What is your Ayurvedic type? If the "classical" medical offices we visit had specialists in Ayurveda, then the first thing they would want to know from patients would be their typology or the essence of the mind-body system. The latter is the source of everything that characterizes a human being: from the traits to the symptoms and illnesses he or she is experiencing.
Ayurveda has organized all the information into a system of typologies based on physical and mental characteristics. In Sanskrit, the body typology is also called "prakriti", which means "essential nature". It's a kind of fingerprint that helps us find out what kind of remedies are right for us, what foods we should eat to prevent illness and how we can make the most of our typical strengths.
The phrase "mind-body" or "body-spirit" is used a lot. In fact, we are talking about the same things, with no distinction. Every time we think something, a corresponding thing happens in the body (even if we don't always feel it). And Ayurveda investigates exactly where mind and body intersect. These connections are also called doshe.
There are three doshas and they facilitate the dialog between body and mind. We need all three doshas to live in balance, but for each of us there is a dominant typology that determines our way of being and reacting.
Vata is like the wind: it controls your movements, breathing, blood circulation, digestive system, thinking and nerve impulses. You need Pitta or metabolism to process food, air and water in the body. Last but not least, Kapha (or structure) contributes to the formation of muscles, fat, bones, tendons and ligaments.
Analyze the traits below and find out which dosha is dominant in your case!
- Slender, tall person, slight build;
- It easily copes with physical activity and has a fast gait;
- Irregular cravings/hunger;
- He sleeps hard, often disturbed sleep;
- He is easily excited, has a rich imagination;
- No daily routine, irregular activities;
- High energy levels in small doses;
- Rapid mood swings;
- He usually has dry skin and hair;
- Sweating a little;
- Receptive to new information, but forgetful;
- Exaggerated tendency to worry;
- They react to stress with fear;
- Imbalances associated with Vata typology: accidents, Alzheimer's, arthritis, astm, stomach gas, diffuse pain, bone disease.
- Average build, "well built" type;
- High power of concentration;
- Orderly;
- He is often thirsty and hungry; strong digestion;
- He sweats a lot;
- Tendency to get angry and irritable under stress;
- Light-colored hair and skin, freckles, burns easily when exposed to the sun;
- Likes challenges, competitive spirit;
- Smart;
- Precise and articulate speeches, good public speaking;
- Imbalances associated with Pitta: cardiovascular diseases, skin diseases, acne, blood and liver disorders, indigestion, stomach acid ulcers, insomnia, cancer;
- Outgoing, relaxed;
- Slow walking pace;
- Loyal;
- High physical strength;
- High energy levels;
- He is a hard learner, but he has a very good memory;
- Par si skin me;
- Soft voice;
- Weight gaining tendencies (and digestion can be problematic in some cases);
- Good immune system;
- Very calm, with a tendency to keep harmony and peace around you;
- He doesn't like the cold;
- It can be a point of stability for others;
- Imbalances associated with the Kapha typology: colds, sinus disorders, respiratory problems.
Of course, the above points are indicative. There are very complex tests that can tell you exactly to what extent each dosha is present in your constitution. Depending on the result, there are certain tips (including personalized diets) to maintain the balance of each dosha. For example, if the Vata and Kapha types are dominant in your case, it means that you will need measures to increase the Pitta intake and thus achieve balance. Remember that there are no universal and good solutions for everyone, you have to find the remedies that do you good! Things that work for others may be bad for you!
Virtual Wellness Explorer
