Vata in Sanskrit literally means wind, which represents air and ether in the body and is the force of movement. Without space and air nothing can move, which means vata (dosha) problems can occur anywhere (and sometimes everywhere) in the body.
The area most associated with vata is the lower abdomen, excretion, and reproductive systems. (all autoimmune is predominantly or partially vata influence)
Vata Diseases
Vata diseases arrive quickly with no obvious cause and can leave equally quickly, such is the nature of the
continuous movement of Vata. Because of the nature of air end ether, about 80% of disease is either entirely or partly linked to Vata problems. Most vata problems are also exacerbated by mental pressure like stress and tension.
| Vata Diseases | |
|---|---|
| Arthritis | Osteo arthritis (age and use), Rheumatoid arthritis (self immunity destructs the joint) |
| Autoimmune problems | Connected with the emotion, and are erratic in nature, they are difficult to control and can be triggered by a wide range of external or internal factors. |
| Mental Illness | All problems in the mind, emotional and hormonal have some element of vata in them. Mental problems can often manifest as problems in the body, which is why Ayurveda pays special attention to the link between the two. |
| Joint problems | Dry poorly lubricated joints added to the difficulty in absorbing many nutrients, particularly calcium means that it’s very likely vata people will have a clicking or uncomfortable joints, untreated these things often get worse with time. |
| Constipation | General dryness, not enough hydration, and difficulty in letting go, mean bowel movements are often difficult. (in Ayurveda excreting less than once a day is considered constipation) |
| Bowel Problems | Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chron’s disease, mal-absorption, gas |
| Nervous system | Anxiety, Depression, Paralysis, Parkinsons, Numbness, Tremors |
| Circulation | Cold hands and feet |
| Male Sexual Organs | Premature release, Difficulty maintaining an erection, Impotency |
| Female Sexual Organs | Irregular menstruation or ovulation, Intense cramps, Intense hormonal mood swings, Infertility |
| Breathing | Airborne allergies, Difficulties in breathing asthma, etc. |
Often the problem has not yet manifested as a physical disease, but the signs of a vata-dominated mind can be seen and worked with before the disease arises.
Signs of Vata dominated minds
- Lack patience
- Feel like they are not good enough
- Inconsistent
- Self-blame
- Fear of failure
- Guilt
- Anxiety
- Self-destructive
Reducing Vata
For all vata problems, the person needs nurture and nourishment. Regular warming massage is prescribed for unbalanced vata (self-massage can also work). Diet must be warm, and easy for the body to digest and absorb. (Raw food diets are particularly difficult for Vata people). Making a schedule, and find any ways to increase stability. Because vata problems are always connected with emotions, forms of mental balancing and practicing concentration techniques can be particularly beneficial for them.
Increasing Vata
Things likely to increase vata include stress, hectic life schedule (not resting), skipping meals/sleep, poverty, traveling, tragic incidents, excessive physical work, and cold and dry food/weather.
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