Discrimination, restraint and knowledge of the Self is the best treatment for the energies of the Mind. – Astanga Hrdayam. 26
The mental energies that can disturb the balance of the mind are known as Rajas and Tamas.
The best treatment for this imbalance is to develop discrimination, determination and the knowledge of the Self.
Discrimination is the ability of a human being to know what is right and wrong in thought and action at any given moment. Knowledge of right and wrong is not something pre-determined but relates to the idiosyncrasy of the individual and the prevailing circumstances. It means that both thoughts and feelings are in harmony and lead to appropriate action.
In order to initiate an appropriate action, we must have the ability to restrain ourselves from making an inappropriate one. For example, the restraint finding the easy solution to a problem or the wrong substitute for a deeper desire.
Developing the ability to discriminate and have the strength of self-discipline is necessary in order to have real knowledge of the Self. In Ayurveda this means the knowledge of our own idiosyncrasy, our vata, pitta and kapha and our sattva, rajas and tamas. This allows us to accurately observe the needs of whoever is around us.
‘Know Thyself’ and ‘Everything in Moderation’ are Ancient Greek expressions that directly relate to these qualities. In order to overcome the mental energies of Rajas and Tamas, the best treatment is not just the use of medicine but the deeper education of the mind.
- Dr Nikolaos Kostopoulos
