Ayurvedic Perspectives on Stress Physiology: Exploring the Interplay of Triguna, Dosha, and Psychophysiological Adaptation

Stress represents a complex psychophysiological response that enables adaptation to internal and external challenges through coordinated neuroendocrine, autonomic, immune, and behavioral mechanisms. Although modern physiology primarily explains stress through activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and the autonomic nervous system, Ayurveda provides a multidimensional framework encompassing the interaction of Manas, Triguna, Dosha, and Ojas. This review explores the Ayurvedic understanding of stress physiology by integrating classical concepts with contemporary scientific evidence. The dynamic equilibrium of Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas governs cognitive, emotional, and behavioral responses, whereas Vata, Pitta, and Kapha regulate neurophysiological, metabolic, and adaptive functions during stress. Disturbances in these regulatory principles, precipitated by Prajnaparadha, Asatmya Indriyartha Samyoga, and adverse environmental influences, may impair psychophysiological adaptation and predispose individuals to stress-related disorders. Furthermore, Ojas is presented as a critical determinant of resilience, immune competence, and adaptive capacity. The review also examines potential correlations between Ayurvedic principles and contemporary concepts such as autonomic regulation, neuroendocrine signaling, inflammatory pathways, and heart rate variability. Therapeutic strategies including Satvavajaya Chikitsa, Achara Rasayana, Yoga, Pranayama, Dhyana, and Rasayana interventions are discussed for their roles in enhancing stress resilience and restoring physiological homeostasis. Integrating Ayurvedic physiology with modern stress science may provide a comprehensive systems-based model for understanding psychophysiological adaptation and facilitate the development of personalized, evidence-informed approaches for stress prevention, resilience enhancement, and holistic health promotion.