Ayurveda is about bringing our unique bodies and minds back to balance and each and every one of us has a differing balance which is based on our unique body type made up of the dosha’s Vata, Pitta and Kapha.
Foods are determined by their Guna’s or attributes/qualities. There are 20 qualities that are organized in 10 pairs of opposites:
Heavy and Light
Dull and sharp
Hot and Cold
Dry and oily
Smooth and rough
Liquid and solid
Hard and soft
Mobile and static
Subtle and gross
Clear and sticky
Like increases like and therefore when wanting to maintain balance the opposing qualities need to be implemented. I liken it to having dry skin, you wouldn’t put harsh products on your face, instead you would include more hydrating and oil based products to ease the dry skin. The same when you’re feeling heavy in your body and mind, you wouldn’t continue to eat foods that weigh you down nor read books or watch movies that continue to increase that heaviness.
Once you know your unique constitution you are able to maintain balance by being aware of the qualities of your make up and ensuring you balance them with the opposing qualities.
It’s a very common sense approach which is the joy of Ayurveda.
