When you think of 'mind', where do you think it is located?   Do you think it is in the cranium? That mind and brain are synonymous?  That is a typical Western perspective; Ayurveda does not subscribe to this narrow interpretation.

In Ayurveda, the mind is quite significant as it has broad influence over our human experience. For each major energy channel [srotas], Ayurveda ascribes a root or developmental center [mula], a physical and energetic pathway through the body [marga] and an opening such as sensory organs [mukha].  According to Ayurveda, the channel of the mind, known as "mano vaha srotas" in Sanskrit, starts with its root not in the brain...but in the HEART! 

For a strong mind we need to get out of our heads and into our hearts.  Usually channels do not overlap, but the heart is a major hub for 3 of the channels in the body.  That is significant in understanding the seat of the mind in Ayurveda. 

To expand even further, mano vaha srotas [the mind channel] although rooted in the heart, has its pathway and physical location in the entire body which makes it the most all-encompassing srotas of all.  The mind affects and is affected by every cell, tissue, organ, process, and energy pattern in the body.  Quite astounding.  So when we think of effective Ayurveda strategies to promote health and well-being we must focus on this broad idea of mind as well.

For instance, the mind affects our sensory organs, and our sensory intake affects our mind.  When we watch the news or experience toxic events at mealtime or approaching sleep, those sensory inputs may result in incomplete digestion or sleep interference. 

When disturbing or other traumatic experiences are repetitive we form energetic patterns. Even the anticipation of negative events reinforces these energy patterns.  These undigested experiences become emotional ama--just as undigested food becomes physical ama.  In Ayurveda, physical and emotional ama are really indistinguishable.

Everyone is unique in terms of their sensory reaction.  So should you watch the news at bedtime? That depends on your experience of the input.  I believe, however, that many of us are more affected by this sort of thing than we realize.

On the other hand, if we are surrounded by those who love us, if we are inspired by what we read, or if we spend time in nature, we orient to positive energy patterns. We then begin to anticipate positive experiences and see positive patterns in our world where others may see disturbing elements.

Ayurveda classifies the mind system into three categories:

An imbalance in any dosha can compromise mind wholeness and peak mental performance. The mind works best of course, when all doshas are balanced and cooperating.

Paying attention to the three pillars of Ayurveda - diet, sleep, and lifestyle is the foundation of good mental health and function.

Here is how to improve your Power of Mind:

 

Eat Whole, Intelligent Foods.       

Intelligent foods are real foods. They are not processed, reheated, nor do the contain toxins or pesticides.  GMO foods are not intelligent.

 

Obtain Anti-Oxidants from Natural Foods.       

Supplements can do in a pinch to support poor nutrition, they are not a long term strategy.  The evidence is in, free radicals cause disease, hasten aging and impair the brain. For natural anti-oxidants, eat a diet of lightly cooked organic vegetables and fresh fruits as well as algae products like chlorella and spirulina.  Blueberries are a great anti-oxidant.

 

Consume Healthy Fats       

The best fats include ghee, which has a high smoke point, coconut oil and virgin olive oil. Olive oil should only be used cold, never heated.

 

Sleep Well      

Try a cup of warm almond or coconut milk at bedtime, turn off all stimulus for one hour except perhaps soft music, keep a journal to empty your mind at night. Go to bed before 10pm

 

Nourish Your Soul    

Spend time in nature and with others who lift your spirit.

 

Exercise the Mind      

Chant Om, do crossword puzzles, practice deep breathing pranayama, or hold attention at the 3rd eye

 

Meditate       

This is perhaps the most effective strategy.  Learn to meditate.  Don't worry about having thoughts when you meditate.  That is stress being released.  Just don't attach to the thoughts and ruminate with them. Practice letting go of thoughts by coming back to your mantra.