Exercise in Ayurveda: One size does not fit all

As with everything in Ayurveda.... one size does not fit all! Maybe it's the new year and you're looking to start a new exercise routine or you have one but are looking to up-level.... here are some tips based on your dosha! Don't know your dosha (or what a dosha is?!?!) Feel free to contact me and we can figure it out, or take a quick online quiz below to gain a general idea.  

- Vata types: You will be drawn to exercise that is quick & fast, those that require speed and agility. Vata's are pretty high strung and love fast and vigorous activity BUT the endurance is not great and can tired easily. Vata's will be the first to give up on a new exercise routine since their interests flit from one to the other quickly. To avoid INCREASING the amount of vata if this is your predominant type, you will actually want exercises that are grounding, slow & calming. These may include: Low impact aerobics or dance, ballet, cycling, hiking, golf, stretching, swimming, weight training or yoga, among others.  

- Pittas. You are the fiery, competitive types! You are great at individual competition and love winning. You are highly motivated and are natural leaders which is why individual sports suit you best. BUT you must be careful to not overhead and enjoy competitive sports not focusing on winning but those that provide enjoyment. Some examples could include: Cycling, mountain biking, ice skating, skiing (downhill or cross country), surfing, yoga & I would add swimming as it is cooing.  

- Kaphas: You have the best endurance of all the dosha types and best mind-body coordination. You are calm, stable and easy going and love the community of tea-based sports. Your nature is hypometabolic so your aim is stimulation, however your motivating may be slow to get started and off the couch! Great exercise for you would be aerobics, basketball, cross country running, gymnastics, roller-skating/blading, martial arts, swimming, volleyball, rowing, rock-climbing, pickleball and more.