The doshas are the three bio-energies of the body that determine and shape our basic constitution. The Ayurvedic system analyzes the human body on the basis of the existence of these elements, and knowledge of the elements is essential to understand the interrelation of the mind, body, and spirit in the language of the Doshas. 

The Pitta-Kapha Or Kapha-Pitta dominance simply means that both Pitta and Kapha doshas are very active and express themselves equally in an individual. This dual doshic balance is extremely common and usually, the strongest as the fiery pitta energy perfectly balances the slow, grounding Kapha energy. 

Let’s understand how Kapha and Pitta work Individually

Kapha Dosha, translated as “that which binds”, is composed of the water and earth elements. Kapha is responsible for mucus, water retention, and accumulation of fat in the body. 

It provides structure, stability, rigidity and is responsible for lubrication in the body. Although it is found in the entire body, the main location, also known as the seat of the dosha for Kapha is in the region around the chest. Read more about Kapha Dosha here, 

Pitta Dosha, commonly translated into “that which digests, cooks and transforms”, is a combination of the Fire and Water elements. 

It is characterized as being hot, sharp, mobile, penetrating, sour, and oily. 

Its main functions include transformation, digestion, and metabolism. In the human body, it transforms food into Chyle – a fluid formed after digestion. The main location or seat of Pitta dosha is the stomach and small intestine. Read more about Pitta Dosha here. 

Physical Characteristics of a Kapha-Pitta Dominant 

Body Frame & Weight

With both of the powerful doshas in action, Kapha-Pitta individuals have a comparatively well-proportioned body frame. You may be lean, well built, and have a good muscle build-up. Your tendency to workout may depend upon your mood and yet you mostly avoid sipping the gym as a good sweat sesh makes you happy.  You’re a little on the heavier side and may find it difficult to shed those extra pounds. 

Skin, Eyes & Hair

With a round to oval face with sharp features, you may suffer from acne and sunburns more frequently due to sensitive skin type. Other than that, your complexion is tejaswi ( bright ) and attractive. Your eyes may be medium to large, with a piercing, sharp gaze. Your hair may be thick, smooth, or silky with frequent hair fall if not taken proper care of. 

Digestion

Warm, cooked meals are what your body desires. With a fairly active metabolism, you may suffer from acidity if you go overboard with junk. Your tendency to overeat leads to a slow sluggish metabolism which forms an unnamed complex with food so as to what to have and how much. We suggest sticking with fresh warm homecooked and see a difference. 

You can also find out ways of improving your metabolic fire or ‘Agni’ here.

Sleep & Stamina

With powerful Kapha and Pitta energies, you find it pretty easy to focus and train. Both the doshas perfectly balance each other in every other task to maintain an equilibrium and avoid imbalance. As far as sleep is concerned, you may experience quite restful sleep with little to no disturbance. Sleep comes to you with ease and you naturally tend to sleep for about six to seven hours of it. Oversleeping may seep in lethargy while less sleep invites crankiness. 

Both the doshas equally contribute to all your physical as well as emotional traits so up and downs in the mentioned characteristics may be observed depending upon the percentage of dosha dominance. 

Emotional Characteristic of a Kapha-Pitta Dominant 

Both, the Pitta and Kapha energies in action strive to maintain a mental equilibrium in order to avoid burnout. The grounding Kapha nature always balances the fiery Pitta energy. 

People with dominant Kapha-Pitta are focused and always complete the task given to you on time. They strive to achieve perfection but know when to stop and appreciate the process as well as the progress. 

Pitta-Kapha are intelligent and smart with a thoughtful and calm mind. You may have noticed your close ones coming to you for advice and discussions because of your steady nature and the ability to find a solution. 

Pitta-Kapha dominants possess appreciable leadership qualities and can even make impressive financial decisions. They know how to earn, save and guide money. 

When out of balance you tend to be lethargic, unmotivated or you tend to work hard on yourself without realizing the damage that it creates. You’re inclined towards burnouts or staying curled up in bed for the whole day in case of an emotional outburst. 

Tips for Kapha-Pitta dominants 

Daily Routine 

The first and very important lifesaver tip is to maintain a daily routine. A daily routine helps you to maintain a balance in everyday life, which helps you to actively avoid chaos and bring in much-needed stability. 

Read about the Ayurvedic daily routine- The Dinacharya here.

Diet 

What we eat determines who we are, so maintaining a well-balanced diet is absolutely necessary to stay balanced. Include more sweet, bitter taste with spicy in moderation, and try including more fresh fruits, veggies, and legumes in your diet. Spices make life better and easier so make sure you’re having some digestive spices like ginger or cumin in your meals. Make it spicy but keep it in moderation. 

Recommended Kapha- Pitta foods include:

• Fruits and vegetables: coconut, cranberries, apple, pomegranate, cucumber, asparagus, kale, broccoli, potatoes, peas, pomegranate, apricot, raspberries, dried fruits, etc. etc.
• Dairy and fats/oils: whole milk, unsalted cheese, ghee, sunflower oil, coconut oil, cottage cheese but in moderation, etc.
• Nuts, seeds, and legumes: lentils, chickpeas, peeled almonds, sunflower seeds, pecans, etc.
• Grains: basmati rice, quinoa, barley pasta, couscous, etc.
• Sweeteners: Honey but in moderation
• Beverages:  mint tea, chamomile tea, rosehip tea, black tea with milk and honey, coffee (in moderation), etc.

Remember that moderation is the key. Eat everything, but keep it in moderation.

Sleep and Movement 

Sleep is very necessary for your body to function optimally. Make sure you’re getting an adequate amount of sleep. Working out doesn’t have to be tiring. Go for a jog in the park, dance, or indulge in a yoga flow. Do whatever your body likes but don’t skip movement. Exercise daily up to half of your body’s capacity to obtain maximum results. 

Other than that, don’t forget to take frequent breaks, stop and appreciate everything around you and take some time out from your schedule to meditate and bring in balance. 

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