Sattvic: People
of a sattvic nature are naturally intelligent with a good memory. They are
instinctively clean and ordered, take good care of themselves and are health-conscious.
They are content, calm, gentle and considerate of others - polite and helpful
to all, with good manners. They seek to improve themselves, even though already
knowledgeable. They are focused on work, self-improvement and intellectual or
spiritual pursuits.
Usually, they are highly positive in nature, demonstrating
generosity, kindness, openness, fairness (equality) and forgiveness. They
readily share what they have and enjoy doing so, but expect no reward in
return. Sattvic people see life as a productive learning experience and do not
begrudge their position, nor hold grudges. They do not seek to accumulate
wealth or status. Their mind is clear and peaceful, and they are honest, humble
and quiet. They are spiritually inclined and have a strong faith and belief in
God, often engaging in selfless service or charitable activities.
Those with a sattvic guna express happiness, enthusiasm and
joy. They are flexible, moderate, regular and balanced in habits and
activities. Sleep is minimal, yet deep and refreshing. Food that is fresh and
not extreme in terms of preparation or taste is preferred (not over-cooked or
under-cooked, heavily spiced or very sweet).
Rajasic: Those
that are rajasic in temperament are dynamic and seek to control and dominate
others. They are medium in intelligence and have a variable memory. Those with
rajasic guna value prestige and authority and so seek power, status, fame,
wealth and recognition. Rajasic people are never satisfied with their position
or possessions – they always seek to accumulate more and enjoy flaunting what
they have. In addition, they seek continual gratification of desires (sex,
food), stimulation of the senses (music, color, fragrance) and entertainment
(parties, functions, festivals). However, they are often distracted or quickly
bored.
Generally, they are very ambitious as well as highly active
and industrious. They can be brave and courageous, but often display jealousy,
maliciousness, cruelty, excessive emotions and egotistical behavior. Those with
this temperament can be extremely determined, manipulative, selfish and proud.
They can often be rude, arrogant and angry and usually respond with irritation
to external stimulus. In terms of spirituality, they are doubtful and
questioning. When rajasic guna is predominant, a negative, sometimes cynical
attitude is prevalent.
Sleep is disturbed or troubled by intense dreams, so is not
refreshing. Food that is strong and excessive in flavor (spicy, hot, salty) is
preferred. Stimulants such as coffee, tea, alcohol and tobacco are consumed
regularly. Those of a rajasic nature rarely give unconditionally. It is always
done with some reluctance and to demonstrate generosity (or with some
expectation) rather than genuine altruism. Relationships are therefore based
mainly on their own needs and desires rather than on reciprocal interest and
regard.
Tamasic: Those
demonstrating a tamasic guna are ignorant, lazy and fearful with poor memories.
They are usually apathetic and insensitive in nature. They show little
consideration or regard for others, and are coarse, brash, immoral or violent.
They may be stubborn or obstinate, and inattentive to those around them.
Tamasic people show little or no desire to improve physically or mentally, or
lack the will power and discipline to do so.
Tamasic individuals do not engage in anything that is
physically or mentally taxing, and will avoid any work at all if that is
possible. They seem almost to be entirely engaged in (or thinking about)
eating, drinking, sleeping, sex or idleness. They are dishonest, unclean in
habits and have no regard for their health. Often, they show no initiative and
minimal interest in, or understanding of, spirituality. They have little or no
faith in God. People with a tamasic nature are frequently sorrowful or
depressed.
People with a predominantly tamasic guna demonstrate no love
except that based on the own sensory gratification, so relationships are
totally exploitative. They rarely give, instead preferring to take or even
obtain through deception. They overeat, and consume food that is overcooked,
sweet and heavy in taste and consistency or stale, cold, preserved and
processed. “Fast food” or “junk food” constitutes a large part of their diet.
Often, they complain about their job or position in life although show no
motivation or take no action to change it. Tamasic people sleep heavily and are
not easily roused from sleep, and are usually sedentary.