In the system of Ayurveda, your primary dosha, or your own particular pattern of energy, must be in balance with the other doshas to maintain equilibrium. When our bodies, minds, and spirits are all working together in harmony, we are able to enjoy better health and a higher quality of life.
“You can free yourself from aging by reinterpreting your body and by grasping the link between belief and biology.”
- Deepak Chopra, MD
As you reinterpret your body through the lens of this natural, holistic system of healing, pay attention to your habits and routines when it comes to diet, meditation, and exercise. As someone with dominant Vata dosha, you can take steps to ensure that the physical activity you take part in is beneficial and balancing for you. First, what is Vata dosha?
Vata Dosha
The Vata dosha is composed of space and air elements and is the energy of movement. It is involved in the motion of your bodily processes including the flow of your breath, the beating of your heart, and the movement of your cells.
Associated with a quick mind and body, Vata promotes creativity and flexibility when in balance. When out of balance or in excess, it may produce anxiety and fear. The Vata dosha is usually associated with cold, dry attributes, and those with dosha imbalances or a natural abundance of Vata may prefer to stay in warm, humid climates and ingest cooked moist foods.
Exercising for Vata Dosha
Since people that are Vata dominant tend to be quick, restless, and get occasional bursts of energy, they might push themselves too hard during physical activity. Vata types are also likely to get fatigued quickly.
For this reason, it is recommended that Vata dominant people practice steady, grounding exercises. The goal is to participate in a routine-based physical activity that won’t push you too hard. These types of exercises may help to provide the stabilizing energy that Vata needs:
- Swimming
- Long-distance running
- Long walks
- Yoga
- Low impact hiking
- Rollerblading
- Ice skating
Even though it might be natural for Vata types to be drawn to high-action sports, it is best to avoid (or at least enjoy in moderation) physical activities that require large energy bursts such as:
- Tennis
- Racquetball
- Competitive soccer
- Boxing
- Rugby
- Lacrosse
Simple, repetitive, and endurance-building activities will help reign in the impulsive energy of Vata dosha. Remember, since those with excess Vata are sensitive to the cold, be sure to exercise inside during the winter months and avoid frigid water when swimming.
Study on Dosha brain types:
Learn your unique Mind-Body type and receive recommendations for looking and feeling your best.
To find out what your Dosha (Mind-Body Constitution) is,
click here to take the Ayurvedic Perfect Health Dosha Quiz
and learn how to incorporate lifestyle, diet and exercise changes based on your unique Dosha for optimal health and well-being.
Sources:
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Study on Dosha brain types
