In ancient India, the indigenous Vedic culture and civilization developed in a wholistic manner. Astrology (or jyotisha, the science of astral light) was closely allied with Ayurveda (the science of longevity), Vastu (the science of building design), Yoga (the science of spiritual union), and Vedanta (the science of Self-knowledge). Living well and eating well were considered important components of a spiritual lifestyle, and the Vedic astrologers believed that the composition of the ideal diet for each person could be determined by a careful analysis of the birth chart.
In Ayurveda, people are classified according to three primary body types: Vata (airy), Pitta (fiery), and Kapha (watery/earthy). Then there are the various combinations of these three basic body types, like Vatta-Pitta, Vatta-Kapha, etc. Eating natural, wholesome, locally grown food, chosen and prepared according to your body type, climate, and seasonal differences, are the core principles of the Ayurvedic diet.
In Vedic astrology, a person with many planets in the so-called Fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) would exhibit more of the Pitta qualities-physically active, energetic, having a hearty appetite and strong digestion, enjoying spicy foods, and eating quickly. The rugged outdoors type is a good example of this Pitta type of person.
A person with more planets in the Air signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius) would tend to have Vata qualities. Vata types are typically slender, have poorer circulation, lighter appetites, often eat on the run, have more sensitive digestion, and are often fond of stimulants like refined sugar and caffeinated drinks. So, Vata types will often congregate at Starbucks or internet cafes, where they can simultaneously satisfy their need for both mental and physical stimulation.
The Moon placed in Water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) often results in a tendency to be passive or inactive, hence poorer circulation and the tendency to gain weight-the qualities of Kapha. Two of the Earth signs (Taurus and Capricorn) tend to increase Kapha, while having planets in Virgo typically increases the Vata influence. Kapha types enjoy heavier foods which are oily, fried, sweet, or dairy related, like pizza or doughnuts.
Among the heavenly bodies, the Sun and Mars represent the Fire Element; the Moon and Venus represent Water; Mercury represents Earth; Jupiter represents Ether/Space; and Saturn represents Air. The seven chakras, or energy centers, are each associated with a specific planet, and the five layers of the human aura (pancha-kosha) also correlate with a planet and one of the Five Elements. At both the external level, as well as at the figurative level, the astrological influences are prominent in describing the condition of our body, as well as providing us with the indications for improving our health.
There are as many different astrological combinations as there are variations in individual body types, but typically the Sun sign, the Moon sign, and the Ascendant have the most influence in describing our primary body type and physical appearance.
On a spiritual note, the Bhagavad Gita states that the physical aspects of our food become a part of our body, while the essence of food becomes our thoughts. Hence it behooves us to eat pure, wholesome foods, in a peaceful environment. The great sage Sri Ramana Maharsi stated that the two most important factors in spiritual life were sattvic food and satsang (pure food and spiritual community).
Through the study of the Vedic birth chart, we can determine which foods are most compatible with our individual body type, and what type of dietary plan is most suitable for us. A great deal of self-healing can take place merely by changing our daily diet and eating natural foods. The body has an inherent ability to heal itself, when well nourished, so proper nutrition can be the basis of a very deep level of healing. Our course we must nourish the soul as well.
When astrology is used in conjunction with Ayurveda by a practitioner who is skilled and experienced in both sciences, great progress is possible in restoring optimal health, rejuvenating the physical body, and in attaining the ultimate goal of human life: a more refined, yet expansive, spiritual awareness of the meaning and the beauty of everything. When Heaven meets Earth, there are many more possibilities for the mysteries of life to be revealed.
Om Tat Sat Om