+7 (906) 044-30-58
New York:
80 John st
+1 (212) 777.7702
22 W 19th st
+1 (212) 777.7719
301 E 57th st
+1 (212) 777.7703
info@completebody.com
The Five Elements
Everything in the universe is made up of a combination of the Five Elements (Pancha Mahabhutas). The human being is made up of the Five Elements as well, but also acquires a soul or spirit. These five elements are known as:
- Space (Akasha)
- Air (Vayu)
- Fire (Tejas)
- Water (Apa)
- Earth (Prithvi)
These five elements derive from an undifferentiated Creative Principle, which is One. These five elements are to be understood in a material sense as well as a subtle sense. By earth, we are to understand not only the terrain of our planet or the iron in our red blood cells, but also the quality of steadfastness of mind, strength of one’s moral fiber, one’s slow and quiet undeterred advancement towards a goal, and the resistance to the manifestations of others. By water, we mean to imply the cohesive aspects of reality that hold things together; this is perfectly and simply witnessed in the ubiquitous H2O molecule.
The other elements were also intended by the ancient vaidyas (physicians) to communicate the essential universal principle inherent in a particular element. By fire, we mean the universal force in nature that produces heat and radiates light; it is our passion to pursue despite obstacles and delays; it is what burns away the cloak of ignorance (avidya) and allows the Truth to shine with brilliance. Fire removes doubt from the human heart and replaces it with joy. Air is that transparent, rarefied, kinetic force which sets the universe in motion; it moves the blood through the vessels, wastes from the body, and thoughts through the mind; it moves the birds to warmer climates in winter, it moves the planets around their suns. Space is the subtlest of all elements which is everywhere and touches everything. In the mind, it is the vessel which receives all impressions; in the heart, it is the space that accepts love. Space is receptivity and non-resistance to what is true.
Consequently, these Five Subtle Elements (Pancha Mahabhutas) form the basis for all things found in the material creation, from a grain of sand to the complex physiology of every human being. Balancing these elements in just the right way for each individual is the key to maintaining health and treating physical, mental, or spiritual disease should it arise.