Intro To Ayurvedic Lifestyle
Table of contents:
Welcome To Hamsa .................3
Fundamentals of Ayurveda .........6
Lifestyle Attributes All Constitutions Share........7
Five Attributes of An Ayurvedic Lifestyle........8
The Elements, Doshas & Gunas........9
Guna Quiz...........12
Identifying Your Constitution & Current
Imbalance.........14
The Doshas Explained In Detail............17
Section Questions .............22
Welcome to Hamsa,
When we first come to ayurveda and yoga we are inspired by the idea of a more fulfilling life, stress reduction, contented eating habits, stability of mind,
and improved relationships. Initially the motivation of learning a new philosophy keeps us committed, however, life continues to tempt us back into old
patterns of familiarity. For many of us, we experience our willpower weakened and we eventually return to the very habits we tried to renounce.
At Hamsa Ayurveda & Yoga we understand that changing one’s lifestyle is some of the hardest and most important work we can encounter. We believe
that true change is sustained by inspiration, and inspiration is cultivated from experiential knowledge. When we can create a genuine shift in our
thinking, our choices effortlessly follow suit.
Hamsa Ayurveda & Yoga is a lifestyle support center. We have made every attempt to provide the necessary infrastructure required to sustain the
lifestyle augmentations you wish to implement. Our classes and workshops were created to give our clients knowledge backed by experiential
understanding, so that change occurs more effectively. Our consultation services offer our clients one-on-one attention so that programs can be
individually customized. Our treatments are profoundly therapeutic, and adhere to traditional ayurvedic standard.
In this free introductory packet you will find many of the fundamental components to ayurvedic lifestyle. This includes general lifestyle practices,
ayurvedic nutrition, digestive health, and detoxification practices. It is highly recommended to read this free introductory book, and attend our free
introduction to Ayurveda lecture, before scheduling a consultation. Reading the introductory packet and attending the lecture will enhance your
consultation experience considerably.
Thank You,
Monica Yearwood, Cayur, LMT
Hamsa Founder
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INTRODUCTION TO HAMSA
Hamsa’s Lifestyle Philosophy
Ayurveda is not a system based on a blanket set of rules that can unconditionally fall over any group of people. Rather, it teaches that we are each
an evolving individual with an equally evolving set of needs. These needs change based on our age, digestive tendencies, mental inclinations, emotional
states, living conditions, and our environment.
Initially, when we come to the path of ayurveda, we assess what we will have to give up and what we will have to embrace. We look at our life
and determine that some things are ayurvedic, and some things are not ayurvedic. We prescribe what is good and what is bad. We attempt to model a
pre-determined definition of what ayurvedic lifestyle is, and over rely on lists, dietary plans, and programs. We reach out for a new set of rules, that we
can filter our new life through. Consequently, this methodology perpetuates the very nexus that ayurveda attempts to free us from. At its basis, ayurveda
tries to teach self-knowledge and self-reliance. Everything in ayurveda’s directory of practice and application, serves to mirror how we think, believe,
and behave by increasing self-awareness.
Engaging in the ayurvedic lifestyle practices awaken the desire to make positive choices. Our unhealthy behaviors are disempowered by our
rising awareness. We become aware of how our choices make us feel, influence our mood, impact our digestion, mental clarity, and energy level. Our
awareness enables us to crave those things that are good for us.
At Hamsa, the lifestyle practices are our greatest teachers. We believe that through our actions and choices we will shift a change in our thinking
and promote positive behavior. The lifestyle practices we teach at Hamsa are based on ayurveda and yoga. When we engage in our lifestyle practices
we can trust that in time the change we seek will come to manifest. As we observe how food makes us feel, we will notice our digestion, and eventually
desire those things that enhance our digestion. As we observe our energy levels, we will eventually desire to sleep well at night. We will also notice how
regularity in eating, asana practice, stress reduction techniques, and many of the other lifestyle practices effect how we feel, think and behave.
The process of rising awareness is gradual and natural. We do not force our selves to be past where we really are by adopting advanced lifestyle
techniques. We do not judge our selves or others for the habits we are learning to relinquish. Just like entering into a yoga pose properly requires the
assistance of a block, strap, or posture modification, so do many of the ayurvedic lifestyle techniques. Consequently, we hinder our selves by attempting
to be past where we really are at, and speed our progress considerably through its honest observation.
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Beginning With Hamsa
Where one begins with Hamsa is mostly related to where they are at in health, mind and body. Consultations are not necessarily the place where
all people should begin. Contrary, anyone new to ayurveda should take advantage of this introductory packet and our free introductory lecture series
prior to a consultation. Consultations are best suited for: those looking for alternative treatments for disease or imbalance, those with a basic
understanding of ayurveda, and those who are looking to deepen their practice.
In shifting to an “ayurvedic lifestyle” we consider the person in her entirety, but in general we move through the following categories in the order
that they are listed. The exception to this general progression is in cases of disease and/or imbalance. In these cases, we may act more assertively to
reduce symptoms and address the cause from an ayurvedic prospective.
1. Lifestyle Practices- Adequate rest, mindfulness in eating, introspection practice, asana, abhyanga massage, self-observation, and observation
of nature. Advanced lifestyle practices include learning one’s constitution and imbalance, tailoring diet, and daily cleansing. Our yoga series
is rich with ayurvedic lifestyle skill building, application, and education.
Hamsa’s Recommendations: Free Intro to Ayurveda lecture, yoga series, advanced workshops in ayurveda, and coaching services.
2. Digestion- Maintaining healthy digestion is imperative to ayurveda. Enhancing digestion is often the first step before adopting a ‘traditional
ayurvedic diet’ which can have undesirable effects for someone with digestive abnormalities.
Hamsa’s Recommendations: Ayurvedic consultation and the ‘Intestinal Healing Course.’
3. Nutrition-Experientially mastering several important features of an ayurvedic based lifestyle such as mindfulness in eating is strongly
recommended before making individual refinements. In our experience, those who skip the fundamentals have a more difficult time staying
committed without being overwhelmed.
Hamsa’s Recommendations: Free Intro to Ayurvedic Nutrition lecture, classes, workshops, and consultation.
4. Detoxification- Many people inquire about detoxification at Hamsa. Our experience has been that mastering many of the fundamentals in
lifestyle (which is by default a detox) can greatly increase the effectiveness of any detox program.
Hamsa’s Recommendations: Free Intro to Detoxification Lecture, 4-Week Detoxification Course, ayurvedic spa treatments, and
Panchakarma
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Fundamentals of Ayurveda
Ayurveda was discovered and
developed by ancient Indian holy
men known as “Rishis.” Rishi
means ‘seer,’ and refers to one so
adept at the practice of selfi n q u i r y, t h e y a re a b l e t o
experience the subtlest
physiological shift within the self,
and the unique connection each
person has with nature. Due to
t h e i r re l a t i o n s h i p t o b o t h
spiritual and physical worlds,
they were able to discern a basic
nature of the universe, and man’s
place in it.
Ayurveda has an interesting and applicable way of understanding human nature. The elements
are used literally and metaphorically to describe processes in the body and the mind. They pair
together to form the Doshas (mind/body constitutions).
Ayurveda believes that everything is made up of five elements, or building blocks: earth, water,
fire, air and ether. Accordingly, the human being is a small model of the universe. What happens in
the human body exists in altered form in the universal body. Their properties are important in
understanding balances and imbalances in the human body. They influence one’s mental tendencies,
likes and dislikes, physical strengths and weaknesses.
Understanding one’s dosha allows practitioners to develop practices that will accentuate one’s
positive characteristics and balance one’s negative characteristics. For example, a creative personality
who is disorganized may be given routines to help with organization so that their creative visions are
more effective. A competitive person prone to anger may be advised to join a non-competitive sport.
Before delving into the doshas and attempting to identify one’s mind/body constitution it is
important to learn, and begin implementing lifestyle practices that all the constitutional types share.
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Common Lifestyle Attributes All Constitutions Share
If you are totally new to ayurveda it is important to
begin learning about the common lifestyle practices that
all the constitutions share. These fundamentals will
accelerate your progress and minimize the learning
curve.
according to the earth’s 24-hour rotation. The dinacharya
practices yogis advised thousands of years ago correspond
to the circadian rhythm cycles scientists observe today. If
we are able to align our circadian rhythm, we can
maximize our health, mental alertness, immunity,
awareness, and physical strength.
The daily lifestyle practices are collectively
referred to as "dinacharya." Dina means "day," and
acharya means "to follow." As ayurvedic practitioners,
we follow cues observed in nature with our behavior, so
that our circadian rhythm is in line with the earth’s
rotation. Ayurveda has taught that when we are out of
sync with this rhythm, disease and imbalance can
develop. Today it is known that circadian rhythm
disharmonies contribute to, and potentially cause, mood
disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder, and
physical diseases, such as heart disease, obesity,
Alzheimer’s, epilepsy, cancer, and Parkinson’s disease.
The daily routine, dinacharya, suggested by
ayurveda is a comprehensive approach to assist in the
synchronization of our circadian rhythms. It maximizes
immunity, develops a healthy body, nurtures a calm mind,
and cultivates the understanding of natural fluctuations
and daily rhythms. Dinacharya cleanses excesses on a
continual basis and is therefore, a practice of daily
detoxification.
Circadian rhythm, often referred to as "body
clock," is a term that evolved from the scientific field of
chronobiology. The circadian rhythms are the internally
driven cycles—in biochemical, physiological, or
behavioral processes—that are reset daily and move
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Five Attributes of An Ayurvedic Lifestyle
1. Sleep is the most important dinacharya practice, and one
of the most powerful detoxifying practices we can
engage in. During our sleep, we secrete melatonin, an
antioxidant. Our liver also secretes antioxidants that
powerfully cleanse and repair the body, and are believed
to be responsible for the 'second wind' many of us
experience when we stay up past 10:00 P.M.
4. Meditation. Following abhyanga, yoga, and
pranayama, the body and mind are prepared to
undertake a practice of meditation. Meditation is the
cultivation of inner silence, where daily life is
transcended and stillness is experienced as a natural
state of being. It cleanses negative thinking and clears
habitual patterns.
2.
5. Routine. Ayurveda is a big proponent of routine and
regularity. Eating at the same time every day is more
powerful at entraining important organs in the body,
such as the liver. Exercising during certain hours can
utilize when we have more energy and build more
muscle and endurance. Sleeping regularly helps the
body take full advantage of important antioxidants and
natural detoxification processes that happen when we
sleep through the night.
6.
Daily Cleansing includes practices such as having a
bowel movement, brushing teeth, showering, and
abhyanga massage. A thick white residue on the tongue
upon waking might indicate heightened toxicity in the
system or food allergies. Ayurvedic practices for daily
hygiene include cleansing the seven gates (the eyes,
ears, nose, and mouth). Abhyanga self-massage helps to
stimulate the lymphatic and digestive systems, cleansing
excess out of the tissues, lungs, and intestinal tract.
3. Yoga and Pranayama. Gentle yoga postures help to
increase prana (life force) in our body. They also aid the
detoxification process of internal organs, keep the body
flexible and full of vigor, and cleanse the nadis
(energetic channels). Most important, yoga prepares the
mind for meditation. Pranayama (breathing exercises)
are used to help control life force (prana).
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The Elements, Doshas & Gunas
The Elements
Earth- represents solid state of matter, (material) and manifests stability, fixity, and rigidity. Rocks and soil are examples of the manifestation of earth.
Our body also manifests this earth/solid state structure: muscles, mass, bones and tissues are physical structures. Earth is considered a stable substance.
Those of us who have more earth will have more mass, and give an air of groundedness.
Water- represents liquid state of matter. In the outer world we see water moving through its cycles of evaporation/clouds/condensation/rain. Our blood,
lymph and other fluids move between our cells and through our vessels, bringing energy, carrying away wastes, regulating temperature, bringing disease
fighters, and carrying hormonal information from one area to another. Those of us who have more water will have more suppleness to the tissues,
dampness and express inner tranquility.
Fire- is the transformation of things. It is a power and immaterial. With in our body the energy of the sun is the expression of Fire. It is the power of our
metabolism, the ability to transform nutrients into energy, or break down foods in our digestion. It is our ability to direct our perception, and
concentrate. Those of us who have more fire will have intensity, which expresses the desire to direct the will.
Air-represents the gaseous form of matter. It is the wind that blows the leaves. In the body, it is that which directs. It is circulation, the movement of
digestion, and the recollection of the thoughts, the breath. Those of us who have more air will be lighter physical build, and may seem otherworldly or
unpredictable.
Ether- represents the space between two points. It is the emptiness that exists between manifested objects. It holds the space for all objects and
functions. Those of us who have more ether will demonstrate elongation in the limbs or various parts of the body, and seem intuitive and silent.
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The Elements & The Doshas
The Elements
Earth- Represents solid state of matter, (material) and manifests
stability, fixity, and rigidity. Our body manifests this earth/solid
state structure: muscles, mass, bones and tissues. Those of us
who have more earth will have more mass, and give an air of
groundedness.
Water- Represents liquid state of matter. Our body manifests
water in our blood, lymph and other fluids. Those of us who
have more water will have more suppleness to the tissues,
dampness and express inner tranquility.
Fire- Represents the transformation of things. It is the power of
our metabolism, the ability to transform nutrients into energy,
perceptions into thoughts, and the ability to break down foods in
our digestion. Those of us who have more fire will have strong
digestions and will.
The Doshas
In Ayurvedic philosophy, the five elements combine into
pairs, to form three dynamic forces (interactions) called Doshas.
Dosha means, “that which changes,” because they are constantly
moving and changing in dynamic balance.
Doshas are primary life forces which govern all biological
activity, body shapes, mental attributes, drives, talents,
weaknesses, and qualities.
Every person is made up of all three Doshas in varying
proportions influencing mind, digestive strength, preferences
and repulsions.
Vata (va-ta) made of the elements ether and air.
Pitta (pit-ta) made of the elements water and fire.
Air-Represents the gaseous form of matter. In the body, it is
that which directs: circulation, the recollection of thoughts, and
the breath. Those of us who have more air will be lighter, and
may seem otherworldly or unpredictable.
Kapha (ka-fa) made of the elements earth and water.
Ether- Represents the space between two points. It holds the
space for all objects and functions. Those of us who have more
ether will demonstrate elongation in the limbs or various parts
of the body, and be intuitive or silent.
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The Gunas: Sattva, Rajas & Tamsa
The Gunas: Sattva, Rajas and Tamas
Guna means quality, and in this context we are talking about three different qualities in the mind. Each of us has a gunic quality that
predominates called sattva, rajas or tamas. The Doshas and gunas are used together to describe individual nature (prakruti) as well as present
imbalance (vikruti).
The Gunas are just as important as the Doshas when thinking of lifestyle enhancements, and while contemplating deeper ways to understand
our self and our needs.
What Your Guna Says About You
It is important to touch base and assess the quality of our mind on a daily basis. Right now you can begin by asking how you feel today, and what
you are thinking about. Are you agitated? Foggy? Distracted? Look at the foods you have been eating and the activities you have recently been
participating in. Have they been generating higher thinking of clarity and strength? Or, were they fostering laziness and indulgence? What is the
actual quality of your thoughts?
Guna Test
This is a test created by Dr. David Frawley, to help you evaluate your prominent gunic quality.
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Put a check to all that apply, add up
each column, and tally at the end.
DRUGS, ALCOHOL AND STIMULANTS:
DEPRESSION:
TRUTHFULNESS:
Never____Occasionally___Frequently___
Never___Sometimes____Frequently____
SENSORY IMPRESSIONS:
Always___Most of the Time____Rarely_____
LOVE:
Calm, pure___Mixed____Disturbed_____
Universal____Personal____Lacking in
love___
NEED FOR SLEEP:
Little____Moderate_____High_____
SEXUAL ACTIVITY:
Low____Moderate___High____
CLEANLINESS:
High___Moderate____Low______
WORK:
Selfless___For personal goals____Lazy____
ANGER:
Rarely___Sometimes____Frequently__
FEAR:
Rarely__Sometimes___Frequently____
DESIRE:
VIOLENT BEHAVIOR:
Never___Sometimes____Frequently____
ATTACHMENT TO MONEY:
Little___Some____A lot_____
CONTENTMENT:
Usually___Partly____Never____
Always___Most of the Time___Rarely____
PEACE OF MIND:
Generally__Partly____Rarely_____
CREATIVITY:
High____Moderate____Low_____
FORGIVENESS:
Easily____With effort___Holds
MEDITATION OR STRESS REDUCTION:
grudges____
Daily____Occasionally___Never____
CONCENTRATION:
Good____Moderate_____Poor_____
MEMORY:
SERVICE:
Much_____Some_____None_____
Little____Frequent_____Excessive____
Good____Moderate____Poor____
PRIDE:
WILL POWER:
Modest___Some Ego___Vain____
HONESTY:
Strong___Variable____Weak______
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TOTAL:
Sattva_____Rajas_____Tamas____
Explanation of The Gunas
According to Ayurvedic literature, the inherent quality (guna) of our mind is created during the third month we are
inside our mother’s womb. It is directly influenced by what she was experiencing at that time, her moods and
feelings, the foods she was eating, and the environment she was living in. This does not mean that the inherent state
of our mind cannot change over time. Influences in our child hood and choices we make as adults can certainly
shift the quality of our mind.
Sattva (goodness):
Rajas (passion):
Tamas (ignorance):
Sattva is the feel good state of mind. It makes
a person balanced, illuminated, caring,
content, and willing to learn. It is life
supporting in every way. Sattva can be
increased through education, the fulfillment of
dharma, devotion, and selfless service.
Sattva can also be increased by eating
sattvic foods: fresh, wholesome, organic,
modest, help support digestion, in accordance
with the season, fruits, lightly steamed and
spiced vegetables, grains and legumes.
Adequate sleep and rest balanced with work
and activity will increase sattva, as well as
surrounding oneself with sattvic people.
Rajas is activity and desire. It is the mental
state that propels one into action toward
achieving a goal. Even the goals we socially
consider noble take a bit of Rajas to be
acquired. Rajasic minds are never satisfied.
Where one goal, craving, desire is satisfied
another takes its place. It is concerned with
status, success and fame. It seldom allows
rest, and is almost always preoccupied with
the next advancement, activity, or thing to
complete. Rajas is the desire to keep busy,
and the need to feel that we are continually
achieving, or acquiring more.
We increase rajas when we compete,
control, drink caffeine and use stimulants, stay
up late into the night, excessively work, eat a
lot of spicy foods, over heat, foster anger and
fighting. and respectful toward all sentient
beings.
Tamas is the mental quality of addiction, lack
of will, gluttony, and inertia. People who
possess Tamasic minds are lazy and often feel
or act helpless. They have forgotten or not
realized themselves as creators. They blame
others for their short- coming, make up an
answer before admitting they don’t know,
refuse to learn, sleep often, eat and drink to
much. They feel tired and lethargic all the
time. They want to lie on the coach, and have
difficulty starting or completing tasks. They
feel like they are trapped in a fog.
We increase tamas when we live a
sedentary lifestyle, sleep too much, eat old,
stale, fried, or frozen foods. Tamas can also
be increased by a lack of direction in life, or
will, or not knowing one’s purpose or
believing one is possible. Lack of exercise,
ambition, depression, laying around, excessive
diary consumption, will increase tamas.
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Identifying Your Constitution & Current Imbalance
Doshic quizzes have a place, but do not rely on them too heavily. If you take multiple quizzes, you will likely get multiple answers depending on
what questions were asked. The quizzes help us learn the qualities of each dosha, and can indirectly teach us how to identify those qualities in our self.
This can be very helpful to determine and observe our constitution.
What is Your Prakruti (Birth Constitution) & Vikruti (Present Constitution)?
An important note about how to answer the quizes.
Prakruti is your birth constitution and does not change. It determines you natural tendencies in mind and body. Ayurvedic lifestyle practices
work to accentuate the positive characteristics and reduce the weaknesses inherent in each doshic combination. When answering the questions in the
prakruti quiz think of the answer that best describes how you have been most your life. If there has been a shift in appearance, body weight, mental
attitude, or the manifestation of disease, it could indicate imbalance.
Life experiences, tragedies, traumas, inappropriate food choices, and lifestyle can all work to cause imbalance. Childhood abuse, especially sexual
abuse, can greatly vitiate vata dosha, causing someone to appear to be a vata type throughout the course of her life. A vata type who adopts a pitta
lifestyle of intense concentration and focus on finances might appear pitta, and one who chooses to eat the Standard American Diet (SAD) might
accumulate excess weight and appear kapha.
Answer the questions for the vikruti quiz relative to the last six months of your life, or if you recall that it was something that developed but
seemed contrary to whom you had always been. For example, a 40-year-old woman tended toward a stable weight until age 30 when she started to gain
weight, now has difficulty losing the excess pounds.
Ascertaining your inherent nature can be tricky business, no doubt. Getting feedback from your parents regarding what you were like as a child
may help. It can also help to talk to a friend who is able to give you an objective opinion of yourself. Whenever possible, consult with a qualified
ayurvedic practitioner.
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Prakruti Quiz
Choose those that apply to who you have been most of your life.
Vata Prakruti
Pitta Prakruti
Kapha Prakruti
() I embark on activity very quickly.
() I don't gain weight easily.
() My energy levels noticeably fluctuate.
() I have variable digestion.
() I struggle with constipation.
() I have many unfinished tasks.
() I am full of creative ideas.
() I forget to carry things I need.
() My joints crack and pop.
() I tend to have difficulty making decisions.
() I frequently become anxious or worried.
() I am easily excitable.
() My sexual interest fluctuates.
() My skin tends and hair to be very dry.
() My moods change easily.
() I consider myself to be very effective.
() I have a hard time letting people do things.
() I do not like the heat.
() I am prone to acne and breakouts.
() When I eat spicy foods my digestion suffers.
() I am irritated by others on a daily basis.
() I like to be in leadership positions.
() I am well organized and detail oriented.
() If I skip a meal, I will get irritated.
() I become impatient very easily.
() People consider me stubborn.
() I tend to perspire easily.
() I am very regular in my bowel habits.
() I am structured and like routine.
() I get angry easily, but then I forget about it.
() I have a gentle and sweet disposition.
() I tend to want to safeguard others.
() I have a taste for luxury
() I crave sweets.
() When I am stressed, I feel tired.
() I gain weight easily.
() When I am stressed, I tend to eat.
() I can feel foggy headed and depressed.
() I am slow to make commitments.
() My body frame is broad.
() I tend to do things in a relaxed manner.
() I am calm by nature and not easily angered.
() I like to sleep more than most people.
() I work well with a good routine.
() I am slow and methodical in my activities.
Total Vata Prakruti Score:
Total Pitta Prakruti Score:
Total Kapha Prakruti Score:
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Vikruti Quiz
Choose those tht describe recent or sudden unresolved changes in your life.
Vata Vikruti
Pitta Vikruti
Kapha Vikruti
() I became underweight.
() I have a nervous tremor.
() I noticed my spine has become crooked.
() I have bad circulation.
() I developed tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
() My nose and sinuses are dry.
() My lips are dry.
() My mouth often is dry.
() I have had lots of cavities.
() My appetite has become variable.
() People have told me that I look thin.
() I’ve been stuttering a lot.
() It is difficult for me to sleep.
() I feel nervous around people.
() I could daydream all day long.
() My joints feel inflamed.
() My muscles are sore.
() I’ve been getting acne, rashes, or pimples.
() I get frequent ear infections.
() I have sores inside my nose.
() My lips are red and irritated.
() My gums bleed easily.
() My teeth tend to become yellow.
() I feel very hungry around mealtimes.
() My stomach has a burning sensation in it.
() I have loose stools.
() I feel aggressive and angry lately.
() My upper shoulders hurt and feel inflamed.
() It is difficult for me to put aside my work.
() I have been working like crazy.
() I gained a lot of weight and I cannot lose it.
() I feel swollen, as if I am filled with water.
() I recently slipped a disc in my back.
() I have pale skin in relationship to my race.
() My lymph system feels congested.
() I am getting discharge out of my ears.
() My lungs are congested.
() My eyes are sticky.
() I have a lot of mucus and congestion.
() I’ve got a small appetite.
() My food just seems to digest slowly.
() My metabolism must have slowed down.
() I get a lot of allergies.
() I can’t let go of how that person hurt me.
() I don’t want to share my earnings.
Total Vata Vikruti Score:
Total Pitta Vikruti Score:
Total Kapha Vikruti Score:
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The Doshas Explained In Detail
Vata (air & ether)
Temperament: Vatas are highly creative and can receive vast amounts of insight, and can be the visionary behind any business. They usually come in
two types: one who is a chatterbox, and loves to talk (possibly interruptive or not quite there when it comes time to listen), or they can be the absentminded professor, more of an introvert or seemingly with their heads in the clouds (in the space of air and ether). Regardless of which type they are,
they most definitely are dreamers and artists in their own right. Naturally connected to spiritual affairs, they can bend toward the occult or mystical.
They are also usually quite impulsive and save money poorly spending it on trifles.
Physical Appearance: Vatas are often lanky and long, or shorter than average. Typically they have difficulty maintaining an average weight, though
another vata symptom is fluctuating weight. They can be very short or very tall, seldom are they average in stature, and there is usually some
irregularity to their proportions: very long or short legs, a long torso, abnormal rib cage, long spine, short arms. Vatas also tend to have bad teeth that
are very crooked. They are prone to have dry, coarse hair and brittle nails. Their skin tends to be darker for their race. They have small, thin features.
Vata Imbalance Symptoms: constipation, bloating, indigestion, lack of energy, emaciation or fluctuating weight, flatulence, fear, anxiety attacks,
indecisiveness and aimless talking. A.D.D. symptoms. Dry hair, nails, and skin. Inability to sit still for long periods of time, forgetfulness, lack of
concentration, poor follow-through. Lack of appetite and blood sugar imbalances. Speech problems such as stuttering, or difficulty recalling events,
people or places. Sleep problems such as insomnia caused by worry and fear, and difficulty staying asleep. Spending money erratically on trifles. If
they become sick, pain and nervous disorders are likely. They might also go into periods of anti-social behavior, or become the lone wolf. In
confrontations they will run scared.
Causes of Vata Imbalance: Excessive travel and lack of routine, excessive sugar, cold weather and wind, loud noise, and multi-tasking. Dietary factors
include cold drinks, dry fruits, raw vegetables, or food that is light, rough and dry such as chips and toasted flat breads. Irregular eating habits will
easily aggravate Vata. Emotional stress such as worry or fear cause great anxiety for Vata, as will anything that threatens their day-to-day security (this
includes fasting and excessive dieting will usually backfire).
Lessons: Vatas are often very creative, and have many great ideas, innovations, and things they want to do. The problem for them can be poor followthrough, and starting many tasks, while leaving many unfinished. It can be helpful for them to utilize sources to help them stay on task. Life coaches,
business coaches, and therapists who can help them with organization are very good for vatas. If they can learn how to stick with the things they start
they have the capacity to be very successful.
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Meditation can be very useful for vatas, especially those who suffer from hyperactivity. When vata-types get excited or to focused on the future they
usually leave a funny trail behind them: open doors and windows, lights left on, and forgotten bills. Some vatas can be quite interruptive or have poor
listening skills, blurting out what they think when they think it. Meditation and mindfulness techniques can help them to get more grounded and in
touch with the present moment. If they can work on staying truly connected to themselves more often, they are better able to handle the details.
Quite often, vatas are sensitive to the energy of others. They can pick up on others emotions and feelings quite easily, and even allow it to rub off. They
are also very sensitive to electromagnetic energy, dry cold and wind. This makes living in city environments with winter seasons particularly difficult
for their sensitive natures. It is important that they get adequate rest and allow themselves to recharge.
Self-massage (abhyanga) is truly a gift for vata types. It can help to guard their internal energy, helping them to sleep during bouts of insomnia, and
encouraging proper digestion when dry constipation is an issue.
Vata Tips
Incorporate routine. Do one thing the same way every day; ideally, this would be your meditation or spiritual practice. Utilize goal lists and
organizational skills. Give yourself a daily abhyanga massage. Make sure home is a safe place. At the very least, create a designated space for you in
your living situation. Keep your hips and low back warm at all times. Understand that things can be mundane for a while. Relationships and jobs have
lulls. The fruits are usually not far from periods of what may be experienced as inertia.
The Vata Mind And Gunic Influences
Vata dosha persons are creative, outgoing, playful, cheerful, and adaptable. They are changeable, unpredictable, and inconsistent. They dislike routine
though it may be one of the best things for them. They have to learn how to be organized, and to complete the things they start. When Vata Doshas are
stressed they worry, get nervous, fearful and giddy. Occasionally they may become withdrawn, and emotionally shut down. In general, Vatas do not
make good leaders or good followers, as there ever-changing nature is to unpredictable.
Sattvic influence creates comprehension, empathy, illumination, need for unity and healing, creates a positive mental outlook. With sattvic influence,
vata knows how to channel and direct ideas appropriately toward completion.
Rajasic influence creates extreme indecisiveness, unreliability, a.d.d. symptoms, hyperactivity, insomnia, and anxiety. Rajasic vatas will be constantly
moving, interrupting, talking out and misplacing things. They will jump from task to task.
Tamasic influence creates fear, a servile attitude, dishonesty, depression, self-destructiveness, addictive behavior, sexual promiscuity, or suicidal
thoughts. Alienation, lone wolf, head in the clouds.
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Pitta (water & fire)
Temperament: Typical pittas are ambitious go-getters. They love to work, compete and acquire. They are natural born leaders, and are extremely
organized, detail oriented, business minded and politically inclined. They love to learn and improve the quality of their lives. They have strong
intellects, and retain information well. If they are less self-aware, pittas can become quite critical of themselves and others. They can fall into traps of
arrogance believing that they know better than the rest. At their worst, they can be quite tyrannical, controlling, and driven. When imbalanced they will
work excessively, often not allowing rest until they are sick or simply burnt out.
Physical appearance: Pitta types are medium build and proportional throughout their physic. They build muscle easily, can gain weight with excessive
eating, and lose it with appropriate exercise. They gain weight evenly over their whole bodies. They have sharp, penetrating eyes, and fair skin and
light hair in comparison to their race. Pittas often get creases in their foreheads from crossing their eyebrows in concentration.
Symptoms of Imbalance: Pittas usually suffer heat related symptoms such as: acne, boils, blisters, heat related eczema, rashes, eruptions, oily skin and
hair, quick digestion, diarrhea, irritability, quick temper, desire to control, cravings for cold food and drinks, liver issues, alcoholism, caffeine addiction,
workaholics, judgment, arrogance, migraine headache, sore throat. In confrontations they will fight.
Causes of Imbalance: caffeine, alcohol, hot, spicy foods, excessive exercise, long exposure to the sun, working late until the night, inability to rest,
excessive competition, conflicts, revenge and arguing.
Lessons: Many pitta-types need to learn to cool it a little. They love to work, but it can become so excessive they become addicted to it, and their
relationships suffer. It is important for them to take advantage of their organizational abilities by planning at least one leisure activity a week.
Often, pittas need to learn to delegate responsibilities out to others better, which can be difficult for them since they tend toward controlling. Ultimately
proper delegation lends itself to the cultivation of faith in the greater picture. If pitta gets to high, they can be very arrogant with their ideas, not
allowing others perspectives to be appreciated or regarded as viable alternatives. If they can forgive their own shortcomings without striving for an
impossible perfectionism, they will help others feel more appreciated and eager to help out.
Meditation is good for keeping pitta calm. It is important that they find a qualified teacher to explain meditation, how it works, and why it will benefit
them, since many pittas will perceive meditation as “doing nothing” and a real waist of their time. If their intellectual curiosity is satisfied with an
adequate explanation of how the mind works, and how meditation helps, they might be inspired to practice on their own. Never try to coerce a pitta type
into doing something she doesn’t believe in though, because they do not like being told what do, and are most motivated by their own ideas.
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Pitta Types
Tithe anonymously to generate a giving spirit. Observe those things you have, but did not have to earn or buy, and practice gratitude toward them.
Resist the urge to 'pay it back.' Practice non-competitive sport. Focus on an intellectual pursuit with an uplifting philosophy or spiritual study. Delegate
responsibilities. Trust that you do not have to oversee everything. Do not critique others because they think differently than you.
The Pitta Mind
When Pitta dosha individuals are healthy and balanced they are goal oriented, powerful, warm and athletic. They make great leaders, caretakers, and
teachers. They are able to see the bigger picture, and can plan for the things to come. When Pitta Doshas are imbalanced, they get burnt out, angry,
impatient, irritable, and overly critical. Pittas can become controlling and want to dominate the outcome of every situation.
Sattvic influence creates clarity, intelligence, leadership, guidance, warmth, and independence.
Rajasic influence creates willfulness, ambition, anger, criticism, competition, materialism, manipulation, vanity, impulsiveness, and aggressiveness.
Tamasic influence creates vindictiveness, alcoholism, abuse, violence, hate, criminality, and psychopathic behavior.
Kapha (water & earth)
Temperament: Kaphas can be the sweetest among us. They can be loving, maternal, devoted friends and mates. They are slow to go, seldom in a
hurry, and love to lounge around. They are mindful about money, generally like to save, acquire and collect things. They are slower learners, but once
they know something they will not forget it. If they are less self-aware, they will not forget the misdoings of others and it can take them quite some time
to forgive someone. Holding on is one of their lesser attributes, this goes for experiences that have happened in the past, and material possessions that
no longer serve. The inability to let go of emotional hurts can manifest as excess weight. If kapha is significantly out of balance, there can be deepseated greed, and an infatuation with collectibles that surpasses emotional relationships with others. In the face of confrontation, many kaphas will
become self-protective by reacting indifferent.
Physical appearance: Kaphas usually have large, beautiful eyes. Thick, lustrous hair, strong nails, and round noses. They were the epitome of beauty
during the Vedic era. Today, kapha types are regarded as being curvaceous or possibly overweight. If they are not heavy, they will express the quality of
earth and water somehow in their physic. This could be in a stout stature: short fingers and neck, broad shoulders, large head. Kaphas can be quite
strong, or voluptuous. Think of a wrestlers build, this is very kapha
Symptoms of Imbalance: lethargy, depression, weight gain, craving for sweets, laziness, water retention, excessive sleep, coach potato, cloudy
thinking, greediness, resentment, strong attachments to the past, excessive mucous in the digestive tract, slow digestion, mucus in the lungs and sinuses,
cold and clammy skin.
Causes of Imbalance: excessive eating sweet, cold items like ice cream, yogurt, and soft cheeses, as well as fried foods. Eating the standard American
diet will provoke kapha. Not talking things out and avoiding confrontation. Watching too much TV. and lack of exercise.
Lessons & Practices: Very simply kaphas often lack motivation. Unlike vatas who put their energy into several different channels at once, and leave a
trail of unfinished business behind them, kaphas just have trouble getting started. They easily can slip into laziness or fears of trying something new.
Once they do make a commitment to something though, their loyalty kicks in and they do not tire easily. This is why making commitments from an
emotional level can serve them. For example, making a commitment to working out with a friend can do a lot to keep them active. The trouble is
getting them to commit in the first place!
Lethargy, sleepiness, and fatigue can keep kaphas in bed or on the couch. It is important that they get vigorous exercise first thing in the morning. Dry
brushing the skin in the morning can help to stimulate the lymphatic system.
Kaphas can gain weight just by looking at food. They have slow metabolisms, so the standard three squares a day is probably to much for them. Fasting
in the morning on teas or vegetable juices can be great for kaphas. Using an array of spices in their foods can help encourage metabolism.
Letting go of old hurts is important for kapha. They like to collect things, including both material things and emotional experiences. Cleaning out the
closets at least once a year is very good for kapha. Metaphorically it can be an experience of letting go of things that no longer serve them, and give
them the freedom to do this in other areas of their lives. Excess weight can sometimes be an attribute to not letting go of emotional experiences.
Kapha Tips
Do not sleep late. In the morning, do cardiovascular exercise or go for a brisk walk. Take stimulating herbs, such as black pepper, ginger, and
cayenne pepper. Practice meditations that help to release the past. Engage in spring cleaning: rid the home of anything that’s not been used in a year or
more and throw away useless mementoes. Make commitments for activity (e.g., running club, dancing group, bicycling tours). Communicate feelings
regularly.
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The Kapha Mind
When Kapha dosha persons are healthy they are strong and loyal. They make committed friends and lovers. They learn a bit slower than the rest, but
they never forget once they’ve gotten it. They can be very business savvy. They will stick to things to the end when they’ve made the commitment.
They can be quite wise with investments. They are very maternal and loving in their dealings with other people. Imbalanced Kapha Doshas become
lethargic, hoarding and overly materialistic.
Sattvic influence creates calmness, peace, love, compassion, faith, nurturing and forgiveness.
Rajasic influence creates greed for money, material luxuries, obsession of others, and comfort. They are overly sentimental, controlling, attached and
lustful.
Tamasic influences create dullness, sloth, lethargy, depression, lack of care and a tendency to steal, they might think they know everything and show a
refusal to learn or try anything new.
Section Questions
Before Moving Forward, answer the following questions.
1.What is your dominant guna (mental constitution)?
2.What is your prakruti (constitution at birth)?
3.What is your vikruti (constitution at present)?
4. What are some ayurvedic lifestyle strategies that can help you?
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