Gray hair and wrinkles can be a testimony of wisdom. But in a stressful world we often get caught up in equating our worth with productivity that could weigh on us post-retirement. Everyone, at every stage of life is a gift to the world. That said, aging does bring preventable and costly health challenges that we need to face squarely, from heart diseases, type 2 diabetes, obesity, arthritis, dry skin, falling hair, cognitive decline, stroke and cancer. There is also the possibility of depletion, loneliness and ageism. So, how can we look after ourselves better to ensure we are physically and mentally stronger as we age? Ayurveda is a holistic mind-body science which supports people through a comprehensive approach to live a healthier life right into their sunset years. It emphasizes that aging ( Jara ) is a natural process just like the seasons. It does acknowledge natural degenerative changes but recommends prevention, building resilience and an anti-aging regimen through its br
The Ayurvedic philosophy of mind/body constitutions can be likened to a divine trinity. The limitless potential and creativity of Vata and the focused drive and charisma of Pitta are joined by the third and final Dosha to create a necessary sacred harmony.
It is here with the introduction of Kapha that ideas and action meet structure, support, and true staying power. Recall the physical and subtle characteristics of the Mahabhutas water and earth as we meet our last elemental superhero.
KAPHA // Water + Earth
Pronounced Kah-fah
Kapha in the Mind
Natural Expression—Kapha is best described as the great organizing power of the universe. Imagine the flexible, malleable clay that you get in combining water and earth. It can be shaped and molded to bring to life any artistic vision or functional need. The personality of a Kapha takes on this same fluidity, fulfillment, and solid foundation upon which the world can be built.
Kaphas are extremely supportive individuals—the matriarch or patriarch who adores caring for the world around them. Through thick and thin, their loyalty towards their family, friends, career, hometown, hobbies, and so on will stand the test of time. They tend to stay in relationships and jobs for decades and never tire of the routine. In fact, they thrive in environments where their “creature of habit” tendencies can be appreciated, celebrated and put to good use.
Kapha is the friend you can call at 3 a.m. for help and they will be there in a heartbeat. If you are lucky enough to wake them that is! Kaphas are deep sleepers, and often need more than eight hours a night to feel completely rested.
It is their deep desire to endure that makes Kaphas such wonderful organizers and planners. They are happiest in roles of service where they can make checklists, dot i’s, cross t’s, and make sure every person/project has what it needs to be successful and cared for. Kaphas are extremely patient, truly enjoy handling even the finest of details, and have impeccable memories that help them manage it all with grace and ease.
Kapha’s primary motive is to protect others.
Excess Accumulation—The moldable, supportive properties of clay can manifest into sticky, unforgiving mud when an excess of water+earth energy is present. Kaphas can quite literally become stuck in a rut.
Here, the loyalty of our beloved Kapha turns into attachment and neediness if not carefully balanced. They may stay in a relationship or a job LONG after it has become toxic or run its course, simply because it’s uncomfortable to walk away. Excess Kapha would much rather choose the comfort of the familiar than the unpredictability of the unknown. As a result, they can really hold themselves back from growth, evolution, and moving on.
This attachment to situations can also manifest as attachment to things. Kapha may accumulate clutter in an unbalanced state, or even move into hoarder status. Their extensive memory leads to deep nostalgia for the past, so they will hold on to whatever mementos they can.
If Kapha becomes too overly focused on supporting others, they may completely neglect their own physical, mental, and emotional needs. And, so as not to ruffle feathers, they’ll avoid conflict and speaking up at all costs.
Excess Kapha will close off all reflection in stressful situations and claim, “There is nothing wrong.”
Kapha in the Body
Natural Expression—The physical qualities of water and earth contribute to a body type that is supple, oily and cool. Kapha bodies often have larger frames, larger bones, and well-padded joints. In true adaptable Kapha form, they can acclimate to any temperature but may naturally shy away from cool, wet climates. They generally have strong nails, luxurious hair, and thick, smooth, glowing skin. There is simply more earth to them and their physical structure reflects that.
The digestion of a Kapha is very slow and steady. They may have a tendency to eat large portions of food at one meal, but their body will metabolize it slowly so they’ll remain satiated for a long time.
Kaphas are warm and welcoming in their physical presence. They have large, pleasant eyes and a softness to their face that exudes safety and comfort to those around them.
Excess Accumulation—Congestion and swelling of any kind is the most common indicator of excess Kapha in the body. If you can relate a physical condition to “too much stuffness,” this is likely a sign. The presence of excessive body weight, mucous, phlegm, swelled joints, oily complexion, high cholesterol, high blood sugar…it’s literally too much matter in the body, aggravating the levels of earth.
Excess Kapha disrupts a healthy digestion by holding on to food far longer than it should. Kaphas may feel “stuffed” or nauseated for hours after eating and have difficulty eliminating.
The normal methodical, patient movements of a Kapha can lead to lethargy, sluggishness, and an overall loss of the zest for life.
How can we best harness and support Kapha?
Without the support and protection of Kapha, our world would literally fall apart at the seams. So naturally, it’s crucial that we harness this energy to its fullest potential! The expression “God is in the details” is a perfect sweet reflection of the importance of Kapha’s routine and patience. When in excess, however, we must motivate Kapha to keep evolving and shedding layers of that which does not serve.
A few key words can inspire Kapha-balancing activities:
- Invigorate.
- Reawaken.
- Change.
- Boldness.
Challenge yourself to:
- Do one thing each week that is completely out of routine. For example, if you always drive a certain way to work, on Fridays commit to taking a different route. Start small and get bolder as the weeks go on.
- Get things moving and shaking! Take a high-energy Zumba, salsa, or Buti yoga class.
- Clear out the clutter of one closet, drawer, room, and donate/throw away things you don’t use.
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