The Power and Potential of Ayurveda

Have you ever felt just a bit out of sorts, slightly off, but really can’t pinpoint what exactly is wrong? Perhaps there is a specific condition that is disrupting your general quality of life? Are you sluggish? Do you have a hard time focusing? Always low on energy? For some, feeling lousy seems to have become the norm, however, this doesn’t have to be the case. You don’t have to give up on feeling your best again. It’s important not to ignore your inner alarm bells. At its best, feeling bad can be a blessing in disguise as it allows you to reset your engine and correct any imbalances effortlessly. Even if you feel fantastic most of the time, wouldn’t you want to stay that way? Ayurveda has the power and potential to change our lives as it celebrates the uniqueness of each individual as well as helping to bring balance and harmony to our lives.

Defining Ayurveda

“My wish is to give to every client the little subtle awareness how important food is for everyone.

All is made of energies and we are a result of energies contained in our food, in the environment where we live and of other inner and external inputs we receive constantly.

Every person has different needs and the food has to be personalized in a way to be the right “healer”, bringing back the psico-soma balance that makes us stronger and healthy. Observation and caring of ourself is the best approach to get a better lifestyle; let’s forget the concept of a temporary diet that is general good for everybody because everybody has different needs.”

– Mauro, Executive Chef at Santosa 

Ayurveda literally means “the science of life.” It’s a centuries old concept that originated in India, and teaches us to tune in to the subtle and obvious indicators that there is room for improvement within our bodies, our minds and our spirits. Ayurveda takes food highly into consideration, and believes the concept of combining foods that digest well together is essential in the understanding of how to eat properly.

What is Ayurveda Diet?

The Ayurveda Diet holds deep in the belief that each food has a distinct combination of energies and tastes. In turn, these energies and tastes have a significant affect on the digestive system and the body as a whole. The Ayurveda Diet offers a simple, direct eating path that is developed for each unique body type. In Ayurveda, these unique body types are referred to as dosha.

The Doshas

Doshas are biological energies found throughout the body and mind. The doshas govern all physical and mental processes, and provide an individual blueprint for each unique body type. Often referred to as mind-body types, the doshas express the blending of physical, emotional and mental characteristics. In a nutshell, the doshas define who you are.

The three Ayurveda Diet doshas are derived from the five elements and are known as Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Each individual dosha has a unique set of characteristics designed for our individual bodies. There are several ways to determine your body type, however it can be as simple as taking a quick Ayurvedic quiz. If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of Ayurveda Diet and are interested in knowing your dosha, please take the quiz that is on the table at Santosa Vegan Restaurant. Spend a few minutes answering the questions thoughtfully, and you will find your unique body type immediately.

The Kapha Dosha

The Kapha Dosha encompasses qualities reflecting the elements of the Earth. This dosha governs structure and fluid balance in the body. Kapha controls weight, growth, lubrication for the joints and lungs, as well as formation of the seven tissues.

Typically, Kapha is the largest of body type. Physically, those who are Kapha have wide hips and shoulders, thick wavy hair and good stamina. Mentally, Kapha types tend to be slower at learning things, but have immense memories. Emotionally, Kapha types tend to be loyal, stable and reliable. They are the “rocks” in relationships and friendships.

When the Kapha Dosha is out of balance, people with this body type tend to be prone to sinus congestions and possible infections, poor circulation, and a sluggish digestive system that can easily lead to obesity.

The Pitta Dosha

The Pitta Dosha has qualities reflecting the elements of Fire. This dosha controls all heat, metabolism and transformation in the mind and body. Pitta is responsible for how we digest food, how sensory perceptions are metabolized and how we choose between right and wrong.

Individuals possessing the Pitta Dosha typically are of medium build, and physically have good muscle tone. Pitta often always feel warm, have ruddy complexions and tend to have prematurely graying hair or balding. They are often full of energy and due to their strong digestive systems can eat almost anything. Mentally, Pitta are ambitious and extremely intelligent. Emotionally, Pitta types are passionate perfectionists who have the tendency to become easily irritated.

When the Pitta Dosha is out of balance, individuals can become overstressed; this type is sometimes referred to as the angry workaholic. However, when out of balance, problems arise with inflammatory conditions and digestive problems.

The Vata Dosha

The Vata Dosha’s qualities reflect the elements of Air. This dosha is responsible for all movement in the body and the mind. Vata Dosha controls blood flow, breathing, the elimination of waste and the way thoughts move across the mind. Vata types tend to be the most slim of the three dosha types.

Physically, Vata Dosha types are thin with bony structures, and find it difficult to gain weight. They often feel cold, have dry skin and hair, and have little to no muscle tone. Mentally, the Vata are very creative although they do learn and forget rather quickly. Emotionally, they are ever the enthusiast, but tend to become anxious quite easily.

When the Vata Dosha is out of balance, poor digestion ensues with lots of bloating and constipation. Vata types are easy to catch cold and suffer from insomnia and fatigue.

Choose from the menu 

At Santosa Vegan Restaurant, each and every one of our dishes is labeled with a dosha type. When choosing a dish based on your dosha type, you will come into balance. Our executive chef Mauro Anzideo painstakingly follows the tradition of Ayurveda and in doing so, provides a personalized vegan dining experience that is not only nutritious, but simply delicious.

Find our Menu here 

If you are interested in taking The Dosha Quiz and experiencing your own Ayurveda Diet, please contact us at +66 (0) 76 330 600 or fill out the form below. We wish Santosa to become your start of healthy living, and it is our aim to inspire your lifestyle.