Hello everyone!  Hopefully you all had a chance to take at least one of the three quizzes I linked to last time and you now know you dosha constitution.  I'm  going to introduce you to the basic traits of each dosha types, both physical traits and in terms of personality.  If you are a dual dosha type, you will recognize that some of the traits from both dosha types fit you (very few people are tri-dosha types). 

Vata:  Vata types are typically thin in build with very high metabolism (some vatas even have trouble gaining weight).  They typically perform physical activities quickly (they walk or talk fast, for example) and their energy comes in bursts.  They also learn new things very quickly but they don't do very well at retaining what they have learned.  They eat at irregular times, have irregular digestive patterns (they have a tendency to get constipated), and often suffer from insomnia or are light sleepers.  They also tend to go to sleep at different times every night.  They are enthusiastic, imaginative and love change and excitement.  They are also very prone to worry and their moods change quickly.

Pitta:  Pitta types are medium in build and typically have average strength and endurance. Pittas are sharp intellectually, love challenges and are very enterprising. They are very clear and concise when speaking and have a determined stride when they walk.  Pittas are quick to anger or become irritable when under stress.  They have very strong digestion and cannot skip meals. Most Pittas have an aversion to hot weather and sunburn very easily (meaning most Pittas are fair skinned with blond, red or light brown hair).  Pittas tend to wake up in the middle of the night due to thirst and feeling too hot.  Pittas are often demanding (sometimes too much so).

Kapha:  Kapha types are very strong and solid in build with a great deal of endurance and physical strength.  They have slow digestion and have a tendency to become overweight. They tend to eat at regular intervals and their hunger is usually mild.  They also go to sleep at the same time every night and sleep very deeply and soundly.  Kaphas are slower when learning things but retain most of what they learn. They walk and talk slowly, are slow to anger and are typically very relaxed.  Kaphas often have thick, pale, oily skin.  While Kaphas are very affectionate, tolerant and forgiving, they also tend to be possessive and complacent.

Now you know some of the basic traits of the three dosha types.  Next I'll go into some of the ways that ayurvedic practioners help their patients restore balance when the doshas get out of whack.  Until then, have a wonderful evening!