According to the 5,000 year old Ayurvedic system of maintaining a healthy mental and physical condition, understanding one’s Doshas and how they interact is essential for wellness. There are three basic Doshas, or types, of mind body personality: Vata, Kapha and Pitta. A short quiz at the end of this article will help identify one’s Dosha type, and which mixture of Dosha characteristics best describes one’s personality.
Three Mind Body Types
Within the Ayurvedic system personalities are made up of two dominant Doshas, and one less significant Dosha. This determines not only one’s mental and physical state, but also acts as a prescriptive basis for the diagnosis and treatment of states of mental and physical imbalance.
1) The first type is the Vata mind body personality. Vatas tend to be thin, find it difficult to gain weight and tire easily. They are sensitive, creative and inspirational, prone to conditions of low energy, and require frequent periods of rest. Vatas benefit from a regular routine, low stress lifestyle and don’t like cold temperatures.
The Vata Dosha is responsible for involuntary physical systems like breathing, digestion, circulation and nerve impulses from the brain. When in a state of imbalance, conditions like anxiety, indigestion, lower back problems, indigestion, cramps, and premenstrual tension may be an early indicator of treatment needs. Vata is the lead Dosha, and Vata imbalances have an impact on the state of both Kapha and Pitta Doshas.
2) Kapha, the second Dosha, is at the opposite end of the energy spectrum. Kaphas tend to be sturdy, heavy boned individuals with a strong capacity for energy and stamina. They seem to resist disease and have a positive outlook. In the main Kaphas are calm and affectionate; when out of balance, they can be lazy and stubborn. They learn slowly, but are methodical and have strong memory retention.
Kapha represents the moist aspects of bodily tissue and imbalances may show up in a propensity for colds, allergies and asthma. Kapha types don’t do well in damp weather, and should avoid dwelling on the past. They can be resistant to change and have a tendency to overeat. Kaphas need stimulation to bring out their powerful energy reserves. Kapha is at the root of calmness and steadfastness.
3) Pitta types are sharp witted, intelligent and concentrate well. They are associated with fire, and can be short tempered, energetic and strong willed. But they can also be moderate and proportioned in most things. They can be imbalanced by too much sun, and their eyes tend to be sensitive to sunlight. Pittas can be demanding, abrasive and ambitious. Physically, they feel warm and often have red or light brown hair.
Heat makes Pittas thirsty, and although they have strong digestion, it should not be abused too much; moderation and purity are the watchwords of the Pitta type. Pitta is the regulatory aspect of the mind body state: it regulates food, water, air and toxins. Toxic substances like tobacco and alcohol can create Pitta imbalances, as can toxic emotions like jealousy, hatred and intolerance.
Mind Body Harmony
Each Dosha has an effect on the other. While one personality may reflect the prominence of one Dosha rather than another, the ideal for a balanced mind body state is where all three are working harmoniously together in a state of dynamic equilibrium. Now try the Quiz!
Reference:
Alister Gillies - Alister's background is in project development. He is trained in counselling and personal development, although his academic background is ...
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