The life forces
Vata: is composed of the elements air and ether. It is associated with movement, creativity, and transformation. The qualities of Vata are dry, light, cold, rough, subtle, mobile, and clear. Vata governs bodily movements, nervous system functions, and communication. Imbalances in Vata can lead to issues like anxiety, insomnia, dry skin, and digestive problems.
Pitta: is composed of the elements fire and water. It is associated with transformation, metabolism, and digestion. The qualities of Pitta are hot, sharp, intense, light, liquid, oily, and penetrating. Pitta governs processes like digestion, metabolism, body temperature regulation, and intellectual capacity. Imbalances in Pitta can manifest as issues like acidity, inflammation, skin rashes, and irritability.
Kapha: is composed of the elements water and earth. It is associated with stability, structure, and lubrication. The qualities of Kapha are heavy, slow, cool, oily, smooth, dense, and static. Kapha governs stability, strength, lubrication, immunity, and emotional well-being. Imbalances in Kapha can lead to conditions like weight gain, congestion, sluggishness, and attachment.
According to Ayurveda, each individual has a unique combination of these doshas, known as their prakriti or constitutional type. The prakriti determines a person’s physical, mental, and emotional characteristics, as well as their susceptibility to certain imbalances or diseases. Ayurvedic practices aim to balance the doshas through lifestyle modifications, diet, herbal remedies, therapies, and other personalized approaches to maintain optimal health and well-being.