Ayurveda is an ancient Indian health system that looks to optimize healthy by holistically caring for the body, mind, and spirit. Within Ayurveda, unique energy patterns called doshas create your experience.

 

When your dosha is imbalanced, you feel out of whack. When your dosha is balanced, you feel energized and inspired. 

 

Vata is a combination of ether and air elements. This dosha's primary purpose is movement. 

 

When Vata is balanced, you're creative and energetic. You have great enthusiasm for life! Your digestion is smooth, and you poop daily without strain. 

 

However, when Vata is imbalanced, you might feel anxious or scattered. You also might feel a lack of juiciness in your life. Things feel "dry" - both literally and metaphorically. Physical imbalances show up as dry skin, vaginal dryness, bloating, constipation, or premature wrinkles. 

 

If Vata is your predominant dosha or you're experiencing Vata-like symptoms, here are some strategies to help you balance this dosha.

 

Sleep

Women with a lot of Vata can suffer from insomnia, wake up through the night, and sleep restlessly. 

 

You do best getting 8-9 hours of sleep a night. Go to bed between 9 - 9:30 PM and avoid screens at least an hour before bed. Rather than check social media, read an uplifting book and consider the day's wins. This helps to cultivate a sense of gratitude and peace to calm your active - and sometimes worrisome mind.

 

Food

Eat warm, nourishing, and oil-rich foods like avocados, sweet potatoes, and mushy vegetables. Add ghee, coconut oil, or olive oil to your meals. These types of foods balance the dry, light qualities of Vata. 

 

Movement 

Favor more grounding exercises like a slow-flow or restorative yoga class or a walk in nature. Look for practices to help you feel more grounded and at ease. High-impact and fast-paced exercises can be depleting in Vata-dominant women.

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