Ayurveda and Vata Dosha

Ayurveda is an ancient healing methodology primarily attributed to Dhanvantari- the physician to the gods in Hindu mythology. It is believed that Dhanvantri first received it from Brahma- the creator. As a conventional health care system, Ayurveda uses comprehensive natural healing practices. The treatments work on disorders and improve the all-around wellness of the human body and mind. It focuses on both- the physiological and the psychological elements of the diseases. By treating both aspects, Ayurveda eliminates the root causes of the disease.

Ayurveda takes Universe and the human body as one entity. Both are the two sides of the same coin and depend on each other. Ayurveda, also called the science of life, believes that the environment around us is connected with our body, mind, and soul. The human body remains healthy when there remains a balance between all. This ancient method of treatment focuses on curing the root cause of any ailment and prioritizes a healthy way of living above all.

But the healing procedure is lengthy, and the treatment focuses on using herbal medicines and the lifestyle. The treatment includes various methods like panchakarma (‘five actions’), yoga, massage, acupuncture, and herbal medicines.

Ayurveda emphasizes prevention rather than cure. It encourages the belief that to maintain good health and have a balanced life- people must practice the right and limited diet, the right thinking, a good lifestyle, and the correct use of herbs in the diet. The knowledge of science helps people to realize the balance of body, mind, and consciousness and also helps them understand how to create and maintain this balance. It influences patients to recognize their individuality and bring lifestyle changes to maintain balance.

Many factors might imbalance the equilibrium between the Universe and the human body, mind, and soul. Physical and emotional stresses, lifestyle, dietary choices, physical trauma, seasonal and weather changes, and family and work-life pressures are a few of the many things that might disrupt the balance. Ayurvedic doctors analyze all these factors very minutely for each individual and then plan out appropriate practices and treatments to prevent or cure the impact, remove or control the cause of the imbalance, and re-establish harmony.

The Five Elements and the Three Doshas:

As per Ayurveda, the Universe is composed of five leading elements. They are Jala (Water), Prithvi (Earth), Aakash (Space or ether), Vayu (Air), and Teja (Fire). These elements are referred to as Pancha Mahabhoota and are believed to combine in varying forms to create the three doshas of the human body. The “tridoshas” are: Vata dosha, Pitta dosha, and Kapha dosha.

Let’s explore the Vatta Dosha:

Vata Dosha:

As per Ayurveda, Vata dosha is a mind-body element related to space and air. Vata translates into- that which moves things. It is often referred to as Vayu, which means wind. It is the leading dosha in the human body and influences the movement of the other two doshas.

Being associated with wind, Vata dosha is cool, dry, and light in nature. Apart from the other two doshas, it also influences our mind and body movements. As per Ayurveda, Vata dosa supervises the flow of the blood, elimination of toxins from the body, breathing, and, most importantly, our thought processes. It is also responsible for our physical and mental adaptability, controls our nervous system, senses of hearing and touch, and the expression of our speech.

As a light, airy energy, Vata Dosha dominates most essential aspects of the human body. However, any aggravation in the levels of this dosha can lead to many serious health issues. Minor ailments like chapped lips, dry skin to severe problems like weakness, constipation, etc., are a few of the many health issues caused by an imbalanced Vata Dosha.

Symptoms:

The effects of an aggravated Vata Dosha can be easily noticed. People suffering from it will be thin and weak. They will have dry skin, and their hands and feet may get cold quickly. Other symptoms include:

• Insomnia
• Dry and rough skin and hairs
• Bloating, constipation, etc.
• Dehydration and unexplained weight loss
• Stiff and dry joints, muscle spasms, unusual pains, etc.
• Unusually cold skin
• Anxiety, fatigue, excessive restlessness, palpitations, muscle twitching

Factors Affecting the Imbalance in the Dosha:

• Consumption of very light and easily digestible foods that might increase the Vata level
• Consumption of cold food
• Cold or dry weather
• Excessive workout, excessive fasting, very long brisk walks, or rigorous activities targetting weight loss
• Consumption of dry food that soaks fluids from the body, or salty food

Treatments:

A person suffering from any of the symptoms mentioned above can take the help of Ayurveda to cure the root cause, i.e., the aggravated Vata level. As Ayurvedic treatments require time, the best option is to book an excellent Ayurvedic package at special centers. For example, at Harivihar, the treatment packages are custom-made for the individual to cure the ailments. The soothing treatment includes a holistic balance between diet, exercise, and relaxation for the overall benefit of the guests. A mixture of Ayurvedic herbs, a tranquil environment, calming Vata massage oil, and a comfortable stay for sound sleep is curated to balance the level and provide complete relief. The visitors are also educated about all the factors that might increase the Vata level and the preventive methods to control it. Book your package now!