3 Ayurvedic Doshas

1. Dosha Vata-

The dosha is controlled by the elements of air.

 Physically, Vata people are characterized by a bony, agile, dry-built, and rough body type. They yearn for summers and are quick walkers.  Emotionally, they are extremely positive and enthusiastic. Vata people are energetic and don’t get fatigued easily but sometimes they can be indecisive and insecure which directs to a lot of tension and distress with the digestive system more often than they would care to admit.

Causes of Vata imbalance are Scorched weather, Bitter food, Lack of routine during traveling, Tension, Feeling of constancy, and Eating snacks during odd times.

 When the Vata dosha is unbalanced, it can be manifested as hypertension, arthritis, weakness, and digestive issues. They mostly suffer from dehydration, aging, fine liners with dry and frizzy hair, anxiety, overthinking & excessive worry, and fear.

2. Dosha Pitta-

Pitta dosha beings are regulated by fire and water elements. They have a medium built and weight with strong joints. They have oily and smooth skin and dark, thin hair. Due to the inflammation, their cheeks get glowed.

 Emotionally, these people are ambitious, thoughtful, creative, and have leadership qualities. These people are attentive and are good at making decisions.

Outcomes of Pitta imbalance are intake of too much caffeine or liquor, burden, or stress of work. During this dosha imbalance, these people may have acne, peptic ulcers, body heat, and heartburn, rashes

3. Dosha Kapha

The elements regulating people with this dosha are earth and water. They have healthy bodies, glowing skin, and thick dark hair. They gain weight easily and have oily smooth skin. They are quiet, adoring, rooted by nature. 

Causes of Kapha imbalance: Overeating, Oversleeping.

 The imbalance in these doshas get easily depressed and feel insecure. They are adamant and inclined towards their own company.

WAYS TO BALANCE DOSHAS:

1. Yoga: To balance Vata dosha one can do the frequent practice of yoga-like Surya namesake, Virabhadrasana II, Natrajasana as it is always beneficial.

To balance Pitta dosha one should perform the Supta Baddha Konasana and balasana.

To balance Kapha dosha, one should have astringent foods, exercise by doing the cobra-pose or Bhujangasana, abdominal twist asana I.e Jatharaparivartanasan, and chaturanga push-ups. A lot of exercises and limited snacking along with regularly meditating are also some lifestyle changes that can be added.

2. Best Diet: People with Vata dosha should eat Oily, moist, and smooth foods, Warm or hot liquids (like soup and stew), Avocado, coconut, olives, buttermilk, cheese, eggs, whole milk, wheat, nuts, seeds, berries, melons, summer squash, zucchini and yogurt, Green grapes, oranges, and pineapple (in small quantities)

Pitta dosha people should eat Bland vegetables (like asparagus, cucumbers, sweet potatoes, leafy greens, etc.), Predominantly sweet fruits (such as grapes, melon, cherries, mango, etc.), Soothing spices (coriander, cardamom, saffron, and fennel), Virgin coconut oil, olive oil, sunflower oil and ghee, Wheat, white rice, barley and oats, Turkey, chicken, and pheasant

Kapha people eat Light, pungent, astringent, and bitter foods, Apples, pears, pomegranates, cranberries, and apricots, Spices like ginger, pepper, cayenne, and black mustard, Chicken, turkey, seafood, and eggs, Buckwheat, rye, millet, and corn, Clarified butter (sparingly) instead of oils, Sunflower and pumpkin seeds

3. Skincare: Vata skin tends to be dry, rough, and darker in tone, Cool, and often thin to the touch that’s why it is crucial to protect it from extreme temperatures and keep it well moisturized. People with this dosha should start their self-care by drinking plenty of water to keep the body hydrated and properly moisturize the skin. Instead of using alcohol-based toner, they added natural moisturizing toner in their self-care routine such as rose water. It can be tremendously helpful in promoting the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

For exfoliating dead cells from the skin, one can use nut powders, oats, and honey Aloe vera gel or cream may also be used to gently massage and add extra moisture to the facial skin. Try this: mix gram flour with a pinch of turmeric and milk. Apply it on the face and wait for 15 minutes. Once it’s dry, remove it with your hands by rubbing it off the face and later wash your face with Luke warm water. It will moisturize the face and leave a glowing face.

Pitta skin is typically soft, oily with a warm complexion. Their skin is also often very sensitive, so it is important to protect it from both environmental toxins and sun exposure. Keep the skin cool and balanced to avoid breakouts and irritation. Sandalwood is deeply healing to Pitta skin and can be integrated either in the form of oil or paste.

Kapha skin is thick, oily, usually very light, and cool to the touch. Kapha skin tends to most show enlarged pores, blackheads, and water retention.

Kapha types to detox need to avoid breakouts from toxins that often cause irritation and blemishes. Try this at-home facial: gently scrub the face with a mixture of sea salt and honey, then steam it with a combination of water and mint leaves. Massage the face with a concoction of aloe vera and turmeric paste, then apply a mask consisting of clay. Using clarifying skincare products and eating a well-balanced diet will also help keep Kapha’s skin in check.

After reading all possible ways to balance doshas one can easily perform them and lead to a healthy balanced life.