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How does Vata season affect our every day lives? Each of the different ayurvedic body types may be affected by Vata. However, people with Vata in their body types (or those with a Vata imbalance) will be the ones most likely to have some reaction to this season. The qualities of Vata (cold, quick, light, dry, unstable, irregular, rough) may bring about symptoms in any of the five subdoshas of Vata dosha. Prana Vata, which is located in the mind, head, and chest, may be a bit more excitable at this time. We may be more sensitive to stressful situations. The mind may be less grounded and more prone to forgetfulness, anxiety, fear, and being over active. This may lead to fatigue, decreased immunity, insomnia, feeling stressed, headaches, or depression. Make sure that you have time each day to sit quietly, take some deep breaths, and to clear your mind. Herbs and formulas that calm the mind will assist you in balancing Prana Vata. Udana Vata is located in the lungs, neck, throat, up in the head and into the ear area. The cold, dry air is aggravating to Udana. The dryness may cause us to be more susceptible to colds, flus, bronchitis, sore throats, coughs, etc. Remember your mother telling you to wear your hat and scarf on chilly days? Well, she was right ! Remember to drink lots of warm drinks, particularly warm water. Using the jalnati pot is highly effective. Herbal formulas such as Sitopladi will also be helpful. Samana Vata is in the stomach and intestines. Samana vata assists in coordinating the process of digestion. It allows for the proper proportion of digestive fire, air, and fluids. If it is not functioning properly, we will have a greater tendency to produce ama (toxins and impurities). Be sure to follow conscious eating habits. Only eat when you are hungry, and do not read, watch t.v., or drive while eating. Be aware of how much you are eating and stop eating before you are full. Overeating will aggravate Samana Vata. Apana Vata is located in the abdominal area. It includes the colon, bladder, reproductive organs, low back, kidneys, and is primarily a downward moving Vata. This is the main home of Vata dosha, so anything that will aggravate Vata dosha in general, may affect any element of Apana Vata. Eating cold foods, drinking cold liquids, drinking carbonated beverages, eating dry foods, or eating too much of pungent, bitter, or astringent tastes may aggravate Vata dosha. Vyana Vata is located throughout the entire body. It is responsible for circulation, and governs the nervous system components of our circulatory system. Therefore, the rhythm of the heart, the dilation and constriction of blood vessels, and peripheral circulation are affected by Vyana Vata. Stress greatly imbalances this subdosha. With long term stress, someone may develop high blood pressure as a result of a chronic Vata disturbance. You can see the importance of keeping our Vata Dosha balanced. It is particularly necessary during the Vata season. The average person accumulates a little bit more of vitiated Vata Dosha with each passing Autumn. When this excess is not addressed, over time it may bring about a variety of symptoms on the levels of our bodies, minds, and emotions. Perhaps we should look more closely to the meaning of the saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. 
Dr. Mary Jo Cravatta is a chiropractor who specializes in the ancient healing science of Ayurveda. Dr. Cravatta has had more than 25 years experience with practicing meditation and yoga.In her private practice in Palo Alto and San Rafael she offers individual and phone consultations, marma therapy, workshops and meditation classes. For more information visit: http://www.indolink.com/Health/Ayurveda/carvatta.html
Note: The information provided herein is of general nature, and should not be construed as professional medical advice. |
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