Ayurvedic Physical Activity– A Matter of Balance
Ayurveda is the Science of Life. In Ayurveda your physical, mental, and emotional well-being is described within the context of the three dynamic forces of nature or Doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
According to the fundamental Ayurvedic principles that 'like increases like' and 'opposites create balance,' the type, intensity, and duration of your physical exercise should align with your unique Doshic makeup and the current Doshic influences in your life.
“When planning an Ayurvedic fitness program, consider the current Doshic influences in your life, including; your life cycle (age), the season of the year, and even the time of day.”
VATA DOSHA
Individuals who are primarily ether and air dominant are Vata. Are you very tall or short? Do you have a thin build? Vata types generally have long, narrow, or small features and their slight structure and quick metabolisms make it easy to maintain their weight. Because of Vata’s quick and lively nature, you may be drawn to fast-paced activities that require quick, short bursts of speed and agility like racquetball. However, due to Vata’s lower endurance, it’s important to pace yourself to avoid exhaustion or injury. The Vata mind is always moving, so your natural desire for change will prompt you to start an exercise program, but your dislike for routine can prevent you from staying with it. To balance your Vata nature, choose physical activities that include slow, rhythmic movements that are grounding and centering.
Vata Balancing Activities
Hatha Yoga – Classical Style
Tai Chi or Chi Gong
Swimming
Walking
Pilates
Golf
Archery
Bowling
Ballet
Gardening
PITTA DOSHA
Individuals who are primarily fire and water-dominant are Pitta. A Pitta person is usually of medium height and bone structure, with well-developed muscles, symmetrical build, and balanced medium-size features. Your efficient metabolism allows you to gain or lose weight with reasonable effort. Your intense, fiery nature drives you to individual competition requiring endurance, strength, and speed like a triathlon, but your competitive and demanding character needs to be tempered to keep you from overheating — so it is important that you enjoy yourself when it comes to the physical activities you choose. To balance your Pitta temperament, select exercises that keep you cool and composed.
Pitta Balancing Activities
Hatha Yoga – Avoid Hot Yoga
Surfing
Skiing (water or snow)
Kayaking
Mountain Biking or Hiking
Swimming
Rowing
Walking or Jogging (early morning or cool shady areas or indoors)
Tennis (cool times of day)
Karate
Gymnastics
KAPHA DOSHA
Dominant Kapha types (primarily earth and water elements) are most likely to be taller or shorter than average with large bones, a solid build, and broad or full features. Kapha’s stable structure and slow metabolism make it easy to gain weight and difficult to lose excess weight. Your easy-going nature may lead you to a sedentary lifestyle, but it’s your steady energy, high endurance, and ability to remain calm under pressure that gives you the capacity to participate in strenuous activities that require staying power like Soccer. You may need to be motivated to begin a fitness regimen, but once you start, your love for routine will keep you going. Your relaxed manner makes you want to take it easy, but to balance your slow constitution, you need exercise that is stimulating and vigorous.
Kapha Balancing Activities
Hatha Yoga – Hot Yoga or Power Yoga
Aerobics
Bicycling
Football
Racquetball
Volleyball
Rock climbing
Walking or Jogging (long distance)
Rollerblading
Weight Training
Dancing
When planning an Ayurvedic fitness program, consider the current Doshic influences in your life, including your life cycle (age), the season of the year, and even the time of day. Honoring these natural rhythms will guide you on your path to personal balance and physical fitness.
Disclaimer: This article was written for educational purposes only and is based on the tradition of Ayurveda. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, prescribe, or heal any health condition or to replace standard medical treatment or advice.
