Vata Dosha types usually have a thin, light frame and are always on the go. When in balance a Vata Dosha Type is lively, enthusiastic, creative and energetic. Vata is the most important dosha, as it is the main driver for movement both physically and mentally – if Vata becomes imbalanced, it will likely imbalance Pitta and Kapha as well. Vata types have energy that comes in spurts with periods of energy and fatigue. Vata skin and hair tends to be dry with cold feet and hands. When out of balance, Vata types will emotionally worry, get anxious and experience insomnia and physically when out of balance, Vata types will experience digestive issues, weight loss, restlessness and weakness.
Vata Dosha Skin Care
Vata skin tends to be dry due to the predominance of space and air elements, thus the focus for Vata should be hydration and a good daily natural dry skin moisturizer. To increase hydration in skin, apply an all natural facial toner, such as good, all natural pure rose water toner before applying your moisturizer. Choose a moisturizer that is free of toxins, artifical ingredients and other irritating ingredients, as they will do more harm than good. Additionally, drink plenty of water and favor sweet, juicy fruit to stay hydrated on the inside. For a complete skin care routine suggestion and natural products for vata skin, check out our vata or dry and mature skincare routine guide.
Vata Dosha Diet
Since Vata types are cold and dry, they should favor a diet that is warm and soft. Food such as cooked vegetables, soups and sweet, heavy and juicy fruits are preferred. Raw vegetables and salads are best eaten as a side dish. Try and avoid cold drinks, iced deserts and other cold foods.
Overview of what foods to favor:
Dairy (Low fat Organic Whole Milk, served warm for easier digestion, Almond and Rice milk, Ghee, Ricotta, Cottage and Cream Cheese)
Grains (Basmati Rice, Quinoa, Cooked Oatmeal, Whole Wheat and Whole Grain Breads, toasted)
Legumes (Red lentils, Whole Mung Beans, Yellow Split Mung beans (green skin removed and Tofu)
Oils (Ghee and Organic Olive Oil)
Spices (Cinnamon, Dill, Clove, Coriander, Cumin, cooked Garlic, Ginger, Fennel, Tamarind, Basil, Saffron, Bay Leaves, Oregano, Thyme, Sage, Cilantro, Lemon, Mint, Tarragon and Salt and Black Pepper in moderation).
Fruits – All Ripe, Sweet and Juicy (Bananas, Mangos, Papayas, Apricots, Peaches, Plums, Pineapple, Kiwi, Dates, sweet Grapes, Melon, Avocados, Raisins, Pomegranates)
Vegetables – Should be Cooked and Soft (Asparagus, Carrots, Peas, Beets, Zucchini, and Sweet Potatoes).
Other Recommendations for Balancing Dosha Vata and Lifestyle Choices