The Three Types of Dosha

Ayurveda is the ancient medical system of India. In the texts of this system, it is described that the body of a human being is composed of different element combinations also known by the term dosha.

There are 5 elements that compose a single dosha. These elements are the following: fire, water, air, ether, and earth. Different combinations of these 5 elements form the 3 dosha of the Ayurveda: Kapha (combination of earth and water), Pitta (combination of water and fire), Vata (combination of ether and air).

A person is born with a predominant dosha and this will determine his/ her physical trait as well as his/ her characteristics. Each of the dosha has its own determining factors.

Kapha Dosha

Physically speaking, people with Kapha tend to be heavily built and have large frames. This is due to the belief that water and earth are heavy elements. They are usually predisposed to have larger proportions and padded joints. They have thick, dark colored (usually black or brown), and wavy hair. Their skin is smooth that may lean towards being oily. An imbalance in Kapha could lead to being overweight. It may also cause the body to weaken and be lethargic.

As for the characteristic, people belonging to the Kapha Dosha are calm in thoughts and in words. They are sympathetic, easy going and pleasant to be with. They are also thought to be very loyal.

An out of balance Kapha can lead to depression, and sluggishness in thought. Imbalances however can easily be counteracted.

Pitta Dosha

Pitta Dosha, a combination of water and fire, are naturally born hot and can easily overheat. They can be described as persons who are strong, courageous, driven, and determined. When Pitta is out of balance, they usually suffer from ailments related to heat like fever, acidity, colitis, inflammation, and ulcers. Out of balance Pitta may also cause unsolicited competitiveness and aggressiveness.

Counteracting the out of balance Pitta can be done through yoga practice and meditation. This is to cool down the mental state, aggressiveness and irritability of the hot Pitta Dosha.

Physically, they can be called medium in build. They are neither heavy nor petite. They are also believed to have warm skin and thinning hair. People leaning towards Pitta Dosha are known to be ambitious and goal oriented.

Pitta Dosha are also believed to be moderate sleepers and are inclined to favor cool environments.

Vata Dosha

Vata Dosha, a combination of ether and air, are thinly built. They possess prominent joints and slender frames. Their skin is naturally dry and they have thinning hair.

Among the three dosha, they are known to be the most active, quick and light in thought. People inclined to Vata Dosha also make friends quite easily.

Imbalances can also occur to people with Vata Dosha. This can be done through regular exercise and proper diet. The environment can also play a big role in avoiding the Vata to go out of balance.