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By Shannon Chada –
Just as our yoga practice is unique to each individual, so is the art of balancing our chakras and our doshas. We are all different in mind and body; your yoga practice should be a unique devotion to your over-all wellness. Using supportive asanas specific to our doshas is an important aspect of your yoga practice.
According to Karla Cain of Satvic Sage Ayurveda, a devoted yoga teacher and Ayurvedic Practitioner, “In Ayurveda, we are all made up of elements that create health when well-balanced and illness when imbalanced.” Almost 20 years ago when I was in my Yoga Teacher Training, I learned about Ayurveda and how these principles were an incredible part of my personal yogic journey. This past year I sought Karla’s guidance to assist me on my own personal wellness journey. She re-lit the spark and inspired me to incorporate these principles to deepen my practice.
Ayurveda is based on the principles of three aspects called doshas. Doshas are the energies that make up every individual. These energies perform different functions in the body. According to Karla “The three doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha are derived from the five growth elements, known in Sanskrit as Pancha Maha Bhutas; Air (Vayu) Either (Akasha), Fire (Agni), Water (Apas), and Earth (Prithvi).” She teaches that “each of us are made of elements that were determined at the moment of our conception. This can be on a physical, emotional, or spiritual level. It takes into account all of the unique aspects and qualities of each person and helps to relieve symptoms, prevent diseases and treat illnesses.”
The style of yoga practice, as well as the attitude you bring to it, will have a powerful effect on the balance you are trying to achieve. In the next few months look for my articles as we dive deeper into learning how each dosha can benefit our yoga practice. Each article will include: asanas, nutrition, essential oils, and body treatments specific to each dosha. I will share with you the wisdom I gained from Karla, and the glowing passion we both have for uniting our yoga practice with Ayurvedic principles.
Here is a brief overview:
Vata Dosha is the energy that controls bodily functions associated with motion, including blood circulation, breathing, blinking, and your heartbeat. When balanced, Vata allows creativity and vitality to flow. When Vata is out of balance, it may lead to anxiety and fear.
Pitta Dosha is the energy that controls the body’s metabolic systems, including digestion, absorption, nutrition, and your body’s temperature. When balanced, Pitta leads to contentment and intelligence. Out of balance Pitta can cause anger and may lead to ulcers.
Kapha Dosha is the energy that controls growth in the body. It supplies water to all body parts, moisturizes the skin, and maintains the immune system. When balanced, Kapha allows you to express love and forgiveness. When Kapha is out of balance, it can host feelings of insecurity and envy.
On our yoga journey, we must also consider making good nutritional and lifestyle choices to create balance within our lives and in our yoga practice. Seeking the guidance of a professional Ayrevedic practitioner is the best way to have your doshas properly assessed, and it’s the best way to begin taking your yoga wellness journey deeper. If you are interested in working with an Ayrevedic Professional or simply looking to learn more, connect with Kara here: www.sattvicsage.com
Shannon Chada is a Holistic Spiritual Practitioner at Full Circle Harmony. She has 15+ years of experience as an Essential Oil Educator, Reiki Master Teacher, Crystal Healer, and Certified Yoga Instructor. Find her classes at Soderworld Wellness Center & Rising Lotus Healing Center, www.FullCircleHarmony.org.
