Individual Balance and Body Types

INDIVIDUAL BALANCE AND BODY TYPES

Each of us is born with a unique balance of V-P-K that makes us who we are and determines our strengths and weaknesses. No two people are the same, but there are said to be three pure types and seven mixed types (this (typing is used for the sake of evaluation and treatment). For example, a person born with a high proportion of Pitta and small amounts of Vata   and   Kapha would be said to be a Pitta-dominant individual. Compare this Ayurvedic view of the individual patient to our Western medical system where everyone is treated the same.
Due to climatic, seasonal, life stage, diet or lifestyle changes, over time we may get out of balance. If we gained 30 lbs., our new V-P-K would change. Then we wouldn't feel "our-selves" until we return to the V-P-K combination we were born with. Ayurveda can help individuals discover their original balance and return to it.

VATA-DOMINANT TYPE

An individual with a primarily Vata influence will exhibit many of the following characteristics: they will have a thin-framed body, whether tall or short; their joints crack easily, and irregularity is the rule, including possible protruding joints, bow legs, disproportionate bodies with long legs and short waist, scoliosis and uneven facial structure (deviated septum and crooked nose, etc.). If they do gain weight it will be around the middle. Their skin will have a tendency to be dry, rough and cool to the touch. Their skin coloration will be darker than the rest of the family. Their hair may be dark, dry and kinky. Teeth are often crooked, protruded with spaces and tendency toward receded gums. Their eyes can be small, dry, active, black or brown. Appetite, is often variable or low, although when distracted, they will often skip meals and become ravenous, loading up their plate with more than they could possibly eat. Their fingers and toes are long and thin with nails which are brittle and crack easily. If they become sick, pain and nervous disorders are likely. Their thirst is variable and their bowel movements are often gassy, dry, hard and constipated. They are physically active, but expend their energy easily and may rely on caffeine, sugar and stimulants to continue. Their mind is restless, active, curious and creative. Under stress they can become fearful, insecure and anxious. They change their mind easily, have good short-term memory but forget easily. They often dream about flying, running, jumping and fear. Their sleep is difficult, interrupted and they can experience insomnia. Their speech is fast, chaotic, impulsive and they often talk with their hands. Money goes through their hands quickly as they spend impulsively. Their pulse is thready, feeble and erratic. Vata predominant types will vary greatly from one to another, but will share many of the above characteristics.

PITTA-DOMINANT TYPE

An individual who is primarily Pitta will have a moderate frame that demonstrates good proportions. They can gain or lose weight relatively easily. Their skin is often delicate, oily, burns easily, with a coppery or yellowish tone and is warm to the touch. Freckles and moles are common with a tendency to acne. They perspire readily.  Their hair is soft, blond or red, grays early with tendency to early thinning or balding, Fingers are well formed and proportional. Fingernail beds have a pink appearance. Eyes are sharp, penetrating, gray, green, with a yellowish tint to the sclera (whites). If they become ill they will experience fever, "Humiliation and infection. They are often thirsty. Their bowel movements are soft, oily and loose, three times a day or more. They enjoy moderate activity and love competition due to their aggressive nature. They are intelligent and determined with a sharp memory. Under stress they can be irritable, driving, angry and jealous. Dreams are fiery, passionate and colorful. Their sleep is moderate and sound. Speech is sharp, clear, fluid and can be cutting and sarcastic. Pittas spend moderately and methodically. Their pulse is strong and regular. You can often tell a Pitta by their passion, high directed energy and their commitment.

KAPHA-DOMINANT TYPE

The pure Kapha is easy to recognize; large bodies on large frames. The Hawaiians are a Kapha people. Their skin is thick (3/4" on forearm), oily, cool to the touch, pale and lighter than others in their family. They perspire moderately. They gain weight easily and must exercise to lose it. Their hair is thick, oily, wavy with thick eyebrows and lashes. Teeth are strong, white, large and well formed. Eyes are big and attractive. Appetite is slow and steady, although they can easily skip meals without effect. If Kaphas become ill, congestion, excess mucous and water retention are common. They rarely experience thirst. Bowel movements are thick, oily, and regular (once a day). Peaceful and content, they move slowly and waste little energy. Endurance is good. Negative tendencies may be self centered-ness, greed and over sensitivity. They are steady, loyal friends and employees. Slow to learn new things, they seldom forget anything once learned. Dreams are often romantic and involve water. Their speech is slow and monotonous or melodious. They spend slowly, save easily and always have full cupboards. Their pulse is slow and steady.