Vata dosha is the principle of movement. As such, vata, which describes the functions of the air and ether (space) elements, governs all bodily movements. We can identify vata through it’s qualities of being light, dry, rough, mobile, subtle, clear, and cold.
An example of vata in nature is the wind, which shares these same qualities. So vata is somewhat like our own, internal wind that keeps things flowing.
Because it’s responsible for all bodily movements, the functions of vata include:
- circulation
- movement of food through the GI tract
- movement of impulses through our nervous system
- movement of thoughts through the mind
- speech
- communication
- respiration (breathing)
- sensory perception
If there’s a disturbance in any of these bodily functions, vata is usually involved.
Vata-predominant individuals tend to have a thin body frame, and may be tall or short with dry, frizzy hair and small eyes. They generally have an active imagination which leads them to be very artistic, creative, and intuitive. Because of the mobile quality of vata, vata-predominant individuals tend to be very active. They often move a lot and love traveling. The downside is that vata individuals are prone to fear, anxiety, and loneliness.
Because of its mobile quality, vata dosha is the easiest dosha to go out of balance, and thankfully it’s also the easiest dosha to bring back into balance, once we determine the root cause of the imbalance and remove the cause.
Common causes of imbalance include:
- irregular schedule
- old, leftover food
- dry or raw food
- insufficient food intake
- rapid eating
- suppression of urges (such as sneezing or going to the bathroom)
- staying up late at night
- overstimulation
- worry, fear, or loneliness
How do you know when vata is out of balance? The following signs and symptoms are indications of vata imbalance:
- constipation
- numbness
- gas, bloating, and distention
- pain
- lumbago (low back ache) or sciatica
- malabsorption
- neuromuscular disorders
- insomnia
- emotional hypersensitivity
How do you manage vata? The following tips will help you keep vata balanced and grounded.
- Maintain a regular routine. This supports our circadian rhythm, balanced energy, and restful sleep.
- Because vata is cold, it’s important to keep warm and avoid cold drafts.
- Also avoid cold, frozen, and raw foods. Instead, favor warm foods and spices.
- Avoid multitasking, which stresses the nervous system and distracts the mind. Aim to stay calm and focused.
- Create space for sufficient rest (yes consider this permission to take a nap).
