The three doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha

In Ayurveda, the possible Ayurvedic constitutions are seven: Pure Vata, Pure Pitta, Pure Kapha, Vata-Pitta, Pitta-Kapha, Kapha-Vata, and Vata-Pitta-Kapha.

The possible Ayurvedic constitutions are seven, three pure and four mixed: Pure Vata, Pure Pitta, Pure Kapha, Vata-Pitta, Pitta-Kapha, Kapha-Vata, Vata-Pitta-Kapha.

PURE VATA

In the case where the dominant elements in a person are air and ether, characteristic and constitutive of the Vata dosha, the constitution will be of the Vata type, with airy physical characteristics represented by a slender structure, very tall or very short, low resistance to illness, and poor tissue development. The Vata person tends to overexert themselves, thus falling into situations of exhaustion and weakness. They do not tolerate wind, cold, and dry climatic conditions well, thus preferring warmth, humidity, and rest, more generally environments that offer energetic support. On a psychological level, the Vata person is impatient, nervous, active, and creative. The predisposition to be talented often makes them hypersensitive and fragile. They sleep little, walk and talk quickly, have a fickle mind, and tend to leave things unfinished. They eat too much or too little, preferring sweet, sour, hot, and spicy flavors.

PURE PITTA

When the dominant element is fire, characteristic and constitutive of the Pitta dosha, the constitution will be of the Pitta type, with medium-sized physical characteristics, thus medium build, medium weight, strong appetite, rosy, warm, and freckled skin, prone to the appearance of moles, spots, pimples, and skin eruptions. They have good digestion and good circulation, are sensitive to light and heat, and therefore prefer calm and cool conditions. They sleep well but not for long, have a strong and determined character that leads them to work with determination to pursue goals and leave their mark, tend toward leadership and for this reason often find themselves in situations of competitiveness and conflict. The Pitta person loves culture, politics, art, affluence, their mind is always active and they rarely relax. This constant boiling causes them fits of anger and jealousy, heartburn, allergies, vision and skin disorders.

PURE KAPHA

When the dominant elements are water and earth, constitutive and characteristic of the Kapha dosha, the constitution will be of the Kapha type, characterized by a robust build and large, heavy bones, smooth, soft, fair, and slightly oily skin. Generally, they do not have much appetite, but their slow metabolism causes weight gain, phlegm accumulation, and water retention. They are very strong but slow to get going; however, when they do, they are extraordinarily resistant to fatigue. They are sensitive to cold, humidity, and stagnant air, so they do better in warm conditions, dry climate, and physical activity. They are shy and reserved, love physical pleasures and good food; psychologically, they are emotional, attentive to others, calm, relaxed, methodical, reliable, and not very inclined to adapt to change. Their general slowness causes lethargy and a strong attachment to things and people, even to the point of showing a certain greed.

VATA-PITTA or PITTA-VATA

In this type of constitution, the lightness of air and the intensity of fire mean that the person is slender but not thin, and compared to pure Vata, has better digestion and tolerance to cold, a more determined character, and good energy, but is more fickle than pure Pitta. They must learn to control anger and fear and seek balance by cultivating the calm and stability typical of Kapha.

PITTA-KAPHA or KAPHA-PITTA

The energy of fire and the stability of water mean that this constitution expresses physical strength, athletic build, and good digestion. This mixed constitution is characterized by enterprise and stability, strength and calm, good health, and great psychological balance, but lacking the flexibility of Vata, may fall into stubbornness and overbearingness.

VATA-KAPHA or KAPHA-VATA

The opposing qualities of air and water characterize this constitution, which, due to this polarity, can manifest either with a marked artistic sensitivity and low physical endurance or with great athletic predisposition and little imagination. Lacking the fire element, this constitution tends toward coldness both physically and emotionally.

TRIDOSHIC CONSTITUTION Vata-Pitta-Kapha

It is the constitution that contains within itself the perfect balance of the elements, giving rise to a person with excellent health, a high mind, and a stable emotional sphere.

References to doshas and energy belong to the Ayurvedic tradition. This content is for information and wellbeing and does not replace professional medical advice.