The Body Constitution

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    Ayurveda explains that each individual has a unique body constitution. The 5 elements of space, air, fire, water and earth come together in the human body along with the 3 functional energies of Vata, Pitta and Kapha in varying proportions. Thus there is a natural interplay of the universal elements and energies within all human beings. At the same time, nature distributes its contents in each person differently, so that we are alike but yet differ from each other in many ways. While genetics explains this process in terms of DNA and chromosomes, in Ayurveda, we look at it as building blocks of nature. This not only constitutes the structural makeup of a human but also the mental and emotional functioning. 

    Broadly, there are 7 possible body constitutions, called ‘prakriti’ in Sanskrit: the single energy predominant constitutions, Vata or Pitta or Kapha, the dual predominant constitutions Vata-Pitta, Pitta-Kapha or Vata-Kapha and the very rare Tridoshic constitution which has all 3 energies in balance. 

Now, to refer back to the elements: Vata forms from space and air, Pitta from fire mostly and a touch of water, and Kapha from earth and water. Those who have more Vata or space and air elements, have all the features of these elements. Thus they have a natural tendency to be tall, slender, with small joints, dry hair and skin and love to walk and talk a lot, are creative, artistic, and enthusiastic. They get moving quickly and fatigue rapidly. The Pitta predominant person has the strength and sharpness of the fire element. They tend to be medium built with sharp eyes and features, speak to the point, are list makers, planners, witty, critical and can be high achievers. People who have predominantly earth and water elements or Kapha dosha in them are well built, full bodied with rounded features, thick hair, loving, easy-going, caring, shy, good listeners, and best friends. Dual constitutions have a complex mix of the features of multiple doshas. For example, the Vata-Pitta prakruti loves to talk and is enthusiastic, but also focused and gets things done with accurate planning. The Kapha-Pitta person tends to gain weight easily, loves to sleep but can also have good endurance and be very successful. The rarest constitution where all 3 doshas come together in perfect harmony or the tridoshic individual is revered as the ideal constitution. This person is blessed with good health and a sound mind. 

    The core of Ayurveda lies in recognizing that every person has a unique physical and psychological personality. Thus food, lifestyle and therapy suggestions are individualized and designed after detailed understanding of a person’s structural and functional needs. “Life is a combination of body, mind, senses and soul.”