A Systematic Literary Review of Sharira Trayam (Ātmā, Mana, Sharīra) in Ashtanga Hridaya – Sharira Sthana

This systematic literary review explores the classical Ayurvedic concept of Sharira Trayam—Ātmā (soul), Mana (mind), and Sharīra (body)—as elaborated in the Sharira Sthana of Ashtanga Hridaya. The review aims to provide a holistic understanding of the human being as envisioned in Ayurveda, emphasizing the interrelationship and interdependence of these three components in sustaining life, health, and consciousness. Following PRISMA guidelines, 31 scholarly sources were selected through a structured screening process from over 200 initially identified records. These included peer-reviewed journal articles, dissertations, classical text commentaries, and contemporary philosophical analyses. Through detailed thematic analysis, the review examines the ontological and functional characteristics of Ātmā as the conscious principle, Mana as the psychical interface governed by Triguna, and Sharīra as the physical vehicle composed of Pancha Mahabhutas. The synthesis of literature highlights how these components are philosophically and functionally integrated in Ayurvedic diagnosis and therapy. Special attention is given to the relevance of Sharira Trayam in psychosomatic health, therapeutic models such as Sattvavajaya Chikitsa and Daivavyapashraya Chikitsa, and comparative analysis with Sankhya-Yoga philosophy. This review contributes to academic Ayurveda by bridging classical doctrines with contemporary integrative approaches, offering a conceptual framework valuable to scholars, educators, and clinicians. The findings support further interdisciplinary research in Ayurvedic psychology, consciousness studies, and mind-body medicine. The Sharira Trayam model stands as a timeless and practical foundation for understanding human health and spiritual evolution.