Vata is Space + Air. Its qualities (gunas) are Dry, Light, Cold, Rough, Subtle, Mobile, and Clear.

“Vata, in its normal state protects the body, bestowing enthusiasm, expiration, and inspiration, all activities of the body mind and speech, initiation and also execution of the urges (feces, urine, etc.), maintenance of the dhatus (tissues) in their normalcy, and proper function of the sense organs.” Ashtanga Hridaya Su. Ch. 11

To balance Vata, a yoga practice should be warming, grounding, rhythmic, and steady with elements of earth to ground, water to find fluidity, and a little fire to heat.  The afterglow should solicit a body anchored on earth, thoughts grounded and turned inward, and a mind at ease with a stilling of looping thoughts. Think warm, serene, and relaxed.

Pitta is Water + Fire.  Its qualities (gunas) are Oily, Sharp/Penetrating, Hot, Light, Spreading, and Liquid.

“Pitta, in its normal state, attends to digestion, maintenance of body temperature, vision, production of hunger, thirst, appetite, complexion, intelligence, courage, valor, and softness (suppleness) of the body.” Ashtanga Hridaya Su. Ch. 11

To balance Pitta, a yoga practice should be grounding, refreshing, nourishing, smooth, quiet, and airy with elements of earth to ground and air to cool.  The afterglow should solicit a mind and body at ease, a sense of peace with the energetic body, and a sense of surrender to the earth; thereby letting go of control. Think cool, refreshed, calm, and relaxed.

Kapha is Earth + Water.  Its qualities (gunas) are heavy, slow/dull, cool, slimy, smooth, dense, soft, static, and cloudy.

“Kapha confers stability, lubrication, compactness (firmness) of the joints, forbearance (capacity to withstand or withhold emotions, strains, etc.), and such others.” Ashtanga Hridaya Su. Ch. 11

To balance Kahpa, a yoga practice should be warming, enlivening, challenging, opening, energetic, lifting, igniting, and expanding. It should bring in elements of air to lighten and fire to heat.  The afterglow should solicit a sense of warmth, clarity, mobility, wakefulness, and alertness. Think warm, stimulated, clear, and light.

Work with Deborah to cultivate and craft yoga asanas to balance YOUR dosha.