WHAT IS AYURVEDA
Ayurveda is a branch of Vedic Science that originated in India 5000 years ago. In Sanskrit, Ayurveda literally means the science of life — “ayur” for “life” and “veda” for “science”. Among the world's oldest forms of medicine still practiced today, Ayurveda emphasizes prevention and the belief that health and wellness hinge on a delicate equilibrium of mind, body, and spirit. Central to Ayurveda are the three doshas — Vata, Pitta, and Kapha — each representing distinct body compositions. According to Ayurvedic principles, understanding and balancing these doshas is the key to promoting longevity, vitality, and resilience in daily life.
Pitta Dosha
Pitta types are naturally driven, ambitious, and highly intellectual, often thriving in leadership roles. However, their intensity can lead to burnout and irritability if they don’t incorporate calming practices into their routine. To balance their fiery energy, Pitta individuals benefit from cooling foods, meditation, and time spent in nature. Their active lifestyle may include high-energy sports, but balance comes from taking time to rest and relax. Pitta skin is typically clear and radiant but prone to sensitivity and imbalance. Due to its fiery nature, Pitta skin may experience issues like inflammation, redness, hyperpigmentation, or breakouts, particularly when under stress or exposed to heat. Cooling, soothing skincare that calms irritation and helps maintain an even complexion is ideal for this skin type.
Kapha Dosha
Kapha individuals are nurturing, steady, and resilient, often providing stability to those around them. However, they can struggle with lethargy or resistance to change. To stay balanced, Kapha types benefit from an active lifestyle, incorporating stimulating exercises like cardio or dancing to prevent stagnation. In terms of diet, they should favour light, spicy foods to keep their digestion and metabolism in check. Kapha skin tends to be oily and thick, with larger pores, making it prone to congestion, blackheads, and excess sebum production. This skin type requires regular cleansing and exfoliation to remove buildup and stimulate circulation. Kapha skin thrives on invigorating skincare that helps maintain its natural glow and reduce oiliness.
Vata Dosha
Vata individuals are highly creative, spontaneous, and full of ideas, but their airy, light energy can also leave them feeling scattered or anxious. They thrive with routines that ground them, including warm, nourishing meals and restorative practices like yoga or meditation. Their fluctuating energy means they need plenty of rest, and their fast metabolism benefits from warm, moist foods to support digestion and overall balance. Vata skin is dry, delicate, and prone to premature signs of aging, such as fine lines around the eyes and mouth. It requires deep, nourishing hydration to stay balanced and protected. Skincare that is rich in oils and deeply hydrating ingredients is essential for maintaining Vata skin's softness and elasticity.