Issue link: http://www.bodysensemagazinedigital.com/i/1351228
8 Body Sense VATA Air/Space Space is formless and represents infinite possibilities. Air has the qualities of movement and change. PITTA Fire Fire is hot, illuminating, and transformational (i.e., from wood to ash). KAPHA Water/Earth Water is flowing, cohesive, and protective. Earth is solid, heavy, and stable. What is a Dosha? Ayurveda teaches the universe is comprised of five sacred nature elements including space, air, fire, water, and earth. These characteristics can be used to describe matter and all living things, and govern activities of the body and mind (for example, digestion, sleep, and emotions). The combination of the elements are called constitutions, or doshas. Each of us have all three doshas, yet we each possess a unique combination of these nature elements. Nourishing, gentle movement that lengthens and tones muscles while creating space in every joint of the body is greatly beneficial for balancing kapha. Yoga and Pilates are wonderful practices to lubricate the joints, tendons, and ligaments, as well as tone the inner organs. It's important to note that yoga is not just a means of exercise. Yoga asanas (postures) prepare the mind for meditation. And meditation is asana for the mind. Beneficial poses to open the chest and expand breathing include bow, camel, cobra, fish, and locust asanas. Bhastrika breath (bellows breath) is a perfect breathing exercise to encourage a sense of lightness and clarity to counter kapha. It strengthens the vitality of the lungs and assists in relieving allergies and asthma. To practice, sit in the lotus position with the spine and head erect. Close the eyes and relax the body. Inhale passively through the nose, and exhale actively through the mouth, with a little force. Begin slowly and then increase the speed of the inhale and exhale. Imagine the breath as a bellow stoking the fire. Practice one round of 30 exhalations, then rest for a minute breathing normally. Complete up to five rounds to relieve stress. Avoid any feelings of forcing, and stop the exercise if you feel any discomfort or faintness. Bhastrika breath should not be practiced by people with high blood pressure, heart disease, retinal problems, or vertigo. Just as spring is a great time to clean out our closets and drawers, it's also a good time to clean up our diet and daily routines.