People in this age and time are always looking for innovative ways to improve their health and lifestyle. They have been trying different diet plans, exercise, medicine, and alternative plans to either lose weight or have peace of mind.

But instead of looking for different strategies, the Ayurveda approach teaches us to look back at this ancient healing practice discovered in India over 5,000 years ago. Ayurvedic Medicine believes that the human body is made up of the five elements of space, air, fire, earth, and water. When combined, it creates forms the three-body energies life forces, also called Dosha.

There are three different types of  Doshas, or body types such as  Vata called Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each person has a unique combination of the three doshas, which is expressed by our individual physical, emotional, and mental attributes. Knowing about your dosha will help you understand your inner self and why your body and overall health may differ from others.

Do you sometimes catch yourself comparing your attributes to other people? Like how come this person can eat a bunch of food and not even gain a pound, while you only eat a piece of cheesecake and immediately gained a kilo or two? It is because our dosha or biological energies differ from one another. It’s like an individual blueprint that governs our overall physical and mental health.

In this article, we will be having a more in-depth discussion of the different types of dosha present in a human being. While all three types of dosha are present in a human body, most people have a dominant dosha, which influences their physical, emotional, and mental health.

Types of Dosha

Vata Dosha

The elements of space and air govern this type of dosha. It is why Vata dominated doshas typically have a thin body type and always on the move. They are the type of person who is very lively, talkative, and full of energy. Because of their small frame, it will leave you wondering where that energy is coming from.

Physically, Vata dominants are also prone to dry skin and hair; their hands and feet are usually cold regularly. When it comes to well-being, Vata doshas are very light sleepers and have very sensitive digestion.

Since they are a ball of energy, Vata loves new experiences and exciting activities. They like to explore their creativity and very flexible when it comes to change. They are the ones who would typically start a conversation and influence the mood and energy inside a room.

You will know when a Vatta is losing their balance when they feel overwhelmed and stressed over a particular situation. They easily worry and become anxious about things, leading them to suffer from difficulty in sleeping or insomnia. When a Vata dosha is imbalanced, he or she also experience weight loss, restlessness, constipation, and other digestive problems.

To maintain a Vatta’s balance, he or she must slow down, meditate, and stay away from things causing imbalance. Don’t skip meals, go to bed early, and make choices that maintain the warmth and stability in their life.

Pitta dominant doshas can be described as “people who are burning from within.” Since their dominant element is fire and water, these people are generally known for having a fiery personality.

Physically, it seems like Pittas are the lucky ones. Aside from having a medium body frame, they also have excellent digestion, which leads them to eat anything they want without gaining weight. Other physical attributes of a Pitta dosha includes vibrant complexion and shiny hair.

Pittas have intense behavior; they are brilliant, focused, goal-oriented, and has excellent public speaking and decision making skills. Because of this, Pittas can be a great teacher, leader, and public speaker.

This type of dosha can also sleep soundly for a short period, leading them to have tons of energy and a healthy sex drive. When out of balance, Pittas may experience skin rashes, indigestion, heartburn, peptic ulcer, and excessive body heat. When Pittas are emotionally imbalanced, they tend to be short-tempered and very argumentative.

To maintain their balance, Pittas should lean on choices which are cooling, sweet, and stabilizing. These include balanced rest and activity, eating sweet, cooling foods, spending time in nature, getting a massage using cooling oils, and finding ways to laugh hard every day.

KAPHA Dosha

The elements of water and earth dominate this type of dosha. Physically, they have a strong body build, very masculine, and has excellent stamina. Their facial features are also very recognizable for having soft eyes, thick hair, and smooth, radiant skin.

They also have a pretty healthy digestive system and do not have difficulty in having a restful sleep. Kaphas are also very stable when it comes to their emotional traits. They are the type of person who is usually calm, patient, loyal, and can be very supportive.

When out of their balance, Kaphas tend to hold a grudge, oversleep, gain weight and may suffer from allergies, fluid retention, asthma, diabetes, and depression. To keep a Kapha balanced, he or she must maintain a routine, seek stimulation by using warm aromas, avoid clutter, and get regular exercise.

A better understanding of one’s dosha can help you understand the types of food and activities, which may suit your lifestyle to maintain your balance. Keeping a balanced dosha will help you live with a nurturing life.

While all three doshas can be present in one human being, there are also times when one or two doshas predominate an individual. It leads them to become have a dual-doshic constitution. The details mentioned above are a mere guide to know your constitution, but if you are eager to learn more about your constitution, visiting an Ayurvedic health counselor is recommended.

Ayurvedic physicians and healers can help identify your dosha. They can also give a customized recommendation of your diet and lifestyle depending on your dosha. It will help you balance your energies, maintain vigorous health, and prevent unwanted diseases.