One of the world’s oldest system of healing, Ayurveda, states that we are all comprised of three basic principles or energy, which give shape and form to our bodies, mental state and activities. These are known as the three doshas. They are: Vata, Pitta, & Kapha. We are born with a balance which is appropriate for us, but then become imbalanced over time, due to both internal and external factors.
Vata, the principle of movement, is aggravated by an erratic lifestyle. The more that Vata is out of balance, the more that an individual engages in irregular regimens. So, the cycle perpetuates itself. Vata can cause pain, stiffness, insomnia, anxiety, fear, constipation, arthritis, and dizziness to name a few ailments.
The individual with elevated levels of Vata would do best follow a regular routine. If Vata is imbalanced, it can “push” or provoke Pitta or Kapha, and cause them to become out of balance as well. You can see which dosha is most imbalanced by taking this free quiz online.
For balancing Vata dosha, the best thing to do is to set a regular routine. The Vata individual values his/ her freedom and doesn’t want to the same thing daily. Yet, they often find themselves unable to complete projects, make commitments on time, and maintain their health.
We all tend to prioritize other things in lives than our own health, at one time or another. Make a commitment for one week to get up and go to bed the same time each day. Eat your meals at the same time each day. Don’t eat on the run. Sit down and eat your food quietly. Eat warm, freshly prepared, well-cooked and flavorful foods. If it’s not possible to have a warm meal, carry some soup with you in a thermos. Don’t eat while driving or talking on the phone or watching tv.
Keep warm and dress properly. Cold will aggravate vata. Don’t have cold or chilled drinks. Let go of the ice habit. Exercise but don’t over exert yourself.
Have some spiritual practice, i.e. chanting, meditation, reading a sacred text and commit to it daily. This disciplined life may seem very unnatural but being irregularly regular could regulate your life a whole lot more.
So try it and see how your body and mind respond to balancing Vata dosha!