Ayurveda definition of dosha. Dosha test, concept and recommendations for three types of doshas

And Yurveda is the most ancient of all medical systems that have ever existed and exist on Earth. Its field is not limited only to knowledge about health and the treatment of diseases, but also includes data about the structure and structure of the world and even raises questions of spirituality and morality, in accordance with the principles of the Vedas. The main Ayurvedic texts claim that they were originally told by Brahma himself - the Creator God; the principles of Ayurveda are often found in the texts of the Atharva Veda, and its grains can also be found in the Rig Veda, Samaveda, Yajur Veda and Mahabharata, called the “fifth Veda”.

Ayurveda gave rise to the emergence of many other areas of medicine in India - the well-known Tibetan, as well as Siddha and Yunani medicine, based on its principles, which are strikingly different from the principles of other healing methods - traditional (Western) medicine and alternative medicine. Unlike modern medicine, Ayurveda is not limited to only treating the symptoms and consequences of diseases and does not in practice use substances that are unnatural, unnatural and harmful to the human body, which give many side effects. Ayurveda differs from unconventional methods of treatment in the presence of a scientific basis and healing experience proven by thousands of years of practice.

All knowledge of Ayurveda is based on a unique foundation, which has been its unchanging trunk since ancient times, overgrown with numerous branches of new discoveries, methods and recipes over the centuries. This unshakable foundation is the concept of Tridosha. Tridosha is the three main components that form the material body of a person. The three Doshas, called Vata, Pitta and Kapha, are substances arising from various combinations of the Primary Elements. There are 5 Primary Elements in total: Ether, Air, Fire, Water and Earth, and from them everything that exists in our world is formed. Primary elements are formed from Primary Qualities and their combinations: Sound, Roughness, Shape or Color, Taste and Smell. Ether is formed purely from Sound (it is believed that it is sound that gives birth to the Universe), Air - from Taste and Roughness, and so on (summing up in the above order), ending with the Earth, consisting of all the Primary Qualities.

Primary elements are difficult to find in the world pure form, since they mainly appear in combinations of various combinations, taking on completely different qualities and nature of influence. Therefore, for the convenience of their consideration and description, the concept of Doshas was introduced - the main types of combinations of primary elements. And although each of the 5 Primary Elements is present in each of the Doshas, the Doshas are characterized by the quantitative predominance of any two of them: Vata Dosha is a combination of Ether and Air (that is, it contains all 5 primary elements, but with the largest shares of Ether and Air ), Pitta Dosha is a combination of Fire and Water, and Kapha Dosha is a combination of Water and Earth.

Interacting with each other and constantly changing, the Doshas form our body and provide all its physiological processes. The concept of "Dosha" comes from the Sanskrit word "Dush" - 'to harm, to cause harm' - and means "that which goes out of one's own way." How can our human body be built from something that “harms and goes crazy”? Ayurveda's answer is very laconic and also instructive: in a state of balance, Doshas are formed and disappear in complete balance, and in a state of “Kopa” (anger), their balance is lost and they act inharmoniously, initiating pathological processes and thereby destroying the body. A subtle philosophical implication can be found in this postulate: when a person commits Vi-Karma (undesirable actions that are contrary to Dharma and Divine Laws), the Doshas “get angry” and destroy his body for inappropriate, wrong actions, indicating that he is making mistakes or moving on the wrong path; when does a person commit Karma (actions according to Dharma, corresponding scriptures and following healthy principles), the Doshas maintain his condition and health. Education process human body of the “potentially harmful” Doshas in Ayurvedic texts are compared to how “poisonous worms are born from poison”, meaning by this extraordinary statement that, like the poison (waste, feces, etc.) in which poisonous worms are born, does not harm them themselves and supports their existence, so the Doshas that give rise to the existence of a person are not terrible for him if it does not contradict their nature.

So, Doshas are born in a continuous process, form our body, provide metabolism and also leave the body, then reappearing and disappearing. Each of the three Doshas is responsible for certain processes in the body and participates in the actions of the other two Doshas (that is, the Doshas in the body act together and never contradict each other). Vata (Vayu - 'wind') represents the bodily air, Pitta (Tap, Tapas - 'heat, fire') is the transformative substance, and Kapha ('mucus') forms the shape of the body and its contents. All three Doshas are present in every part, organ and cell of our body, however, each of them has areas in which it is dominant.

Vata dosha is localized in the lower part of the body, from the navel to the toes, Pitta Dosha predominates in the umbilical region, from the navel to the apex of the heart, and Kapha Dosha - in the upper part of the body, from the heart to the crown.

Vata dosha, in which the Air element predominates, carries out all motor processes - body movements, circulation of fluids (blood and lymph), communication of organs, pulse, breathing. Another important function of Vata is to inflate Agni - the digestive fire. In addition, it is under the influence of Vata that during conception the sperm unites with the egg, giving birth to a new life.

Pitta dosha, in which the Fire element predominates, ensures metabolism - metabolic processes in the body, digestion of food, transformation of bodily tissues and maintenance of body temperature.

Kapha dosha, in which the element of Water predominates, forms our body and its mass, maintains the level of fluids, lubricates joints, ensures stability, connection of organs. Kapha also plays an important role in the digestion process, controlling the activity of the digestive fire, preventing it from burning higher than necessary.

The combined actions of the Doshas can be clearly seen in an example comparing the process of digestion with cooking over a fire: fire (Pitta), which heats the cauldron, is ignited and maintained with the help of air (Vata), and water (Kapha) regulates its uniform combustion, preventing fire.

Doshas in bodies different people appear with different strengths, and their unique combination in each of us determines our individual constitution. In the innate individual constitution, Doshas can be present in the body both in equal percentage (Vata = Pitta = Kapha) and predominate over others, which will be the norm for this specific person. When each of the Doshas is in its balance (that is, in a timely manner and in sufficient quantity forms, acts and leaves the body), then the person is healthy, feels good and actively fulfills his duties. With incorrect actions or lifestyle of a person, Doshas can increase or decrease, disturbing the individual balance of the body.

To understand whether a certain Dosha - Vata, Pitta and Kapha - is dominant in your constitution, or whether it has changed its quantity, going beyond its norms, which is a pathology and indicates imbalances in the body, you need to know the characteristics and properties of Tridosha.

Characteristics of Doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha

cotton wool is in constant motion, it is called “Anilla” - ‘that which never stands still’.

Dryness. The main quality of Vata is dryness. Dryness can manifest itself as dry skin, hair, dryness (callousness) of character. Dry substances absorb moisture, therefore, Vata people need liquid, oil, lubricant, just as their psyche needs emotional support, filling with feelings from the outside, while they themselves are not inclined to share their emotions.

Ease. People with a predominance of Vata have low weight, some weakness and infirmity, and a high pitch of voice. The lightness of Vata brings to the character ease of rise, carelessness, frivolity, and the ability to abruptly change directions and decisions.

Coldness. Cold is one of the predominant properties of Vata; it can be expressed in freezing, cold extremities, stiffness. Emotionally, Vata manifests itself in indifference and impartiality. Functionality is preferred to beauty.

Purity, transparency and subtlety. Vata gives the face fine features, the skin - thinness, transparency, and sophistication both at the level of the body and mind. Vata dosha is characterized by accuracy, detail, speed of reactions and sensitivity to changes.

Coarseness. The coarseness of Vata is felt in rough skin, unevenness, cracks, dry and rough-to-touch hair, angular build. In relationships, rudeness can be implied not only in its basic meaning, but also inflexibility, lack of courtesy and delicacy.

Mobility. Vata is always in motion, fussy, chaotic, unstable and unstable: shifting eyes, rapid speech, trembling in the body, restlessness. People with high Vata are easily frightened, confused, confused and upset. Vata is characterized by panic, anxiety, hesitation and stuttering.

Pitta- the only substance in the body capable of carrying out transformation processes, thanks to its fiery nature.

Hotness. Of all the three Doshas, only Pitta has a hot property, warmth and heat. Under the influence of Pitta, the body becomes warm and soft to the touch, and the blood becomes hot. Pitta brings temperament, ardor, passion, but also bile and irritability to the character. Heat provokes expansion, and Pitta, which does not tolerate boundaries, strives to go beyond boundaries, gives broad thinking, flight of thoughts. The heat and pressure gives you determination and the ability to work tirelessly.

Humidity. Signs of Pitta are wet, oily skin and hair. The character shows average emotionality, tenderness, devotion and care, despite hot outbursts of anger and aggression in the event of a tense situation.

Acuity. The severity of Pitta is expressed in acridity, bile, intensity and activity: strong digestion, active metabolism, sharp speech. Pitta can bring to the character a tendency to criticize and aggravate situations, to jealousy and perfectionism.

Ease. Like Vata dosha, Pitta is characterized by ease of movement. Lightness of Pitta gives a medium build, agility, and also a desire for freedom.

Bad smell. Pitta is inherent unpleasant odors- pungent odor of urine, sweat. Initially, Pitta dosha smells raw meat or blood, and when imbalanced it takes on a rotten hue. The character may be reflected in dissatisfaction, the habit of grumbling and quarreling.

Fluidity. Pitta gives flexibility to both the body and character: well-extensible muscles and mobile joints, loose skin, a large amount of bodily juices; delicacy, courtesy.

Liquid. Pitta in the body is presented in liquid form - blood, bile, digestive juices.

Kapha Dosha(‘that which unites’), characterized by heaviness and stability. Kapha binds all parts of the body together, providing its foundation and shape.

Oiliness. Oily, shiny skin, shiny thick hair, a large amount of fat in the body, sparkling eyes - characteristic features Kapha doshas. It manifests itself as calmness, gentleness, affection, and agreement. The oiliness of Kapha also implies benevolence, friendliness, devotion and affection.

Cold. The nature of Kapha is also cold, without fire, which is reflected in poor tolerance physical cold, a tendency to freeze and harden, as well as calmness, apathy, and lack of passions.

Heaviness. Physically, the severity of Kapha is expressed in heavy weight, large body shapes and facial features, awkward measured movements. It brings weight, persuasiveness, experience, thoroughness and respectability to the character, which is valued and appreciated by others.

Stupidity. Dullness is the opposite quality of sharpness: Kapha is inert, slow, lagging behind, inhibiting movements; in character - lazy, dull, idle. It gives a tendency not to aggravate situations, to smooth out frictions and angles, which also manifests itself in physically like large facial features, low voice.

Smoothness. Smooth and glossy skin, round shapes and fluidity are signs of Kapha dosha. Smoothness in character is expressed in delicacy, good nature, politeness and flattery.

Earthiness. The qualities of the earth give Kapha dense, adhesive and sticky properties (stickiness of the skin surface, density of tissues and bones; tendency to addiction, attachment, obsession).

Sustainability. Kapha rewards stability in health, psyche and relationships, as well as strength, reliability and equanimity in them. Durability, balance and immutability, loyalty and truthfulness - character traits Kapha doshas.

“Like strengthens like, opposite weakens”

Knowledge about the qualities of the Doshas is useful for assessing your individual nature, helps you understand the inclinations and capabilities of both your own and those around you, and come to an internal balance and also learn to balance with others, taking into account their characteristics. If any Dosha in the body has pathologically increased or decreased, to calm it down and bring them into a harmonious state, Ayurveda applies the principle of the opposite: it replenishes what is missing or removes excess through qualities that are opposite to the qualities of the Dosha that has gotten out of control.

The excessively dry, light, cold and mobile quality of Vata Dosha is balanced by moisture and oiliness, heaviness, warmth and calmness (eating warming, heavy and nutritious foods sweet, sour and salty taste, with plenty of fats and liquids, moisturizing and warming spices, oil massages, relaxing physical practices).

Excess of hotness, pungency, humidity and activity of Pitta Dosha is reduced by cold, dullness, hardness and passivity (thick, cooling, with a small amount of mild spices, not very oily foods with a sweet, bitter and astringent taste, staying in a cool room and climate, moderate physical exercise, meditation).

The oiliness, heaviness, coldness and stability of Kapha Dosha are balanced by dryness, lightness, warmth and mobility (light dry warm food with a pungent, bitter and astringent taste, warm dry climate, vigorous activity, intense physical practices).

In understanding the principles of the Doshas, it is important to take into account the state of consciousness (Guna) in which a person is, since it is the determining factor in what qualities of the Doshas will manifest themselves. The activity of any Dosha also greatly depends on certain periods of time.

Doshas and time

Regardless of the initial individual constitution of a person and the innate relationship of Doshas in the body, each of the Doshas can dominate and have a strong impact on the body at different periods of time.

Vata dosha prevails in the final period of life - in old age and old age, drying out the body, bodily juices, destroying bones and other tissues and bringing senile diseases. Vata is also activated in late spring and early summer, when dry and windy weather prevails, and within a day - at the end of the day and at the end of the night (which is why getting up before dawn ensures vigor for the entire next day).

Pitta dosha corresponds to the middle period of life, maturity - the time of active activity and accumulation of experience. The season of Pitta is summer and early autumn with humid and warm weather, the time of day is the middle of the day when the sun and digestive fire are most active, as well as the middle of the night.

Kapha dosha dominates early age- childhood and adolescence, providing the body with growth and tissue formation; in winter and especially at the beginning of spring, bringing cold and dampness; at the beginning of the day - in the morning - and at the beginning of the night (which helps you fall asleep quickly if you go to bed a few hours after sunset).

Knowledge about the peaks of Dosha activity at certain time periods and periods helps to adjust your behavior, daily routine and nutrition to maintain balance with the outside world, since time and external influence exists inseparably from us.

Doshas and gunas

As mentioned above, our material bodies and physiological processes are the result of the joint creation of all five primary elements, united in Doshas. Also the most important support providing human life, along with Doshas is the Mind. And if the bodily component of our nature (Deha-Prakriti) is determined by various combinations of Doshas, then the mental component (Manasa-Prakriti) is determined by combinations of three Gunas (qualities of material nature or states of consciousness, called Sattva, Rajas and Tamas).

Sattva- a blissful state of consciousness, pure, enlightened, clear, adequate.

Rajas- passion, activity, excitement, embraced by desire and emotions.

Tamas- a state of ignorance, accompanied by illusions and laziness, stagnation and degradation.

It is thanks to the influence of the three Gunas that the manifestation of certain characteristics of the Doshas occurs of various nature. For example, in a person who is in Sattva guna, Vata dosha will manifest itself in such qualities as clarity, subtle perception, creativity, quickness, easy-going, non-attachment and unobtrusiveness. In Rajo-guna, such aspects of Vata as excitement, chaos, incompleteness (in thoughts, speech and deeds), changeability and instability will be revealed. Staying in Tamo-guna will bring callousness, coldness, rudeness, uncertainty, anxiety, panic, and sluggish digestion to Vata dosha. Similarly, Sattva, Rajas and Tamas will influence Pitta and Kapha doshas, promoting the manifestation of their qualities, leading respectively to goodness, passion or ignorance, both at the level of the Mind and reflected in the physiology. At the same time, the gunas of Rajas and Tamas are considered doshas of the mind (since “Dosha” - “that which harms” - can cause imbalances, and Rajas and Tamas lead to them), and Sattva guna means balance of the mind (“Suddha Sattva” – 'pure mind') and is therefore not a Dosha, implying a state of balance and clarity, without flaws or defilements. Therefore, in the presence of imbalances of Vata, Pitta and Kapha, or in case of their undesirable manifestations, it is also advisable to strive to increase the level of consciousness, clearing it of the harmful influence of Rajas and Tamas, rushing to the Sattvic state, where only best properties Tridosha, promoting physical and spiritual health.

Achieving pure Sattva can be achieved through Sattvavajaya - control of the mind. The first steps on the path to a blissful and virtuous consciousness will be:

On physical level: proper nutrition, excluding products obtained through violence. For example, food made from the flesh of animals contains all the feelings of fear, pain, horror and despair that they felt at the time of their killing, and fills our body and mind with the energy of death.

At the active level: correct daily routine, sincere motivation, dedication to one’s activities for the benefit of all living beings and non-attachment to the result.

And just as in Buddhism, to cleanse from obscurations, antidotes are introduced to the main “poisons of the mind” - desires, anger and ignorance, in Ayurveda, “three medicines” are used for pollution by Rajas and Tamas: discrimination - the ability to distinguish bad from good, useful from harmful ; patience - a calm, equitable and tolerant attitude towards the environment, perseverance and willpower; and knowledge of one’s own essence - a clear understanding of the answers to the questions: “Who am I, why was I created, why do I live and why do I die?”, the desire to look inside oneself, the cessation of identifying oneself only with one’s body and the awareness of one’s unity with the Creator.

Acquiring a state of goodness, purity, clarity and adequacy of Sattva is facilitated by adherence to the principles prescribed on the path of yoga - the fundamental principles of Yama and Niyama, coupled with work on your physical and subtle body through hatha yoga asanas, the practice of pratyahara (concentration) and meditation, which allows you to raise energy to a higher level and subjugate your mind. Following one’s nature, understanding the qualities of the Doshas and maintaining them in balance, not committing wrong actions and actions that contradict divine laws, helps to gain a healthy human body - our temporary shell, created by the five primary elements and destroyed by them, controlled and supported by the Doshas and punished by them , serving us as our tool for fulfilling our destiny in this life.

A dosha is a specific combination of energies that creates your unique physical, emotional and mental being. This is an information drawing that controls your body, emotions and mind.

In my opinion, the more we know about ourselves and our body, the better. We will easily forgive ourselves for character flaws, be more relaxed about the nuances of our figure, that is, it is easier to accept yourself, and also know how to cope with your ailments and gain harmony, youth and our main components - beauty and radiance!

Therefore, Ayurveda for us in this case is simply best friend. But here I’m frankly not a pro, although I can easily determine the leading dosha and constitutions of other people by eye, but I’m not an Ayurveda specialist, so I’ll give the floor to the author of the book and Ayurveda doctor, Katie Silcox.

In addition, I am often asked how to determine a dosha, so I found for you not only a very accurate and competent description of all doshas, but also a wonderful questionnaire!

5 (100%) 1 vote[s]

Ayurveda nutrition is usually translated from Sanskrit as “knowledge of life.” But this is not a completely correct translation. It would be more correct: knowledge of the principles of long life, the science of life.

This is a system of traditional Indian medicine, which is aimed at healing diseases of the body and diseases of the soul, and it is believed that these diseases are related to each other.

That's why correct treatment, and ancient doctors prescribed proper nutrition in accordance with the character and physique of a person. The Ayurvedic system distinguishes three main types of human constitution.

In the Ayurvedic system, as already mentioned, the body and soul are not separated, therefore, for each specific type of build, certain character traits are assigned accordingly.

The combination of character and constitution in the Ayurvedic system is called DOSHA.

There are three main doshas: vata, pita and kafa

Vata means "air"

People of this type are thin, graceful, and always cold. In winter they seem to hibernate, and in the spring they wake up and become prone to change and adventure.

Pita means fire

These are people of strong build, sometimes a little plump, their hands are always hot. They often have many moles. They are sociable and witty, but sometimes they can be stubborn and hot-tempered.

Kafa means "water"

These are strongly built, large, massive people with good skin, strong thick hair and strong teeth.

They are usually calm, peaceful, unpretentious, hardworking, but, unfortunately, they can be indecisive and passive.

Ayurveda nutrition. Depending on the prevailing doshas choose a nutrition system for each specific person.

However, usually a person cannot attribute himself to any specific dosha - it happens that the qualities of two doshas are present.

In order to determine the predominant dosha, there are special tests. They are in all books on Ayurveda.

Ayurvedic nutrition system does not require vegetarianism from its followers, as is often believed. Vegetarian diets prescribed by Ayurveda only for those who follow the path spiritual development, enlightenment.

For those who simply want to improve their well-being, strengthen their health, increase their life expectancy and its quality, Ayurveda recommends the more familiar to modern man diet.

Types of nutrition of people according to doshas

For people Vata dosha they recommend rich meat soups, porridges, butter, hot milk, sweet dishes, meat, pies - everything that helps to warm up.

Raw vegetables and sour fruits are not acceptable for people with Vata dosha: they speed up the digestion process, which is already quite fast in people of this type.

For people Pitta dosha hot dishes, unsweetened fruits, vegetables, legumes, chicken and fish are good. They should be added to food less salt, eat less red meat and nuts, to muscle mass did not turn into fat.

To people Kafa-dosha Ayurveda recommends crumbly porridges, watery vegetables (cabbage, cucumbers), spicy dishes, and turkey for nutrition.

From It’s better to give up sweets completely and limit the consumption of red meat and rice - from these products people of this type can gain a lot of weight.

Ayurveda nutrition and preparation

But the right set of products is not everything. There are recommendations for preparing and eating food that are common to all doshas.

1. Food must be fresh. The faster a dish gets to the table after cooking, the healthier it is. Healthy food one that has not been cooked for too long is also considered.

2. Main eating comes at the right time around noon because at this time food is best absorbed.

3. You can't be distracted from the process of eating. No need to read, watch TV, or talk while eating. It is not good to sit at the table in a bad mood.

4. sit down should come to the table only when when you are hungry.

Don't overeat

No need to eat "I have nothing to do." There is no need to rush while eating; after eating, there is also no need to rush to leave the table; it’s good to sit for a while. You shouldn’t overeat; you can stop eating when you feel like you’re almost full, but only almost!

5. Should not be combined incompatible products. For example, it is advisable to consume milk and melon separately from other foods.

6. When preparing food, you should also consider climatic conditions: season, weather, as well as the physiological characteristics of a particular person.

The Ayurvedic nutrition system is aimed at harmonizing the human body.

With its help, you can both lose weight and gain weight, but only on the condition that your goal is precisely weight optimization, and not its targeted reduction or increase.

Optimal weight- this is the weight at which you feel good. A person with an optimal weight usually rarely gets sick, he is most often in a good mood.

If you experience significant weight loss or gain, more than is provided by nature, a person may develop all kinds of diseases.

This state of affairs is often observed in those who suddenly gain weight and in those who exhaust themselves with diets.

Therefore, it is important to understand that the best weight for you is not some specific “fashionable” number, but the weight when you feel healthy and vigorous.

Good health and high spirits, shining eyes and a friendly smile are always in fashion!

Accept yourself as you are! Realize how beautiful you are!

And the Ayurvedic nutrition system will help you with this goal.

A dosha is a specific combination of energies that creates your unique physical, emotional and mental being. This is an information drawing that controls your body, emotions and mind.

Therefore, Ayurveda is simply our best friend in this case. But here I’m frankly not a pro, although I can easily determine the leading dosha and constitutions of other people by eye, but I’m not an Ayurveda specialist, so I’ll give the floor to the author of the book and Ayurveda doctor, Katie Silcox.

In addition, I am often asked how to determine a dosha, so I found for you not only a very accurate and competent description of all doshas, but also a wonderful questionnaire!

Ayurveda. System of three dosh. Ayurvedic dosha test to determine body type.

Ayurveda, or Ayur-Veda (from Sanskrit “āyus” - “meaning of life”, “principle of life”, or “long life” and “veda” - knowledge) - traditional system Indian Vedic medicine, named after one of the holy books(see Vedas), formed as a result of the fusion of Aryan and Dravidian cultures. “Ayur-Veda” can be translated as “knowledge of life”, “knowledge of long life” or even “science of life”.

Three dosha system

According to Buddhist philosophy, matter consists of five basic "gross elements":
* earth (prithvi) - represents solid matter or energy packed into matter.
* water (jala) - the principle of interaction or liquid state of a substance.
* fire (agni) is the principle of energy release from matter or plasma state.
* air (vayu) - the principle of movement of matter or the gaseous state of matter.
* ether (akasha) is the substance of space, an analogue of physical vacuum.

The “gross elements” are the only physical component of the individual, in contrast to the other four “subtle” (“mental”) primary elements (nama). In various combinations, these elements make up the various tissues of the human body - dhatu. The elements are grouped into three main fundamental life forces - the doshas - which regulate all functions of the body. A person is healthy when the doshas are in a balanced state.

* cotton wool(ether and air) - the principle of impulse necessary to mobilize the function of the nervous system.
* Pitta(fire and water) - the principle of energy that uses bile to direct digestion and therefore metabolism into the venous system.
* Kapha(water and earth) - the principle of body fluid, which relates to mucous substances, lubrication and source nutrients for the arterial system.

The psychosomatic constitution (original nature) of a person given to him from birth depends on the ratio of doshas - Prakriti. Prakriti is a fundamental concept of the Samkhya philosophical system of Hinduism, meaning the Primordial Nature, the uncaused first cause of the Universe. Prakriti is independent and active, consisting of three gunas:

* sattva- the basis of the mind, characterized by subtlety, lightness, light and joy;
*rajas- the basis of energy, characterized by activity, excitement and suffering;
*tamas- the basis of inertia, characterized by rudeness, apathy, amorphousness and darkness.

Prakriti does not change throughout life, and can be diagnosed through examination and questioning of the patient. Prakriti gives knowledge about susceptibility to certain diseases. A person who knows his Prakriti has the key to his health, knows his weak and strong points and can always prevent illness by taking preventive measures (panchakarma, fasting, nutrition and regimen in accordance with Prakriti). The ratio of the elements of the human body at a given moment is called Vikriti.

There are seven main types of Prakriti and Vikriti: vata, pitta, kapha, vata-pitta, vata-kapha, pitta-kapha, vata-pitta-kapha. All this influences the choice of treatment methods and restoration of the balance of the three doshas.

Doshas are mentioned in the Rig Veda, where Indra is identified with Vata, Agni with Pitta, and Soma with Kapha.

Ayurvedic dosha test to determine body type

According to Ayurveda, there are 7 possible types of doshas: cotton wool, Pitta, Kapha, Vata-Pitta, Vata-Kapha, Pitta-Kapha and all doshas are balanced (Prakriti Sama). There are three sections, one for each dosha. Complete each section and add all the numbers together to complete the score for each dosha. Consider each answer carefully. If you are in doubt about what to answer, put a number that could be applied to you for your life, according to at least, for the last few year s.

From 0 to 2 - Not applicable to me,

3 to 4 - Applicable sometimes or to some extent,

5 to 6 - Almost always applies to me.

Section 1. Vata Dosha. 0-2 3-4 5-6

By nature I am very active, I usually do things quickly.
I learn quickly and forget quickly.
As a rule, I am enthusiastic and animated.
I have a thin build.
I don't gain weight easily.
I walk quickly and easily.
I tend to have a hard time making decisions.
I am often constipated.
I have a tendency that my hands and feet are cold.
I often feel anxious and nervous.
Cold weather bothers me more than most people.
I speak quickly and I'm talkative.
I am emotional by nature and my mood changes often.
My sleep is often restless and disturbed.
My skin is dry, especially in winter.
I have an active, unstable mind, rich in imagination.
Energy comes to me in tides.
I have a tendency to quickly spend or use up all the energy or money I have.
My eating and sleeping habits tend to be irregular.
I have a variable appetite.

Section 2. Pitta Dosha. 0-2 3-4 5-6

I usually act skillfully.
I have a tendency to be extremely precise and neat.
I am energetic and partly I have a strong, persuasive demeanor.
I feel uncomfortable or get tired easily in hot weather.
I sweat easily.
Even though I may not always show it, I get irritable and angry quite easily.
If I skip a meal or there is a delay in eating, then this makes me feel uncomfortable.
One or more of the following qualities characterize my hair: early graying or balding, sparse, fine, straight hair, blond, red or auburn hair.
I have a strong appetite.
I like to set goals for myself and then try to achieve them.
I have bowel movements very regularly. For me, it is more typical that bowel movements occur freely than that constipation occurs.
I get impatient very easily.
I tend to bring everything to perfection in detail.
I get angry quite easily, but then I quickly forget about it.
I really like cold food like ice cream and also cold drinks.
I'm with more likely I will feel that the room is too hot than that the room is too cold.
I can't stand very hot or very spicy food.
I am not as patient with objections as I should be.
I like complex tasks, challenging me. When I want something, I am very determined in my efforts to achieve it.
I tend to be critical of both others and myself.

Section 3. Kapha Dosha. 0-2 3-4 5-6

I go about things in a slow, relaxed manner.
I gain weight easily and lose it slowly.
By nature I am silent and speak only when necessary.
I can easily skip meals without significant inconvenience.
I am prone to excess mucus and phlegm, chronic blockage, asthma and sinus problems.
I need at least eight hours of sleep to feel comfortable the next day.
I sleep very deeply.
I am peaceful by nature; I don't get angry easily.
I don't learn as quickly as some, but I have an excellent ability to remember; I have a long memory.
I eat slowly.
The cold and damp bother me.
My hair is thick, dark and wavy.
I have smooth, soft, somewhat pale skin.
I have a large, solid build.
By nature I am calm and peaceful.
I have weak digestion, which makes me feel heavy after eating.
I have very good stamina, stamina and physical endurance, as well as a stable energy level.
As a rule, I have a slow, measured gait.
I usually feel shaky and unsteady after sleep and tend to be slow to get going in the morning.
I usually do things slowly and methodically.

Final scoring for the dosha test: Vata _____, Pitta_____, Kapha_____.

If one score is much higher than the others, then this is your predominant dosha. This dosha will be most evident in your constitution if its amount is at least twice that of the next dosha. However, if any dosha is higher, it can also be accepted as the dominant dosha.

If the count for two doshas is almost the same, then you have a body with two doshas. For example, Vata (76), Pitta (73) and Kapha (45), then you have a Vata-Pitta constitution.

If all the amounts are the same, then you have a balanced constitution, which is rare. Better take the test again and answer more carefully.

If your condition changes all the time, for example, if you have either constipation or diarrhea, then most likely this is due to excitation of Vata dosha.

Something about Vata dosha
Psychological picture

An icy reflection of light behind a deer flashing by lightning; the cold of gusty winds on the rustling sands of the night desert - such is the nature of Vata.

cotton wool, driving force the universe, is influenced by air and ethereal space and washes the subtle body. The symbol of Vata is the fast deer, which controls the heart chakra, and the wise elephant, the oldest of mammals, the bearer of the history of the earth, plants and medicinal herbs, which governs the throat chakra.

Vata type is always on the other side of material ideas, concepts and concepts. Everyday life, almost on the verge of isolation. Against the background of thoroughness and solidity earth type Vata appears awkward, contradictory and inconsistent. In comparison with the stoic endurance of Kapha and the high activity of Pitta, the property of Vata to always worry, worry and doubt is especially noticeable. Among its partners, Vata stands out for its high mobility and variability. This type of people gives the impression of an overseas curiosity, but appearances are often deceiving.

Unlike Kapha and Pitta, Vata has enormous spiritual potential and can lead a deeply spiritual life. Vata dosha is ruled primarily by the subtle body and its higher etheric plane, so the developed essence of Vata is embodied in the energies of the heart chakra and throat chakra. These people are capable of love, compassion and reflection. Subtlety, impressionability, sensitivity and responsiveness always indicate the presence of Vata dosha in a person, no matter what type he belongs to. A person who has evolved from the fourth chakra has a very small karmic tail. But when Vata goes astray, the consequences are very sad. During meditation, people belonging to the Vata type learn about their inherent ability to swim in the ocean of cognitive memory, penetrating through energy channels to the sources of instinctive wisdom.

Vata people have a gift of light: they are able to experience love and show sensuality on the spiritual plane. As a rule, as people of this type mature, their physical desires fade away and deep cosmic love begins to blossom, in whose invisible embrace the universe splashes. These people must open up and allow their unusual nature to enjoy the true spirit of universal sensuality. This is what will give them maximum satisfaction in the knowledge of sensory sensations.

People who belong to the Vata type are always at the forefront of the ever-changing game of existence, but never strive to lead the masses and lead. Vata's nature has an innate musicality. Ascetic Vatas must necessarily relax, contemplate and meditate in order to get rid of the irritation that has accumulated after the endless noise cacophony of the day. Healing practices for Vata can include activities whose energy resonates deeply with the subtle vibrations of the Vata nature.

The heart chakra, the main channel of Vata's connection to the universe, is washed and nourished by pure sound. Extraneous sounds, even of natural origin, prevent Vata from vibrating at deep levels, resonating with the pulsation of the universe. That's why they love silence so much. They have the unique gift of going deep into their inner world, enter the world of silence, listen to inner sensations and find a refuge where only flows that are in tune with their internal energy reign.

Like the wind, Vatas feel quite comfortable everywhere, except for niches constructed by Pittas and Kaphas. Vata can be compared to a wind sweeping across the rustling sands of the night desert, which has neither top nor bottom, neither beginning nor end. Vata is lulled by the sounds of the dying wind in the vast and eternal ocean of space.

Vata are sensitive not only to sounds, but also to touch. They are distinguished by a subtle tactile reaction, and this should not surprise us, since the skin is under the protection of air. They are soothed by the light, gentle touch of natural fabrics, causing a feeling of well-being and comfort.

In order for Vata to love himself for who he is, to stop criticizing, judging and evaluating himself, he will have to go through a long and difficult path of overcoming himself. Vats should not feel like white crows in the flock of the world. They just have to realize that they are endowed with a higher gift. Without this, they will never be able to find internal and external harmony and reconcile the spiritual with the carnal.

Something about Pitta dosha
Psychological picture

The fierce gleam of the eyes of a fire-breathing dragon in a city of sparkling gems is the true nature of Pitta.

Pitta, the dynamic force of the universe, is influenced by the fire element. Pitta bathes the mental body. The symbol of fire is the ram, or ram, which rushes forward with wild pressure with its horns. The fiery energy of Pitta is concentrated in the chakra solar plexus manipura, or energy chakra. Manipura is translated from Sanskrit as “the sparkling abode of precious stones”, and this term perfectly describes the energy of Pitta.

Pitta has a colossal supply of solar energy, and this is reflected in his highly intellectual and noble appearance. Like representatives of other Ayurvedic types, highly developed mature Pitta follows the path of self-knowledge and understands its true purpose.

Pitta always demands the lion's share and usually gets it. Pittas are ferocious fire-breathing dragons. Leaving scorched deserts behind them, they furiously rush forward, demonstrating furious pressure and inexhaustible ram energy. The uniqueness of Pitta lies in the fact that its physiological and psychological centers are localized in the same central area of the body - the solar plexus area.

The main qualities of Pitta are energy, ambition and aggressiveness; by these qualities he is easily recognizable. Born from the energy of the universe, Pitta turns ideas into reality and makes fairy tales come true. Ultimately, cosmic love (anahata heart chakra) and creative imagination (vishuddha throat chakra) of Vat arise from the energy of universal fire. When Pitta dosha is balanced through conscious living, its fiery energy rises to the higher chakras.

Pitta plays the role of a catalyst, the very force of acceleration that mobilizes the activity of the other two types - Vata and Kapha. Pittas enjoy absolute power, controlling any situation that arises. They are always aimed at success, and the power of the ram gives them brightness and uniqueness. They know how to concentrate on one task and throw all their energy into completing it. Driven by solar power, Pittas are theatrical and showy, actors in a breathtaking performance.

The degree of individual perfection of each of the representatives of this type can vary widely. This means that for every harmonious and perfect ram there is always a lamb hiding in the bushes. Pittas live in mental balance with themselves and the world.

Pittas lose their temper instantly and unpredictably. Their irritability and anger will amaze the imagination of a stranger. Pittas need to work a lot with their consciousness in order to ever understand that there are many people living on earth besides them. different types. An attempt to pacify Pitta is tantamount to an attempt to block a fire in the forest. Is it often possible to extinguish forest fires that break out over vast areas during the dry season?

At the same time, their indomitable will is responsible for humanity's gigantic breakthroughs in the field of science and technology. (And also for the flourishing of ecologically dangerous species industry.) Pitta can be easily recognized by such character traits as determination, ambition, integrity of character and authority.

If Vata should be borrowed strengths self-centered Pittas, then Pittas need to learn not to stick out their “I”, stop considering themselves the navel of the earth and not overestimate their own importance. Pittas do not need to constantly assert themselves and prove that they are the central and guiding force in the interaction of people of different types. Nature blessed them with this role, because it is not for nothing that Pittas have a developed manipura chakra - the center of self-expression. All people have karmic debt, so you shouldn’t upset the plans of the architect of the universe. This is the most main lesson, which Pittas must extract.

Manipura governs not only Pitta dosha, but also the stage of youth in the life of every person. Therefore, it is quite normal for Pitta to be called a “hot head” and to be irritable. Pitta is always unstoppable at the starting line. But in the marathon he must slow down and look around to see what other runners are doing. After all, a center can be called a center when there is a periphery around it; it cannot exist by itself. The vanguard is Vata and the rear is Kapha. Only when Pitta has a team around him will he be able to complete the task.

Pittas should always remember about people! From time to time, a fire-breathing dragon must slow down to take a closer look at its surroundings, to see individuals and look inside yourself.

Pittas are endowed with the highest energy potential. If they can overcome their arrogance towards people, they will be able to learn the secrets of the human self. They are endowed with the greatest gift of sattvic thinking, which leads to harmony with themselves and the world.

Dynamic Pittas have a widespread misconception. People of this type mistakenly believe that the measure of success is material victories and conquests. But in the center of the blinding flame lurks gem, cooled by its own bright cold light. When Pitta learns to overcome the obstacles erected by his own ego, he will be surprised to discover that life is not limited to the material plane, that except material assets in life there are goals and values of a different order that you can and should strive for in real life.

Something about Kapha dosha
Psychological picture

Unshakable like a rock, solid like a stone, flowing cool like the shimmering surface of a river in white moonlight - this is the essence of the Kapha type.

Kapha is influenced by the water and earth elements - the energies of attraction and charm in the universe. Kapha bathes the nutritional body and is located in upper section chest cavity person.

Kapha is dominated by the energy of the svadhisthana chakra, ruled by Mercury. Mercury has a lunar nature which represents femininity. This original feminine power, capable of procreation, is surrounded by the male solar energy of muladhara. A healthy, cheerful Kapha is influenced by muladhara and svadhisthana - the basis of creation.

The planetary principles of the Earth fit perfectly into the nature of Kapha. Kaphas are better tuned to the rhythms of earthly life than others and are adapted to survival. It was the Kaphas who wrote social and family rules for people. Fixed, stable and inert Kaphas contrast sharply with the air currents of Vata flying and melting in the clouds and the volcanic emissions of fiery lava of Pitta. Kapha has always been, is and will be, this is the law. Kapha is a frozen statue of eternity, over which time and space have no power. Kapha energy serves as the foundation on which the building blocks of the universe are built. The liveliness, changeability, ability to soar and fly that Vata possesses, or the fire, strength, pressure and dynamics that characterize Pitta, are supported by the energy of Kapha. Kapha energy is fundamental, just as the archetype of Mother Earth is fundamental.

Kapha energy symbolizes late winter and early spring for all living organisms. Kapha cleanses the blood and dirt of everyday life, revealing life-giving purity and freshness. Kapha represents the basic and continuous life process, without which there can be no home, no children, no family. Being the mother's breast of the planet, she warms and feeds Vata and Pitta, who come to her to replenish their strength. Kapha resembles a calm and well-fed cow grazing in lush green meadows. Kapha's mascot is a prehistoric elephant that bears the burden of earthly suffering. Kapha embodies our origins and the maternal, feminine nature of all things.

Kapha is a classic combination of stoic grace, calm and sensuality. Kaphas are very soulful and unsinkable. Kaphas are characterized by stability and down-to-earthness, which allows Vatas to fly freely and Pittamas to perform feats. Kapha gives its partners the opportunity to live and enjoy life here and now.

Kapha is located on the physical and astral planes. In the human body, Kapha accounts for up to eighty percent of the total weight, and on the planet - fifty percent. That is why people in whom this dosha predominates are so much attached to the material world. This causes huge problems of the earthly order. Kaphas always overeat and have a very strong possessiveness instinct. Being Kapha means being possessive.

Kaphas need large spaces and open spaces that offer fabulous views and perspectives. In order for them to perform the Herculean tasks, they need fresh air and certain living conditions. The fertile Kapha energy should flow unhindered. There are usually three requirements for a Kapha home: convenience, practicality and great wealth.

Kaphas must give up hoarding, possessiveness and saving for a rainy day. They should not identify themselves with their property, even if acquired through righteous labors, but be content with only the bare necessities. Unfortunately, for Kaphas this is an almost impossible task, because it is difficult for them to decide what the “essentials” are. But if they keep for themselves one fourth of what they own, then even then they will not live as ascetics. Kaphas are never poor, and this is understandable: you need to have a lot of milk to feed Vat and Pitt.

These respectable people with glossy faces are endowed with a pronounced ability to “cool down while running,” to lose incentives, to lose interest in what only recently aroused their enthusiasm and excitement. Kaphas like to lie low so that no one pulls them or calls them to do anything.

Uncontrolled gluttony, omnivorousness and greed lead these people into a lethargic state. During seasons of vulnerability, Kaphas must carefully control the desire to “pull the blanket over themselves” and “lay their paw” on everything that the eye can see. If they do not heed this advice, they will gain even more excess weight because they are very inert. Kaphas do not know what a flight of imagination or an all-consuming fire of passion is, so their energy is not wasted or burned, but is spent carefully and economically. But for all the inflexibility and unshakability of their nature, Kaphas sometimes still manage to move away from the stereotype, although to do this they must overcome themselves.

The element of svadhisthana is water. When Kapha muddies the purity of its waters and stumbles, it often drowns in the deep waters of disappointment, depression and melancholy. When Kaphas sink to the bottom, they go from being the builders of the universe to becoming its active destroyers. In the space of depression, or the space of Pluto, many types of malignant tumors are born.

In order to fully live each day, Kaphas must strictly adhere to a strict daily routine and not allow themselves to become discouraged due to internal conflicts. Water people They cannot afford the luxury of accumulating grievances, anger and keeping their inner world in disarray. Like the waters of rivers, the waters of Kapha should always remain clean, clear and swift. Stagnant waters are the first enemy of Kapha.