Hour 20 Ayurveda

Mala (Waste Products)

hour 20 Online Yoga Life

In Ayurveda, Mala refers to the waste products of the body, which, despite being considered waste, play an essential role in maintaining balance and health. These waste products are the by-products of digestion, with the useful parts of food nourishing the body, while the leftover, unwanted parts are expelled.

Types of Mala:

There are three primary types of waste products, also known as Ahara Mala (waste products of food):

  1. Urine (Mutra)
  2. Faeces (Purisha)
  3. Sweat (Sweda)

Each of these waste products has a distinct function and significance in the body.

  1. Faeces (Purisha)
    • Function: Faeces represent the solid waste formed after digestion. Despite being wasted, it plays a crucial role in maintaining the body’s strength and stability. Purisha is considered essential to grounding the body, ensuring strength and stability.
    • Importance: Proper elimination of faeces is necessary for maintaining digestive health and stability within the body.
  2. Urine (Mutra)
    • Function: Urine is the liquid waste separated from the food and water consumed. It regulates the body’s fluid balance, keeping us hydrated and assisting in maintaining electrolyte balance.
    • Importance: Proper elimination of urine is vital to avoid fluid imbalances, such as water retention, which can disrupt the body’s equilibrium.
  3. Sweat (Sweda)
    • Function: Sweat is another form of waste, but it plays a crucial role in regulating body temperature, keeping the skin healthy, and removing excess water and salts.
    • Importance: Sweating is key to balancing Pitta dosha, one of the primary energies in the body. Proper sweating helps in maintaining healthy temperature regulation and the removal of toxins.
Importance of Trimala (The Three Malas)

Although these waste products are often considered waste, they are essential to the body’s health and stability. Trimala—the three Malas—must be expelled at the right time and in the right amounts. If they accumulate or stagnate, they can lead to diseases by disrupting normal bodily functions. Improper elimination can also affect the mind and senses, leading to psychological issues.

Balanced elimination is crucial for maintaining bodily strength and endurance. If excessive amounts are eliminated, it could lead to health problems. Conversely, imbalances in these Malas due to disturbed doshas can cause diseases.

Dushya:

In Ayurveda, the seven bodily tissues (Dhatus) and the three Malas together form Dushya, which means they can become vulnerable to disease when imbalanced.

Conclusion:

To maintain health and well-being, it is not only important to nourish the body with the right food and habits but also to ensure the proper elimination of waste products. By balancing the elimination of Malas, we support overall bodily function, prevent disease, and maintain mental and physical harmony.