Yoga East

Prana, Tejas and Ojas for Yoga Practitioners 
by Laura Spaulding

In Yoga and Ayurveda, prāṇa, tejas, and ojas are considered the three subtle vital essences that sustain life at physical, mental, and spiritual levels. They are sometimes called the “three treasures” of yogic physiology.  Ayurveda is the yoga-related knowledge regarding physiology, therapy, herbology, diet and lifestyle choices that affect health and well-being. “Doṣas” are the names of the three main constitutions of individuals. One’s doṣa  influences weight, preferred foods, temperature, lifestyle choices, tendencies, and many other aspects of one’s state of health.

Here is a clear summary of each essence — and how they relate to one another:

Prāṇa – The Vital Life Force

Prāṇa is the animating life-force that flows through the body via the nāḍīs (subtle channels). It governs:

• Breath and respiration
• Nervous system activity
• Circulation and movement
• Sensory perception
• Mental activity

In Ayurveda, prāṇa is closely linked with Vāta doṣa, especially prāṇa-vāta (the inward-moving force centered in the head and chest). In yoga practice it is cultivated through prāṇāyāma.

• Balanced by steady āsana and regulated breath
• Disturbed by overstimulation, anxiety, irregular lifestyle

When balanced → clarity, vitality, alertness
When depleted → fatigue, scattered mind, nervous instability

Tejas – The Inner Radiance

Tejas is the subtle essence of agni (digestive fire). It governs:

• Cellular metabolism
• Hormonal transformation
• Intelligence and discrimination (buddhi)
• Courage and willpower

Tejas is associated with the refined aspect of Pitta doṣa.

In Yoga practice:

• Strengthened by tapas (disciplined effort)
• Refined by meditation and mantra
• Disturbed by anger, overexertion, excess heat

When balanced → sharp intellect, luminosity, healthy digestion
When excessive → irritability, inflammation, burnout
When deficient → dullness, low motivation

 Ojas – The Vital Essence of Immunity and Stability

Ojas is considered the most refined product of digestion and tissue formation. It represents:

• Immune strength
• Physical endurance
• Emotional steadiness
• Spiritual contentment

Ojas corresponds to the highest refinement of Kapha doṣa.

In Yoga practice:

• Built through rest, devotion, and loving relationships
• Nourished by wholesome food and deep sleep
• Depleted by stress, over-practice, excessive sexual activity, chronic illness

When balanced → calm joy, resilience, grounded presence
When depleted → exhaustion, fragility, anxiety

Laura Spaulding will be teaching a workshop on Prana, Tejas and Ojas on Sunday May 3, 2026, 2:30-5:00 pm at Yoga East, 1125 E. Kentucky Street, Louisville, KY 40204. Go to https://yogaeast.org to register or get more information. Space is limited – registration in advance is required.  Tickets: $36.00.