Doshas are fundamental energies of the human body that govern the physio-chemical and physiological activities. The dosha theory describes how the five elements in nature (earth, water, fire, air, and ether) combine to control the processes of the body and mind. There are three doshas, known as vata, pitta, and kapha.
- Vata is the energy of movement and action
- Pitta is the energy of transformation, digestion, and heat
- Kapha is the energy of stabilization, cohesion, and nourishment
The human body has a natural healing intelligence capable of constant rejuvenation. However, doshic imbalances allow toxic impurities to form, blocking the natural capacity to heal.
For each element, there is a balanced and imbalanced expression. When Vata is balanced, a person is lively and creative. When there is too much movement in the system, a person tends to experience anxiety, insomnia, dry skin, constipation, and difficulty focusing. When Pitta is functioning in a balanced manner, a person is warm, friendly, disciplined, a good leader, and a good speaker. When Pitta is out of balance, a person tends to be compulsive and irritable and may suffer from indigestion or an inflammatory condition. When Kapha is balanced, a person is sweet, supportive, and stable. When Kapha is out of balance, a person may experience sluggishness, weight gain, and sinus congestion.
Ayruveda helps determine the source of the imbalance – internal, external, or both – and helps you regain balance through proper diet, lifestyle, and routine.