Dosha
Dosha (, IAST: "doṣa") is a central term in Ayurveda originating from Sanskrit, which can be translated as "that which can cause problems" (literally meaning "fault" or "defect"), and which refers to three categories or types of substances that are believed to be present in a person's body and mind. Beginning with twentieth-century Ayurvedic literature, the "three-"dosha" theory" (, ) has described how the quantities and qualities of three fundamental types of substances called wind, bile, and phlegm (, , ; , , ) fluctuate in the body according to the seasons, time of day, process of digestion, and several other factors and thereby determine changing  conditions of growth, aging, health, and disease. "Dosha"s are considered to shape the physical body according to a natural constitution established at birth, determined by the constitutions of the parents as well as the time of conception and other factors. This natural constitution represents the healthy norm for a balanced state for a particular individual. The particular ratio of the "dosha"s in a person's natural constitution is associated with determining their mind-body type including various physiological and psychological characteristics such as physical appearance, physique, and personality. The Ayurvedic three-"dosha" theory is often compared to European Humorism although it  is a distinct system with a separate history. The three-"dosha" theory has also been compared to astrology and physiognomy in similarly deriving its tenets from ancient philosophy and superstitions. Using them to diagnose or treat disease is considered pseudoscientific. Role in disease, Roga. The existence of doshas is not supported by evidence. Steven Novella writes that doshas constitute "a fantasy-based system of human functioning". The Ayurvedic theory of "dosha"s describes how bad habits, wrong diet, overwork, etc. may cause relative deficiencies or excesses which cause them to become imbalanced in relation to the natural constitution () resulting in a current  condition () which may potentially lead to disease. For example, an excess of is blamed for mental, nervous, and digestive disorders, including low energy and weakening of all body tissues. Similarly, excess is blamed for blood toxicity, inflammation, and infection. Excess of is blamed for increase in mucus, weight, oedema, and lung disease, etc. The key to managing all "dosha"s is taking care of , that is taught to regulate the other two. By evaluating individual habits, emotional responses, pulse, and body type, practitioners of Ayurveda determine their current condition and adapt their practices accordingly, prescribing Ayurvedic treatments focused on alleviating any  doshic imbalance (illness) using herbs, lifestyle changes, and practices such as pranayama, meditation, and yoga postures. Principles. The "doshas" derive their qualities from the five elements (; ) of classical Indian philosophy. Section::::"Prana", "tejas", and "ojas". Yoga is a set of disciplines, some that aim to balance and transform energies of the psyche. At the roots of , and are believed to consist of its subtle counterparts called , and . Unlike the "dosha"s, which in excess create diseases, this is believed to promote health, creativity and well-being. Ultimately, Ayurveda seeks to reduce disease, particularly those that are chronic, and increase positive health in  the body and mind via these three vital essences that aid in renewal and transformation. Increased is associated with enthusiasm, adaptability and creativity, all of which are considered necessary when pursuing a spiritual path in yoga and to enable one to perform. is claimed to provide courage, fearlessness and insight and to be important when making decisions. Lastly, is considered to create peace, confidence and patience to maintain consistent development and sustain continued effort. Eventually, the most important element to develop is , believed to engender physical and psychological endurance. Aims to achieve this include Ayurvedic diet, tonic herbs, control of  the senses, a devotion and most importantly celibacy.