Vata Dosha Characteristics - #3928

I’ve been reading up on Ayurveda to understand my body better, and I think I might have a vata imbalance. A lot of the symptoms I’m experiencing seem to match what I’ve read about vata dosha characteristics, but I want to be sure before I make any changes to my lifestyle or diet. For example, I often feel restless, like my mind is constantly racing even when I’m trying to relax. I also have trouble sleeping, especially falling asleep at night. Another thing I’ve noticed is that my digestion is really unpredictable sometimes I’m fine, but other times I feel bloated or constipated. Are these common vata dosha characteristics, or could they be related to something else? Physically, I’ve always been on the thinner side, and it’s hard for me to gain weight no matter what I eat. I read somewhere that people with vata dosha tend to have a lighter build and dry skin. Is this true? My skin does feel dry most of the time, especially during colder months. Are there specific oils or moisturizers recommended for balancing vata dosha characteristics? Another thing I’m curious about is the emotional side of vata. I’ve noticed I get anxious or overwhelmed easily, especially when I have too much going on at once. Do these mental tendencies fit with vata dosha characteristics? If so, are there any specific practices, like yoga or meditation, that can help bring more stability? Lastly, I’d like to know how diet plays a role in managing vata. I’ve read that warm, oily, and grounding foods are good for vata types, but I’m not sure what that looks like in daily meals. Are there any specific foods or recipes that align well with vata dosha characteristics? And should I avoid certain things like raw vegetables or cold drinks? I’d really appreciate any advice on how to confirm if I’m predominantly vata and how to bring it back into balance if it’s out of alignment.