Balancing our Doshas

In modern science the universe is thought to consist of three types of substance; normal matter, dark matter and dark energy. Some believe that this energy manifests itself through air, space, fire, water and earth and that the make up of these elements can be split into three categories or “doshas”.

Ayurvedic medicine is based on the theory that each person consists of a unique ratio of these doshas, and that the balance of the doshas determine that person's physiological, mental and emotional health. The three categories of dosha are vata, pitta and kapha. Each dosha has its own qualities and characteristics and the idea is that we tend to feel the best when these doshas exist in balance. However most of us are dominant in one or two of the doshas and may need to adjust our daily routines accordingly in order to find balance. This blog focuses on the personality characteristics of each dosha and what type of yoga or meditation practice can help with finding this balance; there is a huge nutritional aspect to balancing the doshas - this is something we will cover in a future blog.

Vata

The Sanskrit translation of vata is “wind” and the dominant elements of this dosha are air and space (or ether). Those who are vata dominant tend to think quickly on their feet, and are creative, dynamic and flexible. They tend to speak quickly and can often veer off topic. Though they often have bubbly personalities they are prone to anxiety and worry. Too much vata in the body can make people feel ungrounded and erratic. In Ayurveda signs of a vata imbalance include trouble sitting still, anxiety, insomnia, dry skin, dry skin, digestive issues like gas, bloating, loss of appetite and constipation. The best way to balance vata is through grounding practices and warm comforting routines. Think calming bedtime rituals, daily meditation and restorative yoga. This is interesting as vatas may be drawn to exercises with a lot of movement but they should try and opt for a slower approach.

Pitta

The Sanskrit translation of pitta is “fire” and the dominant elements are fire and water. Fiery pittas are distinguished by being quick on their uptake and by their powerful intellect and ambition. Pittas are born leaders, brimming with energy and strength and with a tendency to be perfectionists. A pitta imbalance can result in upset stomachs, heartburn and diarrhoea. The metabolism may become hyper acidic, the person may sweat more and feel emotionally sensitive, another common symptom is headaches. The key to pacifying pitta is to practice with 75% effort in a non goal oriented way (eg by not chasing a particular pose or pushing physical practice to the body's limit). Pranayama (breath work) can be a good way to release excess heat and a gentle slow flow or yin style yoga practice can be beneficial.

Kapha

The Sanskrit translation of kapha is commonly translated as “that which binds things” and the dominant elements are earth and water. Predominant kaphas

are dedicated however they prefer to lay low even to the point of lethargy. Kaphas can sleep for long durations and an imbalance can mean a person finds it hard to get up in the morning and feel lazy throughout the day. The most helpful practice for a kapha imbalance would be early morning surya namaskar (sun salutations) and a high energy vinyasa class to get a solid work out before breakfast.

With over 3,000 years of science, study and observation, Ayurvedic medicine has shown us the co-dependent nature of our energies and how this impacts our lives. We often say that one of the keys to life is finding balance; Ayurveda provides us with an opportunity to begin a journey to finding that balance within ourselves. We look forward to exploring more about the role of Ayurveda and in particular in nutrition in the future.

Until next time, Namaste!

Kim