There’s been a lot of buzz lately about Ayurvedic eating. Especially when celebrities, such as Gwyneth Paltrow, fast track the idea into the mainstream. Although Ayurvedic eating has been around for centuries, Paltrow got people’s attention when she said she “…eats for her dosha.” Her little statement had many people scouring the internet for exactly “What is an Ayurvedic Diet?” and “How does Ayurvedic Eating Work?” It also prompted Good Housekeeping to contact me for my professional input on Ayurvedic eating, which you can read in its entirety here.
Is Ayurveda a Diet?
Ayurveda is not a diet, instead it is a natural healing science that originated in India more than 5,000 years ago. This evidence-based healing system focused on prevention of disease and the promotion of positive health through the balance of mind, body, and environment. Subsequently, people who practice Ayurveda believe there are three different types of energy patterns (doshas) which can be balanced by the way we eat.
Ayurvedic philosophies maintain that we contain varying proportions of each dosha, generally with one or two in dominance. Our natural dominant dosha, which we are born with, shows how, or who, we are in our most healthy balanced state.
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Basic Dosha Introduction:
VATA (air and ether):
People with a dominant vata dosha are considered creative, active, and bright; they walk, talk, and think fast, but get tired easily. Vatas usually have a light body frame, and suffer from gastrointestinal problems like constipation and bloating.
PITTA (fire and water):
Pittas are intelligent but can be short-tempered. They usually have a medium build with a healthy appetite, a strong metabolism and good digestion.
KAPHA (earth and water):
Kaphas are known for stamina, sharp intelligence and strength. They are typically very sweet and grounded. Kaphas are often larger-framed and muscular with a slow metabolism.
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There is an ancient Indian proverb that reads:
“When diet is wrong medicine is of no use. When diet is correct medicine is of no need”.
I’d love to help you heal your body through nutrition. If you’d like to learn more about what Dosha you are and what to eat to balance your mind, body and spirit, take my Complimentary DOSHA QUIZ. Additionally, I am available for in-person or on-line consultations. Just reach out to me here.
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I cannot thank you enough for the blog post. Thanks Again. Great. Monte Bernhart