There are many approaches to understand the functioning of mind. One of the ancient approaches in India is Ayurveda. Knowledge of Ayurveda comes from the understanding of nature around us. So you want to know about nature and functioning of body and mind, the best way is to look at how natural order operates everything around. Basically we are going see relation between mind and five elements of Ayurveda.

Know more about what is Ayurveda?

Mind and Five Elements of Ayurveda

We live in multi – level comos, including matter, energy and mind. Each level helps us to know the other. According to Ayurveda all living and non-living things on earth, including humans are consist of these five elements in varying degrees.

Know more about five elements of nature.

However most of us do not think of the mind in term of the elements. Not only physical but also the mental existence gets influence by these five elements. Even the elements in the mind are more subtle than those in the body. In one way we can say that five elements are the layers of functionality of mind (consciousness).   

Prithvi (earth) –   physical consciousness/outer self 

Earth is the grossest element among all five elements, which holds all living and nonliving substance therefore it is the element of stability and structure. This element connects us more with physical body and provides an objective referent or identity for the self.  

Jal/apa (water) – outer mind/reactive aspect of mind

Jal or Apa (water element) is next element. It is the element of liquidity and adaptivity. Water exists in the mind as the emotional nature, our ability to adapt outer world. Water is the formative aspect of the mind allows us to imagine, plan and construct our reality.

Agni (fire) – Intermediate mind or intellectual aspect of mind

Agni (fire) is the element of transformation and heat. Fire exists in the mind as the rational or discriminating faculty which allows us to perceive and to judge things. As fire burns, digest and converts things into more subtle forms that nourish our awareness and provides the ability to ascertain discern.

Vayu (air) – Inner mind/deeper consciousness

Vayu (air) is the element of movement and formlessness. Air exists in the mind as the underlying mental sensitivity or deeper feeling nature. It is related to habits and tendencies that sustain the mind, by which we are continually thinking. Practices like Pranayama and Meditation help in balancing air element which results in calm and relaxed mind.

Akash (space) – inner self/consciousness

Akash (space) is the element of emptiness, without it matter cannot exist. Mind space is the background capacity for all mental functions, vibrations and impressions. Without space, the mind cannot function and has no room to move. As we remain aware of external space we must also be aware of inner mind space then only we can learn to be detached and not identify with the activities of the mind. From it we can observe the mind and transcend its limitation.  

Conclusion

These elements are inanimate, but when they come in certain combination and give rise to Tri-dosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). They can be defined as three foundational energies or principles which govern the function of our bodies on the physical and emotional level (all psycho-physiological functions). Each individual has these elements in a unique combination, which is the cause of verities in our personality and nature.

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Accoding to Ayurveda the whole universe is made of five primordial elements known as Panchmahabhuta. Indian philosophy like Sankhya darshan – these five elements of universe are Akasha (space), Vayu (air), Agni (fire), Jal (water), and Prithvi (earth).

Relation between five elements and dosha

These elements are inanimate, but when they come in certain combination, give rise to three main biological forces in the human body, these combinations known as tri dosha (three personality or constitution).

These three combinations (tri dosha) are VATA, PITTA and KAPHA. They can be defined as three foundational energies or principles which govern the function of our bodies on the physical and emotional level (all psycho-physiological functions). Each individual has these elements in a unique combination, which is the cause of verities in our personality and nature.

Our PRAKRITI (personality and nature) is based on these three combinations (tri dosha). When one dosha is typically predominant in our constitution then balance in it brings the health or imbalance in it produces diseases.

The understanding of dosha can help you in making better choices for food, building better lifestyle. Some understanding of Ayurveda is important for everyone because it is the science of everyday life.

Let’s look at each of them in brief details.

Vata Dosha

Vata is combination of Vayu (air) and Akash (space) elements. Thus Vata has qualities which are similar to these elements. Vata in very much like the wind means ‘that which moves things’ thus vata is responsible for all physical processes in general and as well affects the mind. Vata is consider as one of the important dosha from tri dosha.

Vata is dry, light, rough, cold subtle and agitated in qualities thus influence the function of body as well function of mind.

Imbalance in Vata can cause emaciation, liking of warmth, tremors, debility, distention and constipation, as well as sensory disorientation, incoherent speech, difficulty in focusing and making decisions and have trouble sleeping. Colon thighs, hips, ears, bones and organ of touch are more affected by Vata. This becomes more apparent when they are under stress and cool emotions like worry, fear and anxiety are always challenging for them.

Here some suggestion for balancing Vata dosha

1. Diet – the food is most influencing to doshas. A nutritive, strengthening diet is good for vata.food should be warm, bit heavy and moist with frequent and regular meals.  Spices like cinnamon, cumin, fennel, ajwain can be used in cooking to regulate the digestion.  Some herbs like ashwagandha, shatavari, bala, musali and kapikacchu are very beneficial. Cold water or ice be avoided, as well as stimulating beverages such as coffee.
2. Massage – it is one of the best way to bring the balance of Vata dosha. Warm and heavy oils like sesame and almond can be used for massage. The best sites are the feet, the top of the head the back and lower abdomen.
3. Lifestyle – make sure you always have proper sleep and don’t stay up late at night. Always do some mild physical exercises. Sunbathing is recommended. Meditate which helps you in giving up worries, fear, anxiety and negativity. Avoid cold, overwork and hard physical work. Don’t do over talking and thinking. Stay away from excess stimulation including mobile phones, TV and movies.
4. Purification practices (panchkarma) – basti (enema therapy) and nasya (nasal cleaning) is indicated as the anti vata treatment in severe conditions.

Pitta Dosha

Combination of Agni (fire) and Jal (water) give rise to PItta. Pitta dominated people have many qualities of fire within them. Pitta also known as bile means is ‘that which digests things’. Pitta dosha is responsible for all chemical and metabolic transformation in the body. Pitta is very important because it keeps fire and water together as they are opposite in nature. 

The function which also regulated by Pitta are mental digestion, capacity to perceive reality and understand things. Pitta is little oily, sharp, hot, light unpleasant in odor, mobile and liquid. They tend to have moderate weights and good musculature.

Out of balance Pitta causes yellowness (stool, urine, eyes, and skin), burning sensation, diarrhea uncontrolled hunger, thirst, weakness in liver, spleen, as well as difficulty in sleeping. Pitta is presented as bile and acids and located in the small intestine, stomach, sweat, lymph, blood and eyes. They are challenged by the hated emotions of anger, resentment and jealousy.

Here are some suggestions for balancing Pitta dosha

1. Diet – Pitta types of food should be cool, heavy and a little dry and without excessive spices. Cool water can be taken. Cooling and mild spices like turmeric, fennel, coriander and mint are best. Some herbs like shatavri, amalaki, saffron, gotu kola, bhringaraj and comfrey root are very beneficial.
2. Massage – cooling oils like coconut, sunflower or ghee can be used for body massage. Brahmri and bhringraj oils can be applied to the top of the head, forehead and heart.
3.  Lifestyle – too much sun and exposure to heat should be avoided. One should resort to cooling air, cool water; moon light, gardens and lakes. Try to be sweet with your speech and content. Meditation like zen and vipassana. Cooling asana and pranayama practices will be so helpful.
4. Purification practices (panchkarma) – virachana purgation is indicated with strong laxatives like rhubarb root, senna and aloe.

Kapha Dosha

Within the kapha dosha there is a predominance of the earth and water elements therefore it also known as phlegm. It means ‘that which holds things together’. Kapha dosha is responsible for structure and stability which is property of earth and lubricant and fluidity which is the property of water elements. Kapha is wet, cold, heavy, dull, sticky, soft and firm. Kapha dosha gives stability, lubrication, holding and patience.

It also provides emotional support in life, and relates to positive emotional traits like love, compassion, modesty, patience. It also forms the protective coverings and fluid shock absorber for joints, brain (CSF) and spinal cord.

When kapha dosha is out the balance it causes depression of the digestive fire, nausea, lethargy, heaviness, looseness of the limbs, cough and excessive sleep. It also results in accumulation of body waight, inhibits normal function and causes hypoactivity. Kapha is produced above as phlegm in the lungs and stomach as well as chest, throat, head, sides, fat, nose and tongue.

Here are some suggestions for balancing Kapha

1. Diet – food with opposite qualities like warm, light and dry food are advised and food prepared with hot spices. Occasional fasting or skipping a meal is good. Cold or ice water should be avoided as well. Hot species like black pepper, cloves, mustered, ginger for improving metabolism. Some herbs like guggul, basil, shilajit, saffron, gotu kola are very beneficial.
2. Massage – dry or strong massage is good or massage with such light oils as mustered or flaxseed oil.
3. Lifestyle – strong and aerobic exercises and outdoor activity should be done. Sunbathing and exposure to warm and dry breezes. Stay active with physically and mentally. Travel and pilgrimage are excellent. Avoid over sleeping and cold and damp environment. Try to keep your mind engaged with new thoughts, projects and informations. Some kind of dynamic Meditation and bhakti yoga is best.
4. Purification practices (panchkarma) – vaman (vomiting) with salt, calamus and lobelia.

We are all have a unique combination of these tri dosha (foundational energies). Pitta is our metabolism, Kapha is our structure and Vata is the mobility. They bring action and life into creation. Without all these three energies, we simply could not exist.

This is just a informational post based on different references and do not suggested any treatment to anyone. Must consult with a Ayurvedic doctor.

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Although in Chinese philosophy these five elements are – wood, fire, earth, metal, and water which is believed to be the foundational elements of everything in the universe.

These are not only five elements of universe they are also five elements of nature. We are the part of nature thus they are also five elements of human body. Though we are most of the time unaware of their presence around us but they are everywhere and constantly affecting us in unseen way.

These all five elements are connected with each other as our life, so even they can be understood as five elements of life.

The five elements in Ayurveda

Ayurveda also believes that everything in this universe is made up of five basic elements. These five elements collectively called Panchmahabhuta. The concept of Panchmahabhuta (Five elements) is the foundation of Ayurveda.

According to Ayurveda all living and non-living things on earth, including humans are consist of these five elements in varying degrees.

Ayurveda talks about three types of body constitution VATA, PITTA, and KAPHA together known as Tridoshas. This tri-dosha are the combination of five elements of nature. Any imbalance in these five elements also imbalance the dosha, imbalance in tri-dosha leads to diseases. Thus understanding of these five elements help in building a healthy lifestyle.

Vata –  air + space

Pitta –  fire + water

Kapha – earth + water

The Element of Akasa (Ether)

Akasha tattwa is a Sanskrit word translated as ether or space element. Among the five elements space is the most subtle element. Space (akasha tattwa) is the emptiness, without it matter can not exist.

It represents the nature of the void and its main sense attribute is sound. The concept of location and distance are related with the concept of space.

In the human body space can be related with  the lungs, the nostrils, the mouth, the stomach different systems of the body for example, digestive systems, respiratory system, circulatory systems, Lymphatic system cells etc. which can be considered to be derived from the ether.

The Element of Vayu (Air)

Vayu tattwa (Air element) is the next cosmic element, the element of movement and formlessness. It is also a subtle element after space. Air element evolves from space element thus its main sense attribute are sound and touch. This is the element associated with Pranyama practices.

Within the human body, air manifests itself as movement of muscles, heart pulsations, expansion and contraction of lungs and electrical movements of nerves.

The Element of Agni (Fire)

Agni tattwa (fire element) is next after air and space elements, the element of transformation and heat. Fire element is a grosser element than air and space but subtle than water and earth. The main sense attribute of Agni is vision but sound and touch are inherited because Agni element evolves from vayu and space.  

In our body, the fire is responsible for digestion, body temperature,vision, exchange of energies, thinking and intellect and all kind of metabolism.

Jal or Apa tattwa (water element)

Jal or Apa (water element) is next element. It is the element of liquidity and adaptivity. The main sense attribute of water is taste but sound, touch and vision are inherited as it evolves from earlier elements. In the universe water is present in the form of ocean, river and rain.

In the human body water has most percentage and related to all kind fluid. Water is present in the body in the form of blood, digestive and salivary fluids, in the mucus membranes, hormones, sweat etc. Water is the sea of life within us.

Prithvi tattwa (Earth element)

Prithvi tattwa or the Earth element is the fifth and last element in raw. It is the element which holds all living and nonliving substance therefore it is the element of stability and structure. It is most gross element among all five elements.

The main sense attribute of earth is smell with inherited attribute as it evolves from earlier elements.Similarly, in the human body, earth is responsible for the solid structures – bones, muscles, tendons, ligament, cartilage, cells, skin, nails and hair.

Ayurveda regards these five basic elements as manifestations of universal energy through the human body and its sensory experiences. The proper understanding of these concepts can help us bring our body into perfect harmony with its conscious mind.

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Why do you practice yoga? Most probably your answer will be for “well being”.

Is yoga enough to achieve complete wellness? I would say not actually, combined understanding of Yoga and Ayurveda is important for us to achieve complete well being. Yoga and Ayurveda are two interrelated branches of the same great tree of Vedic knowledge.

The word Ayurveda consists of two words Ayu and Vada. The word Ayu is derived from the primary word Ayus meaning life, Ayu is explained in Charak Samhita as a combination of Sharira (physical body), Indriya (senses), Manaha (mind) and Atman (soul). The word Veda originates from the word Vid, which means knowledge. Thus Ayurveda roughly translates as “knowledge of life”. The origin of Ayurveda could be more than 5000 years when writing system was not even evolved. It is believed that the Vedic knowledge was passed through cognition or was gained through meditation. Knowledge of Ayurveda includes use of various methods of healing, prevention, longevity and surgery. The Vedas consider as oldest exiting text. The Vedas are comprised of 4 major books (Rig, Yajur, Sam, and Atharv) which deal with various aspects of life. The oldest Veda book is Rig Veda. Rig Veda details many great concepts such as concepts of cosmology, tridosha theory, herbs and their use as medicines and more. However it is in the Atharvaveda where major references of Ayurveda are found. Atharvaveda gives a systematic description of Ashtang Ayurveda or the 8 branches of Ayurveda.

1. Kaya Chikitsa – internal medicine.
2. Shalyatantra – surgery.
3. Shalkyatantra – study of head and neck (ophthalmology and oto-rino-laryngology)
4. Agadtantra – toxicology.
5. Bootvidya – spiritual healing and psychiatry.
6. Kaumar and Prasutitantra – pediatrics and gynecology.
7. Rasayan  – geriatrics and rejuvenation.
8. Vaajikaran – reproduction and fortification of carnal pleasures.

Ayurveda and its streams were propagated through two schools at that time. First is Atreya Sampradaya or the school of physician, second is Dhanvantri Sampradaya or the school of surgeons. These two systems make Ayurveda more scientifically verifiable and classifiable medical system. Charak Samhita, Sushurut Samhita and Ashtanga Hridayam are the well known text of Ayurveda.

Ayurveda practice was at its peak in the Buddhist era around (500BC). This period was the growth of Ras-shastra and Siddha medicine, which is marked by the prominent use of mercury sulphur and metals in conjunction with herbs to prepare medication. But prior to this Ayurveda medicine were only constituted of herbs and certain minerals.

In the time of Chandra Gupta Maurya (300 bc) Ayurveda was an established health care system of India, this period could be classified as the golden period of Ayurveda. Emperor Ashoka (304-232BC) was highly influenced by Buddhist teaching after the Kalinga war, implemented the path of peace and spirituality, thus refraining from injuries and bloodshed.

Decline of Ayurveda Mughal invasion of India saw destruction of many Ayurveda treatises as the Mughals razed down ancient universities like Takshila and Nalanda which housed huge compilations. The Mughals were known for their high indulgence in carnal pleasures. Therefore during the Mughal regime Rasayan and Vaajikaran stream of Ayurdeva received heavy patronage, taking Ayurveda to a high level and continued to do so until Indian faced colonization by the British, which resulted in the massive decline of the Ayurveda practices and the implementation of our modern health care system.

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