Kapha

Definition

Pronunciation: KUH-fah

Also spelled: Kafa, Shleshma

Phlegm; the principle of structure and cohesion

About Kapha

Kapha is the dosha of structure and stability, composed of water and earth elements. It governs the physical form of the body, lubrication, strength, immunity, and emotional stability.

Kapha's qualities are: heavy, slow, cold, oily, smooth, dense, soft, and stable. When balanced, kapha provides strength, endurance, calm, compassion, and good immunity. When imbalanced, it causes weight gain, congestion, lethargy, attachment, and resistance to change.

Kapha is seated primarily in the chest, stomach, and head. It provides the structure that vata moves through and pitta transforms.

Kapha is balanced by opposite qualities: light, warm, dry, and stimulating. Light diet, vigorous exercise, variety, and stimulating practices all pacify kapha.

There are five sub-types of kapha (*kledaka*, *avalambaka*, *bodhaka*, *tarpaka*, *shleshaka*) governing different structural and lubricating functions.