Ayurveda and Exercise - What is the best exercise routine for you?
We often see two variations of exercise culture in the west: obsessive or a lack of exercise. Both of these can cause a build-up of toxins, ama, and leave us feeling exhausted and generally unwell. From an Ayurvedic perspective, overexertion can cause as many problems as a lack of exercise.
Due to the individuality and unique qualities of each person, dietary and lifestyle recommendations differ. The same is applicable when it comes to exercise. Each dosha has various capabilities when it comes to exercise. Below are some recommendations when it comes to determining effective exercises for Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
Vata: Individuals with high levels of Vata in their constitution generally require the least strenuous exercise routine in comparison to Pitta and Kapha individuals. Gentle, slow and routine exercise is critical in encouraging balance of the Vata individual. Recommended exercise would include light walking, gentle hatha yoga postures, and pranayama to calm the quickness of the mind. These individuals should focus on exercise to help calm the tendency to constantly move.
Pitta: Pitta individuals tend to have higher amounts of energy. In order to balance the energy, it is critical that they perform exercise each day that favours fluidity and relaxation in order to combat the tendencies towards competition and tension. However, it is important that these people do not burn out by excess energy. Ayurveda stresses that we should only exercise to about 50-80% of our capacity. Swimming and light cardio would be beneficial for these individuals. Also, yoga and pranayama exercises to calm any emotions.
Kapha: Due to the tendency to hold excess weight, individuals with a Kapha prakriti generally require higher amounts of physical exercise. This can include light jogging and longer duration of walking exercise. Kapha constitutions should aim to sweat during their exercise routines.
How do you know if you have overexerted yourself?
It is generally accepted within Ayurvedic principles that once you start sweating on your forehead that you should discontinue the exercise to refrain from overexerting your body.
• Wait about two hours after eating to exercise.
• Do not exercise too late in the evening. It may disrupt your sleeping routine. It is recommended that you exercise between 6am-10am, during the Kapha period of the day, to receive the most benefits from your exercise.
If you have any questions about your personal exercise routine, you are welcome to call us at 0406 810 547 or email info@lakshmiayurveda.com.au. We would love to help you set up a routine that encourages your personal exercise goals! If you would like to lose weight, we offer nutrition consultations to directly address your diet.
With love from your Lakshmi Team, have a beautiful day!
Pitta: Pitta individuals tend to have higher amounts of energy. In order to balance the energy, it is critical that they perform exercise each day that favours fluidity and relaxation in order to combat the tendencies towards competition and tension. However, it is important that these people do not burn out by excess energy. Ayurveda stresses that we should only exercise to about 50-80% of our capacity. Swimming and light cardio would be beneficial for these individuals. Also, yoga and pranayama exercises to calm any emotions.
Kapha: Due to the tendency to hold excess weight, individuals with a Kapha prakriti generally require higher amounts of physical exercise. This can include light jogging and longer duration of walking exercise. Kapha constitutions should aim to sweat during their exercise routines.
How do you know if you have overexerted yourself?
It is generally accepted within Ayurvedic principles that once you start sweating on your forehead that you should discontinue the exercise to refrain from overexerting your body.
• Wait about two hours after eating to exercise.
• Do not exercise too late in the evening. It may disrupt your sleeping routine. It is recommended that you exercise between 6am-10am, during the Kapha period of the day, to receive the most benefits from your exercise.
If you have any questions about your personal exercise routine, you are welcome to call us at 0406 810 547 or email info@lakshmiayurveda.com.au. We would love to help you set up a routine that encourages your personal exercise goals! If you would like to lose weight, we offer nutrition consultations to directly address your diet.
With love from your Lakshmi Team, have a beautiful day!