Meditation According to Your Dosha: Part I

As you deepen your meditation practice, it’s important to meditate according to your dosha type.

In this first post on meditating according to your dosha, we will talk specifically about meditation for Vata types. The major motivating factor for Vata types to meditate is centered around instilling a sense of calm in their restless minds, relieving anxiety and fear. Meditation is very good for Vata types looking to still a hyperactive mind. Meditation will allow Vata types to sleep better, alleviate digestive concerns and strengthen their immune system.

At the same time, it is important to note that Vatas need to be careful because meditation done incorrectly can be very ungrounding and uncentering, as Vatas can get lost in their thoughts. That said, it is important for Vata types to learn the art of concentration. Vata types can benefit greatly from mantra and visualization, rather than looking to “empty their minds.” This isn’t to say that Vata types should try to suppress their natural inclination towards mental activity. Instead, they should let their minds move freely, while seeking the deeper truth of life. Vata types need to learn to harness their mental energy for meditation, which for them must let their mind soar, without losing its focus.

If you are a Vata type, start your meditation practice by sitting comfortably, ensuring that your body and joints are at ease. Be sure and do a few relaxation exercises or take a walk to release any held tension before sitting down for your meditation practice.

Focus on deepening your breath, ensuring you have enough prana for meditation. Pranayama may initially tire you out if you are a Vata type because it reduces the hyperactivity of Vata. If this occurs, focus on a few rapid deep breaths until your mental clarity returns, but be sure and be gradual as you do this, your pranayama should be natural, not forceful.

As far as visualization is concerned, Vata types should use earthy, watery and fiery images like a lake, mountain or the ocean. Flowers such as the lotus or a rose, light like a glowing fire  or the sun at dawn are all strong images for Vata types to look to incorporate in their visualizations.

As it relates to affirmations, Vata types benefit greatly from affirming the basic peace and fearlessness of their higher nature. They need to look to meditation to let go of worry and anxiety. There are several anti-Vata mantras that are beneficial for Vata types to do to calm their mind — RAM, SHRIM, or HRIM are all good ones for Vata types to focus on when they feel a bit out of balance.

Stay tuned for our next post, where we will dive into Meditation for Pitta Types.


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