- Following the Ancient Indian Science of Life and Health -
What is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda literally means 'the science of living' or 'life knowledge' and has its origin in Vedic era around 3500 bC It offers a holistic approach to our body and mind and makes use of the knowledge about the elements. From the elements, it derives three doshas or constitution types that give insight into your personal tendencies and sensitivities.
The aim of Ayurveda is to create balance in the body and the mind, preventing and curing ailments and discomforts by doing so. In this process, different methods are used like yoga, meditation, herbal medication, diet, bodywork and self-massage with holistic oils. Which combination of treatments is used, depends on the constitution type and imbalance at hand.
What are the constitution types/doshas?
vata
Do you have a light bodybuild, do your hands and feet easily get cold, and are you a fast thinker and talker full of creative ideas? Then Vata is most likely dominant in your constitution. You can tell that Vata is out of balance when you have a tendency to ruminate a lot, often feel confused or rushed, have a hard time relaxing, popping joints, and irregular bowel movements. During the Autumn season and if you are living in the city, it is always a good idea to pay a bit more attention to balancing Vata.
The Vata dosha consists of the elements ether and air and creates movement in the body and mind. Examples of this are the breath, blood circulation, muscles, and the nervous system, but also thoughts and emotions like fear, anxiety, and pain.
The Vata body oil is warming, soothing and calming.
pitta
A Pitta constitution can be recognized by an average bodybuild, clear analytical thinking, being goal-oriented, and a natural talent for leadership. Pitta out of balance means that there is too much fire in the body. Do you often have acid reflux or a spreading skin rash/ irritation, are you easily triggered or irritated, mostly busy with the accomplishment of your goals with little time for play? Then the pitta oil is the best option for you! The Summer season and stressful, challenging times in our lives are times that we can all give Pitta a bit more attention to stay balanced.
The Pitta dosha consists of the elements water and fire. It is responsible for the digestion and metabolism of the body. P itta is easily aggravated by too much exertion and stress, and too much heat (both physically as emotionally.
The Pitta body oil is cooling and calming.
Kapha
If Kapha is dominant in your constitution your body build will be fuller and steady, your facial features are more round, your hair is thick and shiny and your temperament calm and nourishing. When Kapha is out of balance, this can cause symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, feeling lethargic, and constipation. During the Winter and Spring, Kapha needs a bit more attention to stay balanced to avoid the Winter blues or Spring fatigue.
The Kapha dosha consists of the elements water and earth. Kapha manages the structures of your body and forms the cells, muscular tissue, organs, and bones. It is solid, gives structure and foundation.
The Kapha oil is revitalizing and stimulating.
Do you want to know which dosha(s) are dominant in your constitution? Take the constitution test here
