A Complete Guide to Vata Dosha

Vata, which translates to "wind" in Sanskrit, is one of the three Doshas, or energies, that make up our constitution. It is responsible for all movement within our physiology and is said to be the lightest and most mobile of the three doshas. Vata is composed of the elements air and ether and is associated with the cold and dry weather of fall and winter. When in balance, its types are creative, expressive, and full of energy. However, they can become anxious, scattered, and restless when out of balance. In this article, we will discuss in detail the characteristics of Vata Dosha and how to balance it if it gets aggravated. If you feel you have anything to do with it, then this is just for you.

Functions that Vata control in our body

Hearing
Touch
Respiration
Circulation
Menstruation
Orgasm
Elimination of waste
Movement of thoughts & emotions, nervous system working

Characteristics of people who are Vata Dosha dominant

You like to be more on the move and are always working toward innovative ideas. Broadly speaking, as long as Vata is in balance, you will be active and mentally inclined, with a lean body. When Vata becomes aggravated, you might have problems with your nervous system, like anxiety, depression, or insomnia.

When Vata is in balance

Physical appearance:

fine hair
dry skin
slim
light colored eyes
flexible joints
veins under the skin are visible

Behavioral characteristics:

on your toes all the time
creative
energetic
flexible in body & mind
excited
loves new experiences

When Vata is imbalanced/out of balance

Physical signs:

cold limbs
weight loss
digestive problems
lop-sided appetite
hiccups
arthritis

Mental & emotional signs:

Anxiousness, nervousness
Overthinking
Insomnia
hyperactive
trouble in accessing memory or trouble remembering
dissociation
delusion

Now let's look at how to balance Vata dosha

A regular lifestyle assists put Vata into equilibrium, so you aren't carried away in the ethers. Vata is cool, clear, irregular, dry, and continually transforming. To manage Vata, make choices that bring heat, stability, and consistency to your life.

Lifestyle shifts to balance Vata dosha

1. Avoid cold foods and prefer warm foods

Vata imbalances are often associated with cold weather and dryness. Cold foods can aggravate these conditions and worsen symptoms. These include sweet fruits, coconut, and vegetables such as pumpkin & cauliflower.

2. Eat freshly cooked food

It's important to eat freshly cooked food because it provides more nutrition & increases aliveness in the body. Also, it's grounding and helps to calm the mind and body.

3. Practice yoga & meditation to relax yourself

Yoga helps to stretch and strengthen the body, while meditation can help to calm and focus the mind. Both of these practices can help to reduce stress and tension, which is very helpful in managing Vata imbalance.

4. Get more sound sleep

Sleep is to us what charging is to our smartphones, won't you agree? Getting enough sound sleep helps to balance Vata because it gives the body and mind time to rest and rejuvenate. When we are well-rested, we are better able to handle stress and stay calm and focused.

5. Use Ghee & sesame oil in cooking

Ghee and sesame oil are both considered to be "tridoshic," meaning that they can help balance all three doshas in the body. They are particularly helpful for balancing Vata dosha. When Vata is out of balance, it can lead to dryness and stiffness in the body. Ghee and sesame oil help to keep the body lubricated and prevent these symptoms.

Eating these warming herbs and spices can effectively support balancing Vata dosha…

1. Ashwagandha

Medicinal properties of Ashwagandha

Neuroprotective
Thyroid modulating
Anti-anxiety
Antidepressant
Anti-inflammatory

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that helps the body to resist stress. It is particularly beneficial to balance Vata as it helps to focus and relax the nervous system. It assists the body in being able to handle stress and helps to improve focus and concentration. There are a few different ways that Ashwagandha can be consumed to balance Vata dosha. One way is to take it in capsule form. This is the most convenient way to take Ashwagandha, but it is also the least effective. The second way to consume Ashwagandha is by making tea with the herb. This is more effective than taking it in capsule form, but it can be bitter tasting.

2. Ginger

Medicinal properties of ginger

Antioxidant
Anti-inflammatory
Anti-bacterial
Antiviral

Ginger is another excellent choice for balancing Vata dosha. It is a warming spice that helps to soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation. There are many ways to consume ginger, such as adding it to your diet in the form of tea, capsules, or oil. You can also use it topically by applying it to your skin in a diluted form. Here are some specific ways to use ginger to help balance Vata dosha:

Add ginger to your diet in the form of tea

Drinking ginger tea is a great way to help balance Vata dosha. Ginger tea can be made by simmering fresh ginger root in water for 10 minutes. You can also add other ingredients such as lemon or honey to taste. Drink this tea once or twice daily.

Take ginger capsules

If you don’t like the taste of ginger, you can take it in capsule form instead.

3. Chamomile

Medicinal properties of Chamomile:

Anti-anxiety
Digestive relaxant
Mild tranquilizer
Sleep inducer

Chamomile is a common flower that can be found in many gardens. This flower has been used for centuries in herbal remedies to help with various ailments. Chamomile is a soothing herb that can help to reduce anxiety and promote restful sleep. Drinking Chamomile tea can be extremely helpful for people with aggravated Vata.

Conclusion

Vata serves a major function in functioning our system as it is responsible for all movement in our body. When balanced we are creative & energetic and full of new ideas but it can cause stress & anxiety if out of balance. To balance Vata dosha, it is important to make some lifestyle shifts. To keep Vata in check during the colder months, focus on warming foods and drinks, regular routines, and calming activities like yoga or meditation. Check Smartveda to know more!