In Ayurveda, each Dosha consists of subdoshas that govern specific parts of the body and their functions. Understanding these subdoshas can help in maintaining balance and promoting overall health. Here are the five subdoshas of Vata and their roles in the body.

FIVE SUBDOSHAS OF VATA 

1. Prana Vayu

Prana Vayu is situated in and governs the head, brain, and upper part of the body, including the lungs and the heart. It is responsible for sensory perception, thoughts, respiration, heartbeat, ingestion of food, coughing, spitting, sneezing, and swallowing. Stress or lack of sleep can create an imbalance in Prana Vayu, leading to weakened senses, confusion, and nausea. Practices like meditation, yoga, and pranayama are effective in regulating and balancing Prana Vata.

2. Udana Vayu

Udana Vayu is responsible for upward movement in the body and is crucial for maintaining memory and proper speech patterns. It mainly governs the chest region and is associated with the heart, lungs, throat, and the entire respiratory system. An imbalance in Udana Vata can lead to respiratory issues, chest tightness, congestion, hoarseness, throat discomfort, stuttering, indecisiveness, and difficulty expressing oneself. Meditation and pranayama help restore balance in Udana Vata, and consuming herbs like mulethi (licorice) aids in pacifying it.

3. Samana Vayu

Samana Vayu is located in the navel area, stomach, pancreas, small intestine, and GI tract. It is responsible for the digestion of food and the absorption and assimilation of nutrients. When imbalanced, Samana Vata can cause digestive issues like constipation, indigestion, diarrhea, malabsorption, gas, and bloating. Regulating Samana Vata involves kindling the digestive fire, practicing Kapalbhati and Bhastrika pranayama, and consuming moderate quantities of herbs like Ajwain, Triphala, and Harad.

4. Vyana Vayu

Vyana Vayu governs circulation in the body and is mainly associated with the heart's pumping and the circulation of blood, oxygen, and nutrients. It controls emotions, nerve impulses, sensory motors, and muscle contraction and relaxation. When out of balance, Vyana Vata can lead to blood pressure issues, tremors, anxiety, palpitations, changes in heart rate, and muscle cramping. To maintain Vyana Vata, Ayurveda recommends Abhyanga (self-massage) with herb-infused oils.

5. Apana Vayu

Apana Vayu is located in the colon and pelvic region and is primarily responsible for downward and outward movements. It governs excretion, urination, ejaculation, conception, childbirth, and menstruation. Imbalance in Apana Vata can cause constipation, diarrhea, menstrual issues, urinary problems, and lower body pain, including in the lower back, thighs, and knees. Incorporating herbs like Haritaki, Triphala, and Marich, consuming good fats like ghee, staying hydrated, and engaging in physical activities like walking, yoga, or stretching can help pacify Apana Vata.