Mind/Body Types
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A particular form of body-mind typing originated in ancient India, is called Ayurveda
(Sanskrit for the science of life). It is still practiced in India today and its wisdom has
spread throughout the world. It can be used here because it so aptly describes the
different forms we humans take. It explains the difference of each type in reacting to
emotional and physical stress, individual thought processes, physical attributes, preferred
activities, and even how one relates to others. The three mind-body types are Air, Fire,
and Earth. Here are brief descriptions:
AIR-
Air children have light, thin bodies and a changeable disposition. They are creative,
imaginative and good communicators. Their energy comes in spurts; they sleep lightly,
and tire more easily than the other types. They love new projects they think up
themselves—being very creative—but they may need help carrying them through to
completion. They may need to be encouraged to eat because their appetite may be
inconsistent. When they are stressed, they become anxious and worried, and when
things go wrong they tend to blame themselves. They do best in a calm environment.
FIRE –
Fire children have robust energy, are well-muscled, have an ability to be charming, and
show signs of leadership. They usually have a good appetite, strong digestion, and like
routine. They are athletic and sharp and like to take charge and organize others. Under
stress they become agitated, angry, and often act out. They tend to blame others when
they are stressed. They thrive in a structured environment with a dependable routine.
EARTH –
Earth children have a stocky build, love to eat, and have a calm, loving demeanor. Their
energy is almost boundless when you get them going; though getting them going at times
can be a challenge. They sleep very soundly, and may even be hard to awaken. They
may tend to gain weight if too inactive. They are open and accepting of others and this
attracts people to them. They are stable and dependable, do not like confrontations and
are easy going. When stressed, it may seem easy for them to withdraw, become
lethargic and avoid conflict. They do best in a stimulating environment.
Most children are a combination of two of these, with one type being dominant. For
example a child could have a Fire body and an Air mind, indicated by an athletic
physique with good digestion, combined with a creative quick mind; or a child with an
Earth body with a strong Fire mind would be stocky and have leadership qualities.
Knowing how your child reacts to stress and where his strengths lie will help
you understand the needs of that child. If both parents are Fire-dominant in their nature
and the child is Earth-type, they won’t be as likely to understand his withdrawal or
lethargic tendencies under stress. Fire adults are ambitious, goal oriented, and love the
finer things in life, and the Earth child may not care much about these things!
Understanding your own nature and that of your partner—as well as your children’s—
will allow you to really hear them in a complete sense.
Copyright 2008 Kasey J. Claytor Excerpted from The 7 Laws of Raising Financially Independent Kids
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