Ayurveda explains that our bodies are microcosms of the macrocosm - the universe within each being. Human beings are made up of each of the five primary elements of the universe ~ space, air, fire, water, earth ~ and the soul.

These elements, in their biological form, are known as doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Vata is made up of a combination of air and space. Pitta is a combination of fire and water. Kapha is made up of earth and water.

Because we all have all of the five elements of the universe in our being we all have
each of the doshas as well. But every one of us is born with a unique, individual
balance of these doshas. Our health and well-being is determined by the state of our dosha, so determining your own special combination of dosha helps you restore balance, health and peace of mind allowing you to radiate your beauty mentally, emotionally, and physically.

So, what is Your Dosha?

Vata
Gazelle, hummingbird, stars, bamboo,
violin, sand, orchid, emu, hurricane…

Vatas are creative, imaginative, innovative and playful.
The dosha combines space and air so is drying, and when imbalanced can create spaciness, restlessness, even insomnia and anxiety.

Vata skin is dry, sometimes rough, sometimes prematurely aged due to lack of hydration. At the age of 55 we enter our Vata phase of life. If you are 55 or over,
or if you suffer from anxiety, insomnia,or if you have any joint stiffness or pain,
Prakasha’s Vata Body Oil is for you.

Pitta
Tiger, eagle, sun, pine, cello,
clay, rose, kangaroo, volcano…

Pitta is fire and helps in all processes of transformation, as well as clarity of
perception and illumination. When Pitta is balanced, it gives courage and insight,
but out of balance can create intensity, irritability, even anger.

Pitta skin has a whitish tone, is generally
warm and prone to acne, redness, bumps, freckles and irritations. If you tend to get outbreaks, inflammation, excess sweat, body odor, if you are competitive, or have mental or physical hot flashes, then Prakasha’s Pitta Body Oil is for you.

Kapha
Elephant, swan, moon, oak, bass,
mud, chrysanthemum, koala, avalanche…

At first, Elephant may not seem so kind, but when you think of the qualities of this great ancient being ~ its long memory, its famous love for family, children and community, stability, longevity, reliability, strength, and playfulness, it describes the Kapha personality so well.

Kapha, as earth and water combined, represents structure and stability. Kapha's have a devoted, easy-going nature. Kapha skin is thick, yellowish, moist and cool.

When Kapha is imbalanced, there is sluggishness, congestion,
sadness, even depression. If you feel you need stimulation, uplift and even
emotional comfort, then Prakasha’s Kapha Body Oil is for you.
This oil is especially good for menstrual cramps.

Source: Vamadeva Shastri, Lissa Coffey, Vasant Lad