We are all born as unique human beings, predetermined by varying combinations of the three doshas. In ancient scripts, it has been said that this uniqueness or 'Prakruti' cannot be altered in any way at all throughout our entire lifetime. The science of Ayurveda recognises and lovingly accepts the uniqueness that lies in each of us. It offers an individualised approach towards a balanced lifestyle, diet and doshas, resulting in greater well-being and joy.
Our current state does not necessarily reflect our true body type
According to Ayurveda, there are 7 major types/combinations of doshas that influence and shape the human constitution and personality. However, sometimes, the current body and mind state does not reflect the original body type due to internal or external imbalances. In such cases, it is important to bring balance back to the body and mind before any preventive Ayurvedic routines and methods can be effective. To receive clarity about your Prakruti and the current state of balance within your body, it is recommended to contact a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or simply write to me.
For a better understanding of each dosha and to get some clarity about your constitution, you can find a brief description of the 3 main doshic types below. The other 4 types represent a combination of the 3 main types.
Vata
Constitution and personality
A Vata person has thin bones, dry skin, dry hair, talks fast, gets cold easily and has thoughts and ideas which change rapidly. However, Vata people are very open-minded, especially about spiritual topics.
Dis-balances
When the Vata is aggravated it creates symptoms in the body such as: weight loss, frequent colds, an increased empathy towards others people’s emotions, hard stools, sharp pains in the body, joint pains, insomnia, migraines, vertigo, muscle stiffness and fear.
Healing methods
Dis-balances and discomfort can be rebalanced by changing our daily routine to interlink with the natural rhythms as closely as possible. It is also recommended to adjust our eating and sleeping times to fit a more stable routine. Applying warm oil to our skin daily, keeping ourselves warm, eating small meals of freshly cooked food and avoiding stress can provide quick results and lead to the significant improvement in a Vata types well-being.
Pitta
Constitution and personality
Being opposite to Vata, a Pitta person normally feels warm, has oily skin, penetrating sharp eyes and a great muscular structure. Pitta types are goal-oriented individuals with a competitive and focused nature. They are highly intelligent and when in balance, hold a joyful perception of life.
Dis-balances
A dis-balance in Pitta can be noticed through: burning sensations, fevers, liver disorders, inflamed ulcers, malfunctioning of the senses, skin rashes, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Emotionally, there can be lots of anger, rage and jealousy, turning a laughing pitta into a yelling pitta. There is an old saying that imbalanced Pittas create their own hell wherever they go!
Healing methods
Pitta types can regain their balance when stimulating the qualities of coolness, heaviness and dryness. This can be achieved through certain foods, avoiding hot temperatures, engaging in calming activities, avoiding overworking and stimulants, as well as by having a large lunch every day at midday.
Kapha
Constitution and personality
A Kapha person is characterised by a large framed body, with dense and heavy bones, low metabolism and they are often slow at talking and moving. They are not flexible and like to stick to their routine. Similar to Vata, a Kapha type often feels cold. Kapha types are stable, loyal, compassionate and can cope very well under stress.
Dis-balances
Dis-balances can be observed through: weight gain, weaknesses in the lungs or sinuses, feelings of being stuck and depression.
Healing methods
Kapha types are able to rebalance when stimulating dryness, activity and expression. Thus, being exposed to warm temperatures, lots of exercise, introspective activities, early bedtimes, as well as fresh, light and warm food (especially vegetables and no sweets) will soothe a Kapha person.
The path to health differs for each one of us
Diseases arise as a result of living out of balance with one’s own constitution. Although for many this is hard to believe, it is your constitution that determines most of the things in your life – from your bones to your predisposition, to certain health challenges, as well as your likes and dislikes in life. Ayurveda teaches us that the path to optimal health is different for each one of us, this is why it is especially important to understand the fundamentals of Ayurveda. With this knowledge, we can gain a better understanding of any changes that occur within our body and mind and will know how to rebalance our body, mind and soul when required.
Accepting yourself is one of the most important things you can do for your well-being
Being able to accept yourself as you are and knowing what is best for your physical and mental type will make you more self-confident, relaxed and stable. Instead of following the latest trends and having to change your daily routine every week, you will be able to remain deeply centred in your true self, experiencing the benefits of listening to your voice from within.
If you have any questions, or you would like to share your experiences with me, discuss any of characteristics in detail or even learn something new, write to me at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
