A perfect balance of the five elements can be found in the outcome of Yoga practices.The spirit elements make up our body and mindand when we do Yoga we revive and energise all of them within us. The practice of Yoga works on identifying the most dominant trait of these five elements that enlightens us spiritually within.
The Fire Element symbolises purity, burning toxins and impurities and keeping disease at bay. Invoking this dominant power through Yoga increases the Fire Element (vigour and passion) in the body. Many Yoga Asanas are extremely powerful in speeding up digestion and in giving us a better functioning gastrointestinal system. The Yoga positions work to detoxify the internal organs.
The Air element is responsible for our breath, blood circulation, nerve impulses, and motor movements. It stimulates deep breathing alongside refining mental health. The Air element is balanced in the body through many chest-opening Asanas such asBhujangasana, commonly known as the Surya Namaskar and is performed in a cycle of asanas that open the heart and lungs.
The Earth element represents the muscular structure and other solid structures of the body such as the bones, nails, teeth, etc. Yoga Asanas like Vrikshasanaor the Tree Pose are the best asanas to help your body stay fit, your soul grounded, and your mind connected with the earth.
Water makes up to 60% of the Body’s composition. Its characteristics of flow, adaptability, ability to bind substances, and its healing nature stays in the body as nourishment, growth, and as a cleansing agent. Practicing Asanas like BaddhaKonasanaalso known as the Butterfly Pose can help in the regulation and balance of the Water element in your body.
The Ether or Space element is present in the neck, it beholds the head behind all actions. When the space element is balanced, there is an ability to freely express, explore and feel connected with the world around us. Meditation is a great tool to remind us that the space inside ourselves is the same space that exists in all beings. The best Yoga Asanas to harness the Space Element are ones that open the throat chakra these includeHalasana also known as the Plow Pose.
Find a way to connect to the Five Spirit Elements- Fire, Air, Earth,Water, Space through your daily Yoga practice that makes for a better lifestyle and healthy balance in the body.