The Science of Life

Ayurveda

Āyurveda is one of the oldest systems of health care in the world, originating in India more than 5,000 years ago. It provides a framework for understanding ourselves and our world through the five elements: ether (space), air (wind), fire, water, and earth.

These five elements exist in everything in nature, including in each human. The elements combine into three archetypes (doṣas): vāta (space + wind), pitta (fire + water), and kapha (earth + water), which control the creation, maintenance, and health of the body, mind, and energy systems, and can be kept in balance by aligning with the rhythms of nature.

“do not feel lonely. the entire universe is inside you.”

— Rumi

The Gifts of the Elements

  • Purple Spiral representing the space element.

    Space

    The space element provides the container for growth and expansion. We hold space for the fullness of life, which includes emptiness as much as it includes abundance.

  • Blue graphic of the wind element

    Wind

    The wind element gives us the momentum to make change in our lives and in the world.

  • Yellow graphic of a flame representing the fire element.

    Fire

    We learn about transformation from the fire, developing discipline and dedication.

  • Teal graphic of a drop of water representing the water element

    Water

    We learn to be fluid and flexible like water, going with the flow and adapting to change.

  • Green graphic of three leaves representing the earth element.

    Earth

    We gather abundance and support from the earth, building a strong foundation with deep roots.

The Three Dosas

  • Blue circle with a lotus mandala and the word VATA written in the center.

    Wind + Space

    Functions

    Movement and Communication

    Gifts

    Inspiration, creativity, adaptability, motivation, enthusiasm, intuition

    Season

    Late fall & winter

    Location

    Colon, thighs, back of the legs, hips, ears, bones

    Qualities

    Dry, light, cold, rough, subtle, clear, mobile

    Common Imbalances

    Dry skin, hair, nails, lips

    Constipation, gas, bloating

    Dry, cracking joints

    Insomnia

    Fear, anxiety, nervousness

    Needs

    Grounding, rhythm, stability

  • FIRE + WATER

    Functions

    Digestion & Transformation

    Gifts

    Focus, discipline, passion, confidence, discernment, action

    Season

    Summer

    Location

    Small intestine, stomach, sweat, blood, eyes, feet

    Qualities

    Oily, sharp, penetrating, hot, light, malodorous, spreading, liquid

    Common Imbalances

    Feeling overheated, hot flashes

    Skin problems (rashes, acne)

    Red, irritated eyes

    Heartburn, diarrhea, loose stools

    anger, frustration, irritation

    Needs

    Cooling, ease, soothing

  • EARTH + WATER

    Functions

    Structure & Cohesion

    Gifts

    Nurturing, connection, love, support, boundaries, lubrication, endurance

    Qualities

    Cold, wet, heavy, dull, sticky, soft, steady, solid, smooth

    Location

    Chest, lungs, throat, head, stomach, lymph, fat

    Season

    Spring

    Common Imbalances

    Mucus buildup

    Weight gain

    Sluggish digestion

    Water retention

    Lethargy, depression

    Needs

    Lightness, flow, warmth

The three main causes of disease

overstimulation of the senses

crimes against wisdom

disconnection from nature

Signs your body has lost its rhythm

  • Digestive concerns: gas, bloating, constipation, heartburn, reflux, sour burps loose stools

  • Sluggish metabolism

  • Difficulty falling or staying asleep

  • Waking up in the morning without feeling refreshed

  • Auto-immune conditions

  • Acute or persistent pain or injury

  • Arthritis or achy joints

  • Osteoporosis  

  • Anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Trouble remembering things

  • Foggy thinking

  • Low or high energy

  • Low libido

  • Heavy or light menstrual flow

  • Hormone imbalance

  • Dry, irritated, lackluster or oily, acne-prone skin

  • Hair loss

  • Not feeling like yourself

  • Feeling disconnected

  • Malaise or lethargy

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