Energy meridians of the body. Nutrition according to Ayurveda: basic principles for the Vata constitution

Today we will talk in more detail about the type of Watt dosha. It is her that Ayurveda considers the most important.

Vata: a general introduction to Prakriti

Vata is very sensitive to changes, even minor ones. external factors able to disable it, causing various diseases, bringing a person out of normal mode.

She is light-boned and slim-built, with dry lips and colon. It is characterized by speed in everything - in speech, walking, the flow of thoughts. It is active, constantly changing, cold, dry.

Since Vata is very active, she constantly wants to eat. At the same time, food should be healthy, meeting the requirements. However, the dishes should give enough calories to give you the energy you need.

Due to its activity, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact location of Prakriti, it can be in the large intestine, or in the pelvis, thighs, organs of hearing and touch, as well as bones. In a state of equilibrium, it can be characterized as vital energy derived from solar energy. Vata out of balance causes anxiety, pain, fear and anxiety in a person. To balance you need to give her warmth.

The character of Vata is a dosha

A person with a Vata constitution is very talented and energetic, he loves new experiences, this person is full of creative ideas, it is easy to anger him, but also easy to get forgiveness. He is characterized by the traits of a leader, he is not averse to helping and listening to the interlocutor.

If Prakriti is out of balance, then the person suffers constant feeling fatigue, he cannot sleep, as he suffers from insomnia. Feels irritated, often loses faith in himself. Often, a depressed state gives rise to conflicts with the outside world, people.

People with this body constitution easily grasp an idea and make quick decisions.

Description of appearance type Vata - doshas

Type Vata Prakriti fine-boned. As a rule, a person of this constitution is very tall, they are lower, but, nevertheless, higher than representatives of Pitta or Kapha Prakriti. Their distinguishing feature- This excessive thinness, which is not affected by the amount of food and the fat content of the food eaten. This thinness is a sign of an accelerated metabolism.

A person of this type is physically poorly developed. Due to the small amount of subcutaneous fat, it is difficult for him to build muscle. It is also characteristic flat chest. Prakriti has thin and long arms and legs, while the feet are rather narrow. The head is usually small in size with small facial features. The eyes are brown, protected by short eyelashes.

The skin has a brownish tint, dry. Dry and hair in need of constant nourishment. Quite often, in this type of Prakriti, veins under the skin are visible. A person of such a constitution has a large number of moles on the body.
Because of their thinness, these people suffer from heart ailments, the blood circulates poorly and their limbs are constantly cold. Generally, a Vata person is the owner of a hoarse voice.

Vata-dosha imbalance

Factors affecting the imbalance of Vata people are very diverse:

Weather ( strong wind and cold)
Hunger;
Overwork and short sleep;
Bad habits such as smoking, alcohol abuse, drugs;
Violation of the usual daily routine;
Frequent departures;
A surge of negative emotions;
Diets that are out of control
The presence of a sweet dish and a very cold dish in the diet.

After exposure to these factors, it becomes overexcited, the balance of the dosha is disturbed in the direction of the predominance of Vata, which entails problems with the psyche, physiology and causes various diseases.

To balance this Prakriti, Ayurveda provides the following processes:

Since the dosha is dry, moisturizing is indicated for it;
The use of antispasmodic and "carminative" herbs;
If it is too cold, it needs to be warmed up, but you should be careful not to aggravate the situation by overheating the dosha and not overdry it;
In case of indigestion, it is recommended to take mineral salts;
In case of abuse of enhancing the taste, spices that reduce the effect are often used, such as salt, sugar, acid;
For constipation, often caused by Vata-dosha imbalance, enema therapy based on natural oils is recommended;
Meals should be balanced and balance her dry, cold, overly sensitive, active nature.

Nutrition for Vata - doshas according to Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, it is very important to observe not only the daily routine, but also the diet. You should carefully select dishes, taking into account the characteristics of the dosha, as well as the period of eating. At the same time, recommendations include Special attention for breakfast. Food that increases Vata can cause discomfort in the abdomen, which will negatively affect daily activities. And the food is overwhelming, on the contrary, it will give lightness for the whole day.

Products for Vata

In order to calm or balance Vata, it is worth giving preference to natural products containing the nature of Pitta or Kapha. Dishes entering the body should be warm, juicy, moderately coarse or soft, with a sufficient amount of oil (it is better to use melted butter Ghee). It is better to eat boiled, stewed blunt food. It is important to observe taste preferences Prakriti.

There are no prohibitions on spices for this type, but strongly spicy ones, or those that can increase it, should be avoided. The diet must be present: cinnamon, cardamom, cumin, ginger, cloves (in moderation), - sweet spices.

Foods that increase Vata

In order to balance Vata, it is worth reducing the consumption of foods containing its nature. You should not abuse salads from raw vegetables, crackers, frozen desserts. Growth can be triggered by the use a large number sweet and starchy foods, it is especially contraindicated to use flour products from wheat flour top grade.

It is worth eliminating or minimizing products containing refined sugar. Tastes are contraindicated for dosha: bitter, astringent, spicy. Because she loves warm food, it is worth removing cold dishes from the diet, as well as alcohol, fast food.

Advantages and disadvantages of the predominance of Vata - doshas

Pros:

Activity, purposefulness. Willingness to achieve the goal. Achievement of high awards for their labors. They are distinguished by a love for everything new, which makes them pioneers;
Vata is very talented, often has a gift for clairvoyance;
Good digestive system;
A person of this type is able to think logically, does not lose his calm in critical situations;
Doshas of this constitution are very attractive, it is interesting to communicate with them, they are friendly, sociable.

Minuses:

When losing balance, people of this type are easily irritated, very impulsive;
problems with the heart, blood flow;
Sleep problems that increase fatigue;
Increased anxiety, restlessness.

To find harmony, both with yourself and with others, you should not dwell on your shortcomings, but develop your virtues. Do not judge other people, especially loved ones;
It is important to remember that autumn is a problematic season for Vata. It is during these three months that you should better listen to yourself, as well as follow all the recommendations;
Vata should be properly fed to avoid imbalance;
Provide comfort to your Prakriti, taking into account all the shortcomings of Vata;
Aromatherapy and relaxing massage will not be superfluous.

And in conclusion, I would like to say that people with a pure type of dosha are not often found, much more often the constitution of the body is mixed. For example, the constitution may be of the Pitta-Vata type. A person with this type is quick-tempered, aggressive, prone to manic ideas. Often does not trust others. That is why it is recommended to satisfy the appetites of all doshas in order to balance them. Also, following the recommendations experienced doctors you can avoid any imbalance and feel comfortable in harmony with your body.

Since Vata is more dominant, airy and capable of spreading the disease of any other dosha throughout the body, its appetite should be satisfied first.

Combining the elements and energy of Ether and Air. They are manifested in a person, both in the physical and in the moral state.

Description

Vata dosha is the main one among the three structures. She is responsible for the following processes:

movement of blood through the veins;

coordination of movements;

digestion in the human body.

Vata dosha, like Pitta and Kapha, combines all five elements - Fire, Water, Earth, Ether and Air. The last two are predominant. It is precisely because of this that she is the most energetic and mobile of the three constitutions, possesses impulsiveness, variability, frivolity and unstable balance.

Na vata doshu big influence provide the following qualities:

Sattva - creativity, artistry, intuition;

Rajas - anxiety, various fears;

Tamas - addiction, depression.

People of this constitution most often have:

thin type of figure;

fine facial features;

dominated dark hair and eyes;

swarthy skin.

The speech is usually fast. Representatives of cotton wool are very fond of communication, they are excellent interlocutors.

Despite the fact that the doshas are physically very active, they quickly use up all their energy, after which they feel powerless and tired.

Since Ether and Air are cold, Vata dosha people are unconsciously drawn to heat and the sun, because of this they cannot tolerate cold weather and slush.

By nature, they are prone to sensitivity, quick mood swings, readiness for change, anxiety and fear, unsure of themselves and their abilities.

They have a sharp and flexible mind, are able to put forward bold creative ideas, but in their work they are often hampered by inconstancy, uncertainty and inconsistency.

Add to the description of vata dosha that they like to travel, change their place of residence or work, do not have established habits or preferences in clothing or food due to the element of Wind. For the same reason, they do not hold money in their hands, and they overwhelmingly cannot accumulate savings to make an expensive purchase.

For vata dosha, nutrition and lifestyle must comply with certain rules so that they feel good and do not become unbalanced.

Nutrition

Unstable appetite is characteristic. Sometimes people of this type can hardly eat, sometimes there is big appetite, which is not reflected in weight due to accelerated metabolism.

Nutrition for vata dosha should have a strict meal schedule.

Special meaning breakfast should be included. Due to the cold, it is recommended to eat mostly hot, nutritious, oily foods.

In order to calm down and recharge your batteries, you need to brew green tea, with honey, lemon or milk.

The diet must include:

cereals;
sweet or sour fruits;

lean meat (turkey, chicken);

spices;

dairy and bakery products.

Diet

Designed to balance vata. A sine qua non for wellness vata dosha - a balanced and regular four meals a day.

Breakfast, like lunch, should be hot and dense in the constitution of vata. Suitable:

all kinds of cereals with a lot of oil;

puree soups;

For lunch it is better to eat:

lean varieties meat;

vegetable stew;

cereals.

After meals - warm tea with ginger or sugar.

Dinner should be light and no later than two to three hours before bedtime.

It is worth excluding from the diet:

cold food;

carbonated drinks;

various fast food;

quick-frozen semi-finished products.

You can not satisfy hunger in a state emotional tension or in a hurry. It is better to give up coffee and black tea. These drinks provoke a one-time release of energy, gradually depleting the body throughout the day.

Lifestyle

Since the predominant features of vata in Ayurveda are inconstancy and frivolity, inability to concentrate, then the most important thing in the lifestyle will be discipline, daily routine and consistency.

It is worth going to bed and getting up at the same time, going to bed late is not for cotton wool. The ideal schedule is an eight-hour sleep with an early rise. Then the forces and energy will not leave Vata until the end of the day.

Overwork, intense physical exercise and work in emergency mode will only weaken people of this type and lead to nervous breakdowns and sickness. For physical activity better to choose:

moderate runs;

bicycle rides.

Moderation and consistency in everything, both in habits and in food, is the key to physical and nervous health people of Vata dosha constitution.

Imbalance

Vata type people often fall into imbalance due to excessive instability of nature. As soon as the balance is disturbed, it immediately makes itself felt by various physiological and psychological manifestations:

nervous diseases: phobias, depressions, fears;

increase in pressure;

diseases of the digestive system;

back problems;

the appearance of shortness of breath, headaches, loss of strength;

skin diseases (psoriasis);

hormonal disorders among women.

In order to eliminate the imbalance, it is necessary first of all to warm the cold cotton wool. Shown:

visiting the bath;

warm bath;

relaxing massage with warm sesame oil;

drinking hot liquids.

Vata dosha should be dressed warmly in the cold and not allow the body to get cold. The diet should include hot spices and spices.

fully and a lot of sleep;

get more rest;

change the situation.

During this period, it is also worth refraining from drinking alcohol, mental and nervous overload.

The use of aromatherapy with oils of anise, citrus, clove and cinnamon can also balance people of this type.

Vata dosha - driving force in the human body and in the universe. When properly balanced, it can give a person a feeling of lightness, joy and serenity.

It should be noted that Vata good appetite have variable hunger. Vata fasting should be avoided, especially if it is prolonged. Lack of food even in large quantities irritates Vata and is of no benefit. They better stick to 4 meals a day. Breakfast is required. Porridges made from suitable cereals or well-steamed muesli with plenty of oil are best. For Vata, the saying “You can’t spoil porridge with butter” is the best fit.

And it is obligatory to take a glass of hot milk with spices (cinnamon, green cardamom, ginger, turmeric) at night. During meals, especially if the food is dry, it is better to drink slightly salted or acidified water in small sips. After eating, it is also good to drink sweet hot tea(can be herbal). Cold, dry and rough foods should be kept to a minimum. Do not eat bread products that are too “dry” for Vata - dryers, crackers, cookies, crackers, sandwiches without enough liquid. Fermentation products are not recommended - kefir, yeast bread, hard cheeses.

People with high Vata dosha like sweet, sour and salty foods. Just these Tastes are very soothing to Vata. And bitter and astringent tastes are used minimally. Although Ayurveda recommends the use of all balanced nutrition, these 3 Tastes (Sweet, Sour and Salty) should be the main focus. And for Vata, food should be oily.
Most of the foods we eat have Sweet Vipaka (taste after digestion). Sugar, honey, maple syrup, milk, rice, barley, moong dal ( green lentils), wheat, butter, bread, meat, baked milk, nuts (walnuts, almonds, coconuts), bananas, dates, raisins, sesame seeds. But overuse sweets can lead to an energy imbalance and add even more nervousness to the already restless Vata. Sour tastes are sour fruits, lemons, cheese, vinegar, yogurt, cheese.

In order to be in balance, it is good for Vata to consume warm, heavy and oily foods, creamy soups. You also need to minimize spicy, bitter and astringent foods. These Tastes increase Vata.

Acute- spices, ginger, hot pepper, cumin, radish.
bitter- bitter greens (chicory, lettuce), green leafy vegetables, turmeric.
Astringent - beans, lentils, pomegranates, cabbage, apples, potatoes, peas.

Fruits - use in moderate amount. Since Vata is light, the fruits should be “heavy” and both sweet and sour (since these two Tastes lower Vata). Do not eat unripe fruits, only well-ripened ones are suitable.
These are apricots, peaches, pears, bananas, avocados, cherries, grapes, all citrus fruits (oranges, tangerines, grapefruits, lemons, limes), mangoes, papaya, persimmons, kiwi, pineapple, plums, pomegranates (well ripened), cherries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, blueberries.
From dried fruits - dates, figs, raisins (pre-soaked).
Astringent berries (cranberries) and light fruits (apples and pears), watermelon, melon are not recommended. Apples are good to eat not raw, but slightly stewed and sprinkled with cinnamon.

Vegetables is one of the most controversial topics. Various authors refer to them as different categories, but almost all Ayurveda experts point out that raw vegetables too light and dry for Vata. They need to be cooked with lots of oil and spices. There should be a minimum of raw vegetables in the diet and it is better to use them with a sufficient amount of vegetable oil or sour cream and spices. A raw food diet is not suitable for Vata, especially for those who have painful joints and muscles (evidence of deep-seated Ama - toxins).

Raw juices are suitable in reasonable amounts.

The following vegetables are acceptable in moderation - cucumbers, tomatoes, eggplant, Bell pepper, zucchini, okra, turnip, swede, green beans, green pea, green beans, potatoes, asparagus, spinach, various green leafy vegetables, olives. These vegetables are best eaten lightly stewed in ghee or vegetable oil, with Vata-reducing spices.

The use of pickled or pickled cucumbers and tomatoes is allowed. All types of cabbage should be avoided, especially raw (in very small quantities, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts), mushrooms, green lettuce, radish, radish, wild garlic.

Cereals. Useful rice (basmati and brown varieties), wheat, oats (oats). In very small quantities, you can use buckwheat (buckwheat), corn, rye (rye), millet, pasta. Completely eliminate barley, peas, corn chips, crackers, muesli, cereal, rice cakes, granola, and any dry grain.

beans. Of the legumes, only mung beans (mung dal, green lentils), soy tofu (in a small amount) are suitable for Vata. The rest of the legumes can only be cooked occasionally and with a lot of spices (especially asafoetida is good for protein digestion and removes gas-forming properties). It is recommended to pre-soak the beans and even drain the water after the first boil.

Nuts and seeds. All nuts are good, especially sweet almonds (no skins), cashews, pine nuts, fir nuts, coconut, chestnuts.
Let's take hazelnuts, walnuts, pecans, pistachios. Also sesame seeds, flax-seed, pumpkin seeds(some experts do not recommend).
It is not recommended to take bitter almonds, peanuts, apricot kernels, brazil nuts.

Oils. Many oils are beneficial as they reduce the dryness of Vata. The best of oils is ghee, Sesame oil(sesame oil) and almond oil (almond oil), olive oil, cocoa butter, interior fat(for non-vegetarians). Coconut oil And avocado oil is best used only externally.
Corn, soybean, rapeseed, mustard, safflower oils, margarine are not recommended.

Dairy products. All dairy products pacify Vata dosha. Especially those that have a sour taste (it reduces Vata) - yogurt, buttermilk, koumiss. Kefir in large quantities is not recommended (as a fermentation product). As well as ice cream. And milk for Vata is better to use fat, there is little sense from fat-free. Well baked milk, cream, sour cream.

Cottage cheese, cheese (it is better to use fatty fresh soft or very little aged) also work well on increased Vata. Since Vata needs warm oily food, it is good to bake casseroles or cottage cheese from cold cottage cheese and eat with sour cream.
Hard aged cheeses - in small quantities. Blue cheeses are not recommended.

Beverages: fruit juices from the previously mentioned fruits, berries, lemon water, hot milk with spices, cocoa, almond milk, rice milk, soy milk(hot and spicy) carrot juice, vegetable broth, aloe juice, not carbonated mineral water (acidic water or alkaline - depending on the condition), warm water, diluted warm water juices from recommended fruits, non-sour fruit drinks, non-sour fruit and berry compote, dried fruit compote, mate.
Carbonated drinks are not recommended kombucha, iced drinks, coffee, barley drink, black tea, tomato juice, soy milk (cold), any cold milk drinks (cocktails), chocolate milk.

For drinkers, aged red is best. dessert wine, mulled wine, grog.
Not recommended beer, young wine, champagne, punch, white dry wine, hard liquor.

sweeteners. All sweeteners (in moderation) pacify Vata dosha. It is better to use palm sugar, molasses, maple syrup. Old honey - in very small quantities, because. it dries the already dry Vata. In small quantities - halva, rosehip syrup. Chocolate is not recommended.

Animal Products(for non-vegetarians). Meat, its energy from the point of view of Ayurveda, we have already considered in the note. But still, not everyone joined the healthy lifestyle lives become vegetarians (it still needs a spiritual component), and continue to consume animal products. Therefore, we will consider them.
Chicken (white and dark meat), turkey (dark meat), duck, goose, sea fish(including white fish- sterlet, beluga), and seafood (shrimp, crabs, squid, oysters, mussels), eggs (in small quantities) are acceptable.
Beef, pork, lamb, turkey (white meat), rabbit, venison, meat by-products should be avoided.

Vata is the only Dosha to which meat (which is a heavy Tamasic product) can be "prescribed". Meat is recommended emergency cases when a person sitting on a raw food diet is overly fond of spiritual practices and when trying to raise the Kundalini or “open the chakras”, he can “fly away”, which is a danger to life. In this case, hot fatty broths (in moderation) are especially useful. Fried meat is not recommended due to dryness, but it is better to use baked or boiled (but not dry).

Spices. Salt, vinegar works well (within reasonable limits, it’s just salty and sour tastes which lower Vata). All spices are suitable for Vata-type people, but not very much. large doses Otherwise, they can dry out the already dry Vata and aggravate it. Spices are needed to warm cold Vata.
The most common spices (many of them, besides warming, are also carminative) are green cardamom, coriander, cumin, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, fennel, fragrant celery seeds, mustard seed, nutmeg and small amounts of black and red pepper, chili, mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, seaweed, basil, asafoetida, turmeric, anise, coriander, dill seed, vanilla,.

Here again contradictions are obtained - a little higher it was indicated that it is necessary to reduce the consumption of Acute (including spices - ginger, hot pepper, cumin). But besides the Pungent Taste, spices have warming properties, which is extremely important for increasing the heat in the body of cold Vata.

So choose your dose - and so that it warms, and so that at the same time it does not dry out and does not increase Rajas too much. Watch the reaction of your body all the time. As soon as Vata has increased (and you already know what the symptoms of Vata increase are - nervousness, insomnia, excessive dryness of the body, and as a result - constipation) - reduce the consumption of spices.

In general, Vata needs spices, but you can’t put too many spices in cooking, and they may not be suitable for other family members. Therefore, you can just chew cardamom (by the way, it refreshes well oral cavity – better than any chewing gum), put jars of spices in a conspicuous place in the kitchen and just eat 1/2-1 tsp with water. It is good to mix several spices - coriander, cumin, fennel, mustard seed - fry a little and use 1/2 - 2 tsp each. after meal. Pretty tasty mix, great for helping digestion.

Sufficient attention should be paid to formulating a balanced, whole diet, which should include fresh, high quality, tasty and nutritious foods. In Ayurvedic practices, it is customary to cook food immediately before meals so that it is always fresh. Naturally, convenience foods, hamburgers, canned food, leftovers from yesterday's lunch, or products with low nutritional value completely unacceptable in such practice. However, in our modern life avoiding such foods without conscious effort is very difficult. Considering the properties of the three doshas, and the effect that food has on our body, you can find out which foods have a good effect on our body type.

Has a natural tendency to increase. When it gets out of balance, we need to lower the effect in the body. A diet aimed at reducing will reduce the tendency to accumulate. We need to reduce the cold, dry, light, fast, rough and irregular properties of Vata. This section contains a list of recommended products. It is recommended to increase the consumption of foods that are warm, heavier and oily, as such foods increase the effects of and. Cold, dry, lighter foods should be reduced as they increase the Vata effect that you are trying to reduce.

It is recommended to increase the consumption of sweet, sour, salty foods, as they increase the effects of and. It is recommended to reduce the consumption of spicy (pungent), bitter and astringent foods as they increase the effect of Vata. You can eat larger portions of food, but certainly not more than you can easily digest. Food should be taken on regular basis. People often forget to eat. (And people find this hard to believe!) Remember that humans have a highly irregular digestive system, so the amount of food you eat one day may not be as easily digested the next day. Dairy products (in small quantities) reduce the effect and are therefore acceptable.

All sweeteners (in small amounts) reduce the effect and are therefore acceptable. Vegetable oils reduce the effect and are successfully used by people like . Cereals: Rice and wheat are good, but barley, corn, millet, buckwheat, rye, and oats should be reduced. Fruits that are sweet, sour, or heavy are preferred, such as bananas, avocados, grapes, oranges, cherries, peaches, mangoes, papaya, melons, berries, plums, and pineapples. Reduce the consumption of dry or light fruits (apples, pears, dried fruits).

1. Vegetables are better to eat cooked than raw, because boiled or stewed vegetables are better digested by the digestive system. From time to time, a corporeal person may eat salad or raw vegetables, but in general, cooked foods are easier to digest.

2. The following spices lower: , black pepper, ginger, cardamom, cumin, salt, cloves and mustard seeds.

3. Nuts are good for chewing them thoroughly.

4. Avoid or reduce your consumption of beans (beans), with the exception of "tofu" (soy food), because beans are more difficult to digest in people of the type. People have more problems with protein digestion than in humans or, which leads to undigested food masses, gas and belching, that is, the effect of Vata.

5. However, people also need adequate amounts of protein. Meat, fish, chicken, turkey, and seafood are great in small amounts, as long as they are chewed thoroughly.

6. Eating in a calm and pleasant environment is important for all body types, but especially for type people. If we eat while watching a TV show, reading, or even driving a car, these activities distract the mind and body from the process of eating. In addition, in such an environment, we do not fully enjoy food, because we get pleasure from something else or even stop paying attention to what we eat. It is also recommended to relax after a meal before continuing with business and allowing your body to fully concentrate on the first phases of digestion. Such practices are important for improving digestion and stimulating the body's self-healing.

7. Vegetarian diet. According to , the healthiest diet is one with less or minimal meat (heavy protein). This view is explained by the fact that undigested meat creates "ama", or undigested food mass, which the body needs to somehow cope with, since the accumulation of ama leads to the symptoms of the disease. For humans, meat consumption can be associated with digestive problems anyway. Because the digestive system generally has difficulty digesting food, especially protein, many people of the body naturally come to vegetarianism. Those who continue to eat meat are advised to reduce their intake. This can be done not abruptly, but gradually. After a while, you will be able to decide for yourself whether you should give up meat altogether or eat it occasionally and in small quantities. Many people switch to fish and poultry. However, if you eat as much fish and poultry meat as you used to eat "red" meat, this will not really improve the quality of your diet or your health. It is best for Vata people to completely eliminate caffeine from their diet. Caffeine is like rocket fuel. Caffeine stimulates sympathetic nervous system and activates the function of the adrenal glands. Figuratively, we can say that people are already halfway to space. Caffeine consumption can only worsen the condition. The human body is able to cope better with caffeine, but it's still not the best thing the body needs.

8. Inclusion in the diet of clarified ghee from buffalo milk (ghee). It is recommended to include in the daily diet. This oil can be eaten with bread, cereals, vegetables, etc. can be purchased at many stores natural products or cook at home. Attention: people who have a problem or suspect a problem with high level lipids (high cholesterol) intake should be limited. Ginger in the diet. Ginger can be used successfully by people of most body types, the main thing is to know how to use it correctly. Ginger is a warm spice, so it is very good for. best to eat fresh ginger. It can be used in the preparation of most different dishes. You can also peel the ginger, cut into slices and simmer in filtered water over low heat. You will get a warming, healing ginger tea.

Winter has come and therefore it is necessary to adjust your diet. Each season, according to Ayurveda, is also characterized by its dosha. Cold weather, wind and dryness increase Vata. This is especially true for women who have a larger component of this particular dosha. You know very well that a person has all three types of doshas. But over time, they can change the ratio. Let's check if you have an imbalance towards dry and cold type. And if so, then restore the balance doshas of the vata type choosing the right nutrition.

Why is it important

Vata governs all movement in the mind and body. It controls the flow of blood, determines normal bowel movements, controls breathing and the flow of thoughts throughout the head.

Pitta and Kapha cannot interact rationally without it. Vata is considered the leader of the three Ayurvedic principles in the body. Therefore, it is very important that the doshas are in good balance.

Is your Vata balanced?

Answer these questions to find out how your Vata dosha is doing.

Your skin: dry, rough, thin?

Do you have a problem with body weight - underweight (underweight)?

An overactive mind - a constant whirlpool of thoughts?

Do you often have anxiety?

Are you constantly restless or agitated?

Do you have constipation?

Are you suffering from insomnia?

Are you suffering from vaginal dryness?

Are there periods of forgetfulness?

Feeling discomfort in your joints?

Are you tired quickly?

If you answered yes to most of these questions, then you need to balance your dosha.

Abhyanga (daily ayurvedic massage with sesame oil).
Try to stay warm.
Eat warm, cooked food (maybe some raw foods).
Go to bed early, get more rest.
Mainly: warm, oily, thick foods and sweet, sour, salty tastes.
Reduce: Light, dry, cold foods and pungent, bitter, and astringent tastes.
Follow the daily routine.
Avoid stimulants (including alcohol).
Regular, daily bowel movements.
Stay warm in cold and windy weather.

Diet: Vata food

Eat enough food, but no more than you can easily digest. Key Factors to pacify Vata dosha is warm and cooked food. Nutritious soups and stews, hot cereals, healthy drinks and thick desserts will be desirable for you on cold winter days.

Dairy. All dairy products will pacify vata. Boil milk before drinking. Drink only warm, adding a pinch of cardamom or ginger. Don't drink milk on a full stomach.

Sweet. All sweets are good (but in moderation) for pacifying Vata.

grains. Rice and wheat, very good. Reduce your intake of barley, corn, millet, buckwheat, rye, and oats.

Fruits. Predominantly sweet, sour or viscous fruits. Such as: oranges, bananas, avocados, grapes, cherries, peaches, melons, berries, plums, pineapples, mangoes and papaya. Reduce dry fruits and light fruits. Such as apples, pears, pomegranates, cranberries.

Vegetables. Suitable: beets, cucumbers, carrots, asparagus and sweet potatoes. They should not be raw, but cooked.

Can be used in small amounts following products: peas, green leafy vegetables, broccoli, cauliflower, celery, zucchini and regular potatoes. They should be similarly cooked (chopped finely and do not use fibrous parts). It is better to cook with ghee and spices. And put spices during cooking, and not on already cooked food. Try to avoid Brussels sprouts and cabbage.

Spices. Cardamom, cumin, ginger, cinnamon, salt, cloves, mustard seeds and maybe a little black pepper.

Nuts. All nuts are good.

Legumes. Reduce all legumes except for tofu and mung beans.

Oils. All oils reduce Vata.

P.S. Nutrition for women vata dosha in winter

your main habit should be - compliance with the daily routine. Eat at least three times a day. Don't skip breakfast. Lunch should be the most satisfying and be around noon. Eat a light meal for dinner. But you need to remember that this should happen no later than three hours before bedtime.