Kapha Dosha

unsplash-image-pBBtycTzY6M.jpg

Kapha is the energy of stability, structure and coherence. It is the lubricator of the body, allowing us to be stable yet mobile. This energy helps us build up the body and is responsible for the formation of new cells or recovery. Kapha dosha is nestled within the stomach, mucous, plasma, lymph nodes, cells, fat, mouth, joints, and skeletal system.

When kapha dosha is out of balance, you may feel:

  • Excess mucous

  • Thick, white tongue coat

  • Slow, sticky, sluggish bowel movements

  • Excess body weight

  • Feeling heavy in the morning

  • Feeling slow, foggy, dull, lethargic, or heavy

  • Easily attached or possessive

  • Overly sentimental

  • Complacent or stubborn

  • Tendency for emotional overeating

It is beneficial for excess kapha prakriti to gravitate towards:

  • Foods that are pungent, bitter, or astringent.

  • Warm foods, both energetically and in temperature.

  • Heating spices such as chili, black or cayenne pepper, ginger, cinnamon, and cumin.

  • Cooked foods over raw foods

  • Light, dry, and warm foods.

  • Honey.

  • Room temperature or warm drinks.

  • Most beans including Mung dahl, well-cooked tofu or tempeh, or warm soy milk.

  • Plenty of vegetables.

  • A small amount of sesame, sunflower oil, or ghee.

  • Consistent times for your meals.

  • Eating slowly and without distraction. Eat in a peaceful environment.

In a state of imbalanced kapha dosha, avoid:

  • Foods that are sweet, sour, and salty.

  • Cooling foods, both energetically and in temperature.

  • Heavy and oily foods ( Cheese, pudding, nuts, cake, ect.)

  • Highly processed foods (canned food, frozen food, pastries, ect.)

  • Cold or carbonated drinks.

  • Overeating or eating heavy meals.

  • Eating fruit with any other food.

  • Red meat.

  • Refined sugar or corn syrup

  • Deep fried foods.

  • Alcohol, except for an occasional glass of dry red or white wine.

Q: What helps you feel light and spirited when you feel heavy, or depressed? Take time to notice how you feel after each meal. Do you feel light, clear, and energized? or do you feel like you want to rest or take a nap?

Previous
Previous

Vata Dosha