Vyāyāma and the Brazilian Physical Activity Guidelines: A structured comparative analysis between Ayurveda and National Public Health recommendations

ABSTRACT:

Ayurveda is a traditional health system originating in India that emphasizes health promotion through individualized lifestyle practices. Among these, Vyāyāma refers to structured physical activity aimed at maintaining physical capacity, physiological balance, and vitality, adapted to individual constitution ( Prakṛti ). In Brazil, the Physical Activity Guide for the Brazilian Population (GAFPB), published by the Ministry of Health of Brazil in 2021, provides evidence-based recommendations for physical activity within a public health framework. This study aimed to conduct a qualitative narrative comparative analysis of the concept of Vyāyāma , as described in classical Ayurvedic texts, and the recommendations of the GAFPB (2021), to identify key convergences and divergences relevant to health promotion. The comparison was structured around four analytical domains: philosophical foundations, health and therapeutic objectives, physical activity prescription criteria (including intensity, frequency, and duration), and personalization parameters. Convergences were identified regarding the central role of regular physical activity and the importance of individual adaptation. Divergences were observed in the underlying health paradigms, the regulation of exercise intensity, and the criteria for personalization, with Vyāyāma emphasizing constitutional and contextual factors, whereas the GAFPB adopts standardized population-based recommendations. The dialogue between traditional Ayurvedic concepts and contemporary public health guidelines may support more individualized and culturally sensitive physical activity strategies. Such integration may contribute to strengthening health promotion initiatives within the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS), particularly within the scope of the National Policy on Integrative and Complementary Practices.