Holistic Interior Design and the Doshas
If you have been here for a while you already know the power of Ayurveda on the mind and body. There’s no doubt about the benefits of following an Ayurvedic diet and creating your own routines that enhance optimal health. But did you know that Ayurveda doesn’t stop just at teaching us how to nourish our body and mind? In fact, Ayurveda is a holistic science, and it is used as guidance in all areas of life, and interior design is no exception.
There is a direct link between our surroundings and our well-being, a theory rooted in the concept of biophilia, or the innate human connection to nature. So let’s explore how we can use holistic design principles to elevate our physical, mental, and spiritual health.
What is Holistic Interior Design?
Holistic interior design is a concept that aims to create balanced and harmonious environments that promote inner peace and tranquility. It combines different elements of biophilic design, colour psychology, and ergonomics, among others, in order to transform space and enhance well-being.
But how can you easily apply holistic interior design principles to your home? Well, it involves taking into consideration every aspect of the space, from lighting to colors and even furniture placement. The idea is to create a space that complements the inherent qualities of your predominant dosha(s). That means that you want a space that not only looks beautiful but also that you feel great to be in.
Although each dosha has its specific design needs to stay in balance, some elements are beneficial for all three doshas. An orderly, clutter-free space is important for each dosha. And so is the connection to nature. Therefore, surrounding yourself with greenery, natural lights, and materials can enhance the well-being of everyone.
Applying Holistic Interior Design to your dosha
Our surrounding space has a tremendous impact on the state of our well-being, and holistic interior design is a crucial component in elevating physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. By incorporating natural elements like plants, natural lighting, and organic materials, holistic interior design can create a serene oasis to rejuvenate the mind and body. But what are the specific elements that balance out each dosha?
Vata Dosha
Vata Dosha is governed by Air, which relates to physical movement, and Ether, which relates to our mental and emotional state. Vatas are flexible, agile, creative people that tend to become anxious when out of balance. In terms of interior, Vatas thrive in spaces that are tidy, cozy, warm, and grounding.
Vata Dosha loves neutral, earthy tones that bring calm and temper to its inherent rush. Add some warm accents with metals like brass and gold to create a comforting space that allows the always-moving Vata to unwind.
To counteract Vata Dosha’s cold qualities, make sure you keep some cozy layers handy. Think chunky throws and blankets or soft pillows, all of which help you balance out the coolness of your constitution. Make it extra cozy by lighting a candle or the fireplace, if you are lucky enough to have one, and dim the lights. Cluttered, overly stimulating spaces aggravate Vata, leading to anxiety, overthinking, and, in extreme cases, panic attacks.
- Interior Styles: Organic Modern, Scandinavian, Modern Boho
- Colour Palette: Neutrals – whites, greys, beige, taupe, and earthy tones of light blue, light pink or light green
- Metal Accents: Copper and gold
- Decorative items: Light-colored wood, candles, warming scents like cinnamon
- Fabrics: Cozy knits and soft materials
- Patterns: Small geometrics, stripes, ombre, and tie-dye
- Avoid: Bright colors and large, overstimulating patterns, stiff materials
Pitta Dosha
The combination of the Fire and Water elements gives Pitta its assertive, passionate, and competitive demeanor. This means that Pitta Dosha needs a place that balances out its fiery nature, with cool colour pallets, lots of natural light and space, and lots of plants.
For colour, think of cool and soothing tones of blue, white, grey, and green. To these, add accents of silver metal that help create a chilled-down environment. Pittas are known for being fast and always on the run, that’s why it is important to create a space that allows you to take a step back and relax. Also helpful in helping balance out Pitta’s intensity are plants and flowers, so when it comes to these apply the principle of ‘the more, the merrier’. This replicated connection to nature will help open up the space and bring down Pitta Dosha’s sharpness.
- Interior Styles: Coastal, Tropical
- Colour Palette: Shades of blue, greens, and greys – navy, indigo, blue, turquoise, green, grey
- Metal Accents: Silver, white gold
- Decorative items: Flowers and plants, floral essential oils, cool scents like mint
- Fabrics: Lightweight fabrics like linen and cotton
- Patterns: Marbled, waves, tie dye, leaves
- Avoid: Warm and bright colours, bright lights
Kapha Dosha
While Vata and Pitta are at risk of getting overstimulated and are in need of a space that can bring them a state of relaxation, Kapha is quite the opposite. By nature slow-moving, steady, and calm, Kapha Dosha needs a stimulating environment that will combat its inherent tendency to sluggishness.
Warm and bright tones of red and orange are preferred as well as lots of natural light and vibrant prints. Kaphas likes to be stimulated, so add statement pieces in bright, fun colours, bring in colourful fresh flowers, put on rhythmic tunes, or burn energizing incense. All of this will help balance out Kapha’s lethargy.
- Interior Styles: Farmhouse, Rustic, Desert Chic, Mountain Home
- Colour Palette: Vibrant tones of red, orange, terracotta, brown, and green
- Metal Accents: Iron, yellow gold, and copper
- Decorative items: Warm colored woods, statement pieces, fresh flowers, plants, energizing essential oils like citrus
- Fabrics: Warm and cozy fabrics, wool
- Patterns: Fun and eye-catching, bold weaves
- Avoid: Neutral colours
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition.
pictures: hutomo abrianto, toa heftiba, maria orlova, spacejoy, sanibell, jessica mangano, dennis cortes, vincent rivaud, steph wilson, andrea davis
