Kapha

There are three doshas in Ayurveda- Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These three doshas are also known as life forces because they regulate mental as well as physical health of each individual, including their various lifestyle factors. These doshas possess specific physical and psychological characteristics and they are directly related to an individual's health. When in they balanced state, these three doshas are capable of promoting and uplifting overall health. On the other hand, if these doshas become unbalanced, various health issues arise.

Kapha Dosha: Kapha is represented and constructed by the elements of water and earth. Kapha dosha helps to maintain and power the human body. It is responsible for the body's anabolism, the process of building the body, including the creation of new cells, their growth, nourishment, regeneration and repairs. It helps to hold the cells together. Kapha bestows an individual with an inner feeling of contentment. It maintains the fluid balance within the body and is responsible for the overall strength of the bones and muscle growth. When in balance, it also leads to a healthy immune system. It governs the chest, head, lymph, pancreas, stomach and throat. It enhances the brain power and memory capacity. It helps to strengthen the joints, the lungs, heart, and the protective lining of the stomach.

Body Structure of Kapha People: All the three doshas are present in every individual. However, most people have one dominant dosha. People dominated by Kapha dosha are said to be psychologically calm, compassionate, cool, generous, and have patience. They believe in forgiveness, and are peaceful, sentimental, smooth, soft, stable, steady and thoughtful. They have broad shoulders and hips and thick hair. They are generally balanced in life, determined, and hardworking. They don’t get angry easily.

People with Kapha dominance have oily skin and so they should deeply cleanse their face, twice daily. Kapha skin needs internal as well as external detoxification on a regular basis. Kapha dominant people possess excellent stamina. They possess a strong and well-built body with huge bones, and tend to gain weight easily. However, they find it difficult to lose weight. Their digestive system is generally weak. The Kapha characteristics of an individual are defined as heavy, slow, and sticky. They possess thick fingers, hair, lips and neck. They enjoy deep sleep but are prone to colds.

Although they are good listeners, they find it difficult to learn new things- but once they learn, they are able to retain those in their memory for a long time. They are more protective and nurturing towards their loved ones. They are sensual and generally make great partners in life.

Imbalance in Kapha Dosha: When the three doshas are in balance they help to have a better quality of health. However, when these doshas get imbalanced, they can cause various adverse effects in the human body. One of the major reasons for the imbalance of Kapha dosha is excessive consumption of food. Imbalanced Kapha is responsible for as many as 28 health related problems, including bronchitis, cataracts, dark circles under the eyes, depression, excessive desire to sleep, fatigue, hearing loss, obesity, reddening of the eyes, respiratory problems, sinus congestion, slow metabolism, sluggish digestion, thyroid, and wet cough. Imbalanced Kapha dosha makes the concerned individual lethargic, stubborn and resistant to change. Kapha dosha also may become the cause of diabetes, heart problems, and high cholesterol levels in the body.

Balancing Kapha Dosha: To maintain a balance of Kapha dosha it is essential to have stimulating activities, extra intake of fluids, meditation, moderate regular exercise, suitable Yoga Asanas, and remain physically active. It helps to increase the amount of movement, and stay warm. It is often helpful to use steam to relieve the problem of cough and cold. A healthy lifestyle is highly recommended. Expression through useful writings and art would help in restoring the balance of Kapha dosha. Kapha dosha requires an early to bed/ early to rise approach without naps. Avoid cold, damp and moist things. Kapha balance requires a diet and routine that are gentle on the physiology and not too heavy to digest.

What to Eat? To balance Kapha dosha, a light, low-fat diet of astringent, bitter, and pungent tastes is recommended. Consumption of fresh raw vegetables and ripe fruits, grains like barley, millet, oats, and rye are beneficial. Use of spices like cardamom, cloves, pepper, and turmeric is advised. ‘Moong Dal Khichdi’ is highly advised because of the weak metabolism and slow digestive system. Eat only freshly prepared, warm food or properly washed raw fruits & vegetables. Give preference to light and dry meals. Eat in a peaceful and loving environment.

What to Avoid? Individuals with imbalanced Kapha dosha should avoid fatty foods, milk and rice in their daily habits. However, they may consume these items occasionally. Avoid consumption of genetically modified food. Avoid eating cold, sour and extra sweet foods.