Ayurveda is a vast medicinal system originating about 5000 years ago. The word Ayurveda is a conjugation of the two Sanskrit words ayus, meaning 'life' and veda, meaning 'science', thus  Ayurveda literally means the 'science of life'.

Unlike other traditional medicinal systems, Ayurveda is more focused on simple and logical therapies. It is, in fact, a set of practical and simple guidelines for long life and good health. The basic feature of this medicinal therapy is the internal harmony of the various organs of the body, and the body’s harmony with its surrounding nature and environment. The main concept of Ayurveda is that it personalizes the healing process. Ayurveda was one of the most advanced medicinal therapies with the prescribed treatment for complex ailments like angina pectoris, diabetes, hypertension, stones, and for surgeries like cataract surgery.

Many techniques are used in the healing practise of Ayurveda, including:

* Diet Balancing
* Exercise & Yoga
* Meditation
* Internal Cleansing
* Breathing Exercises
* Herbal Pastes and Compresses
* Sweating
* Massage Therapy

Thus, Ayurveda offers a blend of science and philosophy that balances the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual components that are the keys to good health. Ayurveda in contemporary times is recognized by the western world to be a form of complementary and alternative medicine.

According to Ayurveda, life is a combination of four essential parts - mind, body, senses and the soul. It does not limit knowledge to the body or to physical symptoms alone, but integrates the relationship between self, personality and everything that goes into our mental, emotional and spiritual being.

This traditional system of healing is based on the theory of balancing the body, the soul and the mind. The strong body / mind connection not only controls the process of thought, but also helps the body in daily activities such as respiration, blood circulation, digestion and elimination. Our physiology is regulated by the combined work of mind and body. The senses are used as information gatherers so that the mind can act accordingly to what the body experiences. Clarity of the senses helps the mind and body to integrate their functions so that human beings can live a healthy and balanced life. Various problems like depression, anxiety, nervousness, and insomnia are due to both a sick mind and a sick body. Therefore, a balance is needed in the functioning of both for optimal health.

Ayurveda also has some beliefs about the constitution of body. Constitution refers to a person’s health, his / her natural capacity to fight disease and recover from various health issues. The constitution is known as the prakriti. The prakriti is a combination of physical and psychological characteristics, and the way in which the body functions. It is believed that body’s constitution or prakriti remains unchanged throughout life, but it gets influenced by the process of digestion and elimination. One needs to know his or her body constitution before finding the correct, personalized healing techniques that Ayurveda has to offer holistically.

The whole science of Ayurveda is based on the five great elements that Ayurveda termed as Panchmahabhuta theory. These five elements are earth, water, fire, air and ether / space. These elements constitute our universe. These elements change and interact constantly with each other and create a situation of dynamic flux that keeps the world going.

According to Ayurveda, the human body is composed of four basics:

1.Dosha
The three vital principles of doshas are Vata, Pitta and Kapha, which together regulate and control the catabolic and anabolic metabolism. The main function of the three doshas is to carry the byproduct of digested foods throughout the body, which aids in building up the body tissues. Any malfunction in these doshas causes disease.

2. Dhatu
Dhatu can be defined as that which supports the body. There are seven tissue systems in the body. They are as Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Meda, Asthi, Mjja and Shukra which represent the plasma, blood, muscle, fat tissue, bone, bone marrow and semen respectively. Dhatus provide the basic nutrition to the body, and helps in the growth and structure of the mind.

3. Mala
Mala means waste products or dirty. It is third in the trinity of the body after doshas and dhatu. There are three main types of malas: stool, urine and sweat. Malas are mainly the waste products of the body so their proper excretion from the body is essential to maintain the proper health of the individual. There are mainly two aspect of mala, i.e. mala and kitta. Mala is about waste products of the body whereas kitta is all about the waste products of dhatus.

4. Agni
All kinds of metabolic and digestive activity of the body takes place with the help of the biological fire of the body called Agni. Agni can be termed as the various enzymes present in the elementary canal, liver and the tissue cells.

Doshas play a vital role in the basic foundation of Ayurveda. They are responsible for coordinating and directing all the substances and structures of the body. According to Ayurveda there are three vital principles which regulate and control the biological functions of the body. These energies are seen in the processes of growth, maintenance and decay. Their actions are named anabolism, metabolism and catabolism. They are known as Vata, Pitta and Kapha.

The three doshas are invariably connected with life as it is found. As all of three doshas have their own significance and qualities, which are contrary to each other, a balance between all three of them is required so as to maintain the
equilibrium of good health. Factors that create a balance between the tridoshas are healthy diet, regular exercise, fine digestion, and the elimination of toxins.



Vata - composed of air and space

Doshas are referred to as 'dynamic energies' and out of all three, Vata dosha is specified to be kinetic energy. Vata dosha is said to initiate all forms of activity and motion in the body. It acts as a network of communication from tissue to tissue and cell to cell. It is responsible for perception, assimilation and reaction. Vata dosha is the basis of all the communication process in the body. All the motions, transportation and electromagnetic activities are controlled by Vata.

Vata dosha is the most important of all the three doshas. It is derived from a Sanskrit word “vaayu” meaning that which is responsible for moving things. It is also termed as wind. In Ayurveda, Vata is regarded as the subtle energy that is associated with movement. It is responsible for all the somatic activities and sensations. It controls breathing, blinking, muscle and tissue movement, pulsation of the heart, all movements in the cytoplasm and cell membranes. Vata promotes a healthy balance between the thought and emotion that gives rise to creativity and activity. When Vata is out of balance, it can create an imbalance in the other two doshas. It also regulates the nervous processes involved with movements, thoughts, and emotions, eating, drinking, elimination and the general functioning of the body.

The other supports provided by Vata are:

* Controls all the physical and mental movements of the body.

* Transfers the sensory input from various sense organs to the brain.

* Governs the process of elimination- faeces, urine, sweat, semen and fetus.

* Assists the metabolism (agni) in the body.

Balanced Vata is a key to good health, resulting in the following effects:

* Controlled mental activity

* Normal respiratory function

* Proper stimulation of digestive juices

* Proper co-ordination of all bodily functions

* Normal movements associated with eating, digestion and elimination.

* Excellent energy level

* Controlled action of the organs of perception and the organs of action

* Creative and imaginative

Imbalanced Vata results in fear, anxiety, agitation, worry, nervousness, colon disorders, dryness including skin, underweight,  and arthritis.

If Vata dosha predominates, movement and change are characteristic of your nature. You will tend to always be on the go, with an energetic and creative mind. As long as Vata is in balance, you will be lively and enthusiastic, with a lean body. Those with a predominance of Vata dosha are usually have a thin, light frame and excellent agility. Their energy comes in bursts, and they are likely to experience sudden bouts of fatigue. Vatas typically have dry skin and hair and cold hands and feet. They sleep lightly and their digestion can be sensitive. Vatas love excitement and new experiences. They are quick to anger but also to forgive. When Vatas are in balance, they are energetic, creative, and flexible. They also take initiative and are lively conversationalists. When unbalanced, they are prone to worry and anxiousness and often suffer from insomnia. When they feel overwhelmed or stressed, their response is, “What did I do wrong?”.



Pitta -  composed of fire and water

Pitta dosha is responsible for all types of transformations in the body. Pitta controls the digestion of food as well as the conversion of light rays that fall on the retina, and electrical impulses. It is mainly associated with the chemical reactions and changes taking place in the body. Pitta controls emotion like anger, fear and boldness. Pitta controls the digestion of food, and it is responsible for hunger, appetite and thirst. The functions of Pitta are more physical compared to Vata. The quality of Pitta dosha is most predominant during youth and adulthood. Pitta reflects the dynamics of youth.

The word Pitta is derived from the Sanskrit word “pinj” meaning ‘to shine’. It is associated with fire, and it is often regarded as the fire within the body. Pitta performs every kind of transformation in the body. It organizes all the body’s
activities and transformations of foods into nutrients assimilated. Pitta is also responsible for metabolism in the organs and tissue systems, as well as cellular metabolism.

According to Sir Monier-Williams exact entomology of Pitta is a mystery. Pitta governs the ability to digest ideas and impressions that helps the human body to perceive the true nature of reality. According to ancient Ayurvedic text, Charaka Samhita, Pitta, functions in digestion, heat production, provides colour to the blood, provides vision and skin lustre.

 

The various functions provided by Pitta are:

 

* Thermogenesis- maintains the proper body temperature

* Metabolism or transformation- starting from digestion of food to transformation of all other materials

* Appetite - the feeling of hunger and thirst

* Comprehension of information into knowledge, also includes reasoning and judgement

* Courage and braveness to face situations

* Converts external images into optic nerve impulses

* Provides colour and softness to the skin

The various effects of balanced Pitta are:

* Good complexion with healthy facial skin tone

* Lustrous and slightly wavy hair

* Strong and complete digestion

* Efficient assimilation of foods

* Normal heat and thirst mechanisms

* Sharp and intelligent mind

* Open intellect with good concentration on the truth

Imbalanced Pitta can result in being judgemental / critical, incomplete digestion, acid reflux, light sensitivity and migraines, inflammation and sharp pain, high blood pressure, irregular body temperatures, loss of energy and variable skin colour.

Oily, penetrating, hot, light, unpleasant odour, spreading nature and liquid form are some of the properties of Pitta. The major site of Pitta is the navel, the other sites are blood and lymph, eyes, skin, stomach, upper part of small intestine and sweat glands.

People with Pitta as the predominant dosha have the qualities of fire. Pitta people have warm bodies, penetrating ideas and sharp intelligence. People are of average build, height and weight. They tend to be strong with good stamina. They are the most balanced physically and have lighter coloured hair, fairer skin, blue or green eyes. Pitta people tend to have a strong metabolism, good digestion and strong appetites. They tend to suffer from diseases like jaundice, inflammatory diseases, fevers, burning sensation and sore throats.


Kapha - comprises water and earth


Kapha dosha is the third aspect of the doshas. It is the cohesive energy in the body and it smoothes out problems and provides support when needed. If Vata is kinetic energy, then Kapha, on the contrary, is potential energy. Kapha is the principle of water and earth and is thus, heavy and moist. It is said that carbohydrates and fats can increase Kapha. There are five types of Kapha dosha, based on both anatomy and body function. Kapha abnormalities lead to respiratory disease, feeble mindedness, weakness and lethargy.

Kapha is the heaviest of the three doshas. It is derived from the Sanskrit word “shlish” meaning that which holds things together. It is responsible for growth, adding structure and also offers protection. Cerebral spinal fluid that protects the brain and spinal column is a type of Kapha found in the body. An example of the Kapha dosha protecting the tissues is the mucous  lining of the stomach. Kapha dosha is responsible for maintaining the function of creation. It provides the structure and the lubrication needed by the body. It works as fixative that holds the body’s cells together. It supplies water to all body parts and systems. It lubricates joints, moisturizes the skin and maintains immunity.

The various functions provided by Kapha are:

* Mass and structure to provide fullness to the body’s tissues.

* Fertility and virility to produce healthy offspring

* Strength to perform physical tasks

* Moistness to prevent the occurrence of friction between different parts of the body

* Provides stability to both mind and the body.

The effects produced by balanced Kapha are:

* Strong sexual potency and immunity

* Adequate moisture and lubrication throughout the body

* Regular appetite and strong digestion

* Good nutritional status with strong bones

* Physiological amounts of respiratory moisture

* Steady, calm, strong, loyal, supportive

 

Imbalanced Kapha can result in lack of motivation, possessiveness, poor nutritional status, overweight, diabetes, oedema, depression, congestion and colds, loose joints, weakened physique, slow digestion, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

The various properties of Kapha are oily, cold, heavy, slow acting, slimy, soft and stable. The major site of Kapha is the chest and the other sites are the throat, head, trachea, joints, stomach, lymph, fat tissue, nose and tongue.

The main quality of Kapha is heavy. Kapha people are blessed with strength and stamina. Their skin tends to be oily and smooth. The people predominant to Kapha tend to gain weight and have a slow metabolism. Kapha types are calm, tolerant and forgiving. They may become lethargic with the time but their long-term memory is very sharp. Kapha type people tend to have diseases like sinus congestion, flu, diseases involving mucous, diabetes, water retention and headaches.

Here are two links to help you identify your Ayurvedic constitution, to determine your body and mind type. These quizzes will give you an idea about what proportions of which doshas you have physiologically, with one or two of the doshas being more dominant. Although the links are helpful in evaluating your dosha, the most accurate way of learning specifically what your constitution is, is to visit a qualified Ayurvedic doctor. He or she can conduct a physical
examination including pulse assessment, and can tell you what your dosha is and provide specific recommendations. The links provided below are only intended as a guideline.

A brief recommendation on diet is also given according to each dosha, as sourced from The Yoga Journal.

Ayurvedic texts emphasize ahara, proper diet, as vital for promoting health and happiness. Ayurveda creates health by enlivening the body's inner intelligence to create harmony. Unlike modern nutritional theories, which tend to recommend  "one size fits all" guidelines that change with each new wave of research, Ayurvedic physicians maintain there is no one single diet or food that is healthy for all individuals.

Ayurveda identifies six major tastes we need in our diet every day: sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter, and astringent. Each of these tastes has specific health-giving effects. By including all six, we will be most completely nourished and satisfied. When we consistently eat only a few of the tastes, it not only causes health problems but also triggers cravings for unhealthy foods. For instance, fast food contains mostly sweet, sour, and salty tastes. If we eat a steady diet of fast food, we can develop a craving for sweets. Adding more pungent, bitter, and astringent tastes can help tame out-of-control desires for sugar and doughnuts, for example.

Balancing Act

The six tastes also affect the doshas. Different foods cause specific doshas either to increase or decrease. The doshas increase and decrease on the principle of "like attracts like."Foods that decrease a dosha are said to pacify that dosha, and foods that increase it aggravate it. For example, if Vata is your predominant dohsa, you will have the tendency to accumulate more Vata. Your choice of diet therefore needs to reflect food types that bring back the balance and harmony.

* Vata Dominance:

Sweet, sour, and salty foods pacify Vata.
Vata types need foods that calm their tendency toward anxiety and over activity. Heavy, cooked foods served warm are the most soothing. Dairy products, sweeteners, and foods cooked or served with fats and oils pacify Vata. Steam veggies and drizzle with a little ghee (clarified butter) or olive oil, or stir-fry them in oil or ghee. Rice and wheat are excellent grains for Vata types. Juicy fruits and vegetables, heavy fruits (such as avocados and bananas), risotto, sweet and sour veggies, and warm berry cobbler with whipped cream all help pacify Vata. Avoid hot, spicy foods. Vatas can safely cook with more salt than Pittas and Kaphas.

* Pitta Dominance:

Sweet, pungent, and bitter foods decrease Pitta.
Fiery Pitta needs to be cooled down. Serve foods at cool temperatures, but not ice cold which inhibits digestion. Pittas thrive on reduced amounts of fats, oils, and salt. Sweet, completely ripe fruits and all vegetables except garlic, tomatoes, radishes, and chillies are Pitta-pacifying. Moderate portions of dairy products are fine, but minimize sour-cultured ones. Coriander and mint have cooling effects. Coconuts, pomegranates, grilled vegetable salad, and rice pudding all reduce Pitta. To balance Pitta one should avoid excessive heat, oil and steam. Salt intake should also be restricted. One should eat cooling and non-spicy foods.


* Kapha Dominance:

Pungent, bitter, and astringent foods pacify Kapha
Sluggish, cool Kapha needs to be stimulated and warmed up. Light, dry, warm foods  reduce Kapha. Use minimal amounts of fats and oils. Sweeten foods with honey, but never cook or bake with it. Grains such as barley, buckwheat, and rye are the best for Kapha types, as are light, dry fruits, such as apples and cranberries. Low or non-fat milk is good, but minimize cultured dairy products. Kapha types can eat all spices and herbs but need to be cautious with salt. Pumpkin and sunflower seeds and all beans, with the exception of the oilier soybean, are excellent. In order to balance the Kapha one should avoid heavy foods, dairy products, fatty oily foods, and cold drinks. Light and dry food should be consumed.