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The Kapha Dosha
Kapha is the force
that provides structure to
everything from an individual atom or cell to the sturdy musculoskeletal
frame. It gives strength, stability, and endurance---both physical and
psychological---and promotes human emotions and capacities such as love,
compassion, understanding, forgiveness, loyalty and patience.
One very important function of the Kapha dosha in the human body is that it
governs immunity and resistance against disease; its energy promotes
self-healing and the ongoing processes of self-repairs of which we are
largely unaware. Where Vata and Pitta effects become active in the body,
Kapha acts to limit and control these two forces and prevent their
excessive activity. It also governs the
formation of all new cells and tissues of the body and imparts
mind-body-spirit stability and resilience. Together, the two elements
that compose Kapha---water and earth---form the fundamental
protoplasm of life.
Here is a table which summarizes the manifestations of balanced and
unbalanced (excessive) kapha dosha:
Effects of
Kapha Dosha
Effect of Balanced Kapha
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Effect of Unbalanced (Excess) Kapha
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- Excellent nutritional status; firm
musculature, strong bones
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- Poor nutritional status, flabby,
fatigued
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- Adequate moisture and lubrication
throughout the body
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- Dry; decreased mucous and saliva
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- Loose joints, prone to sprains
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- Stable, compact, and strong physique
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- Soft and weakened physique; obese
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- Sexual potency, strong immunity
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- Sexual impotency, sedentary,
diminished immunity
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- Calm, forgiving, understanding,
patient
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- Intolerant, insecure, jealous, rude
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- Strong digestion, regular appetite
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- Slow digestion, appetite unregulated
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- Physiological amounts of respiratory
moisture
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Back to:
Copyright 2002 Scott Gerson, M.D. Used with
permission.
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