In Ayurveda, a holistic medicine of originating from ancient India, doshas are the three main energies responsible for all functions of body and mind. Doshas also categorize the three main physical and emotional types of people in the ayurvedic system – Vata, Pitta and Kapha. The Vata dosha or energy relates to specific functions of our bodies, as well as special qualities and behaviors a Vata dominant person would likely exhibit when they are either in or out of balance.
So what are those Vata Dosha qualities in Ayurveda? The Vata energy mainly relates to mobility and elimination in the body, both on a physical level and deeper emotion, mental, and spiritual levels. How would you know if you have many of the physical and emotional characteristics of a Vata predominant individual? Among other common traits, the person who has dominant Vata characteristics is probably on the thinner side, loves to talk in a fast manner and is constantly trying to get warm.
Vata Dosha Energy
The translation of the Sanskrit word Vata is “that which flows.” The Vata dosha is referred to as the air or wind element in Ayurveda. This energy is closely connected to the flow of circulation, the flow of physical movements and the flow of the nervous, digestive and reproductive systems. When Vata dosha is out of balance, the healthy flowing motion of these systems is slowed or stopped and creates imbalances.
Physical conditions like constipation, mental diseases like anorexia nervosa and feelings of overwhelming fear and anxiety can all be related to an imbalance of Vata dosha.
See a list of all spices and foods that have been traditionally used to balance Vata Dosha according to Ayurvedic knowledge here.
In Ayurveda, all people are categorized as having prominent characteristics that fall to some degree in the Vata, Pitta or Kapha realm. If you are a Vata dominant individual, you likely have some of the following traits and behaviors:
1. A thinner frame and often tall
2. Tending towards having cold hands and feet
3. Tendency towards dry skin and hair
4. Energetic and easily excitable
5. Frequently impulsive and changeable
6. Creative and imaginative
When a Vata dosha type of person is in a healthy physical and mental state, they have lively, happy energy and are a source of joy and fun to those around them. They need little sleep and are often the life of the party when they're feeling good. When their physical or mental well-being is out of balance, the Vata dominant person can be wrought with stress caused by worry and fear. The unhealthy Vata can be insecure and paranoid. Their physical manifestations of imbalance can show up in various ways; from fatigue to more serious conditions like heart disease or infertility.
Keeping Vata in Balance
According to Ayurveda, every person has at least some Vata dosha characteristics. Keeping our Vata energy in balance involves maintaining a steady routine and not overdoing activities that are too changeable (such as too much travel or stress) and not eating more nourishing warm foods, as opposed to cold and hard foods.
More ways to achieve Vata dosha balance could include drinking Vata Dosha Tea and eating warming foods, like homemade vegetable broth, when feeling cold. Try eating plenty of natural fiber, via whole fruits and vegetables, to keep your digestive system flowing smoothly and your skin supple. Dress in layers so that you can easily and quickly adjust your body temperature when needed.
Listen to your body’s signals when it needs more rest or less. Meditate and practice yoga to keep the stress and anxiety to a minimum. Indulge in warming massages and lots of time spent with beloved people to keep both the circulation and love in your life flowing steadily every day.
See a full line of products used to balance Vata Dosha by clicking here
