A Hint of Doshas

Learn Aryuveda

Introduction:

Doshas can help us determine a state of where we are and what elements predominate within our bodies and minds. If unfamiliar, Dosha in Sanskrit is imbalance, it’s also a guide to determine what qualities of the season we are in, the qualities which our body is presenting itself and which time of day it is. We have three doshas, which contain all 5 elements that make up the world and life we see around us. The macrocosm and microcosm mirror each other and sometimes we have to do the opposite of what the macro is doing to balance out the micro. Doshas can help us keep balance and a sense of peace in our daily life when we learn to understand and practice the circadian rhythm associated with these doshas.

The first of the elements in order is Ether. Ether then transforms into air. These two elements together create what we call Vata in Ayurveda thought. Vata, “that which moves things” harnesses the qualities of dryness, movement, lightness, and change. Vata physically harnesses the force behind respiration, elimination and nervous system. A Vata type person lets the essence of their inner beauty from within shine and touch the world around them. Vata when in balance, makes outstanding healers, enthusiastic speakers, and amazing writers and artists.

Elements following Ether and Air are Fire, with a very little bit of water. Ether and air create movement, which then creates friction. When friction is created, heat follows. This heat is what we call in Ayurveda Pitta. Pitta harnesses the motion “which digest things.” The qualities of hot, sharp, oily, and also light can describe Pitta. Physically, Pitta is behind our digestion and metabolism. Pitta helps keep our bodies at their natural temperature of 98.6 degrees. When Pitta is in balance, we have the ability to see the truth about ourselves and others.

Lastly, the elements of water and earth, creating Kapha. Kapha harnesses “that which holds things together.” Having the qualities of wetness, coolness, heaviness, and stability. Physically, Kapha is the force behind the lymphatic system and the mucus membranes of the body. When Kapha is in balance, it’s the loving, smothering motherly type that feels you get about yourself and/or about the people around you.

Understanding these doshas allows for us to get a better understanding of what’s going on inside our bodies and minds.

This is just a brief and quick understanding of these doshas and the qualities they harness. In the future we will go a little deeper into how to work with them and the times of day these doshas show themselves.

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