Ayurveda is the traditional therapeutic system from India, beautifully blending a refined understanding of cause and effect on the mind and body. It uses practical methods for regulating physiological functioning to support both detoxification and nourishment.

Ayurveda focuses on preventing disease before tissues become damaged, by intervening at early signs of imbalance. Ayurveda’s holistic approach identifies the root causes of imbalance, and strategizes individualized plans for restoring balance.

In Ayurveda the doshas are a simple yet vast concept.

In simple terms, the doshas are considered three bio- or body-types responsible for our physiological functions. They are seen as three main forces in the body that govern our physiological, structural, metabolic, even mental/ emotional activities.

The three overarching functions each dosha corresponds to are: vata has to do with all movement/ communication, Pitta is concerned with transformation, and Kapha is responsible for our bodily structures and cohesion in the tissues.

Ayurveda utilizes a five element theory, where each dosha is governing the combination of two elements (ether, air, fire, water, earth).

Everyone has all three doshas, because our optimal functioning depends on them! Yet we have them in different proportions. Your “Ayurvedic constitution” is your individual combination of the doshas which represents your unique blueprint of health.

Ayurveda emphasizes a personalized approach of healthcare because what works for one cannot work for all.

(Ether +Air)

Vata types tend to be sensitive and creative. When balanced they are quite the hype-men — enthusiastically offering their wellspring of energy to any situation. They can start strong and be amazing initiators, but sometimes lose steam and may not have enough energy to complete things. Caring for their sensitive nervous and digestive systems is paramount, so they can sustain the energy to bring their creative ideas to fruition. Vatas tend to run cold, can be spacey or flighty, move around a lot, and can be unpredictable due to the ether + air elements (this space and wind). Imbalances tend to show up as irregular digestion, dry skin, difficulty putting on weight, constipation, anxiety, spasms, tremors, joint pain, nervous system disorders, hyperactivity, etc.

Warm cooked food and nourishing warm oil massage are some of the best antidotes to Vata’s high energy output. Vata does well with more regularity as the “flighty” nature can create erratic or “ungrounded” tendencies.

(Fire+Water)

Pitta types tend to have a fiery spark in their bellies and intellect. Sharp witted, funny, courageous, and potentially prone to anger and frustration. Although usually a bit on the competitive side, they make good leaders if they can cultivate patience with others (and themselves). Tend to have strong digestions and appetite— for food and a lust for life! Pitta imbalances tend to show up as inflammation, blood or bleeding disorders, skin issues such as acne or hives, loose stools, anger/ frustration, photophobia, sensitivity to heat, heartburn, acid reflux, allergies, and so on. 

Pittas have to be careful not to “burn” themselves out by overworking and pushing themselves (and others) too hard. Eating more cooling and sweet foods (as in grains or sweet potatoes), tend to be a good counterpoint for Pittas. Pittas also need to eat enough because the high heat will eat away tissues if not utilized.

(Earth+ Water)

Kapha types tend to have more earth and solidity to them. This can show up as a more calm and steady personality, or more structure and weight in their bodies. They can be slow to get going, but once they do, have a strong endurance. They tend to have thicker bone density, wider frames, big round eyes, and a penchant for sweets! Kaphas have to exercise a little more willpower to stay motivated and moving, as their earthen nature can be stubborn or lazy at times. Kapha imbalances tend to show up as mucus and congestive issues, weight-gain, sluggishness, emotional attachment, stubbornness, slow digestion, growths, and so on. 

Kapha-types usually do well with eating more warming and more-spiced foods, to minimize the potential for congestion and stagnation. Again, more movement and exercise are indicated for kapha-types to help with lymphatic and vascular circulation.