Vata dosha

Vata dosha is a combination of the elements space and air and is the principle of movement. The word Vata means wind and comes from the Sanskrit root "va" to blow, move, direct or command. It is our life force and is derived mainly from our breath.

The qualities of Vata are dry, light, mobile, changing, hard, rough, cold, sharp and clear. In the body Vata controls movement, blinking, heart beat, air moving in and out of the lungs, peristalsis, elimination of waste and homeostasis of whole body. Mentally and emotionally it governs ideas, creativity, spirituality, comprehension, fear and communication. Vata governs mental well-being.

Like the wind, Vata predominant people tend to be changeable and irregular, both physically and mentally. Their frame may be narrow or irregular, their teeth may be crooked, eyes irregular, nose bent or out of shape. Their weight may fluctuate and their appetite vary. They often feel the cold and have poor circulation and constipation is common. Bloating and wind are common problems. Energy levels can soar and crash quickly and they can become depleted easily, especially during the colder months.

When all is good and Vata predominant people are balanced they are bright, enthusiastic and great fun. Their creativity, new ideas and initiatives make them often seen as visionaries.

A little clue to a Vata predominant person is the amount of unfinished books they have lying around. Hugely fun and great company, Vata people make fantastic friends but maybe not always the most reliable.