Understanding Kapha
The elements that create Kapha are earth and water. The qualities of the Kapha Dosha are stability, heaviness, lubrication, wetness, and coolness. A Kapha person is nurturing, loving, grounded, and consistent. They are like an abundant, sturdy mountain who will always welcome you with open arms. Kapha people have lots of stability within their lives and their temper. They are calm people who offer sweet nectar and care to those around them. The qualities of Kapha are heightened within us all during winter when the earth is dark and dense. It is also heightened between 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm when it is time for rest and digestion and between 6:00 am - 10:00 pm. It's important to do physical movement in the early mornings to balance out the sluggish tendencies of Kapha.
A balanced Kapha:
- Stong body and stable mind
- Loyal, dependable, loving
- Able to happily support others and yourself
- Skin is soft and smooth
- Fulfilling relationships
- Thick, soft hair
- Well lubricated body
- Optimal weight for your height and structure
An imbalanced Kapha (needs stimulation):
- Feels sluggish
- Little motivation
- Heavy and blocked
- Have excess mucus
- Feel congested or have respiratory issues
- Overly sentimental
- Greedy
- Attachment issues
- Clammy and pale skin
- Lethargic digestion
- Can hoard things
- Holds onto excess weight
- Oversleeps
Pacifying Kapha
The lovingness of a Kapha person can become overactive. If you have ever felt smothered by someone's kindness, they may have a Kapha imbalance. When Kapha is overactive they hold on to people or sentimental items. They are nostalgic and can become codependent on their relationships. To pacify a hyperactive Kapha, think light and mobile. Wake up with the sunrise, don't take naps, incorporate movement into your daily routine. Warming spices like cinnamon, cayenne, leaks, and ginger help to spark a fire for a damp Kapha. If you have a lack of Kapha you may have dry skin, you may struggle to have a loving perspective or you may feel a lack of predictability in your life.