Your Primary Elements = Constitution

Fire, Water & Earth = Pitta-Kapha

Most people have constitutions that strongly share qualities with a few of the elements. When two different types of constitutions score fairly closely, there will be one primary and one secondary that is slightly less pronounced. Both of these will have an impact on your body, mind, personality and health. This is called “bi-doshic” in Ayurvedic terms. “Bi-doshic” individuals will notice where one constitution will be dominant, and then under another circumstance, the other will be more prevalent. Therefore, both need to be considered when you choose your foods, self-care and lifestyle habits.

Your primary constitution is ruled by the fire and water elements, known as “Pitta” in Ayurvedic terms. Together, these elements can be innately strong & intense. People with the predominant elements of fire and water usually have a medium build and are full of endurance with defined musculature.

They often have freckled skin and tend to turn reddish tones with exercise, when blushing or being out in the sun. They are strong-willed and good at doing what they think is right. They approach work and play with the same intensity and competitiveness. They are natural leaders and quick learners with almost immediate comprehension skills. They have a powerful intellect and solid concentration. Their digestion and appetites are strong. If they miss a meal, it won’t go unnoticed as they tend to become grumpy and snappy.

When the fire and water elements of “Pitta” are balanced, people have a luminous complexion, perfect digestion and lots of energy. They are sharp, intellectual, good teachers, leaders and speakers. They are direct, quick-witted, precise, discerning and organized.

In a state of imbalance, they can place blame on others and be judgmental. They tend to be impatient towards people, have a temper and be irritated easily. Physical symptoms may show up as inflammation, rashes, peptic ulcers, acne, heartburn, indigestion and loose stools.

Things that create balance for this constitution are any foods, activities and environments that help cool down their fiery nature. Balancing rest and activity to make space for free time on a daily basis is important, as is spending lots of time in nature and finding time for laughter, as the tendency can be all work no play. It is best for people of this constitution to not skip meals and to not wait until ravenous to eat.

To pacify the fire and water elements of “Pitta” through foods, be sure to choose those that are cooling, sweet and stabilizing. Wheat, rice, barley, and oats are the best grains to eat. Sweeter fruits such as grapes, melons, cherries, coconuts, avocados, pineapples, cucumbers, potatoes, sweet potatoes and green leafy vegetables are also cooling. To balance, choose foods that are sweet, bitter and astringent.

Your secondary constitution is ruled by the water and earth elements, known as “Kapha” in Ayurvedic terms. Together, these elements represent the structure of the body, with the primary function being protection. People with predominate qualities of water and earth have strong frames and are naturally athletic, as long as they are exercising regularly and keeping their weight down.

Their features are large, with soft eyes, smooth radiant skin and thick hair. They prefer regular routine in their personal and professional lives. They see the big picture in life and care deeply about people and the world.  Their metabolism tends to be slow and their appetite for both food and stimulation are less intense than those of other constitutions.

When the water and earth elements of “Kapha” are balanced, they are detail oriented, steady, consistent, stable, methodical, thoughtful, forgiving, sweet, patient, compassionate, loyal, loving, content, simple yet profound, and naturally athletic. It is easy for them to enjoy life.

In a state of imbalance, they tend to gain weight, hold on to fluids in their body, have allergies, sleep excessively, are resistant to change, withdrawn, depressed and unmotivated. They also tend to hold on to things, jobs, and relationships long after they have served them. When stressed they usually withdraw. Physical symptoms may show up as asthma, diabetes, obesity and depression.

Things that create balance for this constitution are living an active lifestyle, exposure to new environments and people, and having a regular exercise routine as they tend to gain weight easily. They can occasionally fast as much as once a week which can really help their sluggish digestion to catch up.

It is ideal for those with a predominate water and earth constitution to wake up early (before 6 am), and to avoid taking naps in the day. They run cold and damp, so warm and dry helps with excess water in their bodies. Dry heat helps if they are congested. Using a heating pad under the back or on the chest can also be helpful. Avoid clutter as they tend to hold on to and collect things.

To pacify the qualities of “Kapha” through food, choose light, dry and warm foods. All beans are good except for soybeans and soybean-based foods such as tofu, which should be eaten in moderation. Incorporate lighter fruits such as apples, pears, pomegranates, cranberries and apricots. All vegetables should be welcomed, however, be mindful of consuming too much of any sweet and juicy vegetables such as sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and zucchini. To balance, choose foods with bitter, astringent, and pungent tastes.

The best way to manage this dual constitution is by season, and by paying attention to the commonalities of each “dosha.” In general, follow a routine that will pacify the fire and water elements of “pitta” during the late spring and summer seasons, during the change of seasons, and especially when the weather is warm or hot. Follow a routine that will pacify the water and earth elements of “Kapha” during the cooler times of year like winter and early spring, especially when the weather is cool and damp.

There are two ways to take this quiz, the first is through the eyes of your young years to get a more accurate read of your innate constitution, the one that that is created at conception, in Ayurvedic terms your “Prakruti”. This quiz result is to help you understand your unique balanced state or constitution and your baseline to find balance.

The second way to take this quiz is to answer the questions on how you feel today. This will show you your imbalance state or “Vikruti”.

Your equation to balance is unique to you. When you empower your body with this harmonious state you can begin to heal from anything.

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