About your mind-body type
In Ayurveda, three doshas are present in everyone to some degree. How they appear, and in what proportion, is what makes each person unique. Usually one or two doshas predominate, dictating your tendencies in mind and body.
The three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—are believed to govern various mind-body characteristics. Here's a matrix outlining key attributes associated with each dosha:
It's important to note that while individuals are often dominant in one dosha, everyone has a unique combination of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha qualities. Ayurveda emphasizes maintaining a balance among these doshas for overall well-being.
| Characteristics | Vata | Pitta | Kapha |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Mind
Characteristics |
Creative, imaginative |
Sharp intellect, focused |
Calm, steady, nurturing |
|
Emotional Traits |
Anxious, airy emotions |
Intense, passionate |
Patient, affectionate |
|
Physical Build |
Slim, slender |
Medium, muscular |
Stocky, well-built |
|
Digestive Pattern |
Irregular, variable |
Strong, efficient |
Slow, steady |
|
Energy Levels |
Variable, bursts of
energy |
Consistent energy flow |
Stable, enduring energy |
|
Sleep Patterns |
Light, may have
insomnia |
Moderate, sound sleep |
Deep, prolonged sleep |
|
Skin Type |
Dry, prone to
roughness
|
Sensitive, prone to
rashes |
Smooth, oily
complexion |
|
Hair Type |
Dry, frizzy |
Straight, fine |
Thick, wavy |
|
Appetite |
Variable, erratic |
Strong, intense |
Steady, moderate |
|
Response to Stress |
Anxiety, fear |
Irritability, anger |
Complacency,
withdrawal |
|
Climate Preference |
Warm, avoids cold |
Moderate, dislikes heat |
Warm, dislikes cold |
About your mind-body imbalance type
In Ayurveda, imbalances or disturbances in the doshas are referred to as Vikriti. Here's a matrix outlining key characteristics associated with imbalances in each dosha:
| Imbalance Characteristics | Vata | Pitta | Kapha |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Mind Imbalance Traits
|
Anxiety, fear,
restlessness |
Irritability,
aggression |
Attachment, lethargy |
|
Emotional Disturbances |
Nervousness,
insecurity |
Frustration,
impatience |
Possessiveness,
depression |
|
Physical Symptoms
|
Dry skin,
constipation |
Inflammation, acidity |
Congestion, weight
gain |
|
Digestive Issues |
Gas, bloating,
irregularity |
Heartburn,
indigestion |
Slow digestion,
heaviness
|
|
Energy Fluctuations |
Fatigue,
unpredictable |
Burnout, excessive
heat |
Sluggishness, lethargy |
|
Sleep |
Insomnia,
disturbed sleep |
Sleeplessness,
overheating
|
Excessive sleep,
heaviness
|
|
Skin and Hair Issues |
Dryness, brittle
hair |
Inflammation,
sensitive skin |
Oiliness, excessive
hair |
|
Appetite Changes |
Variable, erratic |
Intense, increased
hunger |
Reduced, sluggish
digestion |
|
Response to Stress
|
Escapism,
avoidance |
Aggressiveness,
confrontation |
Withdrawal,
emotional eating |
|
Climate Discomfort |
Intolerance to cold |
Intolerance to heat |
Discomfort in damp
conditions |