VATA DOSHA

VATA - made up of the elements air and ether (principal quality is air)

The Ayurvedic mindset sees the world as a combination of qualities. There are 20 qualities and they are organized as 10 pairs of opposites. When we understand what qualities are inherent within what dosha, we can better recognize our doshic imbalances and how to remedy them.

Let’s focus on the qualities of the vata dosha. Imagine the look and feel of air. Then ponder what qualities make up the element of air. Air (vata) is dry, light, subtle, flowing, mobile, cold, and clear. It is the force in the body that is responsible for all motion. The tastes associated with vata are pungent, bitter, and astringent.  The nature of the vata individual reflects these qualities. In Ayurveda, like attracts like. Therefore, choosing the qualities or characteristics in food and lifestyle choices which have the opposite effect, help to maintain balance or bring excess vata back into equilibrium.

Qualities and tastes helpful for vata folks:

• sweet

• hot

• heavy

• sour

• salty

Physically, vata type folks have a ectomorphic body without much musculature. They normally have a thin and long body with narrow bones. Their face is oblong, eyes and nose small, and lips narrow. They tend to have a dull complexion with dry skin and their hair is usually thin and brittle. Vata people tend to get cold easily and their appetite is variable. They are light sleepers and tend to be restless. 

Being vibrant and enthusiastic folks, people of vata nature tend to have a positive outlook on life and their lightness is infectious and fun. They are sensitive folk who make excellent healers. They find their joy in exploration, creativity and art. Like a butterfly, they move with the wind!

When OUT OF BALANCE, vata individuals may experience:

• pain

• abnormal excess of motion such as rapid breathing, rapid heart rate, and twitching

• constipation

• coldness

• nervousness

• anxiety

• insomnia

• dizziness

• hyperactivity

• depression

They can feel ungrounded, unorganized, and distracted. They can speak quickly and superficially and will change topics of conversation often. Because of this, out-of-balance vata folks are not the best leaders nor are they the best followers. They tend to work best in individual pursuits.