance Of Body, Mind And Spirit

Health is not merely the absence of disease. In Sanskrit, the state of good health is called swastha, which is to be established in the Self. To be healthy is to have an intellect which is free from inhibition and arrogance, a heart which is full of compassion, softness in one’s emotions, a confusion-free, calm and centered mind, a trauma-free memory and a sorrow-free soul. Health is the dynamic expression of life.

To truly understand health, we must learn a little bit about the different layers of our existence—the body, breath, mind, intellect, memory, ego, and self. Everything in life is constantly changing—the body changes, and so does the mind. When this awareness dawns, a deep sense of equanimity arises within us. The mind, which is the faculty of perception within consciousness, is always in a flux. Thoughts come and go, just as the intellect, memory, and ego continue to evolve over time. But beneath all these changing layers, there is something within us that remains untouched and unshaken, which is the Self. The ancient science of Ayurveda deems that a person cannot be called truly healthy until one is in touch with this subtlest aspect and there is harmony among the different layers of existence. This knowledge of the Self helps one live in the present moment and be in a state of perfect health.

The foundation of good health begins with the mind, a subtle yet powerful force. When the mind is strong, it can carry a weak body, but a weak mind cannot even carry a strong body. When the mind is calm, clear, positive and content, the body starts healing too. And so having mental peace is indispensable for being healthy. Meditation brings you a stable and calm mind. It provides deep rest. The deeper you are able to rest, the more dynamic you can be in activity.

When we know that the body and mind are connected through the breath, we can manage our thoughts and emotions better. There are profound secrets hidden within our breath. Have you noticed that when you are angry, your breath becomes fast and heavy? When you are sad, your breath slows down? Every emotion has a distinct rhythm in our breathing. By understanding this connection between breath and emotions, we can bring greater harmony into our lives. If we learn to regulate our breath, we can gain control over our mind. That is why practicing deep breathing techniques is essential.

By making conscious lifestyle changes and aligning ourselves with nature, we can move towards holistic health. At least once a year, take a week out for yourself—spend some time in silence, engage in creative activity, and rejuvenate your being. This enhances the quality of life, not just physically, but also mentally and emotionally.

True health is not just tied to medicines or doctors; while medicines have their own importance, health is really about bringing a balance in the mind, body, and spirit. When we cultivate inner stability, our entire life becomes vibrant and joyful.

So, the next time someone asks you, "Are you healthy?", reflect—are you merely free from illness, or are you truly healthy in every sense?