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Exploring the Three Sub-Pillars of Health in Ayurveda
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Published on 10/10/24
(Updated on 08/31/25)
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Exploring the Three Sub-Pillars of Health in Ayurveda

Written by
Dr. Harsha Joy
Nangelil Ayurveda Medical College
I am Dr. Harsha Joy, and I mostly work with women who are struggling with stuff like hormonal issues, skin flare-ups, hair thinning, or fertility troubles that don't always have one straight answer. Over the years, I’ve realised that real healing doesn’t come from a standard protocol—it comes when you actually sit with a person, understand what their day looks like, how they eat sleep think feel. That’s where Ayurveda makes all the sense in the world to me. My clinical work revolves around women’s health—especially gynecology and infertility care. Many women who reach out to me have tried many things, felt confused or unheard. Whether it’s PCOS, irregular cycles, or just feeling "off" hormonally, I try to look at the root imbalance—agni, ama, ojas—basic Ayurvedic fundamentals that still explain modern conditions better than most charts or labels. Fertility support is something close to my heart... we don’t rush anything. It’s more like—let’s fix the ecosystem inside first. I also work with chronic skin and hair problems. Acne that just won't leave, hyperpigmentation, postpartum hair loss, oily scalp with dandruff... and again, for these too, it’s usually not a skin problem. It’s digestion, stress, sleep, circulation—internal stuff showing up outside. We work with diet tweaks, gut reset, herbs, maybe some lepas or sneha therapy—but always after tuning into what *your* body wants. Outside my clinic I write a lot. I'm part of content teams that simplify Ayurveda into understandable bits—whether it's about hormonal balance or skincare or daily routines. Writing has helped me reach people who aren’t ready to consult but want to start somewhere. And I think that matters too. I don’t believe in intense detoxes or piling on medicines. The work I do is slow, layered, sometimes messy—but that's healing. That’s what I try to offer—whether someone walks in with hair loss or years of failed fertility cycles. Every body has its own story and my job’s just to hear it right. Maybe guide it back home.
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Ayurveda is an ancient holistic healing system that has been practiced for thousands of years, originating in India. It is based on the belief that the body is composed of five different elements and that each of these elements is connected to the well-being of the body, mind, and spirit. In Ayurveda, the three sub-pillars of health are referred to as the Trayopastambha and they provide the foundation for achieving optimal health and wellness. In this blog post, we will explore the three sub-pillars of health(Trayopastambha) in Ayurveda and how they can help you achieve optimal wellness.

Understanding Ayurveda: What Is It and How Can It Benefit You?

Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to health and wellness that is based on the interdependence of all aspects of life. This system recognizes that we are all unique individuals with different needs and requirements, and as such, it provides personalized recommendations for each person’s health and well-being.

Ayurveda can benefit you by helping you achieve optimal health and wellness through natural methods. It can help you to manage chronic conditions, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve your overall quality of life. By understanding your dosha and incorporating the principles of Ayurveda into your daily life, you can achieve a greater sense of balance, vitality, and well-being.

Three Sub-Pillars of Health in Ayurveda

Ayurveda recognizes that optimal health and well-being require a holistic approach that considers not just the physical body but also the mind, emotions, and spirit. This ancient system of medicine identifies five fundamental pillars of health that are interconnected and necessary for achieving balance and vitality.

Pillar 1: Ahara or Proper Diet and Nutrition

Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of proper diet and nutrition in achieving optimal health. Ahara, or the food that we consume, plays a crucial role in balancing the doshas and maintaining overall well-being.

According to Ayurveda, the food we eat should be fresh, natural, and in line with our individual constitution. This means that the diet and nutritional requirements may vary from person to person, based on their dosh.

Some other tips for incorporating Ahara into your daily life include:

    • Eating warm, cooked meals
    • Consuming fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables
    • Avoiding processed and junk foods
    • Staying hydrated by drinking warm water and herbal teas
    • Including healthy fats and proteins in your diet
    • Eat
      only when hungry and according to the one’s constitution.

There are many other guidelines prescribed in the ashta-aahar vidhi visheshayatana ( 8 crucial points of Dietetics in Ayurveda.) By following these guidelines, you can improve your digestive health, balance your doshas, and ultimately, achieve optimal wellness. For instance, a Vata-dominant individual may benefit from warming and grounding foods like soups and stews, while a Pitta-dominant person  may benefit from cooling foods like fresh fruits and vegetables.

Pillar 2: Nidra or Adequate Sleep and Rest

Sleep is crucial to our overall health and well-being. It’s when our bodies heal and repair themselves, allowing us to wake up feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. Ayurveda places great emphasis on the quality and quantity of our sleep, which is why it’s considered one of the 3 pillars of health.

In Ayurveda, it’s recommended to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, allowing for a consistent sleep schedule that supports the body’s natural circadian rhythm. It’s also recommended to avoid stimulating activities before bedtime, such as watching TV or using electronic devices, as these can disrupt sleep patterns. Instead, try calming activities such as meditation, reading a book, or taking a relaxing bath.

Another important aspect of Nidra is the quality of sleep. Ayurveda recommends creating a sleep environment that’s cool, dark, and quiet. This can include using blackout curtains, earplugs, and a comfortable mattress and pillow.

In Ayurvedic philosophy, the quality and quantity of sleep are regarded as crucial factors that influence overall health and vitality. Just as balanced nutrition and proper exercise contribute to a healthy lifestyle, obtaining sufficient and restorative sleep plays a pivotal role in maintaining physical, mental, and emotional equilibrium. Ayurveda recognizes that during sleep, the body undergoes processes of repair, rejuvenation, and detoxification. It is believed that when we align our sleep patterns with our individual constitution (dosha) and the natural rhythms of the day, we enhance our body’s innate healing mechanisms. Consistently practicing healthy sleep habits promotes mental clarity, emotional stability, optimal digestion, and immune function. Ayurveda advises establishing a regular sleep routine, going to bed early, and creating a comfortable sleep environment to support restful and nourishing sleep, ultimately contributing  to overall vitality and wellness.

Pillar 3: Brahmacharya or Balanced Sexual Life and Vitality

In Ayurveda, the concept of Brahmacharya goes beyond just sexual abstinence or celibacy. It is about cultivating a balanced sexual life and vitality. Ayurveda recognizes that sexual energy is a powerful force that can greatly impact our overall well-being.

To achieve a balanced sexual life, Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting our own unique sexual constitution. Each individual has different needs and desires when it comes to their sexual expression. It is essential to listen to our bodies and honor our own boundaries and limits.

Brahmacharya also encourages us to practice moderation in our sexual activities. This means not indulging in excessive or inappropriate sexual behavior, as it can deplete our vital energy and disrupt the equilibrium of our doshas.

To support balanced sexual vitality, Ayurveda recommends incorporating herbs and foods that nourish the reproductive system, such as ashwagandha, Shatavari, and dates. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes proper sleep, exercise, and stress management is crucial for sustaining sexual energy and vitality.

To balance the 3 pillars of wellness in Ayurveda, it is important to incorporate each of these pillars into your daily routine. This can  be done by following a daily routine that includes adequate rest, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and practices that promote mental and emotional well-being. By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you can achieve optimal health and well-being.

Ask-Ayurveda is a platform that connects patients with authentic Ayurvedic doctors for holistic advice and wisdom on health, wellness, and mindfulness. For more content andonline ayurvedic consultation on health and lifestyle-related issues reach out to Ask-Ayurveda .

This article is checked by the current qualified Dr Sujal Patil and can be considered a reliable source of information for users of the site.

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Questions from users
What if I have a busy schedule, how can I still implement Ayurveda's principles into my life?
Audrey
94 days ago
Dr. Harsha Joy
93 days ago
If you're super busy, you can still weave Ayurveda into your life by making small changes. Start with Ahara by prepping simple, dosha-friendly meals like oatmeal or soup. For Nidra, create a bedtime ritual you can stick to, like a quick meditation or silent moment. When it comes to Brahmacharya, staying mindful of energy and taking short breaks to recharge helps. Tiny steps!
How can I create a better sleep environment according to Ayurveda principles?
Emma
69 days ago
Dr. Harsha Joy
68 days ago
Sure! To create an Ayurvedic sleep haven, make your room cool, dark, and quiet—these help balance the doshas. Try winding down with a warm bath or herbal tea before bed. Keep a consistent sleep schedule, and maybe add calming scents like lavender or sandalwood. Just like your body craves routine, your mind will thank you too! 😴
What are some specific foods or herbs I can add to my diet to boost sexual vitality?
Aria
79 days ago
Dr. Harsha Joy
78 days ago
For boosting sexual vitality, try adding Ashwagandha and Shatavari to your diet, they're awesome for balancing the doshas and improving energy. Also, nuts like almonds and walnuts can nourish the tissues. Don’t forget to include warming spices like ginger and cinnamon—they realy fuel the fire in our bodies! Remember though, everyone’s different so it might be good to pay attetion to what works best for your body.
How can I determine my dosha to choose the right foods for my diet?
Lincoln
74 days ago
Dr. Harsha Joy
73 days ago
To find out your dosha, notice your physical traits, emotions, and habits. Do you tend to feel cold, warm, or comfortable in most situations? Are you generally pretty structured or go with the flow? Check online dosha quizzes or consult with Ayurvedic practioner. Once you know your dosha, you can align your diet with that.
What are some effective ways to improve my sleep quality using Ayurvedic principles?
Olivia
64 days ago
Dr. Harsha Joy
63 days ago
To improve sleep using Ayurveda, try drinking warm milk with a pinch of nutmeg before bed. Avoid gadgets an hour before sleep, they mess with the mind's natural peace. Stick to a regular sleep schedule, embracing calming rituals like gentle breathing exercises or meditation. Check your dosha — like Vata imbalances can disrupt sleep, so grounding activities help.
How can I incorporate Ayurveda principles to improve my sleep quality effectively?
Carter
59 days ago
Dr. Harsha Joy
58 days ago
To boost sleep quality with Ayurveda, focus on calming evening routines that suits your dosha. Vata types might enjoy warm teas or oil massages, while Pitta could benefit from cooling setups like a calm, dark room. Kapha? Less heavy bedtime snacking helps. Also consider using herbs like ashwagandha or brahmi, they might help, but start slow! 😌
How can I incorporate Ayurvedic principles into my daily routine for better sleep?
Sophia
54 days ago
Dr. Harsha Joy
53 days ago
For better sleep with Ayurveda, maybe try following a set sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up the same time every day keeps your body's clock steady. Drinking warm milk or herbal tea before bed can be soothing, and reducing screen time helps too. Gentle evening yoga or meditation supports calm mind and body. These little changes can work wonders!
What are some practical ways to incorporate Ayurvedic principles into my daily routine?
Jack
39 days ago
Dr. Harsha Joy
38 days ago
To bring Ayurveda into your daily life, start by eating fresh, natural foods that match your dosha type. Try setting a bedtime routine, maybe going to sleep and waking up around the same time, to improve your rest. Keeping a balance in all things, like managing stress and leading a balanced sexual life, can help too. Small steps you take can lead to big changes!
How can I create a bedtime routine that promotes better sleep without feeling too strict?
Lucas
49 days ago
Dr. Harsha Joy
48 days ago
Try keeping it simple and enjoyable! Maybe start with a warm herbal tea like chamomile, or reading something gentle before bed. Dim lights an hour before sleep helps too. Consistency matters, even if it's not too strict. Also, focus on your dosha. If you're Vata, grounding activities like meditation can help, Pitta might benefit from cooling rituals, and Kapha from a brisk walk earlier in the evening. Keep experimenting to find what suits you best. Sweet dreams!
What are some specific foods or herbs that can help with balancing sexual vitality?
Thomas
44 days ago
Dr. Harsha Joy
43 days ago
To boost sexual vitality, focus on foods and herbs like ashwagandha, shatavari, and ghee if you're okay with dairy. Nuts like almonds, rich in healthy fats, are also great. Spices like saffron and fenugreek help too. Think about your dosha before choosing. Keep it fresh and natural, and listen to what feels right for your body!
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