The three main body types in Ayurveda are known as doshas. Each person has characteristics of all three doshas in certain proportions to help. Some people may have a combination of doshas that are predominant, while others have a single dosha that is more prevalent. The doshas are set in each person. When a person is happy, joyful and relaxed, the doshas are thought to be in balance.
The Five Elements
Ayurvedic medicine is based on the body being composed of each of the five natural elements or energies. Earth, air, fire, water and space are present in all forms of matter. Everything carries a predominant energy, or dosha. In certain situations, such as in the human body, multiple doshas are present. These doshas keep the body healthy, in balance and functioning efficiently. When one or more of the doshas become imbalanced, illnesses and other problems may develop. According to WomenFitness.net, knowing your particular body type may help you to avoid illness and remain in balance.
Vata
Vata body types are a combination of air and space elements. They are flexible and represent movement. Vata body types tend to be slender with prominent bone structure. They may be very tall or very short with poor muscle development and sometimes awkward movements. People with vata characteristics are spontaneous and thrive on change in most aspects of their lives. They tend to get bored easily and have little tolerance. In some cases, they may lack will power and motivation.
Vata contains a high level of energy that moves the body and spirit forward. Vatas are quick thinkers who are thought to be out of balance when thoughts race and begin to be disjointed and unfocused. People with vata characteristics may have issues with constipation, upset stomach, headaches, anxiety and disorders that affect the nervous system.
Pitta
The pitta dosha is composed of fire and water elements and rules the body's metabolism. Pitta body types are of average height and build, with very active minds. Pitta body types have efficient digestive systems and seem to be constantly hungry.
People with pitta characteristics may make exceptional teachers and leaders but tend to be workaholics. If out of balance, pitta body types tend to be overly hard on themselves and others.
They can show imbalance through a variety of skin disorders, anemia or vision problems.
Kapha
Kapha body types are solidly built and are combination of water and earth elements. Kapha is similar to the consistency of mud and without it the body would fall apart. Because of the high level of water content, kapha body types have well lubricated joints and supple skin. They may also display signs of weight gain and water retention when out of balance.
People with kapha characteristics do not like change and tend to be loyal and steadfast to things or people they are close to. They tend to be slow and deliberate in making decisions. Kapha body types have slower bodily functions as well. Digestion is slow and may be sluggish if the body is out of balance. Kapha body types may have problems with obesity, depression, digestion and upper respiratory disorders.
Combinations
According to Ayurveda-holistic-medicine.com, almost 80 percent of people have a combination of two doshas that are prevalent. A small number of people may exhibit all three doshas in balanced proportions. When the body is in balance, all three doshas' positive characteristics are displayed in the body. Ayurvedic medicine believes that eating according to your predominant dosha's needs will help to maintain balance. Following other lifestyle and exercise activities in accordance with your specific dosha will also help to keep the body healthy.
Member Comments