If you’ve heard of Ayurveda, chances are you’ve heard of doshas—and that eating and working out in the ways that fit your dosha has an array of positive effects. But what exactly are doshas? And how do you know which one you fit into? Read on to find out more.
What Are Doshas?
According to Ayurveda practitioners, “There are three doshas in Ayurveda, which describe the dominant mind/body state: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. While all three are present in everyone, Ayurveda proposes that we each have a dominant dosha that’s unwavering from birth, and ideally an equal (though often fluctuating) balance between the other two.” So following the recommendations created for your specific dosha will make you feel like your healthiest, most vibrant self.
How To Find Your Dosha
There are many tests you can take to find out what your dosha is , but the most commonly used one is from the Chopra Center and be found here.
Dosha Types
VATA
Vatas can never seem to get warm. They will nibble, snack, and graze through the day, and may feel the need to rest often. They also tend to speak quickly, and always seem to be on the go, with energetic and creative minds.
What to Eat
Vata is a cold and dry dosha so warm, nourishing foods with moderately heavy texture, plus added butter and fat are good for stabilizing. Opt for salty, sour, and sweet tastes as well as soothing and satisfying foods. Warm milk, cream, butter, warm soups, stews, hot cereals, fresh baked bread, raw nuts, and nut butters are good for Vatas.
PITTA
Pittas are fiery and intense. They can withstand the cold better, since they tend to be hotter-headed. They are naturally aggressive and impatient, intelligent, and sharp—and since Pittas have strong digestion, they can generally eat just about everything.
What To Eat
The best foods for Pittas are cool or warm, with moderately heavy textures. Bitter, sweet, and astringent tastes are ideal for this dosha type. Since red meat tends to heat the body from the fat, vegetarian foods are the best for Pittas. They should also consume abundant amounts of milk, grains, and vegetables for a healthy balance.
KAPHA
Kaphas tend to have heavier, earthier bodies than other types, and tend to store watery substances like fluids and fat more readily. They are naturally calm and attached and can oftentimes be thought of as the shoulder to lean on.
What To Eat
Warm, light, and dry food is favorable for Kaphas—and they tend to do best with lightly cooked foods or raw fruits and vegetables. Also, spicy food (such as Mexican or Indian food) are great for this dosha. Romaine lettuce, endive, or tonic water are good for stimulating the Kapha appetite, while preferred spices are cumin, fenugreek, sesame seed, and turmeric.
Remember that most people are a mix of two or more doshas, so a combo of the above should help make you feel a more balanced vibrant version of your already amazing self. And if you’re looking to add a little something extra to your Ayurvedic journey, try one of these essential oils to treat your dosha with a dose of goodness.
Photo Credit: Rizzoli