Tamas is the Guna which appears as heaviness and resistance. Tamas causes a weakening of perception and mental activity. This includes hallucinations, laziness and sleepiness.

Tamas people do not appreciate a daily routine. They do not like day’s schedules or the like. They rather prefer a laid-back, relaxed and noncommittal life. They are relatively susceptible to drugs. Cigarettes, alcohol, but also harder drugs can become a serious danger for the Tamas type.

These people usually avoid strains or controversies. They rather retreat. This avoidance behavior is also shown when confronted with pain or problems. An urgent visit at the doctor’s may be postponed so long that a genuine emergency arises. In financial matters one also has to face considerable unreliabilities.

Although of all three types Tamas people are most closely connected to the earth, they may reject all conventions and can be rebellious.

Tamas people can be further classified into three subtypes.

Pasava
This type unites lack of intelligence, unfriendliness, envy and an excessive need for sleep and sex.

Matsya
The Matsya type is characterised by unsteadiness, passion or also cowardice.

Vanaspathya
Immoderateness and excessive longings combined with lack of intelligence.