Understanding 16 Sanskar & Shodasha Sanskar: Phase 2 – Bala Avastha (Sanskaras of Childhood & Growth)
Phase 2 – Bala Avastha (Sanskaras of Childhood & Growth)
In Ayurveda and Hindu philosophy, childhood is not seen as a “waiting phase” until adulthood. It is considered the most impressionable and powerful stage of life.
This stage is called Bala Avastha (बाल अवस्था)—the phase where a child’s body grows rapidly, the mind absorbs deeply, and emotions form lifelong patterns.
As an Ayurvedic doctor (BAMS), I often say:
“Bachpan ke sanskar, poori zindagi ka aadhaar ban jaate hain.”
Phase 2 of the 16 Sanskar / Shodasha Sanskar focuses on nurturing, protection, rhythm, and emotional security, not pressure or achievement.
What Is Bala Avastha?
Bala means child.
Avastha means stage.
Bala Avastha covers the time from birth to early education, when:
- immunity (ojas) is still developing
- digestion (agni) is delicate
- the nervous system is learning safety and trust
Ayurveda believes that what a child repeatedly experiences during this phase becomes their inner reference for life.
That is why childhood Sanskars are gentle, repetitive, and loving.
Why Phase 2 Is Crucial in the 16 Sanskar System
Modern psychology now confirms what ancient wisdom already knew:
- children learn through experience, not instruction
- emotional safety builds confidence
- routine builds nervous system stability
The Sanskars of Bala Avastha help the child feel:
“Main surakshit hoon. Main apna hoon.”
This sense of belonging later turns into self-confidence and emotional strength.
Sanskars Included in Bala Avastha
Phase 2 includes seven important Sanskars from the Shodasha Sanskar system:
- Jatakarma
- Namakarana
- Nishkramana
- Annaprashana
- Chudakarana
- Karnavedha
- Vidyarambha
Let’s understand them one by one—from an Ayurvedic + practical parenting lens.
4. Jatakarma Sanskar – Welcoming the Newborn
Jatakarma is the first Sanskar after birth.
Traditionally, the father or elder whispers gentle words or mantras into the baby’s ear. The idea is simple yet powerful:
- the first sounds should feel safe and loving
- the baby should feel welcomed, not startled
Ayurveda says the newborn’s nervous system is extremely sensitive.
Soft voice, warm touch, and calm surroundings help regulate:
- breathing
- heart rate
- emotional response
This is the baby’s first emotional imprint.
5. Namakarana Sanskar – Giving Identity
Naam is more than a name—it is pehchaan.
In Vedic tradition, naming is done with intention because:
- the child hears their name thousands of times
- the sound vibration becomes familiar and comforting
Names are traditionally chosen as:
- Abhiprayik Naam – based on meaning and intention
- Nakshatra Naam – based on birth star
Ayurvedic advice for modern parents:
- choose a name with positive meaning
- keep pronunciation soft and loving
- avoid stress over “perfect rules”
Naam wahi jo pyaar se liya ja sake.
6. Nishkramana Sanskar – First Introduction to Nature
Nishkramana marks the baby’s first intentional outing.
The child is gently introduced to:
- sunlight
- fresh air
- greenery
From an Ayurvedic view:
- sunlight supports vitamin D and circadian rhythm
- nature calms the nervous system
- fresh air supports lung development
This Sanskar reminds parents:
Nature is the first healer.
7. Annaprashana Sanskar – First Solid Food
Annaprashana is usually done around 6 months, when:
- digestive fire (agni) begins to mature
- nutritional needs increase
Ayurveda teaches:
- start with simple, soft, warm foods
- one food at a time
- observe digestion and reactions
This Sanskar builds:
- healthy food relationship
- respect for hunger and fullness
Food is introduced with gratitude, not pressure.
8. Chudakarana (Mundan) Sanskar – First Haircut
Chudakarana symbolises renewal and cleansing.
From a practical Ayurvedic perspective:
- babies release excess heat from the head
- scalp hygiene improves
- cradle cap may reduce
Often done at:
- 1 year, 3 years, or 5 years
Spiritually, it represents:
Purane sanskar chhod kar nayi shuruaat.
9. Karnavedha Sanskar – Ear Piercing
Karnavedha is practised for both boys and girls in many traditions.
Ayurveda and acupressure believe:
- the earlobe has pressure points linked to the brain
- stimulation supports nervous system balance
Practically:
- early piercing heals faster
- babies are less likely to touch or pull
Safety and hygiene are more important than ritual perfection.
10. Vidyarambha Sanskar – Beginning of Learning
Vidyarambha marks the start of formal learning, usually around age five.
The child writes:
- “ॐ”
- alphabets or numbers
This Sanskar teaches one powerful message:
Vidya bojh nahi hai. Vidya ek vardaan hai.
It removes fear from education and replaces it with curiosity and positivity.
Ayurvedic Understanding of Childhood Growth
In Bala Avastha:
- Kapha dosha dominates
- growth is rapid
- immunity is still building
That is why Ayurveda focuses on:
- routine (dinacharya)
- nourishment
- emotional warmth
Excess pressure, overstimulation, or comparison disturbs this balance.
Psychological Benefits of Bala Avastha Sanskars
These Sanskars help:
- regulate emotions
- build trust
- create predictable rhythms
- strengthen parent-child bonding
Repeated loving rituals create positive neural pathways that support:
- confidence
- resilience
- emotional stability
Role of Parents in Phase 2 Sanskars
Parents often worry:
“Hum sab kuch sahi kar rahe hain ya nahi?”
Ayurveda reassures:
- perfection is not required
- presence matters more
Even a simple Sanskar done with love has deep impact.
Bhav shuddh ho, wahi sabse bada Sanskar hai.
What If Some Sanskars Are Missed?
Very important to understand:
Sanskar koi exam nahi hai.
If a ritual was missed:
- it does not reduce your child’s potential
- love, routine, and awareness still count
Sanskar is a process, not a checklist.
Conclusion: Childhood Is the Heart of the 16 Sanskar Journey
Bala Avastha reminds us that childhood is not about rushing milestones.
It is about rooting the child in safety, rhythm, and love.
When these roots are strong, the child naturally grows into:
- a confident learner
- a balanced adult
- a grounded human being
And that is the true purpose of 16 Sanskar / Shodasha Sanskar.