Are you Vata, Pitta or Kapha? Learn how Ayurvedic doshas can help you get healthy

Have you ever wondered why your friend thrives on spicy food while you can barely handle a hint of heat? Or why some people seem to be in constant motion while others prefer to stay grounded? The answer may lie in the Ayurvedic doshas, ​​the concept of three health types that determine how we should eat, sleep and exercise. So, let’s explore the world of Ayurvedic doshas to discover which one best describes you!

Balance is key in Ayurvedic treatment and is achieved with balancing of doshas. Health Shots contacted Dr. Mrunal Gole, an expert in Ayurveda, to understand the concept. He explains that doshas are ‘health types’ used in Ayurvedic medicine to indicate how certain people should eat, sleep, exercise, and determine their emotional strengths and weaknesses.

dr. Gole further explains that everyone has some of each of the three doshas, ​​albeit in varying degrees. Some people may be more prone to Vata-Kapha dominance, while others may have a more Pitta-dominant health type. Think of each dosha as a two-way scale; when Libra is out of balance, it can cause suffering on a physical and emotional level. “The goal is to restore all your doshas to their baseline concentrations in the body,” says the Ayurvedic expert.

What are Ayurvedic Doshas?

Let’s understand all 3 Ayurvedic Doshas and how to keep them under control as explained by Dr. Goals:

1. Characteristics of vata dosha

Cotton wool is characterized by the energy of motion and is often associated with wind. It is an energetic dosha associated with adaptability, innovation and an open attitude. It is associated with physiological processes including breathing, muscle contraction and heart rate.

Gole explains that if Vata predominates, a person can be dry, often cold, have dry skin or they have racing minds. An imbalance in Vata dosha can cause constipation, fear and other digestive problems such as anxiety.

Advice from a Vata Dosha Balancing Expert:
Anything that promotes a sense of stability and grounding will be helpful when the Vata energy takes hold. This may mean limiting the amount of technology you use, being more rigid about your morning and evening routines, or practice grounded meditation with your feet on the ground.

Vata Dosha Balancing Diet:
Eat more protein, fat and warm meals if you have a Vata imbalance. A variety of meats, warm creamy liquids and root vegetables can also be supportive and grounding. Since this dosha tends to be drying, it is crucial to stay hydrated.

2. Characteristics of pitta dosha

“Pitta dosha is associated with fire and is thought to govern the endocrine, metabolic and digestive systems,” says Dr. Naked.

People who are predominantly Pitta may be of medium build, often cold, and have oily skin. They are often active, driven and successful. In addition, Pitta imbalance can cause rashes and skin irritations, as well as rage, overwork, and fatigue.

Pitta Dosha Balancing Expert Tip:
Not surprisingly, cool-down exercises will be beneficial for Pitta imbalanced individuals. Consider taking a cold shower and going for a walk near a body of water (but not when it’s really hot outside). Pitta-prone people should consider easing up on their strict schedules and making room for spontaneity.

Pitta Dosha Balancing Diet:
Ayurvedic experts advise that people with Pitta-dominant constitutions should opt for lighter meals, especially in summer, and avoid anything hot, spicy or fermented. Sweet fruits, coconut water, and various grains are some of the foods and drinks that can help calm Pitta.

3. Characteristics of kapha dosha

Earth and water are associated with kapha dosha. It is the calming energy they say it is maintain a strong immune system and supplies the body with water.

A kapha-dominant person is calm, grounded, and forgiving. However, Kapha imbalance can cause resentment, sluggishness and weight gain.

Expert Advice for Balancing Kapha Dosha:
A significant dose of self-care is needed when Kapha is out of whack. For people with a Kapha imbalance, mental stimulation, plenty of exercise, and contemplative activities such as meditation and breathing are vital.

Kapha Dosha Balancing Diet:
People with Kapha-dominant constitutions should avoid fatty meals and dense, heavy carbohydrates such as pasta and rice. Instead, they should choose plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and bitter, astringent foods.

Now that you have an idea of ​​what all the Ayurvedic doshas are, try to identify yours by consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner and following health tips to keep them balanced!