According to Ayurveda, one's constitution is the unique balance of the three doshas—the biological forces that govern the body—inherent in each of us and established at conception.
The three doshas are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each person has a combination of each, which makes our constitutions: one predominates, one secondary, and one tertiary. For each type or combination, there are practices and therapies related to the five senses—sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste- that bring balance and harmony.
Vata "The Energy of Movement"
The Vata nature is cold, dry, light, and mobile. Individuals with this dominant dosha become cold easily, have lower body weight, and have longer, narrower bones. They experience more dryness of the skin, eyes, and colon, which can result in a tendency towards constipation and gas. With a predominance of air and mobility, their natures are creative, artistic, and spiritual. They tend toward fast speech, quick movements, and nervousness. When out of balance, they can seem scattered and overwhelmed, have difficulty sleeping, and can change their minds quickly and often. The challenge for Vata is to stay focused and grounded.
Pitta "The Energy of Digestion & Transformation"
The pitta dosha has the qualities of hot, weight, light, and mobile. With their natural internal heat, they often experience softer, looser stools or diarrhea. Pitta types usually have a moderate build with good muscular development. Their skin is frequently oily, possibly with freckles, and they are prone to rashes, acne, and pimples. This dosha is forthright, which can strike others as brutally honest and sharp in communicating. While this directness can irritate, they will get the job done. Known for their passion and intensity, they can sometimes be impatient. They decide quickly but are willing to reconsider a decision given more information and thought.
Kapha "The Energy of Lubrication"
The nature of Kapha is cool, wet, moist, and stable. Individuals with this heavy nature tend to have thicker bones, a stocky, denser build, and perhaps shorter, thicker necks and fingers. However, they are not necessarily overweight. One of Kapha's defining qualities is a slower and easy-going pace; they do not get upset easily, have a gentle disposition, and have an unconditionally loving personality. Their challenges include difficulty with motivation and a lack of spontaneity, and they sometimes procrastinate and behave stubbornly. Still, once they decide, they stick with the decision.
Knowing your constitution, also called "Prakruti" or nature, can help explain qualities one has already identified but doesn't always understand. This can be useful in observing one's natural attractions and how they may contribute to imbalance and, ultimately, a disease in the body. Considering the physical attributes associated with dosha can determine the best course for long-term mental, emotional, behavioral, and spiritual well-being.
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