Ayurveda

It's a really interesting topic, but I don't know much about it.. I did a short quiz on http://www.tickle.com and found that I have a Kapha characteristic.

• General Characteristics

Physical: Kapha people have a large build. This is because their metabolism is slow. While their digestive strength is good, their constitutions are not inclined to engage in physical activity. Hence, they gain wait and do not loose it easily. They have thick skin and their bodies and tend to have a muscular build. Their skin is oily and smooth. Eyes are large, dark, with thick, long lashes and brows. Kapha people have deep, prolonged sleep. Their speech is regular, sometimes slow and paced.

Psychological: Kapha people tend to be laid back and calm, tolerant and forgiving. They like to see harmony and are good consensus builders. They tend to be reserved and introspective, While they may be slow to comprehend, their long term memory is excellent

• When out of balance, what happens:

Physical: They tend to have diseases connected to the water principle such as flu, sinus congestion, and other diseases involving mucous. Sluggishness, excess weight, diabetes, water retention.

Emotional: Kaphas tend to become withdrawn, experience greed, envy, attachment and possessiveness. Depression is also possible.

Lifestyle suggestions:
.1. It is essential to vary your routine. For example, take a different road to work once a week. The calm, harmonious nature can get a Kapha in a rut
.2. Even a small amount of physical activity is essential. Walking or hiking, bicycling, are great choices
.3. Limit sweet, oily, salty foods to just a few times a week
.4. Prefer lighter foods
.5. Take Ashwagandha and Chyawanprash.

• When out of balance, what you should do:

Herbs: Take Ashwagandha to improve energy levels. Gymnema to help reduce sugar cravings. Try a liver cleanse with Phyllanthus. The liver has many roles, one of which is fat metabolism. After cleansing with Phyllanthus, use Picrorrhiza to rejuvenate the liver.

Foods: The nature of Kapha force within us is moist and heavy, Exaggeration of heavy, moist foods such as dairy, eggs, wheat, rice, leads to imbalance. Switch to light or dry foods such as; salads, cooked vegetables, poultry.

Massage: A deep tissue massage will help move retained fluids. Use Warming Massage Oil. Or try aromatherapy with spicy, stimulating essential oils.

Exercise: Hiking is an excellent start to a Kapha's exercise regimen along with aerobic activity, Soccer, Tennis, rowing, cycling, volleyball.