The Doshas

The science of Ayurveda is based on the three primary vital energies named "doshas" in Sanskrit. The term "Dosha" means "that which decays or causes degeneration". The Doshas or the biological humors, when in excess, are the cause of the imbalance and of the disease process. Those doshas, are to be found at all levels of our being, from the most dense (the body) to the most subtle (mind and emotions), being responsible for the functioning of the human machine. The three doshas are named VATA, PITTA and KAPHA and are considered to be the basic forces of health and disease. The entire system of practices and techniques in Ayurveda is based upon the doshas and their balance.

VATA

Vata which means "Wind", etymologically translated as "that which moves things", is mainly composed of the air element but secondarily it is also composed of ether; In the body, Vata is to be found in the empty spaces of the body, as the porosity of the bones, as the air inhaled and exhaled, in the currents of the nervous system and as the gas in the colon; in the mind is to be found as the currents that move the mind waves - the thoughts. Basically, Vata sustains inhalation, exhalation, and everything that relates to movement. When we say vata, we say movement, agitation. Vata dosha is located in the colon, in the hips, ears, bones and the organs of hearing and touch.