What are the causes of diseases of the heart? All diseases are a reflection of Pravritthi, the disposition of the mind. Hence, in worldly matters, man should follow the right path. In this context, two elements among the five basic elements are important. Bhiksannam deha raksartham, vastram sita nivaranam (Food is essential for protecting the body; raiment is necessary for protection against cold). Associated with food is water. These two occupy pride of place in human life.

Life is the subtle form of the water consumed by man. The mind is the subtle form of the food taken by man. Hence a close nexus should be established between the mind and Prana (life force). As is the food, so is the head. Man’s thoughts, desires and aspirations are related to the kind of food he consumes. For instance, you may discern from practical experience how food affects the mind. The cyclic process, which starts with the formation of clouds and ends in the harvest of grain, determines the kind of food one can have. Heat (or fire) is the basis of this process. This fire is present within manas Jataragni, the digestive fire, which accounts for the conversion of the food consumed by man into various forms of energy. This fire has to be in proper balance. When the balance is upset, you have illness. The state of man’s body depends on the maintenance of this balance. Man’s entire life depends on preserving this balance. When is the balance upset? When there is no mental steadiness. Men today develop all kinds of intellectual abilities, but they have not learnt how to keep the mind steady. When serenity of mind is achieved, there will be no disease. Illness will not approach you at all.

There should be some regulations with regard to food. Many doctors emphasize the value of proteins and recommend meat, eggs, etc. But proteins got in this form serve only to build the body, but do considerable harm to the mind. Doctors are primarily concerned with the gross physical body. They pay little attention to the subtle form of the mental make up. Most of the diseases that are prevalent in the world today are related to the mind. Mental illness seems to outnumber physical ailments. The Vedanta has declared that the mind is the cause of man’s bondage or liberation. This means that the mind has to be used properly and turned god wards. Equally the mind is responsible for health or sickness.

In this context, food is all-important. Proteins are present in milk, curds and vegetables as much as in meat. If, in the matter of diet, the doctors give the right prescription, diseases can be averted. (SSS Vol.26, pp. 51-53)