Are you Pitta, Vata, or Kapha? These are the three Doshas that influence your health and happiness. Even the slightest imbalance can take a toll on your body and mind.
Most people have a dominant Dosha or body type. Once you figure out yours, take the steps needed to improve your health. From what you eat to what exercises you do, everything affects your Dosha. Let’s take a quick look at the three body types and their characteristics:
Pitta
Pitta people are known for their intelligence and charisma. They’re hard-working, enthusiastic, and perfectionist. This makes them great leaders and gives them a competitive edge in business.
Their bodies are generally of medium size, strong, and well-proportioned. These individuals have a sharp mind and entrepreneurial spirit. When their Dosha is out-of-balance, they can become demanding and aggressive. Compared to the Vata type, they’re more passionate and romantic. They also have a strong appetite and get irritated when food is not readily available.
People with a Pitta body type have fine, straight hair and fair or reddish skin. They are prone to hair loss, balding, and sunburn. Common health problems include stomach acid, heartburn, skin cancer, boils, acne, poor vision, and insomnia. Those who fall into this category usually have the following characteristics:
- Prefer cold climates
- Become hot easily
- Goal-oriented
- Sleep well
- Strong digestion
- Radiant skin
- Subject to anger and irritability
- Good management and leadership
- Excellent public speaking skills
- Like to be in command
- Self-confident and assertive
- Soft nails
- Sharp nose
- Cravings for sweet, astringent, and bitter foods
- Appreciate material prosperity
When the Pitta is out of balance, you may experience high blood pressure, mood swings, bleeding, and digestive problems. Skin disorders are common too.
Vata
Vata people are creative and can easily adapt to change. Their vivacious nature and good mood make them great friends. They also have high energy and are always up for adventure. However, when their Dosha is out of balance, they get tired easily and experience digestive distress.
Those with this body type are thin and have a hard time gaining weight. When sick, they’re at risk for muscle loss. Vata people need to get proper rest and avoid over-stimulation. PMS, consolation, weight loss, and poor digestion are usually attributed to Vata imbalances.
In general, Vata individuals have dry skin and prefer warm, humid climates. When their Dosha is in balance, they have a clear, alert mind, learn new things easily, and enjoy good digestion. Vata imbalances can result in fatigue, difficulty falling asleep, depression, anxiety, poor mental focus, and dehydration. Other common characteristics include:
- Joyful, enthusiastic nature
- High energy in short bursts
- Variable appetite
- Discomfort in cold climates
- Cold limbs
- Flat chest
- Prominent veins and muscle tendons
- Rough, cracked skin
- Dark complexion
- Brittle nails
- Prone to anxiety
- Tendency to spend money quickly
Adequate rest is crucial for keeping this Dosha in balance. Small, frequent meals, regular massage, and relaxation techniques, such as yoga, can help restore your Vata.
Kapha
Kapha maintains body resistance. This Dosha has a strong impact on your immune system, brain function, and energy levels.
People with this body type have a large build and gain weight easily. They dislike cold weather and tend to be possessive. Unlike other Doshas, their veins and bones are not prominent.
Kapha individuals are easy-going, forgiving, and affectionate. They move gracefully and maintain a balance in everything they do. They’re non-judgmental and have a compassionate nature. Their strong listening skills and kind personality make them excellent friends that you can rely on. Other common characteristics include:
- Calm mood
- Loving
- Loyal
- Patient
- Dislike change
- Avoid conflict
- Stubborn
- Sleep well
- Good digestion
- Difficulty letting go of things and relationships
When out-of-balance, Kapha people can become overweight and experience strong food cravings. They may also lose their motivation and get tired easily. Hay fever, common cold, respiratory disorders, depression, and high blood pressure are common concerns.
As you see, each Dosha has specific traits. Consider these aspects when planning your diet. For instance, if you’re the Kapha type, avoid sugar, fatty foods, and salt. Pitta people, by comparison, can enjoy sugary treats without having to worry about weight gain. Spend some time figuring out your dominant Dosha and start eating for your type for better physical and emotional health.
