Passionate Pitta! Why It’s Phenomenal to be a Pitta

If you have a general understanding of Ayurveda, you are probably familiar with the archetypes of the doshas (Ayurvedic elemental energies) and how they present themselves in one’s tendencies, characteristics, physical features, digestion and mental-emotional patterns. You may also naturally think of the doshas in their imbalanced states. This is because in Ayurvedic medicine when speaking of the doshas, we often tend to focus on the negative ways in which they show up so that we may identify the symptom at hand and hence treat the imbalanced dosha. Yet, it is important to remember that the doshas do not always need to be fixed and have many gifts to share when in balance. Below we would like to share the differences between an imbalanced and balanced pitta state.

Pitta dosha, comprised mostly of fire with some water, brings heat and intensity to the body and mind. This is due to the hot and sharp qualities of the fire element contained within this dosha. When there is an excess amount of pitta within an individual, pitta can go out of balance. Some of the not-so-lovely symptoms of imbalanced pitta include:

• Hyperacidity
• Indigestion
• Heartburn
• Loose Stools
• Red and/or inflamed skin, including rashes
• Oily Skin
• Acne & breakouts in the T-Zone areas of the face
• Anger
• Irritability
• Short temper
• Critical towards others and/or the self
• Jealousy

Thankfully, Ayurveda is here to help you avoid an imbalance in pitta dosha. By implementing cooling and soothing routines into your day, like pitta balancing meditation, yoga, pranayama, abhyanga, diet and appropriate herbal nourishment, you can keep pitta balanced and fully revel in the gifts this phenomenal dosha offers.

You read it right- pitta dosha is phenomenal! When in balance, the fire and water elements are a dynamic, compassionate force to be reckoned with. Below we will share the positive attributes of pitta dosha. You may find that you can relate to some of these characteristics even if you do not identify as predominant in pitta dosha. This is because each living being contains all five elements and all three doshas within them; hence pitta dosha is a part of us all.

When balanced, a pitta type personality is courageous, bold, passionate, warm and powerful. Pitta types tend to be natural-born leaders that inspire those around them to take action and pursue their dreams. Their minds are sharp and pitta types enjoy intellectual pursuits.

To paint a picture of the pitta type personality, when at a social gathering, a pitta type is punctual, commonly being the first person to arrive. They always remember their pot-luck dish and are dressed accordingly. Once the party gets going, a pitta type can be found engaging in an intellectual conversation, sharing a passionate topic, deeply connecting with another person or cutting a serious rug on the dance floor. Enthusiasm, fervor, excitement and zeal are felt around a pitta type individual. Their passionate nature can inspire those around them to take a stand on pertinent issues, dive deeper into their emotions or invigorate others to get up and shake what their momma gave them!

With a blend of fire and water, pitta types are open-hearted, connected with their emotions, sensitive and compassionate. They experience a strong connection with those they love and are fiercely loyal to friends and family. When in balance, pitta types exude warmth and uplifting energy that can put others at ease. They freely express their emotions with those they love and enjoy developing deep relationships.

Those dominant in pitta dosha often exhibit a medium build with well-defined musculature. When in balance, their skin tends to have a healthy blush and a natural luminosity, reflecting the vitality and robustness within. In addition to their radiant complexion, pitta type individuals often boast lustrous, abundant hair. Their locks possess a natural shine and silkiness, showcasing the vitality and strength of their hair follicles. Furthermore, pitta individuals tend to have bright, piercing eyes that exude an intense and focused gaze. Their eyes carry a spark of intelligence and curiosity, displaying a keen intellect and perceptiveness.

Pitta is the force of transformation and heat in our bodies, which means that physiologically, pitta dosha is a key component in digestion, absorption and assimilation. From transforming the foods we eat into building blocks for the body's tissues to converting impressions of light into information carried to the brain, pitta dosha is at work, making sense of all the sensory impressions the body receives from the outside world. Their energy levels are high, granting them an innate drive and determination to accomplish their goals. Additionally, pitta supports liver and spleen functions, produces bile and gives us energy and vitality.

Pitta types excel professionally due to their clear communication, attention to detail and organizational skills. Their combination of fire and water means that pitta types have the drive, enthusiasm and ability to see each project or task through from start to finish. With innate leadership skills, pitta types make great managers, inspiring teams through their hard work, focus and determination. With their sharp intellect and excellent concentration, pitta type individuals are often known for their astute problem-solving skills and quick decision-making abilities, making them successful in business, sales and finance. They also make excellent politicians, executive directors, lawyers, teachers and coaches. Lastly, pitta types are innovative and may be on the cutting edge of new research and development in various fields.

We hope this discussion of pitta dosha’s positive attributes helps you better appreciate this inspiring dosha. Maybe you could even relate to some of the characteristics of pitta, exemplifying how this visionary dosha influences you in your life. We encourage you to continue reflecting on more ways in which pitta dosha manifests within your skin, body, digestion and mind. May this Ayurvedic perspective deepen your understanding of yourself and support you in harnessing your strengths and cultivating more self-inquiry, self-compassion, self-love and nourishment.

Photo of bonfire by Vlad Bagacian: https://www.pexels.com/photo/lit-bonfire-outdoors-during-nighttime-1368382/

Photo of pitta woman boss by Tima Miroshnichenko: https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-in-gray-business-suit-sitting-in-a-luxurious-car-5717641/