AP Mind-Body Connection & Psychology 3

Question 1

In Ayurvedic psychology, what is 'Ahamkara' and how does its imbalance affect mental health?

Accepted Answer

The ego principle; its excess causes pride, separation, and suffering

Answer

Ahamkara is the principle of individual identity (ego); when excessively identified with the body-mind, it creates attachment, fear of death, and interpersonal conflict.

Question 2

Which Ayurvedic treatment modality directly targets psychological trauma stored in the body through oil application and touch?

Accepted Answer

Abhyanga

Answer

Abhyanga (therapeutic oil massage) works through the skin's nerve endings to release stored tension, regulate the nervous system, and address somatized emotional trauma.

Question 3

A patient with Kapha-predominant depression exhibits attachment and possessiveness. Which Sattvic quality does Ayurveda recommend cultivating as the antidote?

Accepted Answer

Equanimity and non-attachment (Vairagya)

Answer

Vairagya (non-attachment or dispassion) directly counters Kapha's psychological tendency toward clinging, hoarding, and excessive sentimentality.

Question 4

According to Charaka Samhita, which type of Prajna-aparadha (crime against wisdom) contributes most directly to psychosomatic disease?

Accepted Answer

Failure of intellect to guide actions away from harmful choices

Answer

Prajna-aparadha specifically refers to the intellect's failure to discriminate right from wrong action; Charaka identifies it as the root cause of all disease including psychosomatic disorders.

Question 5

What is the relationship between Prana Vayu and psychological disturbances in Ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

Prana Vayu governs inhalation and the mind; its disruption causes anxiety and mental instability

Answer

Prana Vayu, seated in the head and heart, governs sensory perception, inhalation, and mental functioning; its vitiation produces the core symptoms of anxiety, mental fragmentation, and neurological disorders.

AP Practice Test

AP Practice Test

AP Mind-Body Connection & Psychology 3