Ayurveda
Ayurveda (Ayur: life; Veda: knowledge) draws its sources from the Vedas, a collection of sacred texts from ancient India, and is based primarily on the observation of nature and its variations. It includes a holistic approach to medicine and provides valuable guidance on the therapeutic use of plants, food, yoga, mantras, astrology, and more.
Ayurvedic medicine is divided into eight branches : internal medicine, pediatrics, psychiatry, ENT medicine, surgery, toxicology, rejuvenation science, and fertility science. Ayurvedic massages and treatments are an integral part of the protocols for these specialties.
“It is said that Ayurveda is eternal because it had no beginning. Indeed, entities have their own character, determined by nature ; this inherent nature of substances is immutable. The movement of life and intellect never ceases. The knowledge contained in Ayurveda will always continue. Good health or illness, their origin, causes, and symptoms are likewise without beginning or end and all interdependent. All of this contributes to the eternity of Ayurveda.”
Excerpt from the Charaka Samhita (medical treatise)
THE 5 ELEMENTS
The primary goal of Ayurveda is the maintenance and prolongation of a healthy life, and consequently the prevention and treatment of diseases.
For this reason, Ayurveda teaches us how to take care of our energies on the physical, vital, mental, psychic and spiritual levels.
It is based on the theory of the 5 elements: Ether, Air, Fire, Water, Earth. These elements form the cosmos, the earth, and each individual. In human beings, they are concentrated in different proportions depending on the individual, in what can be called "subtle forces" or Doshas.
Dosha VATA = Air + Ether
Dosha PITTA = Water + Fire
Dosha KAPHA = Water + Earth
Each dosha possesses characteristics or qualities linked to its elements that influence our metabolism. Our basic constitution, or "PRAKRITI," is determined at the moment of conception based on the combinations and permutations of the elements that compose us.
THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF CONSTITUTION
The dominant dosha(s) in an individual will determine their constitution and therefore their strengths, tendencies, and weaknesses.
Thus, a person with a Vata constitution, whose predominant elements are Air and Ether, will most likely exhibit the cold, rough (dry), mobile, light, and subtle qualities of these elements. They will therefore be inclined towards movement and intense activity, which can quickly deplete their strength.
Physically, a person with Prakriti Vata has a less dense skeleton than those with Pitta or Kapha constitutions. They are often very short or very tall and tend to lose weight more easily than gain it. Their digestive fire (Jatharagni) may be weakened, and they will tend to eat regularly throughout the day (3 or 4 meals) but in small quantities. They will be very sensitive to cold and wind (cold extremities). Psychologically, in case of imbalance, they may be prone to anxiety and nervous disorders. Active, they possess a good imagination and are creative. Physically, they may suffer from bone and joint problems, internal and external dryness, and chronic constipation.
Individuals with a Pitta constitution (Fire + Water) exhibit the hot, moist, corrosive, and restless characteristics of its elements. They are often of medium build, with a ruddy complexion, warm extremities, and possess a good metabolism, strong digestive fire, and a hearty appetite. When out of balance, they are susceptible to infectious diseases and inflammations of all kinds (eczema, itching, hives, blood disorders, etc.). Resolute and quick-witted, they are motivated, dynamic, impatient, and assertive, and may be more prone to anger than other constitutions.
Kapha individuals are dominated by the Water and Earth elements and possess the following characteristics: slowness, stillness, heaviness, dampness, and a sticky quality. Their build is robust and stocky, but not necessarily overweight. Not particularly fond of movement, they easily gain weight if they don't engage in regular physical activity and tend to retain water and mucus. Prone to respiratory illnesses, particularly those affecting the ear, nose, and throat, they dislike dampness and prefer temperate climates. Sensitive, affectionate, and conservative, they value routine and stability.
Note: a large proportion of us have a dual constitution: Vata-pitta, pitta-kapha, vata-kapha…
HEALTH ACCORDING TO OUR CONSTITUTION
According to Ayurveda, we are in good health, primarily when the doshas are in balance, in proportions faithful to our birth constitution.
Our lifestyle is of paramount importance for maintaining the health of our body and mind. Therefore, by understanding our Ayurvedic constitution, we can adapt our diet and lifestyle to minimize imbalances in our body and mind.
VATA
A person with a Vata constitution, often characterized by movement, change, and irregularity, will find balance in routine practices. Their diet will ideally be warming, smooth, and limited in fermented products such as yeast bread, legumes, alcohol, and raw vegetables. They will favor sour, sweet, and salty flavors. People with a Vata constitution or imbalance particularly need warmth, gentleness, and regularity; they are the ones who most benefit from warm oil massages and sweating treatments such as Shirodhara, Pitchauli, Abhyanga, or Petra Pinda Swedana.
Fasting is not recommended for them; specific diets would be more suitable. The ideal climate is hot and humid.
PITTA
A person with a Pitta constitution should avoid prolonged sun exposure. Their diet should avoid hot and spicy foods, acidic foods, stimulants, and prolonged fasting, favoring fresh foods with sweet, bitter, and astringent flavors. Relaxing practices, bathing, and treatments with refreshing oils and herbs are recommended. Foot massage with a Kansu bowl and ghee, body massages with coconut oil and Multani Mitti clay, and Takradhara massage are specific treatments for imbalances related to Pitta dosha.
The ideal climate is cool and dry.
KAPHA
A Kapha type individual will mitigate the heaviness caused by the Water and Earth elements through stimulating and energizing activities. They will adopt a light diet with bitter, pungent, and astringent flavors and avoid dairy products, sugar, and acidic or salty foods. Regular, vigorous physical exercise and tonic and astringent treatments such as udvartanam and clay treatments are recommended.
Regular fasting is recommended. The ideal climate is temperate and dry.
In all cases, a consultation with a practitioner is necessary in order to establish an assessment and a treatment protocol adapted to the needs.