Previously here on the blog, Dr. Gita Gupta introduced us to Ayurveda, the newest service offered here at IHI.  Today, we delve a little deeper, looking at the 3 types of body constitutions referred to in this ancient medicine.

Ayurveda Basics, Part 2: The Doshas

By Dr. Gita Gupta BHSc, DC, CAP

The three life forces that make up the universe are known as Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Ayurvedically, these are what make up our Doshas.  They are considered the applicable forms of the elements that define our growth process, development and biological tendencies.

The English term, humor, is also used to describe our dosha, indicating that our elements can be thrown out of balance, which will lead to ill health and disease. This is why it is crucial to be aware of your Prakrati, or dosha constitution, and also know how to keep it balanced.

Vata: Wind – “that which moves”

Vata has always been the primary dosha, and the motivating force behind Pitta and Kapha.  It’s governing elements are Ether and Air, hence its ability to move. It is said to govern sensory and mental balance.

Pitta: Fire – “that which transforms”

Pitta is considered the to be the power behind digestion and metabolic processes in the body. It’s ability to breakdown and transform our food into nutrients, makes it our most powerful dosha.

Kapha: Water & Earth – “that which holds”

Kapha is the most grounded and stable of all the doshas.  It provides substance and support to our body, and also keeps us emotionally sound. It is known to be the root of compassion, patience and modesty in our lives.

While there are three major humors, each individual can be made up of any combination of them. We are capable of being a combination of all three, with a single dosha dominating, or just two that are equal to one another. It is this specific combination which makes us so unique. Once ones prakrati is determined, it is our duty to help maintain it, in order to have mental, physical and emotional stability.

Dr. Gupta practices both Chiropractic and Ayurvedic Medicine at the clinic on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  Find out more about her services via her website www.drgitagupta.com, and you can also reach her at ggupta@integrativehealthinstitute.ca.