| According to Vedic texts,
there are four basic goals of human life.
The purpose of Ayurveda is to keep humanity healthy so that we can fully
pursue these goals. These goals
are a fundamental part of our nature, but the attachment to these goals is what
causes much of our problems. When
we can look at the highest purpose for each of these goals, and not
overindulge, we can achieve the bliss that we seek.
-Kama means pleasure. In its highest form, this is the
pursuit of the preservation of life.
When kept in check, kama brings us joy. We eat food that tastes good, as is good for us. We maintain healthy relationships that
feed our soul.
-Artha means
prosperity. In its highest form,
this is the pursuit of what we need to thrive, no more and no less. There is no need for waste or greed. We know that accumulation does not
bring happiness.
-Dharma means duty. Dharma is our purpose in life, and we
know we are in our dharma when we are doing what we love, and at the same time
we are serving others. This is how
we use our talents to contribute to society.
-Moksha means
liberation. In its highest form,
this is the pursuit of spiritual growth.
When we understand that we are on a spiritual journey in this lifetime,
this motivates us further.
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