Intro into Ayurveda

Meet the Doshas – Your Mind-Body Blueprint

What are the Doshas?

The Doshas are energies that govern our physical and mental processes. We each have a unique combination of all three, but one or two tend to dominate. Understanding your doshic type helps you stay balanced and vibrant.

1. VATA – The Energy of Movement

Elements: Air + Ether
Qualities: Light, dry, cool, mobile, subtle
Functions: Movement, creativity, communication, circulation, nervous system
When Balanced:

• Creative, lively, adaptable, clear thinking
  When Imbalanced:

• Anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, dryness, constipation

Support Vata With:

• Warm, grounding foods

• Consistent routine

• Oil massage (abhyanga)

• Calming environments

2. PITTA – The Energy of Transformation

Elements: Fire + Water
Qualities: Hot, sharp, intense, oily, light
Functions: Digestion, metabolism, focus, courage, body temperature
When Balanced:

• Focused, passionate, good digestion, natural leader
  When Imbalanced:

• Irritability, heartburn, inflammation, perfectionism

Cool Pitta With:

• Cooling foods and herbs

• Time in nature (especially water)

• Soothing activities

• Early evening wind-downs

3. KAPHA – The Energy of Stability

Elements: Earth + Water
Qualities: Heavy, slow, steady, moist, soft
Functions: Structure, lubrication, immunity, emotional bonding
When Balanced:

• Grounded, compassionate, strong endurance
  When Imbalanced:

• Lethargy, weight gain, attachment, depression

Lift Kapha With:

• Light, spicy foods

• Morning movement

• Variety and stimulation

• Dry brushing or energizing massage

Dosha Tip Box:

• Your Prakriti: Your natural constitution (set at birth)

• Your Vikriti: Your current state (can fluctuate daily or seasonally)

• Goal: Not to “fix” your doshas—but to honor and support them in balance