Each dosha has a subtle form. These are called the subtle doshas.

The Subtle form of Vata

PRĀṆA

Prana is the subtle form of Vata dosha. It is the vital life force that enters the body through its environment. It is the flow, or movement, of intelligence on the cellular level. Prana is also responsible for the movement of energy throughout the body, specifically through the Nadi channels and the Chakras. It is through practicing Yoga that we refine and become aware of our body’s state of Prana.

The Subtle form of Pitta

TEJAS

Tejas is the subtle form of Pitta dosha. If Prana is the movement of intelligence, Tejas is the intelligence itself. Tejas is responsible for the processing of information received through the subtle body. It is the light of consciousness, our cellular intellect. It is through practicing things that require deep inquiry, such as Jyotisha, that we refine and become aware of the Tejas in our body and minds.

The Subtle form of Kapha

OJAS

Ojas is the subtle form of Kapha dosha. It is the utmost important subtle energy to nourish because it is the container in which Prana and Tejas move. Ojas is our ability to remain grounded and stable regardless of what is happening in our environment. Without proper Ojas, there is no containment of our other vital energies. It is through practicing Ayurveda that we refine and become aware of our state of Ojas.

These three energies are always present within our pranic bodies, or the Pranamaya Kosha. While they are subtle energetics, they play an important role of our state of mind, contentment, and overall wellbeing. If one is out of balance, the other two are effected. As with everything, these energies are always in a constant state of change, so it is important to learn how to recognize these states and how they might feel to you:

PRANA: High • TEJAS: Low • OJAS: Low = Excitability, over enthusiasm

PRANA: High • TEJAS: High • OJAS: Low = Fragile and volatile heated emotions

PRANA: High • TEJAS: Low • OJAS: High = Gullible yet good natured

PRANA: Low • TEJAS: High • OJAS: High = Depressed, low enthusiasm

PRANA: Low • TEJAS: Low • OJAS: High = Complacent, low motivation

PRANA: Low • TEJAS: High • OJAS: Low = Angry, critical, cynical

PRANA: Low • TEJAS: Low • OJAS: Low = Severe emotional disease, severe depression

PRANA: High • TEJAS: High • OJAS: High = Expanding consciousness