Keep Your Vata Dosha in Check To Achieve Equilibrium

There are three essential parts that makeup Ayurveda. These are the three doshas (biological energies found throughout the mind and body) - Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. They should exist in balance in the body in order to feel your best. 

They all possess unique characteristics and govern different areas of mind and body function. However, Vata is the most vulnerable among the three. 

People who are classified as Vata dominant tend to be thin and have difficulty gaining weight. They are dynamic and flexible but prone to anxiety and worrying. 

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What is Vata Dosha?

In Sanskrit, Vata translates to 'wind,' it corresponds to breathe, blood circulation, movement of mind and body, the passage of food through the gastrointestinal tract.

Vata is prone to experience aggravation during late fall and early winter, as this is when nature delivers an abundance of vatalike qualities such as blustery winds, cool temperatures, and dry air.

If there is a Vata imbalance, there may be feelings of anxiety, insomnia, and uncontrolled proliferation of thoughts. Too much stimulation or prolonged exposure to stress can exacerbate these symptoms. 

Cause of Imbalance

Ayurveda believes in the concept of "like increases like." Whatever energy you bring into your life will attract the dosha that possesses those qualities. 

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Tips to Help Balance Vata

1. Practice intentional eating. Choose to eat foods that are naturally sweet, while avoiding processed foods and excessive salt and sugar.

2. The best way to balance Vata is by sticking to a comforting routine. A consistent routine scheduled for mealtime, bedtime, and other activities can help those with dominant Vata. Sticking to bedtime before 10 PM is particularly beneficial.

3. Opt for exercises that create stability, strength, and stamina. Yoga postures must include slow and steady ones (grounding poses.)

4. Engage in warm and soothing activities like hot baths, warm massages, and soothing music.

5. Constant meditation, done on a consistent routine, can help calm the mind. 

6. Keep yourself warm by wear clothing appropriate for the weather, making sure your head is covered during cold weather. If possible, avoid dry and cold environment.

7. Look for warm colors. Incorporate colors like pastels, browns, and warm yellows into your clothing and environment.

8. Avoid excessive stimuli, make sure you allow time in your day to reflect and be still.

9. Stay away from a diet of dry, raw, and undercooked foods.

10. Integrate warm and gas-relieving spices (such as cinnamon, cumin, ginger, salt, cloves, mustard seed, black pepper, cardamom, and basil) into your cooking.

Finding Balance

An excess of Vata is like being a leaf in the wind, easily tossed around and very vulnerable. The key to achieving equilibrium is by bringing warmth and stability into your life. Practice being "grounded." Be present with your body and connected with the earth. By being grounded, you allow yourself to feel centered and balanced regardless of what is happening around you.

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