Ayurveda, the sister science of yoga, teaches that our bodies and minds are governed by three fundamental energies called doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These energies influence everything from our physical constitution to our mental tendencies and emotional well-being.

When they are in balance, we experience health and vitality; when they are out of sync, disease and discomfort arise.

Through the wisdom of yoga therapy, we can restore this delicate balance and cultivate a deeper connection with ourselves.

The Ayurvedic Cause of Disease

Ancient Ayurvedic texts, like the Charaka Samhita, suggest that disease arises from three primary causes: misuse of the senses, failure of intellect, and the effects of time and motion.

Overindulging in sensory pleasures or depriving ourselves of essential experiences can throw us off balance. Acting against our intuition and inner wisdom disrupts our natural equilibrium, while the passage of time, stress, and the pressures of daily life accelerate imbalances.

Yoga therapy serves as a bridge to reconnect us with our body’s intelligence, allowing us to make conscious choices that support our well-being. By integrating movement, breathwork, and lifestyle changes, we can align ourselves with our natural rhythms and maintain overall harmony.

Understanding the Three Doshas

Each of the three doshas embodies a unique combination of the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and space), influencing our physical traits, personality, and health tendencies. Most individuals have one or two dominant doshas that shape their overall constitution.

Vata, the energy of air and ether, is linked to movement and creativity.

Those with a Vata dominance tend to be quick-thinking, expressive, and energetic, but when imbalanced, they may experience anxiety, restlessness, and digestive irregularities.

A grounding yoga practice with steady, rhythmic movements and deep, calming breaths can help restore stability. Nourishing, warm foods and mindful daily routines further support balance.

Pitta, governed by fire and water, represents transformation and drive.

Pitta-dominant individuals are passionate, sharp-witted, and natural leaders. However, excessive heat can lead to irritability, inflammation, and burnout.

To cool and pacify Pitta, soothing practices like Yin yoga, gentle forward bends, and cooling breath techniques are beneficial. A diet rich in cooling foods, such as fresh greens and hydrating fruits, can also help maintain equilibrium.

Kapha, the energy of earth and water, is the foundation of stability and nourishment.

Kapha types are strong, compassionate, and grounded, but when out of balance, they may feel sluggish, unmotivated, or experience weight gain.

Stimulating yoga practices, like dynamic Vinyasa or power yoga, can re-energize Kapha. Incorporating light, spicy foods and regular movement helps to keep this dosha balanced and vibrant.

Bringing the Doshas into Balance Through Yoga

Yoga therapy offers a personalized approach to well-being by recognizing our unique doshic makeup and adjusting our practices accordingly.

If you’re feeling anxious and ungrounded, slowing down and incorporating deep, steady breathwork can help. If you’re overheated and irritable, cooling postures and meditation can restore calm. If you’re feeling heavy and lethargic, invigorating movement and breathwork can reawaken energy. A trained Ayurvedic yoga therapist can assess what you need personally and effectively -- and also consult how your practice can change according to the season, the time of day, and your time of life for optimal health.

By weaving Ayurvedic wisdom into your yoga practice, you can cultivate lasting balance and inner harmony. Understanding your dosha allows you to make intentional choices that support not just physical health, but mental and emotional well-being as well.

Looking to study Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Yoga teaching and therapy further? Check out our annual 100-hour Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy Course.

An Introduction to the Doshas: How Yoga Therapy Teaches Balance