Kapha ( Earth and Water)

Kapha Dosha is a combination of the elements earth and water. It is associated with the binding yet flowing nature of water, the solid foundations of matter and the seasons of deep winter and early spring. The times of day associated with Kapha are 6 to 10 (am and pm). The cold, dark, moist qualities of Kapha rule over the physical body: bone, muscles, organs, skin, etc..

Kapha nourishes and hydrates all cells, organ systems, lubricates the joints, moisturises the skin, sustains immunity, and protects our tissues. It is the grounding force that settles the mind, nourishes the body and keeps the soul at peace.

In excess, its tamasic elements can also make the respiratory, circulatory, lymph and digestion systems stagnant. This can cause poor circulation, excess mucus, edema and low metabolism, which can you leave you feeling heavy, tired and drained. This stagnancy in the flow of the body's natural processes eventually gives way for undigested toxins to linger in the body tissues, which can lead to low energy or disease. Energetically its dense nature can lead to a dull mind, depression, apathy and lack of motivation. This dosha often reveals itself as that "stuck in a rut" feeling.

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Kapha dominant types tend to have larger bones and strong frames but have a tendency toward a lower metabolism. They gain weight easily without a regular exercise plan in place and have a hard time losing weight. Mentally they are very grounded and methodical, strongly subscribing to the "Slow and Steady gets the job done" attitude. In their personal and professional lives, Kaphas prefer a regular routine and lean toward being homebodies. They are innately compassionate, loyal, stable and reliable. Symptoms of excess Kapha manifest as emotional overeating, sleeping too much, withdrawn behaviour, lack of motivation, stubbornness, and complacency in thoughts and actions. A dull, heavy mind and depression can ensue when this dosha is overabundant.

"Taming the Floods of Kapha can you leave you feeling lighter, brighter and refreshed."

Controlling the water element in the body helps balance Kapha. Taming the floods of Kapha can leave you feeling lighter, brighter and refreshed. The most effective way to do this, is to create fluidity and release through physical movement. Get your sweat on Kapha! Exercises such as HIIT, spinning, cycling, running and team sports are great for this dosha. The Kapha mind also strongly benefits from movement, especially by going to new places, travelling, learning a new skill, meeting new people and trying new things. Occasional Fasting and monthly green juice cleanses are strongly recommended and help with decongesting the body, mind and emotions. Diet should include a variety of vegetables, fresh leafy greens (juicing is ideal), lean proteins, warm spicy foods (this helps rev up the metabolism) and a cutback on dairy, refined carbs and sugar. Keeping meals light, eating only when hungry and monitoring portion control is key.

"Kapha needs a well rounded, dynamic Yoga practice that moves mountains and parts the sea."

Dynamic, vigorous, heating yoga flows are always best. Kapha needs a well rounded, dynamic yoga practice that moves mountains and parts the sea. An inclusive sequence with varied twists, inversions, standing and balancing postures, plus kriyas that invigorate and uplift the entire being can keep Kapha balanced.

Practices like Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Power Yoga or Hot Yoga in a warm, bright space during the Kapha times of day (6:00–10:00 am and 6:00–10:00 pm) especially help alleviate excess Kapha. Dominant Kapha types need movement and a varied asana routine. Taking various, different types of Yoga classes can keep Kapha keen and on the mat.

Repetitive Surya Namaskars (Sun Salutations A and B) synchronised with the breath are very effective for moving stagnant fluid and energy blocks out the body, mind and auric field. Energising and detoxifying twists like Parivrtta Utkatasana ( Twisted chair) or Ardha Matsyendrasana (Seated twist ), decongest and increase lung capacity. Vrksasana (Tree pose) helps balance the Earth element and create a sense of lightness in the body and mind. Ardha Chandrasana (Half moon pose) helps to stimulate digestion, prevent Mandagni (slow digestion) and activates the side body, elongating the spine, stretching the entire abdomen and creating spaciousness in the chest and organs of digestion. These postures stimulate the kidneys and lymphatic system to flush out excess water and cultivate an airy sense of the expansiveness in the body. Energetically it creates a sense of lightness throughout your entire being.

Pranayama and Kriyas such as Bhastrika (Bellows Breath) and Kapalabhati ( Shining Skull breath) heat, purify and clear the body, mind and aura of any negative or torpid patterns that weigh us down. Walking meditations clear up mental sluggishness and the movement increases circulation which reduces stagnant Kapha. Moving meditations combat lethargy and infuse the body and mind with qualities of liveliness, lightness and vibrancy. Together, all these practices can shift you back into balance and back to a brighter you!

*Feel lighter, feel brighter, feel refreshed!

Come try my Chakra Yoga ™ & Elemental Yoga Flow™ classes

@ Mysore house, Palma de Mallorca, Spain

and

@Portals de Yoga Portals nous, Mallorca! see Schedule or email for info.

Namaste!