Upavedas (उपवेदाः)

Ayurveda and Vedas/ Upavedas

The Upavedas supplement the Vedas with more specific applications of Vedic teachings into the cultural field. Ayurveda arose as a secondary Veda or Upaveda generally connected with the Atharva Veda. This is because the Atharva Veda first presents specific mantras and methods for treating various diseases. However, Ayurveda is connected with the other Vedas, which are all concerned with self-knowledge and internal integration. It has a close connection with Yajur Veda which describes the Vedic ritual aimed at healing both the Cosmic Being and the individual soul.[iii]

The Upavedas are:

1. Ayurveda — healing arts

2. Dhanur Veda — martial arts

3. Sthapatya Veda — architecture, sculpture and geomancy

4. Gandharva Veda — music, poetry and dance

Ayurveda is closely connected with all the Upavedas. It relies upon Dhanur Veda or the martial arts for exercise recommendations and styles of massage and body work, particularly the treatment of the marmas or sensitive points on the body. The marmas are mainly described in Dhanur Veda. Many yoga asanas also reflect the insights of Dhanur Veda.

Ayurveda employs Gandharva Veda for its subtle therapies of music and art, which are very important in healing both mind and body. Yogas of music and sound develop out of Gandharva Veda.

Sthapatya Veda, more commonly called Vastu, shows the right design of structures to bring in wholesome earth and spatial energies. This is essential for the proper orientation and construction of clinics, hospitals, and healing rooms. Some people may suffer from disease mainly due to the fact that the wrong construction of their houses exposes them to harmful directional forces. For this reason, many ayurvedic doctors will question patients on how their house is situated as part of their diagnosis. Yoga uses Vastu for the orientation of temples, ashrams and meditation rooms. For example, the yogic recommendation to meditate facing east or north reflects the considerations of Vas