The Doshas

Energies that influence well-being

Ayurveda uses the doshas to better understand who we are and what we need to create a life of optimal health and balance. The doshas - Vata, Pitta, and Kapha - are the three main forces that govern the physiology of a human being. They are the energies that exist in all of us, and they create our physical, emotional, and mental being. Each one of us is born with a perfectly unique combination of doshas, usually with one that is dominant. It is possible for an individual to have two doshas of equal amount, with a smaller amount of the third. And in rare occasions, an individual can have all three doshas in proportion; this is called being tri-doshic.

The doshas consist of the five elements: earth, water, fire, air, and ether.

  • Ayurveda Dosha Vata

    Vata

    Vata dosha is made up of the elements air and ether. It is the energy within us that governs movement. The qualities that describe Vata are light, cold, dry, mobile, subtle, and rough. In the body it is the force responsible for all motion. People with more Vata typically have a thinner bone structure and body frame, finer hair and smaller eyes. Their skin tends to be drier, they can have a harder time gaining weight, and their appetite usually varies.

    When Vata dosha is out of balance, it may show up in the body and mind as constipation or gas, dry skin, premature wrinkles, tremors, insomnia, anxiety, fear, worry, or forgetfulness. When a person of dominant Vata nature is in balance, they show a beautiful and genuine enthusiasm for life. They are creative and make great healers and artists.

  • Ayurveda Dosha Pitta

    Pitta

    Pitta dosha is made up of the elements fire and water, but mostly fire. It is the energy within us that governs transformation. The qualities that describe Pitta are hot, oily, light, subtle, mobile, and sharp. In the body it is the force responsible for digestion and metabolism. People with more Pitta typically have a moderate bone structure and toned body. Sometimes they have early onset of gray hair. Their appetite is usually strong, and they are known to get “hangry”.

    When Pitta dosha is out of balance it can show up in the body as fevers, heartburn, loose stools, skin rashes or acne. In the mind, one might feel more heated emotions such as anger and frustration. They can also be quite judgmental and critical of themselves and others. When a person of dominant Pitta nature is in balance, they have a focused and sharp mind. They make great leaders and teachers.

  • Ayurveda Dosha Kapha

    Kapha

    Kapha dosha is made up of the elements earth and water. It is the energy within us that governs stability. The qualities that describe Kapha are cold, moist, heavy, dense, soft and smooth. In the body it is the force responsible for structure. People with more Kapha typically have a thicker build and rounder body features. They’re skin is soft, smooth and lustrous, and they usually have big beautiful eyes and thick hair. They gain weight easily and have a hard time losing it. Their appetite is healthy.

    When Kapha dosha is out of balance it can show up in the body as mucous, congestion, nausea, lethargy and heaviness of the body and mind. These individuals can become overly attached to material possessions or emotions, and be stubborn. When a person of dominant Kapha nature is in balance, they are earthy and grounded. They’re usually described as motherly and nurturing, and the type of person you can always count on.