Also known as pulse diagnosis, Nadi pariksha in ayurvedic is a diagnostic technique practiced since ages and it involves assessing the pulse to gain information about the mental, physical and emotional well-being of the person. The technique helps us reach the root cause of all the health ailments. It not just helps in addressing the symptoms. The pulse is a powerful reflection of overall balance in our body.
After analyzing different aspects of the pulse such as quality, strength and rhythm, an ayurvedic practitioner gathers valuable information about the mental and physical well-being of the person. These practitioners detect the imbalances in the vata at a very early stage. Based on the imbalances detected, they can also recommend personalized treatments with lifestyle modifications.
The roots of Nadi Pariksha
We all are no strangers to the fact that Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine and it is rooted in Indian traditions. In this practice, a skilled practitioner assesses the pulse for gaining insights into the overall well-being of the person. After monitoring and observing the speed, rhythm and the overall strength of the pulse the practitioner identifies the imbalances in different organs of the body, the energy channels and the doshas. The technique is based on the belief that each pulse in the body corresponds to a specific organ. It also provides a valuable information about its functioning.
The significance of this practice is understood effectively by the practitioners and is used for assessing Tridoshas and other psychological and physiological states of the patient. Ayurveda has a strong literature support and with thousands of years of experience in Nadi Pariksha.
What are the properties of pulse in Nadi Pariksha?
Following are the properties of Pulse in Nadi Pariksha-
· Speed of the pulse (Vega).
· Hardness of the artery (Kathinya).
· Pulse movement (Gati).
· Stability of the pulse (Sthiratva).
In the recent times, there has been a growing interest in acquiring the pulse from Tridosha locations. The experience in pulse based diagnosis is dependent on the skill of the physician.
Where is the pulse sensed?
The pulse is sensed at three locations on the radial artery and assessing doshas from the palpation of the pulse. The properties of Nadi are vital in assessing doshas as a part of Nadi Pariksha. The gati, vega and sthiratva which are pulse movement, speed of the pulse and stability of the pulse are identified as the measurable parameters of the pulse.
Gati
Gati is the unique way of diagnosis in Ayurveda. The texts in Ayurveda have explained gati of the pulse when more than one dosha is present. Gati plays a significant role in assessing the dosha predominance. All the traditional ayurvedic doctors have assessed gati from nadi.
Pulse movement
The traditional practice of assessing gati is very subjective in current context of research. The movement of pulse in Nadi Gati is associated with different doshas such as Vata, Pitta and Kapha.
Vata
Described as sarpagati, it is characterized by a wavy flow.
Pitta.
Pitta doshas Nadi Gati has been described as jumping or hopping.
Kapha.
Also known as Hansa Gati or swan movement, Kapha dosha is characterized by a slow and smooth flow.
Nadi Pariksha.
The pulse diagnosis involves feeling the pulse at three points on the wrist.
The science of Nadi Pariksha aims to understand the overall health of the individual.
3. Vega
Vega loosely translates to ‘speed of the pulse’. The speed of the pulse depends on the psychological and pathological states of the individual. When there is an increase in anger and lust, it will result into fast nadi and when the person is in sorrow or anger, the nadi will be slow. The pulse rate is used for measuring the speed of the pulse and its significant research is associated to vega.
4. Pulse wave velocity.
The flow of blood is faster in aorta as compared to the peripheral network. The speed varies from meters per second in aorta to mm per second in the peripheral network.
What are the three aspects of pulse diagnosis?
Seeing and observing, light touching and questioning are the three aspects of pulse diagnosis. According to Ayurveda, there is a connection between the state of physiology, mind and emotions and examining any one of these aspects helps one gain more knowledge about the other two aspects as well.
What are the benefits of Nadi Pariksha in Ayurveda?
Pulse diagnosis is a highly respected diagnostic tool in Ayurveda. In Nadi Pariksha, a person’s pulse at the wrist is examined using three fingers for assessing the balance of Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Following are some of the major benefits of Nadi Pariksha in Ayurveda-
1. Accurate Diagnosis of Dosha Imbalance.
It plays a key role in identifying imbalances in Pitta, Vata and Kapha. It also offers a precise understanding of a person’s current imbalance and body constitution.
2. Detects diseases at an early stage.
The diagnosis reveals subtle disturbances in tissues, organs and systems before clinical symptoms come into picture. The practice is useful for preventive health.
3. Personalized treatment planning.
It helps you with ayurvedic therapies such as-
· Herbal remedies.
· Panchakarma detox plans.
· Lifestyle changes.
4. Non- invasive.
The therapy is non-invasive.
It does not require any machinery.
It also takes into account mental, physical and emotional health in one assessment.
5. Mind- body insights.
Even a slight variation in the pulse indicates emotional blockages and mental stress.
The treatment helps align with the energetic and psychosomatic aspects of health.
6. Evaluates organ function.
A physician can assess the functioning of organs like heart, lungs, kidneys and digestive system.
7. Tracks progress.
The Nadi Pariksha monitors healing and treatment effectiveness through the ongoing pulse readings and also adjusts therapies based on current doshic state.
Nadi Pariksha- A holistic approach to mental and physical well being
The diagnosis helps the ayurvedic practitioner detect the dosha imbalance ever before the symptoms arise. When one monitors pulse characteristics through treatment, dietary adjustments and lifestyle modifications, it helps the person gain an insight into his health.