 |
 |
 |
 |
According to Dr. David Frawley, acclaimed yogi and Ayurvedic teacher, Yoga and Ayurveda together form a complete approach to optimal health, energy and greater inner awareness. Ayurveda, the science of life, identifies the factors that influence our physical body and are responsible for our daily function. It teaches us how to live in harmony with our constitution.
Ayurveda identifies three different constitutions, or doshas. Vata, or wind, denotes energy, movement and expression. Pitta, or fire, imparts heat and light, determination and vision. And Kapha, or water, implies slow but steady movement, cold, damp, congestion. Yoga poses specifically recommended for each dosha help release tension, maximize the flow of energy and increase flexibility.
Vata types are generally thin with small bones that can have good flexibility but frequently often lack energy and stamina. Vata should gradually warm the body with flowing movements such as Vinyasa yoga. Yoga poses that are gentle and focus on the hips, lumbar and sacroiliac joint are most beneficial. Spinal twists and sitting poses are useful in removing vata energy from the nervous system. Vatas should enjoy a long savasana.
Pitta types are strong, muscular, aggressive, high achievers who are frequently driven and irritable. Pittas should consider a gentle, cooling, slowing-moving practice such as Restorative Yoga. Yoga poses that cool the internal fire, physically as well as emotionally, are indicated. Shoulder stand and plow pose help to diffuse heat from the body. Cobra pose, fish pose, and bow pose help to release tension. Spinal twists benefit digestion and forward bends provide a cooling, grounding effect.
Kapha types are generally tall and stocky and frequently tend to carry more weight. Their frame is bulky and flexibility poor. They tend to be sedentary and a more active form of yoga, such as Vinyasa or Sun Salutations, is recommended for them to stimulate their metabolism and circulation. They will benefits by exercise that causes them to sweat. Standing poses and backbends like camel pose and upward-facing bow increase circulation.
As always, you should consult their healthcare practitioner before beginning any new exercise program.
