THE LIVELY SPIRIT
Your individual Ayurveda constitution (Dosha) is stable and defines you as a unique human with unique abilities, a unique personality and a unique physique. No one else is exactly like you. It influences all aspects of your being, including physiology, physique, preferences, tendencies, likes and dislikes, mental and emotional traits, as well as susceptibility to imbalances and specific diseases.
Vata (Sanskrit: वात vāta adj. und m.) has the root in Sansktirit (Dhatu) vā, and it means: blown, smelled; wind, moving air, intestinal gas, flatus, wind god (Vayu). Influenced by the elements of air and ether, the Vata nature floats through the world freely and always in search of new experiences. The Vata nature is exceptionally creative and flexible, Typical professions and traits for Vata people are artist, scientist, spiritual practitioner and inventor. They are creative problem solvers and idealisitic in their choices.
Vata - Physical Traits
The Vata constitution is characterized by a slender physique, ranging from small and delicate to tall and lanky. With minimal body mass, their muscles, veins, and bones are prominently visible. Their entire nature radiates a sense of lightness, reflected in their delicate bone structure and little developed muscles. Their movements are erratic and their hands are always occupied. Their facial features appear fine emphasizing their etherical appearance. The wind element causes dryness throughout the body, the hair, skin and nails also tend to be brittle and rough. Due to their poor circulation, they often experience problems with cold hands and feet. Vata people have the most irregular and weakest digestion.
Vata Dosha - Personality
With their head in the clouds rather than their feet on the ground, they dance through life, juggling multiple interests if possible. They are spontaneous and feel quickly restricted in their need for freedom. A Vata person is naturally inclined to travel and seize every opportunity to explore the world, new professions, or partnerships. Their ever-active minds are full of fantasy and vision, producing fresh and fascinating ideas. Vata is present wherever creativity, inspiration, and imagination are at play. This affinity for the non-material makes the Vata nature a visionary, effortlessly transcending boundaries, whether tangible or spiritual. Their sensitivity allows the Vata constitution to embody compassion, expanding perspectives and embarking on journeys of personal growth. Material possessions hold little value for Vata. Insurance policies, or savings accounts, or even a lifelong job, evoke discomfort for them. Alternatively, they may donate an excessively large sum to a charitable organization. The Vata energy type thrives on connections with diverse and vibrant individuals and enjoys diversivied work.
Physical Imbalances
Vata, being the "lightest" Dosha, is the first to fall out of balance. As its energy is erratic and unstable, its typical ailments seem to arise out of nowhere and dissipate just as quickly.
The first residence of Vata is the colon. Consequently, a Vata person may experience issues with irregular digestion. Due to irregular eating habits, the already weak digestive fire works unevenly. Constipation, diarrhea and bloating (gas) are common ailments in Vata Dosha. With aggrevated Vata poor circulation shows and the joints become insufficiently lubricated which leads to pain and stiffness. Arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, and rheumatism can develop. The entire back area, with the sone being an antenna for stress, can show tension in neck, shoulders, and the lower back.
The second major seat of Vata is the highly sensitive nervous system. Vata is easily thrown off balance, leading to quick stress responses and elevated restlessness. All neurological disorders can be traced back to an irritated Vata. Anxiety and constant nervousness can also burden the heart, resulting in palpitations and arrhythmia. Insomnia is a potential problem, especially when stress becomes overwhelming.
A specific issue for female Vata constitutions also lies in the pelvic area is the premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Excessive Vata is often responsible for infertility and miscarriages as well.
Mental and Emotional Imbalances
When the airy aspects of Vata increase, a person loses their stability. Thehigher Vata rises, the more they become superficial, forgetful, unreliable, and scattered. Lacking the grounding stillness of the earth, anxiousness, nervousness or impatience can arise. Uncertainty, nervousness, and fears spread. As a result, they lack the courage to bring their wonderful ideas to fruition. Then, feelings of mental emptiness and extreme exhaustion can even develop into depressive moods. There is a significant risk of addiction, whether it be emotional dependence on another person or on drugs. The longer Vata remains aggravated, the deeper the disturbance in the nervous area grows and causes overall disturbances in the system. Psychosomatic diseases can develop from untreated imbalances.
Harmonize physical Vata Imbalances
The task of the Vata nature is to cultivate harmony and stability in life. Easily irritated they get blown away by their own wind. The transition from mental to physical symptoms is quick in Vata. Therefore it´s important to avoid the development of psychosomatic illnesses. To keep their feet on the ground they should avoid specific scenarios and habits, such as:
cold, dry climates,
wind, including fans or air conditioning
excessive physical or mental stress
loud noise
multitasking
extreme emotional turmoil (grief, worries, sadness, anger, wrath)
long nights and irregular sleep
nervous toxins as tobacco, alcohol, coffe, drugs...
constant changes, travelling, especially flying
irregular work (night-shifts)
loneliness, and lack of physical contact, isolation
Vata- Mental and emotional Imbalances
The following fundamentals to harmonize your Imbalances and for prevention. For stronger irritations and imbalances a personalized health plan with a personal consultation would be needed. To avoid the nerves to become thin and the mind dispersed, Vata needs stabilty inside and outside. Good friendships are important for their peace of mind. They need people who truly understand them and whom they can trust. Instead of having many superficial contacts, it is better for them to build a few close friendships. The Vata mind is always actice. Therefore, it´s important to incorporate mental fasting periods to relax the nerves and Withdraw andinner core. Consciously embrace silence. Peractice to withdraw from the engaging world with mental exercises as Meditation and Yoga Nidra. Spend time in nature and feel the grounding energy of mother earth to regenerate your vitaluty snd feel yourself.
Nutrition
Vata types quickly experience an energy drop and bad mood on an empty stomach. It´s important for the stability of their body to have three warm meals a day. Warming spices, roots and enough fat are crucial for Vata nutrition. However, they should avoid cold, dry, and light foods without sufficient nutrients. If you want to get a personalized health and nutrition plan feel free to visit our personal consultation.