Association Between Stress and Sattva Bala (Mental Strength) - A Cross Section Study
K. D. Chavda, Prachi Vora, A. Baghel, Swati N. Khandale
Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences April 8, 2026 DOI: 10.21760/jaims.11.3.14 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Observational cross-sectional survey with literature review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 94 |
| Population | Ayurvedic students |
| Key findings | The authors report a strong inverse association between Sattvabala and stress among 94 Ayurvedic students (Pearson r = -0.94; Chi-square χ² = 113.57, df = 4, p < 0.001), and argue that higher Sattvabala corresponds to lower stress and greater emotional stability, supporting both Ayurvedic principles and modern psychological theories of stress resilience. |
Abstract
Background: Stress is a natural response to challenging situations, affecting people worldwide, with higher prevalence during the pandemic. Studies show that professional students, especially in medical and engineering fields, experience more stress. Ayurveda links mental strength, or Sattvabala, to overall well-being, emphasizing its role in maintaining calmness and resilience. Acharya Charaka classifies Sattvabala into three types: Pravara (superior), Madhyamaa (moderate), and Avara (inferior). Individuals with Pravara Sattva exhibit mental clarity, courage, and emotional stability, while those with Madhyamaa rely on external support. Those with Avara Sattva struggle to cope, often experiencing fear, anxiety, and weakness despite physical strength. Enhancing Sattvabala through practices like meditation and breathing exercises helps manage stress effectively.
Aim: To find out association between Stress and Sattvabala.
Objectives: To explore and understand stress through Ayurvedic and modern perspective. To study the concept of Sattvabala from Ayurvedic classical literature and current literature. Material and
Methods: All the classical texts of Ayurveda with available commentaries, published research papers on different database such as Pub-Med, Google Scholar, Research Gate, J-Gate, Science Direct etc. were systematically searched and reviewed for the present study.
Result: The study found a significant inverse relationship between stress levels and Sattvabala among 94 Ayurvedic students, with a strong negative Pearson correlation of -0.94. The Chi-square test (χ² = 113.57, df = 4, p < 0.001) confirmed a highly significant association.
Discussion: Higher Sattvabala linked to lower stress and greater emotional stability. Statistical analysis confirmed this association as highly significant, supporting both Ayurvedic principles and modern psychological theories of stress resilience.
Conclusion: The study shows that higher Sattvabala reduces stress. Adopting practices like Pranayama, meditation, Mantra chanting, and a Sattvik diet can strengthen Sattvabala, making individuals more emotionally stable and resilient supporting both Ayurveda and modern psychology.