Understanding Body Type as per Ayurveda
Before understanding the body type (Body constitution) It is crucial to understand the qualitative nature of Kapha, Vata, and Pitta Doshas.
- Vata consists mostly of the two elements air and space ( ether) and is generally described as cold, light, dry, rough, flowing, and spacious. Autumn represents Vata for its cool, crisp days.
- Pitta is based on fire and water. It’s commonly described as hot, light, sharp, oily, liquid, and mobile. Summer is known as pitta season for its sunny, hot days.
- Kapha is based on earth and water. It can be described as stable, heavy, slow, smooth, cold, oily, soft and cloudy. Spring is known as kapha season, as many parts of the world slowly exit hibernation.
As per the qualitative nature of the Doshas, Ayurveda body types can be defined. This is the body constitution of an individual that is decided based on the predominant Dosha. Each body type has a specific body constitution according to dominant Doshas. There are mainly three Ayurvedic body types – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
1. Vata Body Type :
People with Vata body type are usually slim and energetic. They are usually creative individuals and can think out of the box. Their mood can often be influenced by the weather, as well as the food taken by them. The following are some of the powerful qualities for people having Vata type body:
Strength:
- Naturally Slim
- Quick learner
- Creative mind
- Multitasker
- Kind-hearted
- Flexible
Weakness:
- Susceptible to anxiety
- Sensitive to the cold weather
- prone to digestive issues and gas
- Poor blood circulation (Cold hands and feet)
- Irregular Appetite and digestive concerns.
- Sleep concerns
2. Pitta body Type
These are known as athletic individuals who are usually well-built. They have good leadership abilities, highly motivated, goal-oriented and may appear aggressive by nature. The followings are some powerful qualities of pitta body type people.
Strength:
- Intelligent
- Quick learners
- Motivated and goal-oriented
- Strong leadership qualities
- Good circulatory system
- good metabolism
- Healthy skin and hair
- Determined and tenacious
Weakness:
- Lack of patience
- May get into conflicts quickly
- Mood swings when hungry
- Sensitive to hot weather
- A common health concern faced is acne & inflammation
- sensitive to hot weather (high temperature)
3. Kapha Body Type :
People with Kapha dosha are described as grounded and more stable. These are powerful individuals and caring by nature. Kapha-dominant people rarely get upset, think before acting, and go through life in a slow, deliberate manner They are usually known for keeping things together and being a support system for others.
Strength:
- Caring in nature and showing empathy
- Trust others
- Calm, composed, and patient
- Happy
- Wise and mature
- Strong bones and joints
- Immunity is usually strong
Weakness:
- slow metabolism which makes them sluggish
- Prone to weight gain
- Tend to oversleeping
- Prone to developing respiratory concerns
- Higher risk of heart diseases
- mucus buildup
- susceptible to depression
- Needs regular motivation and encouragement
In addition to the three Ayurveda body types mentioned, there are other Vata-Pitta, Pitta-Vata, Pitta-Kapha, Kapha-Pitta, etc. body types. When more than one Dosha is predominant, the combination happens. The qualities of body type in Ayurveda are also a combination of two different types.
One more body type known as Tridoshic body type, in which all three Doshas are entirely balanced, is another Ayurvedic body type. This body type is often stable and in excellent health. The three Doshas’ opposing forces balance one another, promoting good health.
