09 The gunas

According to Ayurveda, all creation is composed of three main qualities or gunas in different proportions. These universal energies, known as Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas, are attributed to the nature of mind (Manas): Sattva as clarity, Rajas as action, and Tamas as inertia. The gunas have a significant effect, especially on the mental level. When they are balanced they favor harmony and health. When Rajas or Tamas predominate, they can predispose to imbalance and poor health. We can clearly observe the effects of these qualities on the different mental and emotional states that we constantly experience.