Ayurveda which means “Science of Life”, is intended to support our health and well-being from the cradle to the grave.
The whole of Ayurvedic therapy is based on the ‘constitution’ (Dosha) system of each individual’s unique mind-body connection. Each ‘dosha’ has a unique physical, physiological, and psychological trait. Hereditary, parental health, environment, mother’s behaviour, and lifestyle during conception, all impact the ‘dosha’. We are all a combination of three primary types of ‘dosha’ – Vata, Pitta and Kapha in varying proportions.
In Ayurveda terms, illness results from an ‘internal imbalance’ of ‘dosha’ due to an unhealthy or unbalanced lifestyle.
Half of Ayurveda deals with what goes inside the body, i.e. food, and the other half deals with how the body expresses it i.e. exercise. Hence, food and yoga asanas are the two essential parts of Ayurveda.
Which asana is suitable for my 'dosha'?
The most important factor is the manner and attitude with which the asana is done. Only after that does the suitable asana for a 'doshic' type come into play.
Because the proper asana for a 'dosha' done in the wrong way will not be helpful. On the other hand, an asana not suitable for a 'doshic' type, done properly as part of a sequence of asanas, will be beneficial.
The most important factor is the manner and attitude with which the asana is done. Only after that does the suitable asana for a 'doshic' type come into play. Because the proper asana for a 'dosha' done in the wrong way will not be helpful. On the other hand, an asana not suitable for a 'doshic' type, done properly as part of a sequence of asanas, will be beneficial.
Asanas cannot be prescribed based on the constitution alone. They must be prescribed based on the individual body structure, condition and modified according to Ayurvedic 'dosha' conditions. A Pitta person may have a Kapha condition such as a common cold, or a Kapha person may have a Vata condition of insomnia due to overwork. Asanas should be prescribed for the body's condition rather than their constitution in these conditions. The asana sequences as a whole will reduce the 'doshic' conditions.
Asanas for Vata constitution
Asanas are a must for Vata types! Without asanas, it is unlikely they will develop the stillness required for mediation. And needless to say, meditation is a must for them as they tend to get too focused in their minds.
The best way for Vata types to approach asanas is by beginning slow and deep breath awareness, warming up the body, improving circulation in the joints and then moving into asana postures. They should never attempt to jump into asanas straight away. They should never exert themselves too much and take plenty of fluid during the practice.
Good asanas for Vata are:
Sun salutation done slowly and consciously
Sitting poses that create strength and stillness in lower abdomen: Lotus pose, Diamond pose, Lion pose
Standing poses that create stability, balance and calm: Triangle pose, Tree pose, Warrior pose, Gate pose and all forward bends
Simple backbends: Cobra pose, Locust pose
Spinal twists to release the tension from pelvic region: Sage twist, Noose twist
Corpse pose: They need a long, comfortable relaxation of at least 20mins
Asanas for Pitta constitution
Yoga asanas are a necessity for Pitta types to cool them on both physical and emotional levels. Coordinating relaxing breaths and quietly sitting between asanas are ideal for this type. They should avoid intense workouts generating heat and end the asana session with cooling pranayama.
Good asanas for Pitta are:
Moon salutation (Chandra Namaskar).
Standing hips open poses to bring stability, balance and calmness: Tree Pose, Triangle Pose and Half Moon pose.
Poses that release tension from mid-abdomen, small intestine and liver: Boat Pose, Fish Pose, Cobra Pose, Bow Pose, Fetal pose.
All standing and sitting forward bends to bring energy to mid-abdomen: Wide leg standing forward bend, wide-angled seated forward bend, Tortoise pose and seated forward bend.
Spinal twists which protect lunar principle without compromising fire in the digestive system: Twists like Half lord fish pose II and Alligator twist or Maricyasana.
Yoga Mudra (Yogic Seal) and Corpse Pose to relax
Avoid backbends as they heat the body
Asanas for Kapha constitution
Kapha types require active exercises that make them sweat and pushes them beyond what they think is their limit of exertion. Sitting asanas are not really for them, as they will feel tired or start daydreaming!
Good asanas for Kapha are:
Lion pose or sitting poses with pranayama to bring circulation to body and mind
Strong vinyasas with sun salutations or jumping’s.
Chest opening poses: Warrior poses, Extended hand to big toe, Standing splits, Downward Dog and Upward Dog
Full inverted balancing poses like handstand and Peacock Feather pose.
Headstand and shoulder stand with variations.
All backbends that open the chest and increase circulation to the head: Plow pose, Camel Pose, Locust Pose, Alligator twist or Maricyasana.
To stimulate digestive capacity: Upward Bow Pose
If you want to know more about your 'dosha' and learn the asana sequence fine-tuned to your current life situation and 'doshic' inclinations book a one-on-one session here (in-progress link to be completed).
Comments