Reply To: Ayurvedic Energetics & Constitutions
Lesie,
If one is in balance, their Vikruti (the state of the three dosha’s after conception) will be in harmony with their Prakruti (one’s state of three dosha’s at conception. Vikruti changes based off ones’ environment and lifestyle, whereas Prakruti will remain the same. (refer to page 73 of your textbook for more information on this).
If your dominant (Vikruti) dosha is Pitta, it’s helpful to learn if your Prakruti is also Pitta. This can be done by asking your parents questions about your childhood tendencies (personality, digestion, outlook on life, etc.) on top of your physical features. Pitta folk have sharp, bright eyes, a medium build with strong muscles, sharp features, strong appetite and digestion, are often in leadership roles, and have a lot of wit and wisdom.
An imbalanced Pitta dosha (meaning, their Vikruti and Prakuti don’t match) tend to heartburn, diarrhea, anger, impatience, inflammation, hair loss, and a strong “my way or the highway” attitude. You may not be in imbalance, but the foods listed on page 77 are still recommended to maintain your Pitta balance (or, restore balance if needed). So, favour the foods listed under “focus”, and avoid the foods listed under “avoid” when in an imbalanced state. In a balanced state, the foods in “focus” and “moderate” are very harmonious.
It’s helpful to keep in mind, whatever season it is (and environment you’re in) is extremely important. In high summer, Pitta folks tend to imbalance because of our fire and the environmental heat. In fall and winter, it’s perfectly okay to eat foods you normally might avoid when it’s extremely hot out. Balancing activities include being in nature, eating regularly, favouring cool, sweet, bitter foods (this doesn’t necessarily mean raw, think fennel, dill and peppermint – these are all cooling for the body), restorative practices like yin yoga, walking, and meditation. Find more information on pages 76-77 of your guidebook!
I hope this makes sense!
Riley