According to Ayurveda, optimal health is a state of balance between the three Doshas. Each has a unique set of characteristics that must be addressed through diet and lifestyle changes. Stress, poor nutrition, heavy workloads, and other factors can affect this delicate balance. Many common health concerns are actually signs of an imbalanced Dosha.
Once you figure out your body type, watch for any warning signs. An imbalanced Vata, for instance, may cause anxiety, fear, nervous, and dry skin. You might also have trouble sleeping at night and feel worried for no reason.
Each Dosha manifest itself in a specific way when out-of-balance. Depending on your body type, you may experience the following symptoms:
Common Pitta Imbalances
Pitta is located in the small intestine. Thus, any imbalance will affect digestion and appetite. You may gain weight, eat more than usual, and experience mood swings. Your strengths, such as ambition and perseverance, can turn into weaknesses. For instance, Pitta people tend to become judgmental and harsh when their Dosha is out of balance. Other warning signs include:
- Anger
- Irritability
- Depression
- Hostility
- Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
- Nausea and vomiting
- Heartburn
- Intense hunger and cravings
- Bad breath
- Peptic ulcers
- Skin rashes, eczema, or dermatitis
- Excessive sweating
- Indigestion
- Inflammation in the body and joints
In general, pitta imbalances are triggered by emotional stress, toxin buildup, poor food choices, and prolonged exposure to the sun.
Common Vata Imbalances
Vata is located in the heart, lungs, brain, and throat. Thus, most symptoms tend to affect the upper body and mental function. When this Dosha is imbalanced, you may feel anxious and insecure, have a hard time staying focused, and experience intense fear. In the long run, excessive Vata can result in sleep disorders, mental instability, and depression.
People with an imbalanced Vata may lose weight for no obvious reason, struggle with bloating, and worry excessively. Other common symptoms include:
- Negative thoughts
- Feeling ungrounded
- Confusion
- Anxiety
- Increased sensitivity to cold
- Dizziness
- Loss of strength
- Low energy
- Fatugue snd lethargy
- Dry skin
- Dehydration
- Constipation
- Muscle atrophy
- Joint pain
- Tremors
There are various factors that can aggravate the Vata, such as sleep deprivation, exposure to cold, and too much traveling. Stress has the biggest impact on this Dosha. Thus, proper rest is essential. Meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and exercise can make all the difference.
Common Kapha Imbalances
Kapha resides in the upper part of the stomach as well as in the heart and lungs. When out-of-balance, it may cause respiratory tract disorders and cardiovascular problems. Brain fog, depression, asthma, hypertension, and lethargy are all warnings that it’s time to change your lifestyle habits. Excessive Kapha may also trigger:
- Emotional eating
- Negative emotions
- Feeling slow and dull
- Weight gain
- Constipation
- Digestive problems
- Thick, white tongue coat
- High cholesterol
- Atherosclerosis
- Nasal congestion
- Hay fever
- Chronic sinus infections
- Fluid retention
- Deep vein thrombosis
Over time, Kapha imbalances can lead to heart disease, cancer, and cystic ovaries. You may also experience daytime sleepiness, poor mental focus, and excessive thirst. Your cravings for sweet and salty foods will increase.
Bringing the three Doshas into balance requires lasting lifestyle changes. Once you make these changes, your life will improve on every level. Your energy will increase, your mind will be sharper, and you’ll reach your goals easier.
