Siddha System of Medicine

Seppadu Viddhai 3

Siddha System of Medicine

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Rooted in the Tamil tradition, the Chidhdha system of medicine encompasses profound philosophies that illuminate the nature of human existence and the pursuit of holistic health.

The term 'Siddhu' in Tamil is derived from "Chit"," which means 'consciousness that enlightens", and thus defines a 'Chidhdhar' as someone who dwells in consciousness. This ancient system places great emphasis on achieving an ideal state of health, which includes physical, psychological, social and spiritual well- being.

Thirumoolar, a revered sage, summarized the essence of Chidhdha medicine in his timeless words:

"That which cures physical suffering is medicine;
That which cures mental ailments is medicine;
That which prevents disease is medicine;
That which gives immortality is medicine." - Thirumoolar

The roots of our existence go back to the elements forged in the stars that bloomed and vanished eons ago. Hydrogen and helium, the basic building blocks, underwent transformation processes that eventually gave rise to the complex elements that make up our existence. We are basically made of celestial matter.

Creation can either arise from pre-existing elements or from nothing. The latter is impossible, because nothing can come from nothing. Creation from what already exists is also inconceivable, as it has already manifested itself and cannot be recreated.

Unity arises from diversity, and diversity arises from unity. The harmony of the universe lives from the interplay of opposites and forms an intricate web of existence.

Just as our soul, which is embodied as air, unites our being, breath and air encompass the entire cosmos. With each inhalation, we take in a fragment of the omnipresent life force that permeates all of existence. We dwell in this universal consciousness, and our senses, especially our eyes, allow fragments of the eternal and all-encompassing wisdom to become our own. Thus the wisdom of humanity springs from union with the universal spirit.

How did the world come into being?

From the source arises a state of transformation, and from that state arises another, and so on, until the evolutionary process culminates in a state where creation and evolution cease and only manifestation remains.

This state represents the perfect cosmic unrest that allows for limitless forms of manifestation. Pure consciousness, undisturbed and serene, undergoes a primordial change, a perceptible differentiation.

At this point, the first two Tathwams emerge, inseparable yet distinct aspects of existence: the Siva-Tathwam and the Sakthi-Tathwam.

These two fundamental principles mark the emergence of cosmic evolution. They coexist continuously, each dependent on the other, and are also known as purusha (cosmic mind) and prakrithi (cosmic substance).

The entire world, in all its subtlety and materiality, arises from the cosmic mind and its substance. Every form, whether subtle or tangible, represents the cosmic essence, which assumes different states of being.

"HE constructs the twenty-five Tathwams,
On the life of me, which is endless,
In the egg-shaped womb He creates;
Knowing what I shall be, He attacks." - Thirumanthiram

In these verses, Thirumanthiram emphasizes the divine creation of the twenty-five Tathwams, which are intimately interwoven withthe eternal essence of life itself. Within the cosmic design, the limitless potential of existence unfolds and the sacred journey of human understanding and realization begins.

The Tathwams, as described in Thirumanthiram, can be divided into four different types, each with its own characteristics and manifestations:

  • Those that neither produce nor are produced: This category represents the first type of Tathwam, which is neither involved in the process of creation nor is itself created. Purusha, also known as the Siva-Tathwam, belongs to this category. Purusha symbolizes the cosmic mind, the undeveloped and unchanging aspect. It is the source of consciousness, the soul of the universe and all living beings. Purusha is the vitalizing force that gives life to matter and exists as an uncaused and eternal essence.

    "They saw twenty-five who destroyed their birth.
    How Purusha came into the physical body, no one knows;
    That which sought the woman's birth-pit, the bipolar,
    In form, two staggered and fell." - Thirumanthiram

  • Those who are not generated but generate: This second type of Tathwam is represented by Prakrithi, also known as Sakthi Tathwam. Prakrithi is the active and manifest aspect that emerges from the undeveloped state. It is the original substance from which all creation emerges and to which everything returns. Prakrithi encompasses the primary nature of animate and inanimate beings and serves as the basis of all existence.

    Prakrithi consists of three forces, the so-called gunas, which have different properties and functions:

    • Sathwa guna: This enlightening force embodies balance and manifests as light.
    • Rajas guna: This active force stands for movement, excitement and activity.
    • Tamas guna: This force embodies inertia and darkness and acts as a restrictive quality.

    As long as the three gunas are in balance, further development is prevented. Only when the balance is disturbed does the interaction of these forces become causal factors for further development.

  • Those who are produced and produce: This category refers to the Tathwams that are brought forth and are actively involved in the process of creation. They contribute to the ongoing evolution of existence.
  • Those who are produced and do not produce: This last type of Tathwams represents the result of the evolutionary process. These Tathwams are produced but no longer contribute to further creation.

    The process of manifestation involves the transformation of unmanifest energy into subtle and then into distinct gross forms, resulting in the evolution of Tathwams. It is said that there are ninety-six Tathwams in total.

    "So God has formed Himself into two kinds of bodies;
    When I speak of the subtlety of the one that is subtle;
    Sound, touch, form, taste and smell,
    Buddhi, mana and ahamkara are!" - Thirumanthiram

    Thirumanthiram goes on to say that God has created different aspects within the two types of bodies, the subtle and the gross, including the subtle aspects of sound, touch, form, taste and smell, along with the faculties of intellect (buddhi), mind (mana) and ego (ahamkara). These aspects contribute to the subtleties of human existence and the interplay between the physical and metaphysical worlds.

The third type of Tathwam arises as a result of the inherent movements of Rajas guna, leading to imbalance and the spontaneous manifestation of Chittam.

Chittam represents the totality comprising the states of bhuddhi, ahamkara and manas. Bhuddhi refers to the cosmic intelligence that emerges from the disturbance of guna balance and provides a clear direction for progressive evolution. Ahamkara represents the cosmic sense of "I'," while Manas represents the cosmic mind.

The ten indriyas or faculties are derived from the awareness of manas at this stage of evolution.

"... of the eight organs mentioned, the first five are indriyas, three are karanas." - Thirumanthiram

These ten faculties consist of five gnanendriyas (senses of knowledge and cognition) and five karmendriyas (senses of action):

    The senses of knowledge:

  • Power of hearing
  • The power of feeling
  • The power of sight
  • The power of taste
  • The power of smell
  • The senses of action:

  • The power of expression
  • The power of reproduction
  • The power of excretion
  • The power of perception
  • The power of movement

At the same time, the tanmatrams, which are the subtle and non-manifest essence of all objects, arise at this stage. Without the tanmatrams, the ten indriyas would have no function and no purpose.

    The tanmatrams are as follows:

  • The essence of sound
  • The essence of touch
  • The essence of form
  • The essence of taste
  • The essence of smell

"Ten indriyas, ten also their tanmatrams; ten secretly working
vayus, four anthakarnas and Purusha, the experienced jiva; all
these entangle themselves again and again in waking
consciousness." - Thirumanthiram

So far, the unfoldment of existence has taken place in the non-manifest realms. However, an increase in tamas-guna and the realization of its limiting nature causes the non-manifest essence to manifest as the mahabhutas, the five elements. These elements serve as vehicles for the manifestation and expression of all tanmatrams. The progressive evolution culminates in the mahabhutas, the five elements of nature:

  • Ether (Akash, Akayam)
  • Air (Vayu, Vali)
  • Fire (Tejas, Thee)
  • Water (Appu, Neer)
  • Earth (Prithivi, Nilam)

The Mahabhutas play an important role in shaping and expressing the subtle and gross aspects of existence.

The five Mahabhutas develop one after the other and emerge from each other. In the cosmic order of creation, each Mahabhuta has its own distinctive nature, in addition to inheriting and transmitting the characteristic nature of the previously developed Mahabhuta. Basically, each mahabhuta becomes denser or coarser compared to its predecessor.

Ether (Akash, Akayam):

Ether represents the principle of emptiness, a great void. It has the unique quality of a sound that can be heard but not felt, seen, tasted or smelled. In other words, clear sound lacks touch, form, taste and smell. It exceeds the reach of the other four senses.

Air or wind (Vayu, Vali):

Air embodies the principle of movement. It functions as pressure or impact. Air combines the inherent quality of touch with the general quality of sound inherited from the ether. Consequently, air can be felt and heard and manifests as a pure gust of wind or as air that possesses both touch and sound but remains without form, taste or smell. It cannot be seen, tasted or smelled.

Fire (Tejas, Theyu):

Fire embodies the principle of luminosity. It has the special property of form. It has also inherited the general qualities of touch and sound from the previous elements. Fire can therefore be seen, felt and heard. A pure blue flame, for example, has form, touch and sound, but is tasteless and odorless. It can therefore neither be tasted nor smelled.

Water (Appu, Neer):

Water embodies the principle of liquidity. It acts as an astringent force. Its only property is taste. Water has also inherited the general qualities of form, touch and sound from the previous elements. Water can therefore be tasted, seen, felt and heard. However, a glass of pure water transcends the quality of smell, as it cannot be smelled.

Earth (Prithvi, Nilam):

Earth represents the principle of solidity. Its function is cohesion and it has the special quality of smell. This property is in addition to the general qualities of taste, form, touch and sound. Therefore, the element earth can be smelled, tasted, seen, felt and heard. Earth is the only element that can be perceived with all five senses.

The relationship between the five mahabhutas, the sensory elements, is as follows:

  • Akayam (ether) has sound.
  • Vali (air) has sound and touch.
  • Thee (fire) has sound, touch and form.
  • Neer (water) has sound, touch, form and taste.
  • Nilam (earth) has sound, touch, form, taste and smell.

After the emergence of these five mahabhutas, there is no further need for evolution and nothing new is created or born. Everything, from the subtle to the gross and tangible, manifests from these elements. All manifestations are derived states of these five elements. Each manifestation has gone through this cosmic evolutionary process until it has reached its own modified state of the inseparable yet distinctive Mahabhuta Tathwam. Consequently, all manifestations must also undergo the cosmic process of involution in order to return to their origin, the source, and come to rest.

This process of creation and dissolution of the macrocosm is
reflected in the individualized microcosm, the human being.
The creation of a microcosm is no different from the macrocosm.
"What happens in the macrocosm,
Also applies to the microcosm." - Awai Kural

We humans can truly discover our own nature if we make it our task to overcome every stage of evolution until we return to the origin, to the source.

All manifestations, without exception, must pass through the cosmic phenomenon of involution in order to return and find their resting place in the Source.

"Where the elements exist, the Lord of the elements exists,
Where the elements do not exist, the Lord of the elements does not exist.
Realize the nature of elemental knowledge,
The Lord of the Elements arises within."

The universe originally consisted of subtle atoms that contribute to the formation of the five basic elements: earth, water, fire, air and ether. These elements correspond to the five senses of the human body and serve as the basis for all physical entities in the world. There is a deep connection between the outer world and the inner system of the human being. The human form itself is a microcosm.

"What exists in the macrocosm also exists in the microcosm;
What exists in the microcosm also exists in the macrocosm.
Macrocosm and microcosm are one,
When they are viewed with a cognizing mind."

In the human body, we can observe that the earth is the primary and tangible element. It gives form to the body and includes bones, tissues, muscles, skin, hair and more.

Water, as the second element, manifests through blood, glandular secretions, vital fluids and other aspects in the body.

Fire, the third element, facilitates the digestion of physical food, mental impressions and experiences. It also brings forth emotions, strength, vitality and intelligence in the physical system.

Air aids in the absorption of digested energy and plays an important role in circulation, stimulation, and the respiratory and nervous systems.

Above all, however, ether shapes a person's mental and spiritual abilities.

When these five elements are harmoniously balanced and combined in appropriate proportions, they create a healthy organic mechanism that is essential for the maintenance of life.

Due to the inherent nature of the five elements, each emerges from the others and forms an eternal connection that makes them inseparable. This reciprocal relationship allows for flexibility in their inherent proportions, existing in various ratios and combinations. However, no element can be considered independent or separate from the others. Whenever one element is present in the body, the other four elements are also present in combination with each other.

The elements can be divided into two halves: the physical and the subtle (காயம், புரியட்ட காயம்).

The subtle elements are further divided into two equal parts, with one part remaining intact while the other is divided into four equal parts.

Pancha Bhuta (Five Elements)

To understand the essence of Tathwam,
Listen attentively and with compassion to what I say,
Follow the path of the five elements I describe:
Earth, Water, Fire,
The connecting wind and the ether,
Interwoven as five elements,
Perceive them clearly through the eye of your mind,
Pay attention to the obvious element!

Gnanendriyam (organs of knowledge)

By concentrating on the five elements themselves,
Visualize with a concentrated mind,
You will see the majestic mountain,
The path to Chathura Giri will become clear,
Then you will realize that no one is your equal,
When you surrender and experience the elements,
The majestic Kailash will reveal itself,
Listen attentively to the true Gnanendriyam!
With grace and compassion I enlighten you,
Surotra represents the ear itself,
Thokku represents the body itself,
Satchu, like a sharp sword, symbolizes the eye itself,
The great Singu represents the mouth itself,
Agirana, which resembles a foot, represents the nose itself,
These are the compassionate Gnanendriyam!

Such are these five Gnanendriyams themselves,
Observe them with a kind and concentrated mind,
Experience the five stages satisfactorily,
When you settle in the abode of the Guru,
Without overlapping, Vaasi himself will exist,
And you will dwell in the wisdom of light,
Seek refuge in these five stages,
Now listen to the Karmendriyam!

Karmendriyam (organs of action)

Listen, the tongue, the feet, the hand,
The organs of excretion and generation,
All these five are Karmendriyam,
When they become pure,
The path of wisdom will never be in vain,
If you attain clarity in these five,
Evil will cease and the Vaasi will arise,
So concentrate intensely on these five organs!

Aaimpulam (Five Senses)

Now hear and understand the Aaimpulam,
Together with Sabda (sound), Sparsa (touch), Roopa (form),
Rasam (taste), and Skanda (smell), these five,
The enraptured Aaimpulam, as they are called,
Through coherent experience of the Aaimpulam,
When you attain clarity of mind,
It will reveal to you the Chidhdhar on the path,
O my son! Listen to the analysis of the Aaimpulam!
Analyze each Aaimpulam,
Reach its core essence,
Realize the aspect of Vaasi,
Rise in this Vaasi with clarity,
Reach the oracle of the cosmos and embrace it,
And when you dwell there with untainted consciousness,
Openly telling, listen!

Anthakarnams (inner instruments)

Oh, Maharishi Pulasthiya, listen,
To the benevolent abilities of the Anthakarnams,
The pure manas is one thing,
The sharp budhi is another,
Listen, the ahamkarnam is the next,
And Chittam, the pure Siva hood, is another,
Master these four faculties,
And they will work consciously!

Atma-tathwam

Understand the Atma-tathwam,
What I have explained so far is only one of twenty-four,
Maintain your concentration while perceiving the benefits,
Of Atma-tathwam, then the vaasi will arise,
Nurture this vaasi once you have grasped its essence,
When the core of Atma-tathwam is sighted,
Which is similar to you, my son,
Now, listen to the vidya-tathwam!

Vidya-tathwam

I reveal the Vidya-tathwam to you, listen!
It contains Kala (time), Niyathi (destiny),
The covering Kalai (art), Vidya (knowledge),
The pleasant Ragam (melody), and the Purusha (individual self),
And Maya, all these are the seven aspects,
Be aware of the Vidya-Tathwam for your own good,
Preserve the spaciousness of the body,
Then realize the aspect of Siva-tathwam!

Siva-tathwam

Listen to the nature of Siva-tathwam,
O my gracious Pulasthiya, be mindful,
O son of the ruling Suddha-vidya, Iswara,
Then Sadakya, Sakti, and Siva,
All these five are called Siva-tathwams,
This order of the thirty-six Tathwams,
Know that they are the instruments of body-consciousness,
Realize this, O my son, and begin to see yourself,
Concentrate on your true self,
Observe the source of body-consciousness,
Remain steadfast; then will the glory of the Tathwam,
The Tathwam will reveal itself, be mindful,
If you maintain mindfulness in him,
The other dependent Tathwams will manifest,
And within the five elements,
All these ninety-six Tathwams will come into existence!

The aspect of the earth

The derived forms of the five elements, listen!
O son, the aspects of the earth elements become
The hair, the bone, the skin
The sinews of the nerves, the flesh, five in number
The glorious aspect of the earth, as said
Understand it and dwell in it consciously
Then the aspect of the water element
Oh, my good Pulasthiya, concentrate on it!

Aspect of water

To speak the aspect of water; to see
The softest plasma, blood
The coherent sperm, brain and bone marrow
All these five are the aspects of water
The meaning of these aspects of water
You see with clarity by perceiving yourself
If you perceive them as self-knowledge
Then I would continue with the aspect of fire!

Aspect of fire

Listen to the aspect of the fire element
Nothing but hunger; sleep
Overwhelming mating, fear and laziness
All five together are aspects of fire
Recognise this razor-sharp aspect of fire
Be mindful of your inner nature
When your mindfulness is established
Then it leads to the aspect of air!

Aspect of Air

Oh, listen to the aspect of the air itself
My pulasthiya! The walking, the running
Sitting, together with lying down, and
Standing, all become completely five
Understand the expansive aspects of the air element
Continue to focus on the unfoldment of your inner self
Concentrate with the grace of the glorious Guru
Listen to the aspect of ether!

Aspect of the ether

The exclusivity of the aspect of the ether itself
Which clearly tells you its nature, Listen!
The enmity, the possessiveness, the covetousness
The envy and the pride, all these five
To see them as they appear in the base
When you recognise them as the Self itself
The vanishing vaasi is magnified
These are the twenty-five functions of the sacred five!

Ten nadis

The five pairs of nadis are ten
I will tell you now, listen carefully!
The eternal Ida, Pingala, Sulimunai
The luminous Gandhari, Atthi, the perfect Aswini, Alampu, Purudan
The violent Gudham and the Singuvu
All these self-expressing ten positions
Are the airy aspect of the earth element itself!
As for the course of the airy aspect of air
Listen attentively, speak its flow
The straight prana, and the apana
The realistic udana and the samana, O son
The non-emissive Viyana, all are five
Have become the fiery air itself
When you find the whirling fiery air
Then listen to the next elemental airs!

Listen to the Nagan, Koormam, my son
Girigaram, Devadattam, Dananjeyen
All these are known as the five elemental airs
Amazing! Experience the directional air
Understand the basis of directional air
When you compassionately abide in Sivayoga
No more evil, all can be accomplished
Now listen with intent to the airy aspect of ether!
O son! Listen to the airiness of the ether itself
Speak compassionately, listen attentively!

The razor-sharp Arthaedeana is one
The fused Yukthiedeana is one
The intertwined Ulagaedeana is the third
Experience the airiness of the ether with clarity
Stand in the secret inner vortex

Then understand the source of sound!
Visualise the source of sound
The indwelling Vaasanam and Kemanam
The straight Visargam, Anandam, all five of them
See how these rooted five arise from Vaasanam
See the core of the rooted support
Follow the course of the other instruments
Hear what is now being spoken from the heart

Hear son, the rajas, the tamas
And the friendly Satvic characters are three
Understand these three characters
Listen to the order of the airy aspect of Vindu
The devouring Sandhi, Madhimai, Vaikari
And Sukuma, all these four are sound
See these layers of sound, the four themselves
Look devotedly at the base itself!

Find in this base itself
The inner thirty-six physical instruments
Combined with outer sixty instruments
When you clearly see the inner and the outer
These ninety-six appearing tathtwams
Can be experienced in your heart itself
They are nothing at all, just the garbage of tathtwams
The divine play of Pathi, Pasu and Pasa, between themselves! - Sawmiya Sagaram

In the Chidhdha tradition, medicine indeed serves as a tool to dissolve the veils of ignorance that overshadow the inherent enlightenment of pure consciousness. These veils manifest in the form of physical ailments, mental blockages, abnormalities, disturbances of prana (the vital life force) and the original ignorance of our existence. The unique and distinctive features of the Chidhdha system of medicine have emerged from this fundamental understanding and offer sacred keys to unveil the illusions that obscure our true nature and guide us to a life of pure consciousness.

The Chidhdha system of medicine recognizes that everything that exists, including the food we eat, is made up of the five elements. It reveals the profound influence of food on our well-being and enlightens us on how we can use this external factor to heal rather than harm. The revelations encompass all aspects of our being and offer detailed insights that expose the ignorance that separates us from our true nature.

From the moment of birth, a child is nurtured through breastfeeding, which is the first intake of temporal energy. The human being therefore derives his energy primarily from his dependence on food. The quality of our relationship with food has a major influence on our health. It serves as a gateway for various influences. The functions on which life itself depends, such as eating, drinking and sleeping, are associated with pleasure and enjoyment.

While the stomach naturally rejects everything it dislikes, a person can gradually develop a tolerance to substances that are fundamentally detrimental to their health and well-being. Similarly, in the moral sphere, gradual acceptance and desensitization to evil can weaken the conscience and lead to a loss of sensitivity and judgment.

God created the human senses, such as the eye and ear, to feel pleasure from certain stimuli. These tendencies of evolution can be seen as connections between things that come from God. For example, the eye is designed to recognize beautiful shapes and colors, while the ear delights in sweet sounds.

Interestingly, humans often know more about machines made of iron and steel than about the intricate mechanisms of their own bodies. Engineers carefully monitor and maintain machines, taking into account factors such as the performance of pumps and boilers or the ratio between steam production and the work to be done. Similarly, humans should pay attention to their physical machinery, especially the interaction of the head and stomach. The stomach acts like a furnace that produces steam (energy) for the head (mind), and neglecting its care can impair overall function.

Each food carries the properties of the five elements and, when eaten, influences and nourishes our body, mind and consciousness. Therefore, foods are categorized as satvic (pure and harmonious), rajasic (stimulating and agitating) or tamasic (dull and sluggish) based on their influencing properties. These categories reflect the effects of the three gunas (sattva, rajas, tamas) on our physical body and mental state and illustrate the connection between what we eat and our overall well-being. In addition, the human body itself is made up of the five elements in specific proportions. These elements interpenetrate each other and result in three distinct body fluids or bioregulatory forces - known as ectoderm, endoderm and mesoderm - that determine our innate constitution from birth. These layers form the foundation from which the fully developed body and its internal organs emerge.

By understanding the deep relationship between food, the elements and our constitution, we can cultivate a holistic approach to healing and wellness in the Chidhdha tradition.

The structure of the human body begins with three essential layers, because these layers are crucial for the manifestation of the three bioregulatory forces of the body: Vata, Pitta and Kapha. These layers are initially transparent but become opaque as the body develops.

Not only our human body, but also everything in the universe, whether visible or invisible, with or without form, is shaped by the life-forming primary energy prana. This matrix of primordial patterns encompasses our entire cosmos and connects us inseparably with prana. In this interconnected network of primordial energy, prana unites everything external and internal into a coherent whole. Consequently, every aspect of our existence, including our breath, has the potential to influence and change everything else.

The formless life force repeatedly takes on bodies in this world and goes through the process of incarnation and birth until the individual reaches a state where he or she prefers to dwell without physical form, as pure life force, as still spirit. This original cosmic energy follows its own purpose and life pattern and eventually returns to its source. Energy or prana serves as a link between our formless state and our formed state.

Just as the life principle within us uses prana to structure our body, this life principle is released when prana withdraws from the body. This process happens involuntarily, much like our breathing, as the nine gates (the nine openings) to the mansion of our body remain constantly open. The inherent structural principle of the energy pattern in the universe controls or prevents the constantly working prana within us from dissipating through these openings.

Before the various cells in our body are formed, the life force creates a basic structure of invisible channels, the nadis, through its flow. These nadis have different names depending on their flow.

The central channel, Sushumna Nadi, is called Vata Nadi because it carries out the primary vitalizing principle. The Pingala Nadi is called Pitta Nadi because it conducts the solar principle, which gives the embryo vitality, growth, metabolism and other functions.

The Ida Nadi, also called Kapha Nadi, supplies the organs of the body with abundant nutrients and maintains the body temperature.

Prana, the life energy, creates and maintains the genetic structure by being carried by it. All physiological functions receive their impulses from the subtly functioning prana within. Prana first lays the triple layers or structure before anything else, and from this foundation the human body emerges.

The first triple structure formed by prana serves as the foundation for the three bioregulatory forces of vata, pitta and kapha. These three doshas determine the constitution of the human body throughout life. The presiding influence of the pranic life force directs cosmic events and takes the lead at the individual level by shaping the microcosm of our human body and determining the appearance and formation of the three life-forming forces: Vata, Pitta and Kapha doshas.

The ten vital airs play an incredibly important role in all bodily functions. The upward-moving vital air is called prana, while the downward-moving vital air is known as apana. Apana is responsible for the body's excretory processes, reproduction, menstruation and much more.

Nature is an ever-flowing phenomenon, constantly changing and moving like a river. This perpetual flow of existence is alarming when it experiences blockages. Our body is not separate from this river, it is inherently connected to it. Illness and discomfort arise from our own insensitivity and unhealthy practices. The flow of natural existence that nourishes life is called "Vaasi" (alive), while blockages are called "Viyadhi" (deviation from one's nature), which stands for disease.

The body contains sixteen circulatory channels that are responsible for the formation, transportation and excretion of various substances. Three channels are dedicated to absorption, such as respiration, digestion and fluid absorption. Another three channels are responsible for excretion, including urination, defecation and sweating. Seven channels correspond to the seven basic tissues of the body, while the remaining channels serve the mind. In women, additional channels are associated with menstrual flow and breast secretions. These circulatory channels include the functions of the mind and emotions and integrate the relationship between body, mind and spirit. The Chidhdha system is revered as the 'Karpaga Vriksham' or desire tree, as it encompasses all that man can know and experience and deals with the totality of existence. It encompasses both worldly necessities and spiritual knowledge, with the medical dimension serving as a prominent gateway and hallmark.

The three doshas — vata, pitta and kapha — form the substance of the human form and determine the physical, emotional and mental aspects of human functioning.

The five elements are omnipresent. None of the elements is absent anywhere in the cosmos at any time. All five elements coexist at all times and play different roles as catalysts, supporters, bases, foundations or fields of action to emphasize the most needed quality. Even within the human body, none of the elements cease to exist.

Tridoshams - The three bioregulatory forces

The human body is composed of various elements, including plasma, blood, flesh, fat, bone, bone marrow and generative fluid. These elements combine with Rasa, the nutrient essence, and lead to the entry of Vata, Pitta and Kapha. The order of these doshas is influenced by the karmas of past lives, with Vata ruling first, followed by Pitta for 33 years and then Kapha for 37 years. After the Kapha period, Chitta takes over if the body survives another 100 years. As the body nears the end of its journey, buddhi and ahamkara leave the body, allowing the individual to experience the remaining karmic happiness and suffering. Eventually, activity and thinking diminish, leading to a state of dejection.

The human body consists of five elements, five senses, five organs of action and four internal organs, as described in Pancha Ratnam.

Each person has an innate constitution that is influenced by one of the three doshas: Vata, Pitta or Kapha. These doshas are dynamic and in constant motion, maintaining a delicate balance that is necessary for life to thrive. They serve as bioregulatory principles and are essential for human health. Although the doshas are not visible or abstract, they can be perceived and felt.

As human beings, we are an expression of the five elements:

Ether, air, fire, water and earth. It is important to understand the evolutionary order of these elements. Each element emerges from the previous one in a progressive order: from space comes air, from air comes fire, from fire comes water and from water comes earth.

Each element has unique properties and characteristics that define it. Space stands for non-resistance, expansion and openness. Air embodies mobility, coldness, subtlety and transience. Fire stands for heat, sharpness, light and fluidity. Water is characterized by fluidity, coolness, suppleness and stickiness. Earth symbolizes stability, hardness, firmness and control.

The human body is a fusion of these five elements and reflects the cosmos. It serves as a microcosm in which all bodily functions are rooted in these elements. Harmonious pairs of these forces exist in the human form. They combine in appropriate and complementary combinations, supported by a basic element, to enhance their respective qualities and enable optimal functionality. These pairs work together and reflect the cosmic intelligence that determines their existence.

When we understand the tridosham and the interplay of the elements within us, we can strive for balance and well-being. Nurturing this delicate balance supports our physical, mental and emotional health.

The human body consists of three essential pairs that play a decisive role in our existence from birth to death. Just as each element has different qualities, these pairs animate complementary functions that are essential to our well-being.

Vatham:

Vatham arises from the combination of the elements of air and space. Space, which is a field of non-resistance, allows the free movement of air. Together as Vatham, they exhibit the qualities of rapid movement, mobility and an ephemeral nature that tends to create a sense of emptiness. The intensity of Vatham's power depends on the proportions of these elements, just as the amount of space affects the dynamics of air.

Vatham controls various bodily functions, including breathing, blinking, muscle and tissue movement, heartbeat, and the expansion and contraction of impulses in nerve cells. Psychologically, vatham influences emotions such as freshness, nervousness, anxiety, pain, tremors and spasms. Its main function is to control the movements of body, mind and speech.

Pittam:

Pittam arises from the interaction between the elements of fire and water. The presence of water, which is denser and cooler than fire, intensifies its burning properties. Pittam, as the bioregulatory force resulting from this dynamic interaction, involves the modulation and control between the elements of water and fire and facilitates the vital processes of life. Pittam influences digestion, transformation, assimilation, absorption, nutrition, metabolism, body temperature, skin coloration and the radiance of the eyes. It encompasses the actions, manipulation and balance of energy and discrimination.

Kapham:

Kapham manifests through the dynamic interplay of the elements of water and earth. This connection strengthens the element of coolness, counteracts the influence of fire and gives rise to qualities such as cohesion, bonding, form, strength and more. Kapham has the invigorating qualities of stability, consistency, solidity, contouring, structuring, cohesion, lubrication and support and rarely leaves you feeling empty. It acts as a binding force that prevents the separation of water and earth.

Kapham cements the elements in the body and provides the material for the physical structure. It maintains physical resilience, stamina, strength and earthiness.

Water is the primary contributor to Kapham and provides physiological benefits such as biological strength, tissue endurance and resilience. Kapham lubricates the joints, moisturizes the skin, helps heal wounds and fills spaces in the body. It supports memory, energizes the heart and lungs and strengthens immunity.

Psychologically, Kapham influences emotions such as attachment, greed and persistent envy. It also promotes serenity, firmness and love.

Our human body functions and manifests on the basis of three essential bioregulatory forces known as Vatham, Pittam and Kapham. These forces are naturally present in our body and play different roles in our functioning. Vatham regulates our actions and mobility, Pittam regulates our processes and transformations, and Kapham builds the structure and substance of our body.

These forces together form the constitution of the individual, known as prakrithi. It can be seen as a pattern or imprint that results from the combination of these forces and gives each individual their unique characteristics. This imprint remains throughout life and any perceived change is attributed to deviations from one's prakrithi. When these deviations dissipate, individuals return to their innate patterns.

For example, vatham-based activities such as walking, running and hunger are primarily influenced by the air element supported by space, which emphasizes their presence in our body. Similarly, Pittam, represented by the elements of fire and water, is responsible for bodily functions such as digestion and vision. The Kapham pair, consisting of earth and water, contributes to various forms, bonds and stabilizations within the human form.

Although all individuals possess these bioregulatory forces, each person is unique and has their own typicality defined by their dominant prakrithi. Prakrithi influences and colors every aspect, function or activity and gives it a certain hue or flavor.

Understanding prakrithi allows for true self-expression and the realization of personal choices that are in alignment with one's growth. Recognizing our prakrithi helps us to understand the meanings and lessons expressed through our ailments and promotes the hope and strength to overcome illness.

Prakrithi includes different types and their balanced or unbalanced states known as Vikrithi. A harmonious balance of these forces has a positive effect on mental and emotional well- being, while imbalances manifest as negative traits and attitudes.

The medical approach of the ancient Chidhdhars differs considerably from modern methods, not only in treatment but also in theory. Chidhdha medicine, developed through special formulas, aims to rejuvenate the entire body by addressing specific disorders and eliminating the causative factors.

Chidhdhar theory goes beyond the treatment of disease and focuses on the denial or prevention of ailments. According to the Siddha system of medicine, the true meaning of medicine lies in the denial of disease. It includes the denial of physical and mental disorders, the prevention of further illness and finally the denial of death itself.

For over 2000 years, the Chidhdhars have prescribed a precise way of life, including medicines and methods of curing diseases caused by minor deviations. Their teachings emphasize that the presentation of things in the present reveals a divine aspect, as God is the ultimate cause of these phenomena.

If we embrace the wisdom of our Prakrithi and follow the prescribed way of life, we can find remedies and cures for various diseases and at the same time improve the quality of our physical existence.

There are five ways to improve the quality of life:

  • Through introspection and self-reflection ("through a vision").
  • By exploring and engaging our subconscious ("in a dream").
  • By engaging with the unknown and searching for answers to life's riddles ("in a mystery").
  • By thinking logically, analyzing and understanding data ("through numbers").
  • When the mind transcends the limits of the physical senses and enables a deep connection with higher worlds ("when the sense of all present things is taken away").

All of these paths involve a dissolution of the body, whether through sleep or deep contemplation.

The fifth path stands out as the most profound, as it allows a direct connection with the divine without any physical change. However, this path is only accessible to a few people. Through this divine connection, one can gain insight into the future, as eternal wisdom and divine friendship provide unparalleled knowledge.

In extraordinary moments, for example during dances or extraordinary performances, these paths can converge and create an oracle through the synchronization of body and mind. However, such experiences are rare and are only granted to a select few. Those who have reached this enlightened state are known as Chidhdhars.

To ascend to this enlightened state and become Chidhdhars, one has to purify his soul of faults, delusion, deceit and wickedness. The greater the purity in these aspects, the greater the likelihood of experiencing eternal joys.

Chidhdhar, who was known for his conversations with God, was not only spiritually enlightened but also well versed in the physical sciences and natural magic. His wisdom encompassed both the divine and the worldly realms.

Human life is finite, and the passing of time reminds us of our temporal existence. The seasons remind us of the journey of life, from the vibrant bloom of spring to the icy stillness of winter. Childhood, youth, adulthood and old age symbolize the stages of existence and emphasize the brevity of life.

Originally, life unfolded harmoniously in a state of innocence, without illness or interruption of the seasons. However, man's transgressions against the Creator's laws brought with them punishments that led to a shorter lifespan, illness and the unpredictability of nature.

While civilization has improved human living conditions, it has also brought about new diseases and suffering that did not exist in primitive times. Society has expanded human needs and passions and has become a source of progress and harm. Nature, on the other hand, has provided remedies for human ailments in its mountains, fields and meadows. The great variety of medicinal plants and herbs we find in our natural environment is the key to healing. The discovery of these natural remedies is an ongoing process and the potential to find new cures is still great.

Unfortunately, throughout history, medical knowledge has been clouded by complicated terminology and obscured by professional pride and greed. Real medicine should focus on fighting death and disease and recognize the limits of human action. In this fight, it is important that doctors and nurses have open and honest conversations to guide patients and their families through difficult decisions and prepare them for the inevitable.

As a society progresses economically, access to medical care improves, leading to a shift in deaths from home to hospital. However, at the height of economic development, people are once again able to prioritize their quality of life, leading to a resurgence in deaths at home.

Piety towards God should be a guiding principle for all those involved in medical practice. Asking for the help and blessings of the Almighty is an essential prerequisite for the success of medical treatments. Despite years of experience and knowledge, the doctor's influence on life is very limited, and in the face of death, all efforts may prove futile. Death is the ultimate reminder of the transience of existence, as generations come and go, leaving only faint traces of their existence.

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