The Basics of Ayurveda - A Glance at the Doshas

Have you ever just wanted a basic 101 on Ayurveda? It is such a vast science, so massively large and so ancient. How does one even begin to grasp the details. Believe me, it’s not easy! I have been studying this work starting in 2016 and I am still just a babe…..about to finish up my most recent three year training program. There are always miles to go in learning.

My feeling is, when you stop learning, you die….so may as well keep the bus rolling. Below you will find my “basics of ayurveda”. Just a starting point. If you would like to learn more or receive Ayurvedic Bodywork, reach out! My door is open and I am always so honored to share and give.

BASICS OF AYURVEDA…..A GLANCE AT THE DOSHAS

AYUR = LIFE

VEDA = SCIENCE OR KNOWLEDGE OF

AYUR-VEDA = THE SCIENCE OR KNOWLEDGE OF LIFE


The Doshas or Constitutions


There are three main doshas, or constitutions.  We all have some of these in each of us.  We were born with a certain constitution (Prakriti) and over our lives develop some sort of imbalance (Vikriti).  Who you were at conception (your prakriti) is a given;  you cannot change it.  The imbalance that happens over time to your body and mind (your vikriti)  can be shifted. 


Doshas 

KAPHA = Earth + Water

PITTA = Fire + Water

VATA = Air + Space






DOSHAS/CONSTITUTIONS OF PEOPLE

The manas (mind) might have a different dosha than the body. Most people have dual doshas, with one stronger than the other. Some people really dominate with one dosha, and a very few are strongly tri-doshic, having equal parts of all three. Below you will find a little more information about each of the doshas.


KAPHA PEOPLE

Qualities of Kapha are slow, cool, heavy, dense, thick, liquid,oily, soft.

Kapha types are dominated by earth and moisture.  

They are generally of a larger build with well padded joints.  They have extremely lustrous hair and big pleasant eyes with supple skin.  They are the type of people that are hard to derail, nothing phases them and they are very pleasant to be around.  When in balance, you can always depend on a kapha, like a loyal dog they will stay by you until the end.  When in balance, a kapha lives a very well grounded life with a steady job and few disruptions and they have many reserves to bring them a long life.  When out of balance, the kapha person tends towards being overweight, excess mucus in the sinuses and chest, attachment, excess weight and lack of motivation for anything. 


PITTA PEOPLE

Qualities of pitta are hot, sharp, spreading, penetrating, liquid, oily.

Pitta types are dominated by fire and transformation.

They are generally of a medium build with strong piercing eyes and slightly reddish skin.  They sweat a lot and often have red hair!  These are the people that always get the job done and have lots of lists that they accomplish.  When in balance, they are extremely competent and always meet their goals.  When out of balance, these people tend to anger and jealousy, deal with much inflammation and rashes of the skin.  High blood pressure, heart issues and acidic conditions of the belly also play a part.  


VATA PEOPLE

Qualities of Vata are dry, rough, light, clear, cold, mobile and subtle.

Vata types are dominated by the wind and change.

Vata types are generally light, thin, possibly overly tall or overly short.  They tend to have small eyes, move quickly and constantly, talk with their hands and have restless minds.  When in balance, they are some of the most creative and fun people you will meet.  They make great entrepreneurs.  When out of balance they are anxious, have dry skin and hair, scattered, constipated and have ailments of the ear, nose and throat regions. Trust me, I know one of these, for I am one!




DOSHAS/CONSTITUTIONS OF SEASONS


KAPHA SEASON

The Kapha season is later winter to early summer.  Things are melting, moisture is increasing and the world is wet.  This wetness gives access to new life and growth.  During this time of year, Kapha people are extra aggravated.


PITTA SEASON

The Pitta season is mid summer to early fire.  This is the season of heat and fire.  Things grow, transform and the world is hot.  During this time of year, Pitta People are extra aggravated.


VATA SEASON

The Vata season is fall to mid winter.  The wind increases, things dry out and it becomes cold.  During this time of year, Vata people are extra aggravated.


DOSHAS/CONSTITUTIONS OF LIFE

During a kapha season, a kapha type will be extra aggravated. During a Pitta season a pitta type will be extra aggravated. During a vata season, a vata type will be extra aggravated. Remember, LIKE INCREASES LIKE!


KAPHA SEASON OF LIFE

The Kapha season of life is birth to about age 19 or 20. We are born from moisture and our bodies are full of moisture and fat.  We are plump grounded babies and little throws us off.  


PITTA SEASON OF LIFE 

The pitta season of life is about age 20ish-60ish.  During this time we are in the peak (heat) of our life.  This is when we work with the fire of transformation, perhaps have babies, jobs and are the most busy.


VATA SEASON OF LIFE

The vata season of life is older age.  During this time we are dominated by air, drying out, being cold and forgetful.  



DOSHAS/CONSTITUTIONS OF THE DAY

During a kapha time, a kapha type will be extra aggravated. During a Pitta time of day a pitta type will be extra aggravated. During a vata time of day, a data type will be extra aggravated. LIKE INCREASES LIKE!

6am-10am KAPHA Time

10am-2pm PITTA Time

2pm - 6pm VATA Time

6pm-10pm KAPHA Time

10pm - 2am PITTA Time

2am - 6am VATA Time 

This is all I will be sharing this go around; stay tuned for more tips and info on Ayurveda!!!

LOVE TO YOU ALL! MARGARET

Curious about all of this? It’s a lot! Need more information? Reach out! Look forward to seeing all of you so very soon.