by Smt Meetal Koticha Shah, Joint Executive Trustee &
CEO – Project ‘Life’ & Senior Vice-Chairperson, Gujarat Chapter, IYA
Deeply imprinted in wisdoms of Ayurveda and Yogic disciplines, the phrase “Arogyam Param Sukham”, meaning ‘Health is the greatest happiness’ is the eternal truth that no success, wealth or comfort can bring inclusive happiness if not in good health.
Arogyam signifies comprehensive state of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, sans any disease, stress and imbalance. “Param Sukham” defines blissful happiness that triumphs over materialistic achievements.
The phrase Arogyam Param Sukham delivers a deeper meaning that transcends the perception of happiness, accentuating the realm that true elation ascends from inner harmony and balanced living, not from worldly advancement.
This concept is as practical as philosophical and applies significantly to contemporary stress driven, competitive and super-charged human existence, where lifestyle diseases are on the rise.
The spiritual emphasis on Arogyam as the inclusive attainment through balanced diet, physical activity, mental calmness and spiritual alignment is, hence, more significantly pertinent than ever before.
Ayurveda defines good health as seamless state of balance between three Doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha), augmenting the state of happiness in the soul, mind, and senses; which Yoga compliments through scientific presentation of Physical postures (Asanas), Breath control (Pranayama) and Meditation (Dhyana), supporting all-inclusive state of well-being.
This integrative phenomenon nurtures resilience, clarity, vitality and a deeper experience of peaceful, healthy existence that begets clarity and awakened spirit.
Yoga, consequentially and effectively, thus, remains the pathway to blissful health in many ways:
Physical Vitality: Regular practice of Asanas (postures) strengthens the body, improves flexibility, boosts immunity and enhances energy levels.
Mental Peace: Through Pranayama (Breath control) and Dhyana (Meditation), Yoga calms the mind, reduces anxiety and brings clarity.
Emotional Stability: Yoga nurtures emotional strength, promoting response rather than reaction, converting challenges into opportunities.
Spiritual Awareness: Yoga contextually leads to self-realization, contentment and inner joy.
The wisdom expressed in the phrase “Arogyam Param Sukham” is not merely traditional verbose, it is a manuscript for people and nations to prioritize health as the most essential priority to achieve a state of vibrant well-being.
Let us cherish our health not only as a gift but as a responsibility. Because in the end, health truly is the Ultimate Bliss—the quiet yet powerful force that sustains our life and multiplies our joy.
May we all strive to follow this truth “Arogyam Param Sukham!”