VATA (air)  - made up of the elements space and air

Usually slim with bony limbs and straight body shapes, Vata types gain weight in the middle. Their skin is fine and dry, they feel the cold more than others and have difficulty sweating. They have an irregular and erratic appetite. Vata types are prone to feeling ‘wired’ and stressed, and may feel tired come late afternoon. They are creative, enthusiastic, active, alert and restless, jumping from one idea to the next.

Despite not having a great memory, Vata types are quick to learn, spiritually perceptive and are happiest when in contact with nature and the outdoors. They have a heightened sense of touch and an appreciation for beauty. You might recognise them as having their head in the clouds and talking at a million miles per hour.

The ‘qualities’ or characteristics of Vata are light, dry, rough, clear, active, cold and mobile, and pungent, bitter and astringent in taste. Therefore, choosing more of the qualities or characteristics in food and lifestyle choices which have the opposite effect such as heavy, moist, smooth, sticky, slow, warm, stable, salty, sour and sweet helps to maintain balance or bring excess Vata back into equilibrium.

IN BALANCE Vata personalities are energetic, vivacious, joyful, friendly, open-minded, free in spirit, embrace change and learn easily, are clear and alert, sleep long and lightly, have balanced digestion, good circulation and an even body temperature.

OUT OF BALANCE Vata personalities can be tired or fatigued, forgetful or spaced-out, anxious and frazzled with a lack of focus, have difficulty falling asleep, suffer occasional constipation and poor circulation.

If you've taken the Dosha test , and now know the dominant dosha in your Prakriti,  buy the cookbook on sale now and learn more about the qualities, foods and tastes that will either rock the boat... or float it for an easy life that goes with the flow!

Stay tuned and sign up to the mailing list for newsletters, blog posts and new recipes at www.jasminehemsley.com and join the journey to get a little more east into your west. Namaste x

Note: Your Prakriti (your unique ratio of all 3 doshas at birth), can only be accurately worked out by a Vaidya (Ayurvedic doctor) who will expertly assess everything about you, including your Vikriti (any current imbalances).  In the UK try the Ayurvedic Practitioner Association at apa.uk.com