Vol. 2, Issue 2, Part A (2025)

Background: Prakriti is a fundamental Ayurvedic concept describing an individual’s constitution, determined by the predominance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. It influences not only physical traits but also psychological responses, including stress perception. College students, particularly during examination periods, experience heightened stress levels, making it relevant to explore the correlation between Prakriti and perceived stress.
Aim: To assess the correlation between Prakriti and perceived stress levels among college students during examination periods.
Objectives: To evaluate the Prakriti of college students using a validated assessment tool. To measure perceived stress levels among students during examinations using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). To analyze the correlation between different Prakriti types and perceived stress scores.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among college students during examination periods. Prakriti assessment was carried out using a validated questionnaire based on Ayurvedic principles. Perceived stress levels were measured using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods to assess correlations between Prakriti types and stress scores.
Results: Preliminary findings indicated variation in stress perception across different Prakriti groups. Students with predominant Vata Prakriti demonstrated higher perceived stress levels compared to Pitta and Kapha groups. Kapha Prakriti individuals showed relatively lower stress scores, while Pitta Prakriti students exhibited moderate levels of stress. Correlation analysis revealed a significant association between Prakriti and perceived stress levels.
Conclusion: The study highlights that Prakriti plays a role in determining stress perception among college students. Understanding constitutional predispositions can help in designing personalized stress management interventions, integrating Ayurvedic principles with modern psychological tools.