If your primary ayurvedic dosha is kapha, you are probably loyal, steadfast, sweet in nature and reliable. However, if kapha becomes overly dominant, you can also become lethargic, depressed and gain weight. It's important for you to keep an eye on your dosha balance since ayurveda kaphas do not change quickly. Always remain vigilant in your efforts to counter your kapha. The first signs of kapha being out of balance are weight gain, bloating, stiffness in the muscles, congestion and feeling emotionally overly-attached to your loved ones. Kapha is most likely to become predominant in the springtime, but you may need to balance kapha during other seasons as well.
Tips on Balancing Kapha
Kaphas are particularly susceptible to the ill effects of cold, damp weather, so be sure to protect yourself from chill and the wind and rain, as well as sleeping well covered in a warm environment. Drink warm liquids throughout the day to keep yourself warm and your digestive fires burning. Try boiling a cup or two of low fat milk with ginger in it every day and drinking it warm. It is an excellent beverage for both stimulating your digestion and keeping you warm.
Kaphas need stimulation, so drink spicy hot teas without sweeteners. Make sure you get vigorous exercise each day to get the blood pumping and to stimulate your metabolism. Stretch, perform yoga, go on walks and perform self massage to keep your circulation healthy. Use a body brush to perform dry body brushing each day before you bathe both to remove toxins and to stimulate the circulatory system.
Limit sweets. Honey is the one acceptable sweetener, since it pacifies kapha, but even honey should be consumed in moderation. Kaphas must be careful not to overeat and should resist snacking between meals, allowing all the food in your stomach to digest before you eat more. Pay close attention to your elimination system and detox when needed to avoid feeling bloated or distended.
To balance kapha, you need to add variety to both your diet and experiences. You may want to stay at home, but it is best for you to venture out and investigate new experiences and people. Vary your diet, using plenty of spice and eating lighter foods cooked dry or with little water. Avoid heavy or sweet foods, and enjoy grains and vegetables cooked with hot, bitter herbs.
By keeping kapha in balance, you will experience less congestion and find increased energy for your daily life.
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