To learn how
to balance body, mind, and consciousness requires an understanding of how vata, pitta, and kapha work together. In the physical body, Vata, composed of Space and Air, is the subtle energy associated with movement. It governs
breathing, blinking, muscle and tissue movement, pulsation of the heart, and all movements in the cytoplasm and cell membranes. In balance, vata promotes creativity and flexibility. Out of balance, vata produces fear and anxiety.
Pitta, made up of Fire 
and Water, is represented by the body’s metabolic system. It governs digestion, absorption, assimilation, nutrition, metabolism, and body temperature. In balance, pitta promotes understanding and intelligence. Out of balance, pitta arouses anger, hate, and jealousy.
Kapha is formed from Earth and Water and is the energy that forms the body’s structure – bones, muscles, tendons
– and provides the “glue” that holds the cells together. Kapha supplies the water for all bodily parts and systems. It lubricates joints, moisturizes the skin, and maintains immunity. In balance, kapha is expressed as love, calmness and forgiveness. Out of balance, it leads to attachment, greed, and envy.
Life challenges us with many opportunities. Although there is much over which we have little control, we do have the power to decide about our diet and lifestyle. To maintain balance and health, it is important to pay attention to these decisions. Diet and lifestyle appropriate to individual constitution strengthen the body, mind, and consciousness.
