The Doshas – a Quick Overview

In the Ayurvedic school of thought the five elements of space, air, fire, water and earth form the basis of everything.

Ayurveda offers specific recommendations to each individual on 
lifestyle, diet, exercise and Yoga, herbal therapy, and even spiritual practices according to his or her personality and dosha type.

Ether and air together constitute vata; fire and water, pitta; and water and earth, kapha. Three biological humors govern the functional aspect of the body.

Vata Dosha:

follows the principle of mobility, movement and wind. It is the energy that controls the flow of thoughts, but also bodily functions associated with motion, including blood circulation, breathing, blinking, and your heartbeat.

In balance: There is creativity and vitality.
Out of balance: Can produce fear and anxiety.

Pitta Dosha:

represents the fire principle in the body and is hot, light and penetrating. It is the energy that controls your emotions as well as the body’s metabolic systems, including digestion, absorption, nutrition, and your body’s temperature.

In balance: Leads to contentment and intelligence.
Out of balance: Can cause ulcers and anger.

Kapha Dosha:

is characterized by anything that is solid or fluid. It is the energy that controls growth in the body. It supplies water to all body parts, moisturizes the skin, and maintains the immune system.

In balance: Expressed as love and forgiveness.
Out of balance: Can lead to insecurity and envy.

Each individual is constituted of all three doshas, but usually one or two dominate. Various dosha proportions determine one’s physiological and personality traits, as well as general likes and dislikes.

When the Doshas are in balance, a person is healthy and in harmony.