ĀYURVEDA • BODY • RITUAL Author: R.R. Shakti, PhD Photo: Kasia Serbin Do you know your Āyurvedic "Hair Type"? Here's how to figure it out...and why it matters: It all begins with the three dosha (disorders): According to Āyurveda, your entire being (and everything around you) is made up of five elemental forces: earth, water, fire, air, and space. These five māhābhutas (major elements) combine to form three dosha that effect your overall wellness:
Seriously! It is pretty darned valuable to know your personal Āyurvedic dosha balance (or imbalance) and how it contributes to your everyday choices and overall well-being. And your hair (or lack of it) can be a tell tale indicator of your unique dosha profile. The wisdom sages of Āyurvedic medicine recommend a daily ritual of Shiro Abhyanga (head massage). This Self-care regime provides all kinds of benefits to your body and mind. Use the following guidelines to determine your Ayurvedic hair type and the corresponding Shiro Abhyanga protocol: VataThe elemental properties of vata dosha include the cool, drying, and moving energies of wind and space. Vata hair type is generally fine, thin, course, dry, and brittle. It may be curly, but it is more often straight; and is prone to split ends and dandruff. The Ritual: Massage your head and ears with a nourishing oil like almond or sesame. If your scalp is very dry, use castor oil. Massage with oil 3 times each week. On the off weeks, massage your head with warm milk and honey for a rich cleansing and moisturizing treatment. Rinse with warm water. KaphaThe elemental properties of kapha dosha include the heavy, dense, fluid, and cool energies of earth and water. Kapha hair type tends to be oily and thick. It can be wavy or straight, but is generally lustrous, shiny, and strong. The Ritual: Rather than add oil, use dry hands to massage your scalp and distribute your natural oils to the ends of your hair. Then, spritz your hair with apple cider vinegar and massage through your hair shafts before rinsing with warm water to cleanse excess oil from your hair. Apply raw avocado or banana to your hair once a week (before your vinegar rinse) to maintain your lustrous shine. PittaThe elemental property of fire dominate pitta dosha making it hot, dry, and light. Pitta hair is generally medium thickness and density. It may be red or light blonde. When imbalanced, pitta dosha often leads to hair fall and premature grey. Pitta scalp be greasy and irritated with breakouts. The Ritual: Massage scalp with a light carrier oil that is balancing and cooling like coconut or jojoba oil. Use an essential oil of peppermint or lavender for calming the scalp. Aloe vera gel or yogurt can be applied to improve hair and scalp health. Benefits of Shiro Abhyanga
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