Pregnancy the Ayurveda way

Dosha is one’s intrinsic constitution as described in Ayurveda. There are three types of Dosha- Vata, Pitta and Kapha. All the three doshas are a combination of the 5 elements.

Vata is a combination of air and ether. 

Pitta is a mix of fire and water 

Kapha is when water and earth come together. 

Each of these distinct doshas have their own unique qualities which are reflected in each individual.

Imbalances in Doshas during pregnancy 

Now just as each of us have a constitution which can fall under one or be a mixture of two doshas. It is rare to be a tridosha or have a balance of all the doshas.  When we have an imbalance in our constitution, the energies finding the doshas fall out of sync. 

Through pregnancy there are so many changes and upheavals in our bodies and minds. There are a multitude of things to prepare for. So Dosha or qualities are intrinsic to us from the time we are born but pregnancy brings in a dominant dosha or energy with each trimester as well. For example:- you may have a Vata dosha in general but your second trimester you may still experience an aggravated Pitta dosha where there is acidity and heartburn which occurs in varying degrees as is the nature of pregnancy. 

How to know you are governed by an aggravated Vata?

During the first trimester of Pregnancy, Vata is the governing force. An aggravated Vata affects the nervous system. This can cause a stressful response in the body and can leave one feeling the jitters because of the newness and changes in hormones.

What to do to fix imbalances during pregnancy with Ayurveda?- 

Eat fresh plant based grains, sprouts and food which is non processed, not oily and greasy. Food which is warming, grounding, and healing settles the Vata.

Exercises during the first trimester is a great time to take things gently and listen to the body. One must feel warm and comforted while practising gentle exercises , prenatal yoga and long walks.

How to know you are governed by an aggravated Pitta?

Pitta aggravation during pregnancy manifests in the form of acidity, indigestion, heart-burn, morning-sickness and an intensification of emotions. Watch out for what feels aggravated and act in accordance.

What to do?- 

To reduce pitta, have cooling foods that feel relaxing and sitting to the belly and reduce the stomach heat eg coconut water, cucumber, water Melon etc. 

Very often restorative practices, gentle yoga breathwork and movement, meditation, affirmations and gratitude are very effective. 

How do you know you are governed by an unbalanced Kapha?

If you’re feeling low, sad, or stuck, you might have an aggravated Kapha. Looking inwards when you’re feeling resentful can be challenging but when you get aware it will be easier to get help.

What to do? 

Keep your nutrition plan going strong at this time with nutritional supplements prescribed by your doctor and eat meals at regular intervals.

Charge ahead your last few days to keep the movement going. Prenatal yoga and pregnancy yoga can keep you fit and active through this time.

Doshas during pregnancy work very differently within each individual. It is important to pay attention and continue to balance your body and the elements which are in play. Pregnancy is a beautiful time to grow in your body and an understanding of Ayurveda can lead you through a calming, nurturing journey into motherhood.