Vata, Pitta and Kapha—collectively known as the doshas—are one of the most foundational
concepts in the tradition of Ayurveda.
Kapha is one of the three doshas (functional energies in nature); kapha is predominated by
the earth and water elements and governs structure and cohesiveness; it is heavy, slow, cool,
oily, smooth, dense, soft, stable, gross, and cloudy.
In Ayurveda, the most basic building blocks of the material world are the five elements:
Ether (space), Air, Fire, Water, and Earth and Kapha reflects the binding nature of Water
energy. Kapha also embodies the watery energies of love and compassion.
Kapha lends structure, solidity, and cohesiveness to all things, and is therefore associated
primarily with the earth and water elements. This dosha hydrates all cells and systems,
lubricates the joints, moisturizes the skin, maintains immunity, and protects the tissues.