Connect with health consciousness- understanding the three Ayurveda principle energies of the body

Ayurveda identifies three basic types of energy or functional principles that are present in everyone and everything known as DOSHA. The doshas are made of five elements. Ether, air, fire, water and earth. They are the basic blocks of all that’s happening around and within us.

Since there are no single words in English that can convey these concepts, we use the original Sanskrit words for the three doshas as VATA, PITTA and KAPHA and in my opinion, perhaps there’s no need to translate.  These principles can be related to the basic biology of the body. Dosha means “which can get imbalance.” So time and time these energies can go out of balance due to several factors and if left unattended can cause disorders and diseases at all three levels of human existence which is mind, body and spirit.

Ayurveda defines us in three body (constitution) types, based on the five elements (ether, air, fire, water, earth). We are all made up of the five elements, thus we all have all three doshas present in our physical and mental body. However, the proportions of doshas and qualities vary from person to person, making us all unique

Qualities & elements of Doshas

According to Ayurveda, our dominant dosha helps to determine the healthiest lifestyle choices for our unique body. Ayurveda suggests that a good nutrition starts from eating fresh, properly prepared foods. Through Dinacharya (daily routines) and Ritucharya (seasonal routines), Ayurveda defines how human beings relate to the natural cycles arising from our planet. By following a routine appropriate to the time of day, night, or season; Ayurveda teaches that human beings can enjoy good health by flowing natural cycles. Our emotional ill-health is caused by lack of coordination between an individual's senses, emotions and thoughts. In Ayurveda the heart and mind are intimately connected, the heart is considered the "seat" of consciousness.

Ayurveda is the soulful practice of self awareness, self reflection and self care. This time honored system is often helpful in the journey towards self-awareness, growth and change, offering a fully holistic look. Doshas are a central element of Ayurveda and the basis of what makes it such a personalized approach to health. By understanding your  dosha and creating a lifestyle accordingly, you’ll enjoy a healthier, more balanced life.