Today we complete our introduction to the three doshas with MSY yoga teacher trainee Alex White.
Attention all Kaphas, today is your day! If kapha is your primary dosha, you are probably super loveable, kind, loyal, and have a steady ease about you, even in intense situations. Ruled by the elements of earth and water, you are strong and stable, yet great at going with the flow. People tend to gravitate toward you (especially vatas, who need your groundedness). Because of your steadfast support, any of us would love to have a kapha in our corner when the going gets rough. Kaphas find comfort in routine, yet when chaos abounds, they can calmly conquer any issue.
Physically, kaphas in balance possess strong, sturdy bodies with perfect skin and thick, lustrous hair. Endurance is their superpower. Those who maintain a healthy lifestyle remain strong and agile and are best able to utilize their natural strength. Those who lead more sedentary lives and make negligent dietary choices are prone to water retention, weight gain, congestion, and diabetes.
Mentally balanced kaphas are loving, compassionate, generous and peaceful, but if kapha increases too much, the result may be laziness, greed, attachment, stubbornness, possessiveness, or depression.
Kaphas can benefit from appropriately challenging yoga poses that are practiced intermittently throughout the day. The asanas that are best suited for kapha are: Tree Pose (Vrksasana), Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana), Boat Pose (Navasana), and Bridge Pose (Setu bhandasana), and Plank Pose (Phalakasana). Kaphas should also practice sun salutations on a daily basis to keep kapha levels in check.
Here are some other suggestions that can help keep kapha in balance.
1. Seek stimulation! Yes, it can be beneficial to stick to a routine but broadening your horizons will help prevent you from becoming complacent.
2. Go towards the light! Invest in a UV Ray light to combat the sluggishness you naturally feel in cold, damp weather, especially during winter when your exposure to sunlight is limited.
3. Shake things up! Don’t be afraid to take a leap and change careers or say yes to buying your dream home.
4. Clear your space! Take the spring cleaning seriously and maintain a clutter-free home and office. Kaphas function better in a clean, clear space.
5. Less is more! Understand that your natural tendency to hold onto things applies to your diet. Although kaphas often have bigger bodies, you can thrive on a limited amount of food. Try eating from smaller plates or throwing the last bite or two of food away after each meal. Avoid snacking!
6. Say yes! to moderate to high intensity exercise. You might want to try out running, bicycling, or swimming.
7. Say no! to napping.
8. Stay warm! Sleep with and or relax with a heating pad at your back.
So kaphas, ya’ll stay warm and active, and if you need a best friend, remember me!
-Alex