The Best Workout for Your Ayurvedic Dosha

If the fiery Pitta is your dominant dosha, you’re likely most drawn to competitive activities like a game of tennis or running a race. But getting emotionally and physically heated can quickly throw you out of balance—so that intense doubles match probably isn’t going to do you any favors as a regular workout. Instead, opt for a cooling exercise, preferably outdoors, like swimming, surfing or paddle boarding. You also tend to get overheated easily, so doing some laps in the pool is a win-win, all around.

As a Vata, you have frequent bursts of creative energy that are sometimes followed by feelings of depletion. (Three o’clock afternoon slump, anyone?) To solve this, you might reach for candy or caffeine, which can kick up your anxiety and make you feel off-balance. Doing the right exercises can help get you centered. Because you’re frequently cold and your skin tends to be dry, hot yoga is the best way to loosen up your muscles, detoxify your body and build strength—especially during the winter. In addition to yoga, any type of rhythmic exercise is beneficial: think rowing, a ballet class or simply walking outside.

You’re strong and have incredible stamina—but if you aren’t exercising regularly, toxins can build up in your body, making you feel sluggish and sick. Try to get at least 20 minutes of high-intensity exercise every day. Spin class will do in a pinch, but ideally, you’d like to be outside in nature to get your heart pumping, because Kaphas find the Great Outdoors particularly exhilarating. Mountain biking, mountain climbing and hiking are all ideal for you.