It’s Kapha Time

by Lisa Breitenwischer

March 17, 2022

According to Ayurveda, when winter transitions into spring it’s Kapha season. The cold, heavy, dull qualities of winter and the dampness of spring enhance Kapha. Kapha is one of the three doshas associated with the Ayurveda Health System. Kapha governs all structure and lubrication in the body and mind. It controls weight, growth, lubrication for the joints and lungs, and formation of the seven tissues. Kapha types have a strong build and lots of stamina. They have large eyes and smooth, radiant skin. When Kapha becomes excessive, weight gain, fluid retention, and allergies manifest in the body. Out of balance Kaphas may become overweight, sleep excessively, and suffer from asthma, diabetes, and depression. Kapha’s are naturally calm, thoughtful, and loving. They enjoy life and become comfortable with the routine. People with excess Kapha tend to hold on to things, jobs and relationships long after they are no longer nourishing or necessary. Excess Kapha in the mind creates, resistance to change and stubbornness.

Tips for Balancing Kapha:

Since Kapha is inherently cold, heavy, and dense the key to balancing Kapha is stimulation.

  • Seek out variety and new experiences.
  • Avoid sleep in’s and naps.
  • Stay warm in cold damp weather.
  • Vigorous regular exercise, a little each day.
  • Use a neti pot to prevent congestion.
  • Clear your space in your home or office.

Kapha-Balancing Nutritional Recommendations:

  • Try a 1-day fast each week, ingesting fresh vegetable or fruit juice and pureed broth-based soups.
  • Reduce the intake of dairy, which tends to increase Kapha.
  • Raw honey, a tablespoon or 2 a day can help release excess Kapha.
  • All beans and legumes are good, except soybeans, which should be eaten in moderation.
  • Eat light fruits such as apples, pears, cranberries, & apricots.
  • Reduce bananas, avocados, oranges, pineapple, figs, dates, coconuts, & melons.
  • Reduce nuts.
  • Most grains are fine, especially barley, corn, buckwheat, and millet. Decrease wheat or rice.
  • All vegetables are recommended but reduce the consumption of sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and zucchini.
  • Spices are pacifying to Kapha, except salt. Use pepper, cayenne, mustard seed, and ginger freely in your diet.
  • Nonvegetarians: organic white meat chicken, turkey, eggs, and seafood are acceptable.
  • Eat your largest meal at lunchtime and a smaller meal at dinner. Allow 3 hours to digest before bedtime.

 

Are you curious to learn what your Ayurvedic Dosha’s are? Click here.

Note: the information in the article is intended for your educational use only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition before starting any diet, fitness, or health program.

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