According to Ayurveda, there are three primary life forces in the body, called “Doshas” in Sanskrit. The science of the three Doshas is called “Tridosha.” The Doshas are the primary forces and subtle substances behind physiological and psychological functions.

The Doshas produce or originate the body and are also the causative factors in the disease process.

We call them: VATA, PITTA AND KAPHA

VATA

Vata is the primary force of the nervous system. It governs our sensory and mental balance, our sensory and motor orientation, and provides mental adaptability and understanding. It resides in the empty spaces of the body and is located in the colon, thighs, hips, ears, bones, and organs of hearing and touch. Its primary site is the colon.

PITTA

The elements of fire and water manifest together in the body as the fire principle called Pitta. It exists primarily in an acidic form in the body, as fire cannot exist in its pure form. Such fluids in the body include those of the digestive system and the blood. Pitta is located in the small intestine, stomach, sweat, sebaceous glands, blood, lymphatic organs, and organs of vision; its primary site is the small intestine. Pitta governs digestion, heat, visual perception, hunger, thirst, skin radiance, complexion, understanding, intelligence, courage, and physical softness.

KAPHA

Earth and water manifest in the body as the water humor called “Kapha.” Our physical composition is primarily water, contained within the various layers of our skin and other covering tissues (earth). Kapha consolidates the body’s substances, generating the elements for its physical structure. Kapha maintains the body’s resistance. Water is the main constituent of Kapha and is responsible for the biological strength and natural resilience of the body’s tissues. Kapha lubricates the joints, provides moisture to the skin, helps heal wounds, fills the body’s spaces, gives strength, vigor, and stability, supports memory retention, energizes the heart and lungs, and maintains immunity. Kapha is located in the chest, throat, head, pancreas, sides of the stomach, lymphatics, fat, nose, and tongue. Its primary site is the stomach.