KNOW YOUR DOSHAS
To get the most out of Ayurvedic practices and products, you must first identify your dosha. At the core of Ayurvedic medicine are five elements – space, water, earth, fire and air. Your dosha is a combination of these elements – your unique personal make-up – and most of us have a dominant one. Your dosha informs which rituals will benefit you most. Consider it a blueprint for your route to optimum health and wellbeing.
VATA
Vata consists mostly of two elements – air and space. Those with Vata doshas are usually energetic and creative. They are known for thinking outside of the box, but can become easily distracted. Vatas are kindhearted, learn quickly and are multitaskers. They are highly sensitive to the cold, have trouble sleeping, are restless, struggle with poor circulation, and are prone to dry skin. Your focus: Consistency is key – develop a daily routine and stick to it. Manage stress with meditation and maintain a warm body temperature by having hot food and drinks.
Your ritual: Make face massage a daily practice to reinforce a sense of routine and manage stress. Smooth on a multitasking moisturiser, such as Forest Essentials Advanced Eternal Youth Formula Date & Lithci, £50 – it’s brimming with hydrating date extract and antioxidants. Massage upwards and outwards with your fingers for at least two minutes a day.
KAPHA
Kapha is a combination of earth and water. This dosha is strong, stable, sturdy and likes to stick to their comfort zone. Kapha are known for providing support to others; they are dominant people who think before they act. To find balance, Kapha must endeavour to challenge themselves, to push outside of their self-imposed restrictions and limits.
Your focus: Try to incorporate regular exercise, keep body temperatures warm by eating hot food, and establish a regular sleep routine. Your ritual: Hair oiling is a ritual that both nourishes your hair and is thought to bring balance to your mind. Oils like sesame are considered warming and best suited to those who are Kapha dominant. Fable & Mane Holiroots Hair Oil, £32, is packed with the stuff. Smooth it through your hair and scalp once a week before bed and wash out the next morning with a gentle shampoo.
PITTA
Known for being tenacious and spirited, the Pitta dosha is made up of fire and water. Summer is considered Pitta season and Pitta people are said to be very athletic, highly motivated, competitive and natural leaders. Their fiery personality can lead to conflict and they have a tendency to be impatient.
Your focus: Strive for a work/life balance and avoid the heat, both in temperature and spice. Eat cool foods and drink plenty of water.
Your ritual: Keeping a cooling face mist, such as the Ranavat Hydrating Jasmine Mist, £45, in the fridge is a great way for those who are Pitta dominant to restore balance and temper heat.