What is your Ayurveda Dosha?

If you're an avid yogi then you're probably already familiar with what your Ayurveda Dosha is but if not, no worries, we're here to help break down what Ayurveda even is along with each of the unique qualities of the 3 Doshas.

Ayurveda or "knowledge of life," is a system of healing that examines your basic constitution (mind, body, spirit) in the context of the universe. According to the philosophy, universal life force manifests as three different doshas a.k.a. the energy patterns that flow around our bodies that control our thinking and behavior.

The 3 Doshas are Vata, Pitta and Kapha. We're all made up of a combination of all three energies but many of us tend to have an abundance of one or two dosas that defines who we are. Throughout our lives, dosas constantly change due to factors such as the seasons, climate, your diet and the environment - if they become imbalanced, your health, mood, and energy level can become affected.

In order to maintain your mind, body, and spirit in equilibrium, it's important you learn which dosa best characterizes you!

Vata

Often called the "King of the Dohsas" since it gives motion to Pitta and Kapha, Vata derives from the elements of Space and Air. Physically they tend to be think and lanky but very active. The balanced Vata individual is flexible, outgoing, communicative and creative. When they become imbalanced, this type can become anxious and unreliable when it comes to completing projects or any other type of commitment. The Air element also has a huge influence in their constitution which causes their mood, appetite and energy to fluctuate therefore throwing off their eating and sleeping habits. The ways to balance a Vata are similar to that of Pitta-meditate daily, engage in calming physical activity such as swimming or yoga, go to bed early and stick to a regular daily routine.

Pitta

Derived from the elements of Fire and Water, the Pitta individual is dominated more by the fire elements which makes them intense, competitive, strong willed and irritable. Physically they typically have a medium build with pale, freckled skin that easily reddens during exercise, when blushing and when exposed to sun. The Pitta type can also be distinguished as quick learners but due to their "fiery" side their ability to comprehend new skills faster than others can make them impatient toward people who they feel are less focused than them. If a Pitta becomes imbalanced - usually caused by over-working, drinking coffee or alcohol, eating while angry or even smoking cigarettes, it can manifest in their body as inflammation, rashes, acne, infection and heartburn. In order to find balance, it's recommended that they avoid artificial stimulants, meditate daily and do low-intensity exercise such as yoga or walking.

Kapha

Influenced by Earth and Water elements, Kapha types can be characterized as compassionate, loyal and methodical. Physically they tend to have naturally athletic, strong frames. When imbalanced, the Kapha individual can become stubborn, unmotivated and depressed. Overeating, spending too much time in cool, damp climates, avoiding intellectual challenges as well as not engaging in physical activity can all be factors in the imbalance of this type which means that in order to balance out it's suggested they avoid leisurely lifestyles, go to bed early and wake up early and make time for introspective activities such as writing and mediation.

By discovering and understanding your Ayurvedic Dosha, it will allow you to get a better sense of self and help you figure out what type of diet and lifestyle are ideal for balancing your health.

To figure out your Dosha, take this quiz on Pukka Herbs site and get to know a little more about yourself!