Five Elements

In the Hindu ethos, this world is formed by the five elements. They are Agni(Fire), Vayu(Wind), Varuna (water), Bhoomi(Earth) and Akasha (space). All the matter in this universe is made of these elements. Even the living soul is made out of these five elements, known as pancha bhootas.The concept is a beautiful one which identifies nature with the living and the inanimate.

Ayurveda, the ancient science of medicine gives importance to this concept and speaks of harmony among these elements. Any dis-harmony among them causes illness.On the cosmic level, the same dis-harmony is evident when the natural elements are exploited to the extreme upsetting the balance.

Man, when he accepts this truth can harness these elements without disturbing the harmony to live a balanced life. Man is sustained by Prana Vayu-the living breath. The science of Pranayama helps in harnessing this vayu element for the well being of the individual. In fact, it is claimed that by regulating this pranavayu, one can lead a healthy life leading towards higher realisation