Intro to Ayurveda

With roots that can be traced back to India as many as 5000 years ago, Ayurveda is one of the oldest known healing sciences. Ayurveda is a Sanskrit word that means “the knowledge of life” and its teachings promote healthy living based around a balance between one’s mind and body. 

So why is it that yogis often use their practice to complement Ayurvedic teachings? Ayurveda and yoga are both rooted in Samkhya, one of the six schools of classical Indian thought. The ideals of balance and doing what is right for an individual’s particular body and mind, drive both yogic and Ayurvedic practices. 

The Basics

Ayurvedic teachings are grounded in the belief that all people are made up of some combination of the five elements - ether, air, fire, water and earth. These elements come together to create different energy types called “Doshas.” Based off of your Dosha, you can customize your lifestyle to best meet your mental and physical needs. It is also thought that certain yogic postures and flows are better suited to particular Doshas. 

Doshas

We are a mix of doshas and most of us have one or two that are dominant. As a start, see which dosha(s) you relate to deeply and try these few balancing ideas.

Vata Dosha (air & ether)

Personal Characteristics

• Creative, flexible, confident, active

What to Eat

• Cooked foods, root vegetables, good fats (Ghee, coconut oil, etc.), dairy products, sweets in moderation 

What to Do

• Stay warm, play calming music, get plenty of sleep

Yoga Poses to Try

• Standing Forward Fold, Child’s Pose, Savasana

Pitta Dosha (fire & water) 

Personal Characteristics

• Warm (body temperature & temperament), intelligent, natural leader, intense, fast metabolism

What to Eat

• Sweet fruits (grapes, mangos, etc.), dairy products, rice, lean proteins, small amounts of good fats (Ghee, coconut oil, etc.) 

What to Do

• Keep body cool, spend time in nature, leave room for “me time” in your schedule

Yoga Poses to Try

• Camel Pose, Cobra Pose, Headstand

Kapha Dosha (water & earth)

Personal characteristics

• Strong, loving, stable, calm

What to Eat

• Greens, beans, lighter fruits (apples, pears, etc.), foods that are lower in fat content, whole grains in small amounts

What to Do

• Stay warm, exercise regularly, clear out clutter in your personal spaces (home, office, etc.)

Yoga Poses to Try

• Camel Pose, Sun Salutations

Seasonal and life changes can have a profound effect on your Dosha(s) as well, so be sure to keep that in mind when tending to your mind-body energy. Check out these Ayurvedic tips for keeping your skin healthy & happy during the colder months.