Take a slow breath in… and exhale fully.
In this lesson, we explore a key Ayurvedic idea: the difference between who you are at your core (Prakriti) and what’s currently out of balance (Vikriti). This helps you understand your symptoms without self-blame.
Prakriti is your natural constitution—the unique blend of doshas you were born with. It shapes everything from how you digest and sleep to how you think and feel. Maybe you’ve always needed more rest, or perhaps you digest food quickly, or feel emotions intensely. These patterns reflect your innate nature.
- Vata Prakriti might feel light, creative, and quick-moving.
- Pitta Prakriti might be sharp, focused, and determined.
- Kapha Prakriti might be calm, nurturing, and steady.
Your Prakriti doesn’t change—it’s your blueprint.
Vikriti, on the other hand, is your current imbalance—what’s louder or more active than usual. It’s how stress, lifestyle, or environment temporarily shift your doshas. You might normally be patient but lately feel irritable and hot-headed (a sign of Pitta excess). Or you’re usually grounded, but now you can’t sleep and feel anxious. Maybe you’re often energetic but feel heavy and sluggish—Kapha build-up.
Vikriti isn’t who you are; it’s what your body is trying to balance. It can be influenced by seasons, food, emotions, or overwork. It’s your body saying, “Something’s out of sync. I need care.”
Your Prakriti shows your strengths; your Vikriti points to where you need support. When you tune into both, you move from trying to fix yourself to simply listening. Next time you feel off, instead of asking “What’s wrong with me?”, ask “What’s louder than usual in me right now?” That’s where real healing begins. You’re not broken. You’re just real—and your body is always speaking to you, with love.