Vatham.

In the physical body, Vatham--composed of Space and Air--is the subtle energy associated with movement. It governs breathing, blinking, muscle and tissue movement, pulsation of the heart, and all movements in the cytoplasm and cell membranes. In balance, Vatham promotes creativity and flexibility. Out of balance, Vatham produces fear and anxiety.

A person with Vatham predominant is blessed with a quick mind, flexibility and creativity. Vatham provides the essential motion for all bodily processes and is extremely vital for health. One purpose of lifestyle considerations is to "ground" or stabilize this motion. On an annual basis, Vatham is most prominent in the fall and at the change of seasons, and these are the most important times to be careful of diet and lifestyle. Routine is very useful in assisting the Vatham individual to effectively ground all this moving energy.

Vatham types have variable appetite and digestion. They are often attracted to astringent foods like salad and vegetables, but their constitution is balanced by sweet, sour and salty tastes. Vatham people tend to produce little urine and their feces are hard, dry and small in size and quantity. Mentally, Vatham people usually grasp things quickly but then forget them quickly. They are alert, restless and very active. They walk, talk and think fast, but are easily fatigued. They have less willpower and often feel unstable and ungrounded. They have less tolerance, confidence and boldness. When unbalanced, Vatham types have a tendency to become fearful and nervous, and may experience high anxiety. In the external world, Vatham types tend to earn money quickly and spend it quickly. They are not good planners and as a consequence may suffer economic hardship. Vatham resides in the colon, as well as the brain, ears, bones, joints, skin and thighs. Vatham people are more susceptible to diseases involving the air principle, such as emphysema, pneumonia and arthritis. Other common Vatham disorders include flatulence, tics, twitches, aching joints, dry skin and hair, nerve disorders, constipation, and mental confusion. Vatham tends to increase with age as is indicated by drying and wrinkling of the skin.

Since the attributes of Vatham are dry, light, cold, rough, subtle, mobile, clear and dispersing, any of these qualities in excess can cause imbalance. Frantic travel, especially by plane, loud noises, continual stimulation, drugs, sugar, and alcohol all derange Vatham, as does exposure to cold and cold foods. Like the wind, Vatham types have a hard time becoming and staying grounded. Routine is difficult but essential if Vatham is to be lowered and controlled. In general, people with excessive Vatham respond most rapidly to warm, moist, slightly oily, heavy foods. Steam baths, humidifiers, and moisture in general are helpful.

General food guidelines for decreasing Vatham

50% whole grains: whole grain cooked cereals, some breads and crackers 20% protein: eggs, high quality dairy products, poultry, fish, seafood, beef, tofu, black and red lentils 20-30% fresh vegetables with an optional 10% for fresh fruits

General guidelines for balancing Vatham

Keep warm Keep calm Avoid raw foods Avoid extreme cold Avoid cold foods Eat warm foods and spices Keep a regular routine.