They go out of balance less easily than do Vatas, but they can place such high demands on themselves that they become irritable and combative. Temperamentally, Pittas are inclined toward anxiety and worry. They may put on weight if they overeat, but they also take it off easily. Pitta types have strong appetites and excellent digestion. Pitta regulates the body's metabolism. When in balance, Pittas are warm and ardent in their emotions. The combative side of Pitta is a natural tendency, but it doesn't have to be expressed when the dosha is in balance. Anyone who has bright red hair and a florid face contains a good deal of Pitta, as does anyone who's extremely ambitious or sharp-witted or outspoken or bold or argumentative or jealous. The basic theme of the Pitta type is intensity. If their meal is even half an hour late they get ravenously hungry and can lose their temper.

They find it very difficult to skip meals. They're enterprising characters who enjoy challenges, they're good speakers, and they have strong intellects. Pitta types have an aversion to sun and hot weather. Their skin is usually ruddy, fair, often freckled. They tend toward anger and irritability when under stress. For Pittas, hunger is sharp, as are thirst and digestion. Pitta types are medium in build, with medium strength and endurance. Therefore, regardless of your body type, it's extremely important for everyone to keep Vata in balance. There's also a fundamental connection between difficulties with sleep rhythms and unbalanced Vata dosha.

Since it goes out of balance more easily than Pitta or Kapha, Vata is responsible for the early stages of almost all disease. Perhaps the most important fact about Vata is that it points the way for the other doshas. When Vata is out of balance, it manifests as a frustrating, overall restlessness. They are better at starting things than at finishing them. They don't gain weight easily. Their appetites are irregular, and they often suffer from digestive problems. They tend to have light or restless sleep that lasts less than seven hours.

Vatas are usually lithe and lean. Temperamentally, Vatas seem to thrive on new things. Yet a balanced Vata person is engagingly cheerful and energetic. Regarding their general health, they're often subject to minor illnesses such as headaches, colds, and unexplained aches and pains.