(Earth & Water)
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF KAPHA
Kapha is made up of earth & water. According to Ayurveda, this dosha governs the structure of the body. It is the principle that holds the cells together to form muscle, fat, bone, and sinew. The primary function of Kapha is protection.
When balanced – Kapha types have a strong physical build and excellent stamina. They have large, soft eyes; smooth, radiant skin; and thick, lush hair. They sleep soundly and have regular digestion.
When unbalanced – Kapha types gain weight, retain fluid and develop allergies. They become lethargic and sleep excessively. Unbalanced kapha dosha for long periods leads to asthma, chronic respiratory infections, diabetes, and depression.
EMOTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF KAPHA
Kapha also supports emotional wellbeing.
When balanced – Kapha types are calm, thoughtful, and loving. They have an inherent ability to enjoy life and thrive on routine. They are strong, loyal, patient and supportive. They love music, reading, and relaxing.
When imbalanced, Kapha types become greedy and possessive. They hold onto things, jobs, relationships and possessions – even when they are no longer useful. They are also stubborn and resist change.
When overwhelmed or stressed, the unbalanced Kapha response is: to act impulsively and emotionally. The suddenly decide, “I don’t want to be involved”.
1. Follow the dietary guidelines for Kapha Dosha listed below.
2. Wake early (before dawn), sleep less, and avoid sleeping during the day.
3. Indulge in physical exercise every day. You would benefit from practicing the I-Yoga Suryanamaskar daily. Initially complete just 6 cycles and slowly build yourself up to 24 cycles.
4. Do not eat breakfast before 10am. Begin your day with a Liver Flush cocktail :
Recipe: Juice of one lemon, 1 tbs. Olive Oil, ½ apple or pear, blend or juice. You may add a dash of long pepper or cayenne if desired. This should be the first thing you drink every morning.
5. Perform activities that energise the body and mind and stimulate metabolism. Along with daily Suryanamaskar, at least 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise is also recommended.
6. Use a body brush or loofah to exfoliate your skin. This also stimulates circulation and detoxifies the skin and follow with self abhyanga using a kapha body oil
7. If possible, use a sauna weekly to promote sweating.
8. When cleaning the teeth, ensure to brush the white coating off your tongue. You may also use a tongue scraper if you have one.
9. The colours that we wear have an effect on our mood. Colours that help balance Kapha are: vibrant blues and greens.
10. Break away from stagnation and clinging to old ways of thinking and behaving. Try to do something different every day.
If you want to keep your Vata balanced for each season we have the perfect suggestion. Our Seasonal Dosha collection is delivered to your door with all of the tips, recipes, herbs and oils for maintaining balance throughout the year.
Kapha Seasonal Collection