Nov 29, 2023, 01:36 PM IST

Know Your Body Type, As Per Ayurveda

Riya Teotia

Source: NIH

Riya Teotia

Ayurvedic Body Types

As per the ancient science of Ayurveda, there are mainly three body types- Vata, Pitta and Kapha. They are known as doshas or biological energies found throughout the human body and mind.

Dosha- The Biological Energy

The doshas govern the physical and mental processes and provide every living being with an individual identity for health and fulfilment. These doshas are derived from the five elements of nature.

Body Type 1- Vata

The vata body type is composed of space and air elements. Generally, a vata person will be very thin, they typically have a lower body weight, dry skin, brittle nails, thin hair, and small sunken eyes. They might have a disturbed sleep pattern and so sleep less than the other two body types.

Body Type 2- Pitta

The pitta body type is composed of earth and water elements. A pitta person is generally active with a moderate build, and a sharp nose and eyes, sometimes offset with a slight pinkish tint. The pitta people have a strong metabolism and good digestion which results in them having a strong appetite.

Body Type 3- Kapha

The kapha body type is composed of fire and water elements. A Kapha person is a thick build with thick and dark hair, big eyes and prominent, shiny, white teeth. They have a regular appetite but due to slow digestion, they tend to consume less amount of food.

Other Ayurvedic Body Types

Apart from these three main body types, mixed body types can also exist- pitta-kapha, pitta-vata, vata-kapha, and saamya, one whose constitution contains all of the five elements in equal ratio.