Doshas: States of Being

• Balanced – This is when all three doshas are present in a proportional way. It is important to note that balanced doshas look different for each person
• Decreased – In this instance, the presence of one or two doshas is reduced.
• Increased – When a given dosha is overly present in a body, it needs to be realigned, often by using the medicine of opposites

The Medicine of Opposites

Similar to other types of Eastern medicine, Ayurveda healing is about balance and alignment. In order to stay balanced, counter your natural dosha inclinations with foods, lifestyle habits, and exercise that are the polar opposite. For instance, for the stable kapha dosha, add some adventure and movement to your life. This type flourishes in dry climates and can handle both hot and cold. For the anxious, changeable vata dosha practice gentle, restorative yoga or calming mediation. In addition, vatas perform best in warmer climates. Lastly, for the fiery pitta dosha, eat cool, refreshing foods like cucumbers and apples and avoid hot, spicy foods. Moreover, pitta types flourish in cooler climates and are likely to excel in winter sports like skiing and hockey.

Vata Constitutions

The primary function of the vata dosha is movement and is related to the elements of air and space.

• Physical traits include: susceptible to cold temperatures, light bodyweight, and dry skin
• Personality traits include: creative, moving, quick, energetic and changeable

When balanced, vata types are high-energy and adventurous. They are prone to being creative and flexible. They tend to take initiative and are very active. They enjoy being warm and need lots of human contacts, both emotionally and physically. Each dosha type responds to and receives energy differently. Individuals with strong vata dosha get their energy in bursts, which means they are also prone to bouts of fatigue.

When unbalanced, they can suffer from insomnia, anxiety, and digestive issues. They can be spacey. They are also likely to blame themselves when things go wrong. An overactive mind is one of the greatest challenges for this dosha type, which can lead to anxiety-related health issues or insomnia. For a vata, these issues compound upon each other and will continue to make things worse until tangible steps are taken to realign your habits. Mediation, sticking to regular mealtimes, and getting at least eight hours of sleep are all helpful ways to get back on track. Routines are often the key for those that lean more vata.

If your vata dosha is increased, try adjusting your dietary patterns:

• Eat food combinations that are salty and sweet; avoid foods that are bitter
• Season your food with warming spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon, allspice and ginger
• Enjoy a warm cup of decaffeinated tea before bedtime, but avoid cold drinks
• Minimize caffeine and nicotine intake
• Avoid eating too much-processed food such as chips, cereals, and frozen meals

Pitta Constitutions

The primary function of the pitta dosha is transformation and corresponds to the elements of fire and water.

• Physical traits include: hot-bodied, medium build, and oily skin
• Personality traits include: intense, sharp, outspoken, intelligent, and fiery

When balanced, pitta types are fiery and energetic. They sleep soundly for short periods of time and have a strong sex drive. They also have good digestion. They tend to be are very intelligent, completive and incredibly driven. When they have control over their temper, they make strong leaders.

When unbalanced, they can struggle with heartburn, ulcers, and rashes. Also, since they have very good digestion, they can over-eat, which can lead to indigestion or weight issues. They also struggle with short-tempers and an inability to control their anger. Increased levels of pitta dosha can lead to inflammation in the body and rising emotional tensions.

If your pitta dosha is in excess, try adjusting your dietary patterns:

• Avoid spicy foods and acidic foods like citrus
• Minimize alcohol and caffeinated beverages
• Eat more cooling foods like cucumbers and sweet foods like melons. These foods are beneficial because they include large amounts of water
• Do not skip meals. If you get too hungry, you will quickly become hangry
• Drink a cold glass of milk, which is especially beneficial to the fiery pitta

Kapha Constitutions

The primary function of this dosha is stability and is related to the earth and water elements.

• Physical traits include: good physical stamina, sluggish digestion and circulation, great sleepers, soft eyes, and good skin
• Personality traits include: loyal, stable, reliable, loving and nonjudgmental

When balanced, kapha types are gentle, kind and compassionate. They are self-sufficient and loyal to their friends and family. They are not easily upset, undemanding and tend not to hold onto negative things. They are often stable person in romantic relationships or even friendships, in part because they are nonjudgmental and accept all types of people. They are happiest when they are out enjoying new experiences.

When unbalanced, they can be sluggish and lean towards depression. They are also susceptible to sinus conditions and respiratory problems, like asthma and allergies. They also tend to struggle to get up early. Their inclination to be overly sentimental can get them into trouble as they get attached easily.

If your kapha dosha is in excess, try adjusting your dietary patterns:

• Add garlic and ginger to your food to increase digestion
• Cook with lots of spices including cumin, chili, and peppers
• Minimize salt intake and sour foods such as vinegar or grapes
• Replace honey for sugar to increase your immunities and help with sinus troubles
• Avoid red meat, deep-fried foods, and carbonated beverages
• Eat meals hot whenever possible
• Also, exercise does not come naturally to this dosha, but is very important

Beyond Dosha-Inspired Diets

Dosha imbalances generally begin with an internal feeling of, “something is not quite right,” but can progress all the way to emotional distress or even a medical illness or condition. Focus on trying to get your doshas back on track by taking note of your imbalances, following the dietary suggestions, and experimenting with yoga practices suggested for the particular dosha which is misaligned. In fact, there are videos focused on each type of dosha – vata flow, pitta flow, and kapha flow. If this article has piqued your interest, there is a lot of information on doshas and Ayurveda healing out there, as well as practitioners that specialize in Ayurveda.