Panch Mahabhuta is a group of five basic elements that forms the foundation of all cosmic creation.
Ayurved emphasizes that all human body reflects the same elemental composition as the universe fornming the basis of health and disease.
Akasha - Ether
Vayu - Air
Teja - Fire
Apas - Water
Prithvi - Earth
Each Element has its unique vibrational pattern. To understand this think of the elements as principles of destiny Ether being the most subtle (Light) and Earth being the grossest (Heavy)
ETHER is the idea of empty space, the space between all things that separate one thing from another and yet connect everything. In Human body, we can relate the Element Ether with the hollow space between the organs and channels.
With context to Mind, ether represents a clear space from where all ideas or possibilities come from.
The qualities of Ether are light, expansive, subtle, open, smooth and soft. The more Ether you have in your body/mind, the clearer and creative you will be.
AIR Element represents Motion/ Movements.
We cannot see Air but its presence can be felt. Similarly, in our body we can see the effects of Air Element. Nerve impulses, circulation, joint movement, the elimination of waste are all governed by the Air principle. Within Mind it governs adaptability, enthusiasm, and quick thinking. The qualities of Air are cold, dry, rough, erratic and clear.
Balanced Air promotes vitality and flexibility whereas excess may cause restlessness.
FIRE is the Idea of Heat Light and Transformation.
In the body, fire is necessary to digest and break down food. The fire principle is what allows food to transform into body tissue.
Fire also creates intelligence and understanding in the mind. This is what we mean when we say someone is “bright.”
WATER is the idea of fluidity and flow.
In the body, it's the plasma, urine, saliva, secretions, and the fluid around cells.
Within Mind, Water element is associated with love, empathy, and deep emotional connections. Out of balance Water element may lead to over-attachment or emotional imbalance.
Defining qualities of Water are cool, heavy, and flowing.
EARTH is the idea of solidity or stability.
In the body, it's all solid structure like bones, muscles, organs, skin, hair, and teeth.
The more Earth you have in your constitution the heavier and denser your body will be. Earth in the mind creates a steadiness with firm decision making ability.
The qualities of the earth element are cool, dry, heavy, stable, slow, and rough.