L7 Ayurveda I - Doshas - Vata Flashcards
What are the three Doshas?
The three Doshas are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
What does Dosha mean?
Dosha means ‘stain, fault, or something that can go wrong’.
What do the Doshas govern?
The Doshas govern all metabolic, biological, and mental functions, and maintain homeostasis.
Why must the Doshas be in balance?
For good health, the Doshas must be in balance.
What causes ALL disease processes according to Ayurveda?
Aggravated (excessive) Doshas
What factors increase Doshas?
Doshas increase due to the influences of diet, lifestyle, thought patterns, emotions, climates, environments, times of the day, seasons, and life stages.
What does Vata mean?
To move like the wind
Vata is derived from the Sanskrit word that signifies movement.
What elements compose Vata?
Air and ether
List the attributes of Vata.
- Cold
- Dry
- Light
- Subtle
- Mobile
- Sharp
- Hard
- Rough
- Clear
What are the main functions of Vata?
- Movement
- Nerve impulses
- Physiological activities
- Mental activities
- Sensory activities
- Breathing
- Peristalsis
- Rapid adaptable thinking
- Speed of activity
- Flexibility
- Natural urges (e.g., evacuation, urination)
What role does Vata play in the body?
The body’s motivating and coordinating force
True or False: Vata is characterized as hot and heavy.
False
Vata is characterized as cold, light, dry, and mobile.
What is the main ‘home’ of Vata?
The colon
The colon is a large hollow organ where gas (air) accumulates.
What are the first signs of Vata aggravation?
Increased levels of gas, lower abdominal cramps, bloating, constipation
Constipation is associated with a dry colon.
List other signs of Vata aggravation.
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Tremors
- Spasms
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Debility
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Dry skin and mucous membranes
- Stiff joints
- Variable appetite
What factors aggravate Vata?
- Too much movement
- Cold
- Dry
- Light
- Gas forming foods
- Becoming dehydrated during autumn
- Senior years
What type of herbs should be used for constipation?
Demulcent herbs
Examples include marshmallow and flaxseeds.
Name a carminative herb that helps relax digestive smooth muscle spasm.
Fennel seeds
Carminative herbs aid in relieving gas and bloating.
What can be used to strengthen digestion?
Aromatic spices
Fresh ginger is an example of an aromatic spice.
Which herbs are suggested to calm the nerves?
Chamomile, ashwagandha
Both herbs are known for their calming properties.
What type of foods should be focused on for nourishment to balance Vata?
Warm, hydrating, nourishing mildly spiced soups, stews, broths and herbal teas
These foods support digestion and balance Vata.
Fill in the blank: To address Vata imbalance, it is important to focus on _______.
the colon
Addressing the colon can help cut off Vata imbalance at the root.
What is the subtype of Vata that governs inwards movement?
Prana
Prana involves inhaling, swallowing, and receiving sense impressions.
Name some actions associated with Udana Vata (upward movement)
- Exhaling
- Speaking
- Exerting will-power
What does Vyana Vata regulate?
Circulating movement
Vyana Vata governs blood circulation and joint and muscle movement.
What is the main function of Samana Vata?
Promotes digestion
Samana Vata is responsible for peristalsis movements in digestion.
What type of movements does Apana Vata control?
Downward movements
Apana governs processes like defecation, urination, menstruation, and birth.
Which subtype of Vata rules the colon?
Apana
Apana controls all forms of Vata and is crucial in Vata disorders.
What underlying issue is often treated first in Vata problems?
Aggravated Apana
Most Vata disorders stem from issues with Apana Vata.
Fill in the blank: To regulate Apana Vata, ensure _______.
bowel regularity
Bowel regularity can be supported by dietary choices such as flax seeds and hydration.
Which herb is recommended to relax the nerves in relation to Apana Vata?
Chamomile
Chamomile is known for its calming effects on the nerves.
Which seeds are suggested to reduce bloating?
Fennel seeds
Fennel seeds are commonly used to alleviate bloating.
What type of meals are recommended to support Apana Vata?
Soups and stews
Regular meals focusing on soups and stews are beneficial for Vata regulation.
