Kapha symptoms

When there is an excess of Kapha dosha (earth and water) in the body, the following ailments can occur: congestion, mucus, phlegm, colds, asthma, slow digestion, swollen joints, excess water and swelling, white pus and lung conditions. The main symptom of Kapha is congestion.

Kapha is at its most aggravated in winter and early spring. Some of its symptoms, such as colds, occur in late spring when the warmer weather 'melts' the Kapha dosha and toxins that have built up during winter. It can also be aggravated by cold weather, lack of exercise, too much sleep, overeating, eating mucus-forming foods such as dairy, eating heavy foods such as meat, wheat and nuts, and eating sweet foods like bread, cakes, pastries, chocolate etc; and general inactivity and laziness 

Kapha can also get imbalanced in a Vata or Pitta person, especially if you do any of the above things. Then it is best to get the guidance of a practitioner on which dosha to treat and how. Email Jacqui for an appointment. 

How to balance Kapha

As Ayurveda works on the principle that like increases like, avoid cold, oily and heavy foods and activities. This is because Kapha itself is heavy, oily, cold, slow, static, stable and soft. Eat heating, spicy, light foods, mainly vegetables, beans and wholegrains, and have spices with every meal. Avoid dairy, nuts and sugar (especially while you have symptoms).

Kapha people need activity and stimulation, otherwise they tend to get congestion, lethargy, complacency or dullness in their mind and body. Lead an active lifestyle. Pursue activities that challenge the mind. Do some stimulating exercise every day that makes you sweat, like brisk walks, cycling, swimming, dynamic yoga or running. Walk at least part of the way to work. (Consult your GP first if you are new to exercise or considerably overweight.) Don't be a couch potato!

If you have Kapha-type symptoms, there are foods, daily habits and herbal medicines that can treat these imbalances, restore balance to the body, mind and emotions, and give you back your energy. 

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