In Sanskrit, Tejas means “brilliance,” “radiance,” or “fire.”

It is the subtle, luminous counterpart of Pitta, associated with insight, vitality, digestion, discernment and spiritual luminosity.

Tejas is one of the three Upadhatus (subtle essences) alongside Ojas and Prāṇa. Together, they reflect the health and refinement of the gross elements.

KEY CONCEPTS COVERED

Tejas as the light of Buddhi (discriminative intelligence)

The role of Tejas in Agni, digestion and cellular metabolism

Balancing Tejas with Ojas and Prāṇa for sustainable vitality

The shadow side of excess Tejas: burnout, inflammation, intensity

Tejas as the fire of transformation in Yoga and Ayurveda

Spiritual dimensions: how Tejas illuminates the path to Self

TEXTUAL SOURCES

Charaka Saṃhitā and other classical Ayurvedic texts discuss Tejas in the context of subtle essences and Agni

Yogic texts such as the Hatha Yoga Pradīpikā point to Tejas as the radiant force cultivated through tapas (discipline) and practice

PRACTICAL INTEGRATION

To cultivate Tejas: Practice tapas, discipline, clear intention and mindful eating

To balance excess Tejas: Ground through Ojas-building foods and cooling practices

Incorporate time in nature, candle-gazing (tratak), or reflective meditation

Observe your inner fire - is it a steady flame or a wildfire?

Use breath and mantra to stabilise the light within