Know Your Dosha According to Ayurveda, each of us is a combination of three doshas, or energy archetypes, which determine both our physical and emotional health. Making lifestyle choices that help balance your dominant dosha or doshas (many people are a combination of two) will help boost your ojas. See below for some of the main principles of each dosha. For a thorough analysis, consult a trained Ayurvedic practitioner.
Vata Associated with the air element, vata types are generally thin, very active, and talkative -- and they get cold easily. When in balance, they're creative, joyful, and open-minded.
Symptoms of Imbalance Constipation, anxiety, insomnia, lower-back pain
Aggravating Influences Cold or raw food, cold weather, traveling
Balancing Influences Warm weather and food, sticking to routines, warming spices
Pitta Ruled by the fire principle, pitta types have a tendency to overheat. They're often orderly and driven, with medium frames, strong digestion, bright eyes, and rosy skin.
Symptoms of Imbalance Impatience, anger, inflammation, acid reflux/heartburn
Aggravating Influences Hot weather, spicy and sour foods, excessive salt or oil
Balancing Influences Cooling foods and drinks, mild or cool weather
Kapha Associated with water and earth, kaphas often have a large, sturdy build and smooth skin. Cautious and calm by nature, kaphas like routine and tend to be very loyal.
Symptoms of Imbalance Fatigue, weight gain, depression, sinus problems, water retention, greed
Aggravating Influences Heavy and sweet foods, wet weather, being sedentary
Minding Your Ojas Ojas Accumulators Sound sleep Gentle exercise Room-temperature water Fresh fruits and vegetables Massage Honesty Being in nature Forgiveness; releasing anger Meditation Connecting with a higher cause Organic milk, ghee, almonds, and honey
Ojas Detractors Processed food Anxiety and worry Working too much Too much TV Over-exercising Lack of sleep Leftover food Alcohol Smoking Caffeine Dishonesty Too much sex
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