How to know if your doshas are balanced…
Vata
Qualities
The qualities associated with Vata energy are dry, light, and cold. The excess of any of these qualities will be imbalancing for Vata, while the opposite qualities - oily, heavy, and hot - can be used to create balance.
Balanced
When Vata energy is balanced, it supports a healthy flow of oxygen throughout our body. It supports the flow of our food going through our digestive tract. And, it also supports the flow of our nervous system by bringing signals to our brains from our sense organs - meaning eyes, nose, ears, mouth, and the sense of touch. Good flow is cleansing, nourishing, and energizing.
Out of Balance
If there’s an excess of air quality (Vata), then you may feel bloated or gassy. If there’s a blockage or lack of flow, you may feel constipated. Mentally, if Vata is out of balance, your thoughts might be scattered all over the place. You also might experience feelings of anxiety or fearfulness, or you may even have trouble sleeping.
Pitta
Qualities
The qualities associated with Pitta energy are light, sharp, and hot. The excess of any of these qualities will be imbalancing for Pitta, while the opposite qualities - heavy, dull, and cold - can be used to create balance.
Balanced
When Pitta is balanced, you will have strong digestive fire. You will be able to digest food properly, your thoughts will be focused and sharp, and your skin will look bright and healthy.
Out of Balance
When there is an excess of fire (Pitta), there will be too much heat within the body. In regards to the digestive process, this may translate into too much acidity, and you might experience acid indigestion. When there is too much Pitta in your blood, this will register as excessive heat, which might manifest as inflammation in your bloodstream. With deficient Pitta, you may not have sufficient heat to support the necessary transformations. Mentally, you may feel irritable, angry, or jealous - think of the expression, “hot head.”
Kapha
Qualities
The qualities associated with Kapha energy are heavy, oily, and cold. The excess of any of these qualities will be imbalancing for Kapha, while the opposite qualities - light, dry, and hot - can be used to create balance.
Balanced
When Kapha is balanced, your brain will be nourished, which in turn strengthens your memory and promotes other healthy brain functions. It also supports easeful movement of your muscles, joints, and skeletal structure. Your lungs will be nourished, and your breath will be effortless and congestion free. Mentally, you will feel peaceful, grounded, and loving.
Out of Balance
When Kapha is out of balance, you might experience memory loss or have a hard time comprehending things. You might experience breathing difficulties, feel sluggish, or have a heavy feeling in your head or body. Emotionally, you may feel depressed or sad.
The tree that is still standing after a storm is the tree that bends with the wind; it is also the tree with deep roots.
Dr. Pratima Raichur