Do you feel lethargic and unmotivated lately? Do you crave sweets, gain weight easily, and struggle to lose weight? If you answer yes to any of these questions, you may be a Kapha dosha type.
Ayurveda provides a holistic approach to an individual's physical, psychological, and emotional well-being. It sees the world and humans as composed of five elements: Prithvi (earth), Tejas (fire), Jala (water), Vayu (air), and Aakash (space). A unique combination of these elements produces what is known as a Dosha, or humour. It originated in India and promotes a total healing approach that includes diet, exercise, and lifestyle modifications.
Kapha dosha is primarily composed of water and soil. It absorbs the properties of each of these elements: the earth's rigidity, steadiness, and firmness, as well as water's free movement, lubrication, and cooling. It's known for keeping everything together.
Qualities of Kapha :
Kapha's attributes include Snigdhna, which is oily and unctuous, Sheeta, which is cold, Guru, which is heavy, Manda, which is gentle and sticky, Shlakshna, which is smooth and clear, Mrutsna, which is slimy and jelly-like, and Sthira, which is stable and immobile.It is in charge of binding the cells together, which form the body's muscles, fat, and bones. A Kapha-dominant individual is energetic and has a strong physique, stamina, and good digestion.
However, an imbalance of Kapha Dosha causes difficulties such as weight gain, fluid retention, allergies, and weariness. People with this dosha have glossy and oily skin that is fair and cold due to the qualities of the water element. Kapha hair is typically strong, coarse, and curly. It can even cause asthma, sleep problems, diabetes, and depression.
Samsarga denotes an increase or decrease in individual Doshas,. And Sannipata points to an imbalance of all three Doshas.
Balanced and Imbalanced Kapha Dosha
These are a few of the most important Kapha dosha qualities. Now let's take a look at some of the distinctions you'll notice in your mind and body when the Kapha dosha is balanced and the imbalanced.
These are the qualities that a person exhibits when the Kapha Dosha is in balance.
- Stable Temperament
- Good Long-Term Memory.
- Healthy And Vigorous Physiology.
- Strength And Stamina
- Kind And Affectionate.
- Sound Sleep.
The following are the Kapha imbalance symptoms a person exhibits.
- Excess Body Fluids
- A Thick White Coating On The Tongue.
- Slow, Sticky, And Sluggish Bowel Motions.
- Excess Body Weight
- Prone to Sinus and Respiratory Problems
- Having Problems Rising In The Morning
- Feel Hazy, Dull, Lethargic, Or Heavy.
- Become Readily Attached Or Possessive.
- Feeling Excessively Sentimental, Complacent, Or Stubborn
- Predisposition For Emotional Overeating.
How to determine your Dosha type
- An initial indication can be observed by merely studying the patient's exterior characteristics and speaking with their doctor.
- Doctors can use Ayurvedic pulse diagnosis (Nadi Vigyan) to learn more about the dosha configuration.
- The patient's organ function, as well as any probable problems, can help with diagnosis.
- Ayurvedic tongue diagnosis assists doctors in identifying dosha imbalances and digestive disorders.
- Only a comprehensive evaluation by an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner may reveal the dosha constitution and the optimum treatment plan.
Kapha dosha treatment in Ayurveda
- Astringent, while avoiding foods that are heavy, greasy, sweet, sour, or salty. See the entire Kapha Dosha Diet Guidelines below.
- Consume plenty of fresh fruits, veggies, and legumes.
- Keep warm in cold, damp weather.
- Prefer Going to bed early and rising early.
- Every day, engage in a brief bout of strenuous activity.
- Prefer warm temperatures.
Certain herbs can be very beneficial in managing the Kapha imbalance in your body.
Adrak (Ginger):
- Classified as a heating herb, helps pacify imbalanced kapha.
- Recommended to add half a spoon of ginger paste to food, especially beneficial for those feeling internal or external cold.
- Quick tip: To reduce kapha in milk, boil it with a pinch of adrak (ginger) or haldi (turmeric); opt for low-fat milk for easier digestion.
Ashwagandha:
- Increases kapha in winter, known for its strengthening and nourishing properties.
- Suggested use: ¼ spoon in warm milk daily, with honey for flavor.
Coriander:
- A tridoshic herb, useful in balancing all three doshas.
- Can be used as a garnish in soups, vegetables, etc.
Additional Recommendation - Triphala:
- An Ayurvedic blend of Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki, beneficial for balancing all three doshas.
- Advised to consume twice daily with a glass of milk to enhance jatharagni (digestive fire).
You must eat and live according on your dosha type. Before starting any medication on your own, you must first consult with an Ayurvedic physician.
Listen to our podcast 'Dosha Types, Ashtanga Hridayam & Good Health!' to learn more about your dosha.
Curious about Pitta dosha? Explore our blog post on understanding Pitta dosha to learn more