Kapha originates from the root word "slish," which means to bind or hold together.
Kapha consists of the elements earth and water and provides the cohesive energy that holds the body’s cells together.
Kapha is described as oily, cool, heavy, slow, smooth, cohesive, and stable energy.
Both physical and psychological stability and strength are governed by the Kapha dosha. Structural integrity (cohesion to maintain a specific form), immunity, the maintenance of bodily fluids, and the cultivation of emotions such as love, compassion, forgiveness, patience, and loyalty are all attributed to Kapha.
Symptoms of Kapha Imbalance
Physical:
Slow bowel movements
Weight gain
Thick white coating on the tongue
Sinus congestion
Sluggish metabolism
Loss of strength
Fat accumulation in the arteries
Mucous diarrhea
Pre-diabetic condition
Colds, coughs, runny nose
Hay fever
Cold sweats
Frequent urination
Earwax buildup
Oily skin and hair
Dull taste and smell
Behavioral:
Lethargy, drowsiness
Difficulty waking up or oversleeping
Possessiveness
Stubbornness
Emotional exaggeration
Greed
Melancholy
Apathy
Delusion
Too little Kapha can result in a dry respiratory tract, burning sensation in the stomach, and other discomforts.
Effects of Severe Kapha Imbalance
Physical:
Varicose veins with clots
Dangerously high cholesterol
Depression
Loss of consciousness (as in diabetic coma)
Diabetes
Anorexia
Edema
Extreme hypotension
Glaucoma
Gallstones
Behavioral:
Blood in the stool
Hyperglycemia
Cystic fibrosis (lungs/ovaries)
Chronic sinus infection
Heart failure
Leukemia
Hypertension
What Causes Kapha Imbalance?
Consuming Kapha-aggravating foods (dairy, fried and greasy foods, cold drinks, frozen and salty foods, sweets, very sweet or sour fruits)
Overeating or eating heavy meals
Spending too much time in damp or cold weather
Lack of physical activity and sleeping during the day
How to Balance Kapha Dosha
Favor foods that nourish Kapha such as bitter and spicy meals
Eat foods that rejuvenate the mind while limiting food intake overall; favor leafy greens, vegetables, dried and sour fruits like apples, apricots, peaches, and mango
Raw honey is the most suitable sweetener for Kapha
Go to bed early and rise early
Maintain regular physical activity and engage in vigorous routines (jogging, cycling, adventure sports)
Participate in introspective activities (journaling, emotional service, meditation, etc.)
Keep your environment warm and dry
Regular Abhyanga (self-massage) with warm sesame oil
Surround yourself with uplifting music and cheerful company
Practice yoga and solar exercises like Surya Namaskar
Recommended Asanas for Kapha:
Half Moon Pose
Chair Pose
Warrior Pose
Triangle Pose (Trikonasana)
Tree Pose
Bow Pose (Dhanurasana)
Yogic breathing and herbs like Triphala are also beneficial.
