The second element of Ayurveda is air. Having a better understanding of the five elements can help you understand Ayurveda and your world better.
The Second of the Five Elements of Ayurveda – Air
Air is the second of the five elements of nature (Pancha mahabhutus) and one of the most vital elements.
The element of air evolves from ether and is called “vayu” in Sanskrit. It is associated with the air that we breathe and is considered a life force, for we cannot live without it. It is the life force inherent in every motion.
The qualities of the Element of Air
- Mobile
- Subtle
- Clear
- Flowing
- Light
- Cool
- Dry
- Rough
- Sharp
- Hard
The Element of Air and the Physical Body
Air is the element that governs all movement, change, and direction within the body. It is present in the nervous and respiratory systems and responsible for breathing, ingestion, blood circulation, and elimination. It is the energy behind our thoughts and it is accountable for our sense of touch.
When the air element is out of balance, blocked, or moving too fast or too slow, it can affect our bodily functions.
For example, an excess of air in the nervous system can cause fidgety hyperactivity and lethargy when there is no air movement. In the digestive system, diarrhea when it’s in excess and constipation when it’s deficient.
The Element of Air and Taste
All of creation consists of a unique proportion of the five elements of nature. As to nutrition, the taste of bitter has the most of the air element. Bitter contains both the air and ether elements. Air is what gives bitter its unique taste.
Bitter is an excellent source for increasing air when the air element is out of balance, and you feel fatigued. However, if your Ayurvedic constitution is Vata, too much air in your diet may result in anxiety, restlessness, or sleeplessness.
Ayurveda recommends a proper balance as per your Ayurvedic constitution and current health state.
Sources of the Taste of Bitter:
- Coffee
- Most teas
- Cacao
- Tumeric
- Dill
- Brussels sprouts
- Collard greens
- Raw kale
- Eggplant
- Zucchini
The Season of the Element of Air is Autumn
The air element season is autumn when the daylight becomes shorter, the temperature cooler, and the nighttime increases.
During this time, there is a shift in the weather as the leaves start to shed, and everything becomes lighter.
Although we love taking action during this time of the year, too much activity and airiness may lead to exhaustion, restlessness, or insomnia.
You can avoid becoming too active and volatile by spending some time in reflection. And as always, remember to have a proper balance as per your Ayurvedic constitution and current health state.
The Element of Air and the Dosha
The Vata Dosha consists of Air and Ether. A decrease in the element of air will throw a Vata out of balance. Balance is vital to a healthy Vata.
The key is to maintain a balance between allowing while controlling; controlling slows down excessive flow while allowing prevents resistance and unproductivity.
You can control the second element of nature – air and keep the Vata dosha from becoming aggravated by having a stable and healthy routine.
Ayurveda suggests Vata people with a dominance of the air and ether elements to eat heavy warm foods and sweat a bit through exercise to keep the air steady and slow down its movement.
As per the Ayurveda wisdom, the act of surrender and having faith are the highest emotional manifestation of air, for it is through surrendering and having faith in one Self and the Divine that we allow the air to flow effortlessly through our body.
To learn more about Ayurveda please refer to An Introduction to Ayurveda and Ayurveda Lifestyle and Daily Routines.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
- The First of the Five Elements of Ayurveda – ETHER
- The Third of the Five Elements of Ayurveda – FIRE
- The Fourth of the Five Elements of Ayurveda – WATER
- The Fifth of the Five Elements of Ayurveda – EARTH
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