The 5 Elements in Yoga and Ayurveda

An Infographic

The panchmahabhutas or the 5 great elements are the foundation of both yogic and ayurvedic philosophy. In western based philosophy we often think of just 4 elements that exist in the external, material world only. Within ayurvedic and yogic philosophy there are 5 main elements that we are deeply connected to and made up of.

Each element has their own unique characteristics that are very important to become familiar with before delving deeper into the doshas of Ayurveda or the Samkhya philosophy which many connect to The Yoga Sutra of Patanjali. Always start from the ground up!

Here is a simplified visual guide to help you; recognise each element externally and also internally within your body, practices in how to increase them, the Sanskrit and some fun facts along the way!

We cover the panchmahabhutas or 5 element theory in our Ayurveda classes here at Wild Warrior Yoga, as apart of the 200hr yoga teacher training and the 300hr advanced training.

There are 3 hours worth of Ayurveda theory classes, on the 200 hour course, with options to learn more about the habit forming and routine implementing aspects of the practice during your living experience with us. You will learn about the 5 elements along with the 3 doshas which are the main constitutions or the humor of a person. You will also become familiar with the way the doshas manifest when they are in balance and when they are out of balance and what we can do to maintain health and vibrancy day to day.

The last part of the Ayurveda theory classes will focus on diet principles and the theory behind why certain doshas or constitutions should avoid eating too much of certain foods and tastes. Along with universal ayurvedic eating principles that you can apply to anyone, anywhere!