Ask Dr. Simon: How to Balance a Pitta body and Vata Mind

Dear Dr. Simon,
I have taken the ayurvedic dosha quiz, and my scores tell me that I have a Pitta body and a Vata mind. Which lifestyle and diet do I need to follow?

Answer: It’s important to keep in mind that each of us has the elements of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha in our mind-body system, for all three doshas are necessary to maintain life. Since it is common for one dosha to predominate in the body, while another predominates in the mind, it is useful to consider how the information we take in through the five senses affects the body and mind.

According to Ayurveda, the body is DNA woven with food, and therefore, the most direct way to affect the body is through what we take in through our mouth. Since your body is predominantly Pitta, you will want to focus on Pitta-balancing foods, spices, and teas.

Of course, whatever we ingest also affects the mind. In Ayurveda ingested food is divided into three categories: The most gross level becomes the products of elimination. The middle level of food nourishes the body. The most subtle level nourishes the mind.

For most people, the mind is most strongly influenced by sound and sensations. Therefore I recommend that you engage in regular meditation to calm your Vata mind, and immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of music and nature to soothe your inner physiology. Give yourself a daily self-massage using Vata-pacifying oils such as sesame or almond (preferably before bed), and employ Vata-pacifying aromas such as lavender, vanilla, and sandalwood. Following the above steps will help bring peace to the mental agitation to which the Vata mind is prone.

With love,
David