Vata is made up of the elements Ether and Air and translate as “that which moves” it is also consider the “King of the Doshas” as it moves both Pitta and Kapha. The qualities of Vata are dry, rough, light, cold, subtle, and mobile. Vata individuals will display these qualities in themselves being light, mobile, and changing. The balanced Vata individual is active, creative, and gifted with a natural ability to express and communicate. Vata individuals tend to be tall or short, thin with little muscle development, and may have difficulty gaining weight. Skin tends to be dry and their appetite varies; some days they may have a strong appetite while on other days it may be weak. They tend to be quick moving and attracted to vigorous exercise even though they tire out easily.
Qualities of Balanced Vata Individuals*
- Creative
- Strong communicators
- Artistic
- Adaptable
- Enthusiastic
- Imaginative
- Compassionate
- Multifaceted in interests and abilities
- Spiritually Inclined
Qualities of Imbalanced Vata Individuals*
- Overly active thinkers
- Restless cannot sit still
- Inclined towards fear, anxiety, depression
- “Spacey” and ungrounded
- Additive personalities
- Quick to judge or make decisions
- Grasp things quickly but soon forgets
- Lack confidence and boldness
- Talk fast and breathlessly
Ways Vata Becomes Imbalanced*
- Eating Vata-aggravating foods
- Eating on the run
- Following an irregular daily routine
- Going to bed late at night
- Traveling frequently
- Surrounding oneself with excessive sensory stimulation (TV, loud noises, etc.)
Common Vata Disorders*
- Arthritis
- Cracking popping of the joints
- Muscle stiffness
- Headaches
- Dry, scaly skin
- Insomnia
- Constipation
- Gas and bloating
- Lower back pain
- Intolerance to cold and dryness
Ways to Balance Vata*
- Eat Vata-balancing diet
- Follow a regular daily routine
- Go to bed early
- Meditate daily
- Massage the body daily with warm oil such as sesame oil
- Laugh and smile more