Vata dosha

Vata is one of the 3 doshas in Ayurveda. It is made up of the Space and Air mahabhuta (element). It is also called Vayu.

Vata is responsible for all movements in the body. This includes not only locomotion such as walking, running etc. but also movement that occurs internally such as peristalsis of food through our gastrointestinal tract. It also brings about the transmission of electrical impulses in the nervous system. The excretory movement of urine, stools, menstrual fluid and semen are also controlled by Vata dosha. Movements of thoughts and emotions are also under the control of Vata.

An individual with a Vata dominant prakruti will have both physical and emotional features that resemble the qualities of Vata. What are some of the qualities of Vata? Vata is cold, mobile, dry, light and rough. So a Vata person will have cold skin, and extremities. Skin and hair can also be dry. They are very mobile individuals; they like to move about and find sitting still to be difficult. They are usually slender framed with difficulty in gaining weight.

Their strengths include a creative and imaginative nature with the capacity to solve problems “outside the box”. They are very sensitive and develop their spirituality naturally. They are flexible and quick in their body and mind.

On the down side, their active mind predisposes them to agitation and anxiety. They are quick to learn but may also forget quickly. Physically they are prone to dry skin and hair, along with digestive issues such as feeling gassy, bloated and constipated.

These can get aggravated by a lot of factors both external and internal. A cold, dry environment (like sitting directly in front

of a A/C vent) inadequate intake of water will further increase the Vata in their body. From a diet point of view, eating cold, dry foods that are raw (such as salads) will also be aggravating to Vata individuals. Seasons, particularly a cool and windy fall can bring out issues in the Vata person.

Some of the common diseases that have a Vata origin are osteoarthritis, sciatica, nervous system disorders like stroke, Bell’s palsy.

A proper daily routine (dinacharya) and a thoughtful seasonal routine (ritucharya) can help keep one’s Vata in balance. Attention to one’s diet and lifestyle can help keep the Vata healthy and balanced.

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