Vata
Ether and Air / Moving Force
Vata is the subtle energy consisting of the elements of ether (space) and air. The qualities of Vata are light, cold, dry, mobile, subtle, clear and rough. The Vata dominate individual is tall or short with a thin build and long, narrow or small features. In balance the Vata person is lively, creative, quick and spontaneous. When Vata is in excess anxiety, fear, insomnia, indigestion and fatigue may be experienced. The light, cold and irregular nature of Vata is grounded by warm, wet, heavy and nurturing methods.
Characteristics |
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Height, Body frame, Weight |
Very tall or very short – thin, lanky or underdeveloped – doesn’t gain weight easily |
| Face | Small, thin or long facial features |
| Eyes | Small, unsteady or active eyes |
| Hair | Dry, thin, course, or tight curly hair |
| Joints | Irregular, prominent, stiff, or cracking joints |
| Skin | Thin, dry, rough, or fine pored, skin that rarely burns |
| Circulation | Cold hands and feet – poor circulation |
| Eating & Sleeping Habits | Irregular eating or sleeping habits |
| Appetite & Thirst | Variable appetite or thirst – dizzy or weak between meals |
| Digestion – upper | Irregular digestion – difficulty with large meals – fast metabolism |
| Elimination | Irregular elimination – may have gas or constipation |
| Energy & Endurance | Energy fluctuates or comes in bursts – low endurance |
| Immunity | Low resistance to illness |
| Routines | Prefers change and movement – dislikes routine – restless |
| Memory | Quick to memorize, but absentminded |
| Decisiveness | Difficulty making decisions or staying focused |
| Speech | Talkative or talks quickly – high pitch or irregular speech patterns -change subject often |
| Personality | Imaginative, creative or inventive |
| Stress Response | Sensitive, anxious, nervous, worried, fretful or fearful |
| Social Preference | Prefers large gatherings, know a lot of people, few close friends |
| Spending Habits | Spends impulsively, money is to be used |
| Sleep Quality | Difficulty falling asleep or having a sound night’s sleep – tired upon waking |
| Climate Preference | Prefers a tropical climate – dislikes dry, cold and windy weather |
