Dosha Qualities

Below is some additional information on doshas that is not covered in the PowerPoint. Essentially the topic is so deep that it can be challenging to cover all aspects of doshas, however we have outlined the basics to encourage you to delve deeper into the sister science of yoga known as Ayurveda.

Though it’s believed that each person has a unique constitution, they generally fall under one of three main dosha types — vata, kapha, & pitta based on their body type, personality, and sensitivities. The quantity and quality of these three substances fluctuate in the body according to the seasons, time of day, diet, and several other factors.

Physical Body
Their body is long and lean. They don’t have a lot of muscle tone, have prominent bones, dry skin and have a hard time gaining weight.

Emotionally
They can be inspirational when balanced and scattered, spacey and anxious when out of balance.

Food Recommendations
Eating foods containing high amounts of the space and air elements such as raw veggies & dried fruit can cause a Vata imbalance. Choosing grounding foods, such as cooked root veggies help to bring the vata back into balance.

VATA

(Ether and Air)

Physical Body
Their body is long and lean. They don’t have a lot of muscle tone, have prominent bones, dry skin and have a hard time gaining weight.

Emotionally
They can be inspirational when balanced and scattered, spacey and anxious when out of balance.

Food Recommendations
Eating foods containing high amounts of the space and air elements such as raw veggies & dried fruit can cause a Vata imbalance. Choosing grounding foods, such as cooked root veggies help to bring the vata back into balance.

PITTA

(Fire and Water)

Physical Body
Their physical body is generally well defined with good muscle tone, have skin with rosy tone, and can gain and loose weight fairly easily.

Emotionally
Pitta’s are determined and focused when balanced, and aggressive and angry when out of balance.

Food Recommendations
Eating foods containing high amounts of the fire and water element including hot peppers and pickled foods can cause a Pitta imbalance. Choosing foods, which are cooling, like cucumber and watermelon help reduce Pitta.

KAPHA

(Water and Earth)

Physical Body
Their physical body is generally stocky or stout. They have thick, sometimes oily skin, developed muscles and have a harder time losing weight.

Emotionally
They are stable and secure when balanced, but can be stubborn and attached when out of balance.

Food Recommendations
Eating foods containing high amounts of the water and earth elements, such as dairy products and heavy, oily foods can cause a Kapha imbalance. Choosing foods
light in quality, like raw vegetables and little meat can reduce Kapha.