Purusha and Prakruti

Purusha and Prakruti are the foundations of Samkhya philosophy, which Yoga and Ayurveda both share.

Samkhya philosophy interprets existence through 25 principles known as Tattvas that constitute nature.  This dualistic philosophy identifies two fundamental foundations: Purusha (consciousness or spirit) and Prakriti (nature or matter). 

The Twenty-Five Tattvas are the fundamental principles constituting reality and human experience, forming the foundation of all our perceptions and the universe. 

Purusha represents consciousness, the eternal spirit, the cosmic being, and the self.

Prakriti embodies manifested nature, material world, all transformation, activity, and change.

Intellect (Mahat/Buddhi): Discernment and comprehension. 

Ego (Ahamkara): The sense of "I" or self-identification. 

Mind (Manas): The faculty of thought and perception. 

Sense Organs: Ear, skin, eye, tongue, and nose. 

Action Organs: Speech, hands, feet, genitals, and anus. 

Subtle Elements (Tanmatras): Sound, touch, form, taste, and smell. 

Gross Elements (Maha Bhutas): Ether, air, fire, water, and earth. 

Samkhya is a beautiful philosophy because it encompasses all of nature. Understanding and adapting the concepts of Purusha and Prakruti in our daily lives involves seeking a balance between these two aspects, which shape our life experiences and allow us to achieve presence, balance, and liberation. 

Our yogic practices (asana, pranayama, and meditation) cultivate discrimination and detachment, enabling the practitioner to move towards self-realization and liberation through self-knowledge and understand reality and our true nature, which is further explored through Ayurveda.