The science of Ayurveda originated with the intention to protect health and prolong life ("swasthasya swasthya rakshanam") and to eliminate dis-eases and dysfunctions of the body ("aturasya vikara prashamanam"). Of utmost importance is understanding and identifying the root causes of any imbalance or disease and then addressing these with individualized protocols focused on diet and lifestyle, as well as using herbal medicine and body therapies, to alleviate symptoms and bring the body back to a balanced, rejuvenated state.
Ayurveda recognizes the five elements of space, air, fire, water and earth as the essential building blocks of material existence. They provide the foundation for the entire physical world. They comprise of everything within and outside of our bodies and create three primary patterns known as doshas:
Every individual has a unique quantity and quality of each dosha and underlying elements. It is important to maintain their original state of balance to maintain the health of our bodies. Ayurveda allows us to pinpoint and identify where any imbalance(s) may exist for you and create a customized rejuvenation therapy treatment to bring balance back to the doshas.
Here are some key characteristics and features of each dosha as they present themselves in individuals in their balanced and imbalanced states:
Vata: In a balanced state, vata predominant individuals are dynamic, much like the wind energy. They are creative & artistic, strong communicators, enthusiastic, perceptive, emotionally sensitive, and alert. Balanced vata individuals quickly grasp knowledge with their fast minds and have the natural ability to inspire others.
Imbalanced vata individuals, on the other hand, are overly active thinkers, restless, nervous & anxious, "spacey" and ungrounded, lack confidence, grasp knowledge quickly but not retain it, and are inclined towards fear, anxiety, or depression. They also tend to have digestive problems like gas, bloating, constipation, and burping.
Pitta: In a balanced state, pitta predominant individuals are joyful, have a sharp intellect and tremendous drive & courage. They are high achievers & natural leaders, articulate with strong & direct speech, organized, focused, and perform well under pressure.
Imbalanced pitta individuals, on the other hand, are overly intense, competitive, jealous, critical & judgmental, aggressive, and have a tendency to erupt with anger. The fiery pitta temperament is prone to burnout and can be overbearing to others. They are on fire!
Kapha: In a balanced state, kapha predominant individuals have naturally good health, rugged bodies, and mental peace. They are emotionally stable, calm and patient, steady, loving, mild mannered, good listeners, nurturing, loyal, and with an inherent desire to help others. Their earthy and nurturing nature make them great people to go to for a big hug.
Imbalanced kapha individuals, on the other hand, are unchanging and set in their ways, possessive, overly passive, envious, complacent, fearful of letting go, lethargic, and with a tendency to hoard things. Their imbalanced earthy nature leads to weight gain and a build-up of excess tissues. They have a tendency to become congested, experience sluggish digestion, and dwell on heavy emotions like sadness, depression, and lethargy.
What's your predominant dosha? Take the prakriti quiz below (also often referred to as the dosha quiz as it reveals your predominant dosha or doshas) and find out!
I would love to hear from you.
Copyright 2021 Healthy Self Ayurveda
All rights reserved@@
Healthy Self Ayurveda, LLC
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided on this website is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and is presented solely for educational purposes. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with a medical professional before starting any new diet or health protocol.