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Vata Dosha and Life Balance
Ayurveda (the science from which yoga stems from), contains three main constitutions (or doshas) which form the philosophy: Vata, Pitta and Kapha.
Vata dosha (the king of all the doshas), is created by the elements of ether and air.
In modern physics, scientists honor the ether element by calling it “negative space”, and recognize that although atomic particles are made of matter, what is in between the atomic particles is ether, which miraculously holds particles together. This is the mystery of life, which Ayurveda honors to be the most auspicious element.
Because of it’s incredibly subtle nature vata dosha is the first dosha to go out of balance. In the natural medicine system of Ayurveda, it is customary to balance the vata dosha first, and then all the other doshas will follow suit.
The qualities of vata dosha are:
Cold
Dry
Light
Subtle
Hard
Mobile
Clear
Rough
Sharp
When too much air and ether are present, achy joints and bones, arthritis and osteoporosis can occur. Dryness of the skin, dandruff, gas, and blue tongue or difficulties with blood circulation can also become present. In addition, mental instabilities such as anxiety, neurosis, psychosis, and other disturbances may become present.
Conversely, if there is not enough vata dosha in the body, obesity, diabetes, stagnation, or lack of vigor and vitality can occur. In addition, depression and dependency may become present.
Ayurveda is a science where balance is treasured to achieve a state of peaceful homeostasis. Therefore, to balance the uplifting air and space quality, grounding practices are recommended for overactive vata dosha.
Wondering if you are vata dosha dominant? Guessing can be as imbalancing as living without consciousness. Visit an Ayurvedic professional to assess the true nature of your birth dosha and your current imbalance, and understand the full scope of philosophy for lifestyle rituals and practices associated with delicately balancing the doshas.
