In Ayurveda, vata is one of the three doshas, or constitutional types, that represent the energetic forces that govern physiological and psychological processes in the body. The three doshas are vata, pitta, and kapha. Each person has a unique balance of the doshas, which determines their physical and mental characteristics and tendencies.
Vata is associated with the elements of air and space and is believed to govern movement, circulation, respiration, and the nervous system. People with a dominant vata dosha tend to be thin, agile, and lively, but may also be prone to anxiety, dry skin, and irregular digestion. Vata imbalances are thought to be caused by factors such as irregular eating habits, lack of sleep, and exposure to cold, dry, or windy conditions. To maintain balance, people with a dominant vata dosha are advised to follow a regular routine, stay warm and hydrated, and consume nourishing, grounding foods.
