A holistic approach to avoiding a Vata imbalance in Ayurveda
Out of Ayurveda’s three doshas, Vata is the one that identifies with newness, change, and lightness. Those who have a lot of Vata in them may be very familiar with experiences of a classic Vata imbalance which includes anxiety. Vata types get overwhelmed with a moving mind. You can take this quiz to find out your dominant dosha.
Vata is all about movement. It is composed of space and air, and just like these elements, it is so light that it can float away. Like the wind, it blows around constantly and is ever-changing.
A mind that fluctuates can get out of control and can cause you a lot of mental discomfort. This can spread to manifest itself in your body as well. Vata is the movement of your mind and also the movement of your body’s functions — it shows up as the messages moving through your nerves and the flow of your blood, among many things.
Anxiety shows up in the body in a variety of ways for us all. Since we all have the three doshas within us, we have all experienced the effects of anxiety from time to time. Vata is known as the “King of the Doshas” because it tends to be the first dosha that goes out of balance for us all, causing the other two — Pitta and Kapha — to shift. So, if you’re experiencing anxiety, you may benefit from these Ayurvedic suggestions regardless of your primary dosha.
Calm Down and Ground Yourself
Vata types need to ground themselves. What does that mean? Well, Vata is always moving and light, so we need to counter that with something heavy and stable. Thoughts that are moving out of control can be steadied with mindfulness.
Vata people are super creative and always have amazing new ideas. This is to be celebrated. But sometimes it can be overwhelming if the ideas are coming fast and there isn’t any execution. This will result in a series of unfinished projects.
Slow down, Vata. Focus on one idea at a time and write down the others for later. Make sure this one is completed first. Slow your thoughts with meditation and focus. Direct your thoughts to be more organized.
Nature walks are also extremely beneficial because being immersed in nature allows us to stay grounded. You may even want to take off your shoes and connect with the Earth directly. Remember your true nature by getting outdoors.
Establish a Regular Routine
Vata resists routine. Schedules are not their jam. But in order to wrangle the Vata within us all, we must try to establish rituals and routines in our days.
Vata will need some extra motivation and encouragement to stick to a routine. Like their minds, their bodies also experience fluctuation in cycles of sleep, digestion, eating habits, and even menstruation (if they’re a woman), so the lack of routine permeates their whole existence. It’s going to take work.
Try a new routine. Block off your calendar with your plans for what you’ll do every single day. Maybe you can start small and just tell yourself that you’ll eat meals at the exact same time every day. Later, expand to other things like your work schedule, exercise, and sleep. You’ll see a world of difference.
Connect with Warm, Earthy Experiences
Vata will benefit from earthy aromas in their home, such as vanilla and sandalwood. Warm baths will counter Vata’s cold and light nature. Wear earthy colors like green, brown, and beige. You’ll experience a difference right away. Oh, and try to eat warm, cooked foods, maybe even with some extra oils or creaminess!
Try a self-massage, Vata. They are my top recommendation for a Vata imbalance, and also really for everyone. They are so grounding! For Vata, sesame oil is recommended because it’s heavier than other oils, and Vata needs to steady itself by introducing the opposite qualities of light and moving.
Hi, I’m Emily. I am Chopra certified to teach Ayurveda, and I believe in its ancient healing powers for the coming of a new era in humanity.
The divine in me recognizes the divine in you.
