About Ayurveda and The Doshas
About Ayurveda
Ayurveda is derived from two words.Ayu means Life. It is a combination of body, senses, mind & soul. Veda is a Sanskrit word meaning science or knowledge. It is an ancient holistic science over 5000 years old with historical roots in Indian sub-continent. The main classical Ayurveda texts begin with account of the transmission of medical knowledge from the Gods to sages and then to human physicians. Origins of Ayurveda are also found in Atharvaveda. Ayurvedic texts include Sushruta Samhita and Charaka Samita which are written in Sanskrit. Ayurveda is a Complete philosophy of life for understanding our self within the laws of nature, helping us to achieve vitality, optimal wellness and ageless beauty. Ayurveda states the Panchmahabhutas theory, all objects, inanimate or living are made of 5 basic elements- Space, air, Fire, water and earth.
The Doshas
Ayurveda states that each being, living or nonliving is comprised of five fundamental elements, water, fire, earth, space and air. These elements uniquely combine within each one of us creating one’s innate individual constitution known as our DOSHA .The secret of Ayurvedic beauty is to live in harmony with nature’s design for us as expressed by our personal mix of elements - Dosha, that makes us unique. Determining your dosha will help you make best suited lifestyle choices, diet and skincare regime that will offer optimal wellness for your mind, body and soul. Can broadly categorize one’s dosha on the basis of characteristics listed below
vata
Vata is characterized by thin, slender, restless, lively & creative personality. Swift walk & actions, they prefer summers and have cold hand & feet. Vata (Balanced) skin tends to be dry & thin. Imbalances cause dehydration, aging, fine lines with dry, fizzy hair.
pitta
Pitta is characterized by medium weight & built, passionate. Dynamic, determined personality with good intellect & leadership qualities. They have strong joints, usually warm so prefer cold climates. Pitta (balanced) skin is soft, smooth and hair are fine and thin. Imbalances cause rashes, breakouts, rosacea & inflammation with extreme hair fall and balding in men.
Kapha
Kapha is characterized by large frame, stout bodies, calm, grounded, loyal personality so they are great friend & caring comparison. They prefer summer & spring & are depressed on wet days. They have large, soft, smooth eyes with thick eyelashes & brows, Kapha skin is smooth, oily cool, large pores with thick, wavy hair. Imbalances cause cystic acne around the mouth, excessive oiliness & black heads.