Kapha Dosha: Welcoming the Chill after the Harvest

We weren’t saving the best for last, but those with a dominant Kapha Dosha must be over the moon now that its harvest season! For those who enjoy picking apples, Kapha folks are the ones making warm apple pies and hot cider to bring in the cozier nights. Unlike Pitta, Kapha looks forward to the longer nights so they can savor their already dense sleep.

The basic theme of kapha metabolic type is relaxed. - Deepak Chopra

Since the Kapha Dosha is made of water and earth, the cooler months can help balance this constitution because of its dry, airy nature. This means staying warm and healthy with a diet that can soothe Vata characteristics, while not aggravating those of Kapha - think major sweet tooth from the holiday treats! While this can get confusing, it’s always important to practice bramacharya in order to keep a balanced diet even if you are more dominant in one or have a split between two or all three of the doshas.

Signs of Excess Kapha

Although Kapha might want to get extra cozy, it is strongly recommended to either pick up on your exercise regimen, or at least stay more active when possible.

• Physical:

  • weight gain, slow metabolism

  • fluid retention

  • congestion, excess mucus, allergies

• Internal:

  • high cholesterol, diabetes

  • low libido, longer menses

  • constipation, indigestion

• Emotional:

  • inertia, stagnation

  • lethargy, excess amounts of sleep

  • lack of motivation, laziness

Lifestyle Practices for a Healthy Harvest

It might be a challenge for the more stubborn Kaphas who love their down time. One of the best ways to stay motivated is to have a friend to go with you to a yoga class or go for a walk and bask in the little sun we have these days.

• Kapha naturally leans towards the sweet stuff! Reduce processed sugar, sweets and salt. Natural honey in moderation is great, however not warmed/cooked honey.

• Try a liquid fast once a week: Kapha retains water, so ingesting only fresh vegetable and fruit juices and pureed vegetable soups can help create balance.

• Opt for ghee, low-fat milk or low-fat yogurt in small amounts only.

• Warm spices will invigorate your body, but stay away from salt which also retains water.

• Limit red meat consumption since it is already hard for the body to digest and can slow down an already lax digestive system.

• Try to eat your heaviest meal earlier in the day while having a lighter dinner.

Now that you’ve read all our tips, we’d love to hear from you! Drop us a comment or any tips you found useful based on your dosha.