What is Vata?

Our newsletter for this mentioned the fact that as we are moving into the fall/winter months, we enter a time of year that is characteristically “Vata” when speaking Ayurvedicly. So what does that mean? Well in Ayurveda there are thought to be three principle constitutions. These are vata, pitta, and kapha. All three principles control different elements of the body and the bodies function, and when out of balance, present in different ways. Vata can be thought of as all movement in the body: nerve impulses, circulation, absorption of nutrients, organ and digestive function, even breathing. Vata is the most easily disturbed property, imbalances include:
• Dry skin, dry and brittle nails and hair
• Constipation
• Cracking and popping joints
• Chills
• Muscle twitches and tremors
• Anxiety and fear
• Restlessness and insecurity
Anybody at any time can present with an imbalance in Vata. Lack of sleep, or even the change in weather can cause a person to come off kilter. Recommendations for all constitution types during this time of year include:
• Application of oil to the skin, hair and nails (sesame seed oil is what we use in office, and can be purchased plain or with a custom blend of herbs)
• You can also schedule an Abhyanga if you would like to treat yourself to a little something extra
• Eating warming foods, potentially higher in good fats and oils (Example: soups!)
• Staying bundled (As the weather gets colder make sure that all extremities, including the head, are properly covered)
So I mentioned that any constitution type can become imbalanced in terms of Vata, so what does it mean to have a constitution type (also called a Dosha)? Well, again in Ayurveda a person is categorized by their body type. Vata types look like this:
Slim
Yellow to brown skin color
Black or brown eyes
Dry or rough skin
Dark brown hair (usually thin or brittle)
Brittle nails
Easily forgetful
Digestion is irregular, with gas and bloating
Tend to be independent in personality
Often lack focus (scatter brained)
Moods tend to be light hearted, however mood swings can be present
May suffer from anxiety, nervousness or constant worry
The Vatas are generally very creative and have wonderful imaginations. They are high energy, and are those people with contagious laughter, who are fun and exciting when in their presence.
Typical health issues for the Vata type:
• Headaches
• Hypertension
• Dry coughs and sore throats
• Stomach issues:
o Nervous stomach (diarrhea)
o Gas and bloating
o Constipation
• Cramping with menstruation
• Ear aches
• Low back pain
Remember, it is possible to be categorized by more than one dosha, so don’t feel discouraged if not all these characteristics fit for you. However, whether you’re of true Vata constitution or not, remember that the winter months are harsh and we need to take care of ourselves. Because Vata is so easily imbalanced, and because this initial imbalance controls all other doshas and controls the beginning of the disease process, it is vitally important that we maintain Vata to maintain our health
If you have any questions, or would like to know more information about doshas, leave a comment. There are quick and simple tests that you can take or books you can read. If that just isn’t enough, making and appointment here at Life without Pain is the best way to assure that you are getting all the answers you desire about yourself, your dosha, and your health.
Happy holidays!