How should your Dosha affect your diet?
Ayurvedic practices lead to balance in your mind and body. Find out what foods your Dosha needs to balance your body and calm and your mind.
Quiz Questions
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1.Let’s talk about our earthly bodies. How would you describe your frame?
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A.I may have been called lean and lanky a time or two in my life.(Correlates to: You need a Vata balancing diet!)
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B.Medium build with some decently compact muscle.(Correlates to: You need a Pitta balancing diet!)
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C.Solid is the word I’d use to describe myself. Definitely a broad and full build.(Correlates to: You need a Kapha balancing diet!)
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2.We all have our own challenges in the weight department. Where do you struggle?
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A.I look at food and feel it stick to my butt. Losing weight is the challenge for me.(Correlates to: You need a Kapha balancing diet!)
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B.No matter what I do, breaking out of my lean physique is a struggle. I can eat all day and it doesn’t seem to make a difference.(Correlates to: You need a Vata balancing diet!)
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C.I don’t usually struggle with weight. I can lose or gain fairly easily, if I just put my mind to it.(Correlates to: You need a Pitta balancing diet!)
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3.The eyes are the windows to the Dosha. How would you rate your peepers?
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A.I have a deep and intentional gaze, look into my eyes to see my fire.(Correlates to: You need a Pitta balancing diet!)
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B.I have large and pleasant eyes, all the better to see you with.(Correlates to: You need a Kapha balancing diet!)
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C.My eyes are small and active, the better to keep up with my energetic personality.(Correlates to: You need a Vata balancing diet!)
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4.The skin is the largest organ you have. What secrets do our skin tell?
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A.My skin is screaming for moisture. Often dry and rough, it’s easy to feel chapped and scaly when it’s hot and dry out.(Correlates to: You need a Vata balancing diet!)
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B.Thick, moist, and smooth. My skin is soft to the touch but can take some abuse.(Correlates to: You need a Kapha balancing diet!)
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C.Don’t look at it. It’s very sensitive and if you look at it, I will most likely get a rash. Stop looking!(Correlates to: You need a Pitta balancing diet!)
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5.Your hair is the crown you never take off. What kind of locks grace your regal brow?
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A.Full and luscious, these locks can get greasy if I don’t use my dry shampoo liberally.(Correlates to: You need a Kapha balancing diet!)
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B.Frizzy, frazzled, and flyaway. Screaming for moisture!(Correlates to: You need a Vata balancing diet!)
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C.It’s fine and a little lifeless, and I might have spotted a few silvers yesterday.(Correlates to: You need a Pitta balancing diet!)
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6.Your joints have something to say! How do they get their message across?
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A.They never shut up! My joints sound like a bowl of Rice Krispies, Snap, Crackle, and Pop all day long!(Correlates to: You need a Vata balancing diet!)
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B.They tend towards the silent treatment, only making noise if I really push them. Makes sense because they’re so well cushioned.(Correlates to: You need a Kapha balancing diet!)
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C.They want you to know how flexible they are. Like, seriously, they’re all loose and bendy.(Correlates to: You need a Pitta balancing diet!)
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7.You sleep like _____?
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A.A bear. Honestly, every night is like winter hibernation, and I’m dead to the world for 8 hours. Mornings are slow, to say the least.(Correlates to: You need a Kapha balancing diet!)
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B.A hummingbird. Always on the edge of waking up, I flit from dream to dream.(Correlates to: You need a Vata balancing diet!)
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C.A Dog. Happily, and I wake up alert and well rested after 8 hours.(Correlates to: You need a Pitta balancing diet!)
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8.How well does your personal thermostat work?
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A.I’m usually comfortably warm, and prefer a cooler environment.(Correlates to: You need a Pitta balancing diet!)
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B.My hands and feet always feel like they’re trying to freeze off. Take me somewhere warm and tropical, please!(Correlates to: You need a Vata balancing diet!)
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C.I tend to be a bit warm, and really hate when it’s cold and damp out.(Correlates to: You need a Kapha balancing diet!)
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9.How would your friends describe you?
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A.Always lively and enthusiastic, I thrive on the constant thrill of change.(Correlates to: You need a Vata balancing diet!)
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B.I live with purpose and intensity. Love a good debate where I can use my persuasive abilities to convince others around to my viewpoint.(Correlates to: You need a Pitta balancing diet!)
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C.I’m easy going and accepting. Always there to support my friends.(Correlates to: You need a Kapha balancing diet!)
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10.How do you respond to a stressful day?
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A.I withdraw. When the going gets tough, I get scarce.(Correlates to: You need a Kapha balancing diet!)
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B.Watch out! When I feel cornered, I respond with aggression and irritability! Please just feed me.(Correlates to: You need a Pitta balancing diet!)
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C.I can’t help but worry. I get anxious when I feel out of control.(Correlates to: You need a Vata balancing diet!)
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11.How much do you know about Ayurveda?
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A.Ayur-what?(Correlates to: )
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B.I already know my Dosha, but don’t know that it has to do with diet.(Correlates to: )
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C.My Dosha is balanced, and I’m an Ayurvedic Warrior!(Correlates to: )
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Quiz Outcomes
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1.You need a Vata balancing diet!Vata energy is all about Air and Space, so it’s no surprise you speak quickly, act on impulse, and can sometimes seem as flighty as the wind! You’re also incredibly active, vocal, and a source of inspiration to others.Always on the go, a balanced Vata is lively and enthusiastic, lending energy to any creative pursuits. But all that energy can lead to lulls, and it’s never hard to talk you into a good nap.Physically, Vatas tend towards the leaner, lighter side, and can often be found searching for cozy sock and warm lotions to soften their dry skin. Often light sleepers, a Vata in imbalance can struggle with restlessness – and your digestion can really play havoc with you if you aren’t careful, resulting in weight loss, constipation, arthritis, weakness and aches and pains. No fun!Passionate about life, you love excitement and new experiences! And while your anger can sometimes get the best of you, you’re quick to forgive a well-meaning friend. In fact, when you’re overwhelmed or stressed, you probably think “What did I do wrong?”When you’re not at your best, you can sometimes be prone to worry, anxiousness, nervousness, and can even suffer from bouts of insomnia. But when your Vata is balanced, you’re a lively conversationalist who takes initiative with creative energy and a flexible ability to adapt to any situation.So what should you eat to balance your Vata?Vata is a cold and dry dosha; warm, nourishing foods with moderately heavy texture, plus added butter and fat are good for stabilizing Vata. Choose salty, sour, and sweet tastes as well as soothing and satisfying foods. Warm milk, cream, butter, warm soups, stews, hot cereals, fresh baked bread, raw nuts, and nut butters are good for Vatas. Because warm drinks or hot water are best for Vatas, take a hot or herbal tea in the late afternoon. Add a snack of sweet fruit (the riper the better!) and your Vata will be very happy.Best Spices for Vata: Cinnamon, cardamom, cumin, ginger, cloves, and garlicYou don’t want to cool down the already chilly Vata airiness, so say no thank you to cold foods like salads, iced drinks, raw vegetables and greens. Instead, steam your veggies and blanche your greens. Avoid drinks with too much caffeine and candies as they disturb Vata. And leave those green bananas on the shelf, unripe fruits are too astringent for your sensitive tummy.“There is an innate innocence in the conscious Vata personality. A delicate, sensitive, and aware nature reveals the graceful Vata component of any type.”— Maya TiwariSo how do you keep your Vata balanced?5 Tips to Balance Your Dosha1. Follow a consistent diet, designed to keep your Dosha balanced and harmonious. Click here to download our Vata Vitality Cookbook, filled with meal prep recipes with your Dosha in mind. And don’t forget to grab your Vata Food Guide, to let you know what foods your body craves, and what to stay away from!2. Maintain a consistent daily routine and keep exercises both gentle and regulated. Follow us on YouTube for Vata Flow, yoga to bring balance your Dosha.3. Take time to rest and nurture yourself. Create a safe, calm, and comforting environment and allow yourself to recharge your batteries in peace and serenity. Book a Vata Massage to soothe and ground your mind and body. 4. Avoid very cold and windy conditions, as well as dry climates. Vatas thrive when warm and cozy, so cuddle up and be sure to get enough sleep. 5. Minimize travel and too much movement; avoid loud places filled with too many talking people – An uncomfortable Vata is an irritable Vata.Ayurveda and YouHey there, I’m Meadow Lark, Ayurvedic Practitioner, Life Coach, Yoga Instructor, and dahl enthusiast.It’s my mission to balance Doshas wherever I go, and bring happiness and peace to those I work with. Counting calories and limiting deliciousness is no way to live, and it isn’t what your body wants! Let me teach you how to properly fuel your body and live in balance with your Dosha.I’ve been a guest on many podcasts, including “Dosha and your Diet” and “Ayurvedic Warrior,” and you can find my new book, “Dosha and Your Diet,” wherever books are sold.Nurture CommunityHere are some resources to help you discover your Dosha and create balance and alignment within.1. Check out my Youtube Channel, Dosha Dosha Dosha. You’ll find weekly workout videos designed to match your Dosha’s needs, as well as some ayurvedic cooking hacks to help you in the kitchen. 2. Feeling stumped on what to make for dinner? Follow me on Instagram where I share delicious recipes designed for each Dosha, as well as meditations to calm the mind and build intentions.3. Don’t know where to begin but know that you need to find balance? Book a consultation with me and we’ll not only determine what your Dosha is and how to balance it, we’ll also create your very own meal plan and exercise routine. Get grounded and centeredHead on over to your inbox to grab the free recipe I’ve already sent you to help you feed your Dosha what it needs.Over the next few days, I'll be sharing more ayurvedic tips and tricks to help you bring true balance and peace to your life!“Ayurveda is the science of life.”— Shubhra Krishan
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2.You need a Pitta balancing diet!Pittas literally have more fire in them than other people. You have better appetite, better digestion, and can even withstand the cold better than others because yes, you are hot-headed.This leads to a little bit more natural aggression and impatience, but it’s only because you’re so sharp and intelligent that it’s difficult to wait for others who aren’t quite as gung-ho as you are.Known for their cast iron stomachs, Pittas can sometimes overdo it with salty, spicy, and sour foods, and often err on the side of overabundance – just because your digestion can handle anything you can throw at it doesn't mean you should throw the kitchen sink in just to see what happens.The primary function of Pitta is transformation, which is why they can make such excellent decision makers, teachers, and motivational speakers. Often possessed of a powerful intellect and a strong ability to concentrate, they’re also practical and adventurous, and love a challenging adventure.Unfortunately, when your Pitta is imbalanced, you can be short-tempered, argumentative, and prone to emotional outbursts. #hangrymuch?Physically, Pittas often have a medium build, reddish complexion, and an inability to tolerate hot weather. Imbalance presents as skin rashes, burning sensations, peptic ulcers, excessive body heat, heartburn and indigestion. No surprises there, eh firestarter? No fun, either!So how do you balance the Dosha that is known for digestion, metabolism, and energy production?The best foods for Pittas are cool or warm, with moderately heavy textures — so skip the steaming hot foods. Bitter, sweet, and astringent tastes are ideal, and in summer it’s better to eat cool, refreshing foods, like salads, milk, and ice cream. Herbal tea, specifically mint or licorice root tea are pacifying to Pittas. Cold cereal, cinnamon toast, and apple tea is a good breakfast for a Pitta. Vegetarian foods, in general, are the best for Pittas, as consuming red meat tends to heat the body from the fat. They should consume abundant amounts of milk, grains, and vegetables.Pittas should try to use less butter and added fats, and avoid pickles, sour cream, and cheese. Skip the vinegar in favor of lemon juice, and avoid alcoholic or fermented foods altogether. This is going to be difficult, but reduce your coffee intake. I know, I’m sorry. Pittas should skip egg yolks, nuts, hot spices, honey, and hot drinks, and really say no to oily, hot, salty and heavy foods, like the nectar of the gods – french fries.Spices should generally be avoided as they create too much heat in the already fiery Pitta, but these are OK in small amounts: Cardamom, cilantro (green coriander), cinnamon, coriander seed, dill, fennel, mint, saffron, turmeric, cumin, and black pepper.“My Pitta is on fire, Passion is my flame, Courage is my strength!” – unknownSo how do you keep your Pitta balanced?5 Tips to Balance Your Dosha1. Follow a consistent diet, designed to keep your Dosha balanced and harmonious. Click here to download our Pitta Party Cookbook, filled with meal prep recipes with your Dosha in mind. And don’t forget to grab your Pitta Food Guide, to let you know what foods your body craves, and what to stay away from!2. Maintain a consistent daily routine and keep exercises both gentle and regulated. Follow us on YouTube for Pitta Flow, yoga to bring balance to your Dosha.3. Keep cool! Both physically and mentally, and apply an attitude of moderation in all things.4. Avoid excessive heat, steam, or humidity and take plenty of fluids. You don’t want to put out your fire completely, but you also don’t want to overstoke those flames!5. Engage in quiet and contemplative activities, like crosswords, reading books, or mindful meditation, and avoid situations of potential conflict.Ayurveda and YouHey there, I’m Meadow Lark, Ayurvedic Practitioner, Life Coach, Yoga Instructor, and dahl enthusiast.It’s my mission to balance Doshas wherever I go, and bring happiness and peace to those I work with. Counting calories and limiting deliciousness is no way to live, and it isn’t what your body wants! Let me teach you how to properly fuel your body and live in balance with your Dosha.I’ve been a guest on many podcasts, including “Dosha and your Diet” and “Ayurvedic Warrior,” and you can find my new book, “Dosha and Your Diet,” wherever books are sold.Nurture CommunityHere are some resources to help you discover your Dosha and create balance and alignment within.1. Check out my Youtube Channel, Dosha Dosha Dosha. You’ll find weekly workout videos designed to match your Dosha’s needs, as well as some ayurvedic cooking hacks to help you in the kitchen. 2. Feeling stumped on what to make for dinner? Follow me on Instagram where I share delicious recipes designed for each Dosha, as well as meditations to calm the mind and build intentions.3. Don’t know where to begin but know that you need to find balance? Book a consultation with me and we’ll not only determine what your Dosha is and how to balance it, we’ll also create your very own meal plan and exercise routine.Get grounded and centeredHead on over to your inbox to grab the free recipe I’ve already sent you to help you feed your Dosha what it needs.Over the next few days, I'll be sharing more ayurvedic tips and tricks to help you bring true balance and peace to your life!“Ayurveda is the science of life.”— Shubhra Krishan
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3.You need a Kapha balancing diet!Kaphas are naturally calm, thoughtful, and loving, and tend to speak slowly and melodically. They have an inherent ability to enjoy life and are comfortable with routine. Kaphas are strong, loyal, patient, steady, and supportive. They love music, reading, and relaxing.Kaphas tend to have heavier, more grounded bodies than other types, which is no surprise, considering they’re the predominantly Earth Dosha of the ayurvedic world. Their secondary Water tendencies often show up in dreams.Kaphas have a strong build and excellent stamina as well as smooth, radiant skin. They sleep soundly and have regular digestion. But when Kapha build to excess they can gain weight, retain fluid, and allergies can start to manifest in the body. When imbalanced, Kaphas may become overweight, sleep excessively, become lethargic, and suffer from asthma, diabetes, and depression. No fun! Sometimes, Kaphas tend to hold on to things, jobs, and relationships long after they are no longer present, displaying an excessive need for attachment. When imbalanced, Kaphas can dig their heels in stubbornness and resist change. This is great when you want their loving support, but can be stifling when all you need is space.Kapha governs the structure of the body. It is the principle that holds the cells together and forms the muscle, fat, bone, and provides immunity. The primary function of Kapha is protection.But when they feel overwhelmed or stressed, Kaphas response can often be: “I don’t want to be involved.”So how do you balance the most grounded of the Doshas?Kaphas do best with lightly cooked foods or raw fruits and vegetables. Any food that is spicy is good for Kaphas such as very hot Mexican or Indian food, especially in winter. Dry cooking methods (baking, broiling, grilling, sautéing) are preferable for Kaphas over moist cooking such as steaming, boiling, or poaching. Foods such as romaine lettuce, endive, or tonic water are good for stimulating the Kapha appetite, while preferred spices are cumin, fenugreek, sesame seed, and turmeric.Kaphas need to watch the consumption of too many sweet and fatty foods, and need to watch their salt consumption as well, as it can lead to fluid retention. You should avoid deep-fried foods. #howrude #butwhataboutfrenchfries?Beware the Kapha tendency to overeat: The main meal should be at the middle of the day, and only a light, dry meal in the evening.In general, Kaphas should avoid sugar, fats, and dairy products, skip chilled foods and drinks, and use ghee and oils in small amounts only.“The basic theme of the Kapha metabolic type is relaxed.” – Deepak ChopraSo How Do You Keep Your Kapha Balanced5 Tips to Balance Your Dosha1. Follow a consistent diet, designed to keep your Dosha balanced and harmonious. Click here to download our Kapha Kollaboration Kookbook, filled with meal prep recipes with your Dosha in mind. And don’t forget to grab your Kapha Food Guide, to let you know what foods your body craves, and what to stay away from!2. Wake early (before dawn), sleep less, and avoid sleeping during the day. Subscribe to our Text of the Day, sent to your phone bright and early with a sunrise meditation to help you start your day grounded in your Kapha Earthiness.3. Indulge in plenty of physical exercise every day. Tune into our Youtube Channel for Kapha Strong, our version of bootcamp to work your earthly body and burn off all that extra energy.4. Perform activities that stimulate and energize the body and mind, and build the metabolic rate. Rock climbing, obstacle courses, and even whitewater rafting can really help the grounded Kapha feel alive! But try to keep warm and dry. Kapha is all about that homey feeling, and cold and wet don’t fit the bill.5. Allow for excitement, challenge, and variety in life.Ayurveda and YouHey there, I’m Meadow Lark, Ayurvedic Practitioner, Life Coach, Yoga Instructor, and dahl enthusiast.It’s my mission to balance Doshas wherever I go, and bring happiness and peace to those I work with. Counting calories and limiting deliciousness is no way to live, and it isn’t what your body wants! Let me teach you how to properly fuel your body and live in balance with your Dosha.I’ve been a guest on many podcasts, including “Dosha and your Diet” and “Ayurvedic Warrior,” and you can find my new book, “Dosha and Your Diet,” wherever books are sold.Nurture CommunityHere are some resources to help you discover your Dosha and create balance and alignment within.1. Check out my Youtube Channel, Dosha Dosha Dosha. You’ll find weekly workout videos designed to match your Dosha’s needs, as well as some ayurvedic cooking hacks to help you in the kitchen. 2. Feeling stumped on what to make for dinner? Follow me on Instagram where I share delicious recipes designed for each Dosha, as well as meditations to calm the mind and build intentions.3. Don’t know where to begin but know that you need to find balance? Book a consultation with me and we’ll not only determine what your Dosha is and how to balance it, we’ll also create your very own meal plan and exercise routine. Get grounded and centeredHead on over to your inbox to grab the free recipe I’ve already sent you to help you feed your Dosha what it needs.Over the next few days, I'll be sharing more ayurvedic tips and tricks to help you bring true balance and peace to your life!“Ayurveda is the science of life.”— Shubhra Krishan
