The Vata dosha is the mobile force of the universe and body.  Wherever there is movement - wind, the flapping of a butterfly’s wings, gravity - there is Vata energy.  In the body, air moves thoughts, digestion, circulation, the vocal chords, the birth process, and more.  Vata is associated with the qualities of being dry, cold, light, mobile, erratic, and rough. 

When in balance, Vata can promote movement with ease, consistent appetite with regular elimination, positive enthusiasm, healthy desire, good energy, a calm mind, and sparks in creativity. When Vata is imbalanced, there are usually a variety of symptoms depending on if there is too much or not enough Vata energy.  With an excess of Vata, you may lose weight, experience muscle spasms, rigidity, cracking joints, dry skin, dizziness, gas, bloating, racing thoughts and insomnia.  Too little Vata and you may face feelings of laziness, confusion, or sluggish digestion.