The term vata stems from a Sanskrit word "vaayu" which means that
which moves things; it is sometimes translated as wind. It is
composed of the elements space and air--the lightest and subtlest
of the five elements. It is considered in some ways to be the
most influential of the three doshas because it is the moving
force behind the other two doshas, which are incapable of movement
without it. Vata dosha is responsible for all the somatic activities
and sensations. It is the intelligence which channels perceptions
(temperature, pressure, sweetness, lightening, violin music, etc.)
through the appropriate sensory organs, converts them into internal
psychological events, and then orchestrates the appropriate response
via the organs of action. it is responsible for all movements
in the mind and body: the movement of air in and out of the lungs,
the flow of blood through the circulatory system, nutrients through
the alimentary tract, and thoughts through the mind. Vata promotes
a healthy balance between the thought and emotion and gives rise
to creativity, activity and clear comprehension. Because, among other functions, Vata regulates the nervous processes
involved with movement, thoughts, emotions, eating, drinking,
elimination, and our general functioning, its disturbance can
often have far-reaching consequences. Here is a table which summarizes the manifestations of a balanced
or unbalanced (excessive) Vata dosha:
Basic Principles Of Ayurveda
Vata Dosha
Effects of Vata Dosha
Effect of Balanced Vata
Effect of Unbalanced (Excess)Vata
Proper coordination of all body functions
Body functions impaired or disorganized.
Normal movements associated with eating, digestion, and elimination
Movements for eating, digestion, and elimination disturbed (bloating,
constipation, gas)
Mental activity controlled and precise
Mental agitation, confusion; impaired memory
Control of the organs of perception and the organs of action
Perception and action are inappropriate; senses are dulled; responses
untimely
Stimulation of digestive juices
Deficiency of the digestive juices
Desire to lead an active life; vitality, curiosity and natural
interest
Loss of energy and joy for life
Normal drying of occasional mucous discharges
Persistent bodily discharges
Normal respiratory function
Shortness of breath, dry cough, disturbance in respiratory movements
Normal sleep pattern
Insomnia, light or interrupted sleep
Excellent energy level
Non-specific fatigue, anxiety, worry, cold-intolerance, depletion
of Life Force
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