The Three Doshas

Vata · Pitta · Kapha

Ayurveda teaches that everything in the universe — including us — is composed of five elements combined into three biological energies called doshas. Understanding your unique blend is the first step toward lasting balance.

Vata
Air + Space
Quality

Cold, dry, light, mobile, subtle

Traits

Creative, quick-thinking, enthusiastic. When balanced: adaptable and inspired. When imbalanced: anxious, restless, dry skin, insomnia.

Balance with

Warmth, routine, oil massage (abhyanga), grounding foods, slow yoga.

Pitta
Fire + Water
Quality

Hot, sharp, light, oily, penetrating

Traits

Focused, driven, intelligent. When balanced: courageous leaders. When imbalanced: irritability, inflammation, acidity, skin rashes.

Balance with

Cooling foods, moon salutations, moderation, avoiding overheat.

Kapha
Earth + Water
Quality

Heavy, slow, cool, oily, stable

Traits

Calm, loving, loyal, steady. When balanced: nurturing and grounded. When imbalanced: lethargy, weight gain, congestion, attachment.

Balance with

Stimulation, warming spices, vigorous movement, early rising.