Ayurveda Elements - Healing Principles of Health

In Ayurvedic philosophy, the Five Great Elements (Pancha Mahabhuta) make up our natural world. These Five Ayurveda Elements can also be attributed to the different manifestations of Human Consciousness because of their similarly clear, subtle, mystical and omnipresent qualities. The relationship between the Five Elements is a dance amongst themselves and originates from the First Element, Ether, otherwise known as Space. In turn, Ether becomes Air causing friction to create Fire, becoming denser into Water and finally coagulating into Earth. Therefore, all Five Elements become contained in Earth as one.

Just as the natural world provides macro-ecology, the individual experiences a micro-ecology reflected by the natural world around them. Ayurvedic principles provide the tools to unite our inner and external ecology to build harmony. The principles aim to bring focus and balance to the Five Ayurveda Elements (Air, Fire, Water, Earth, Ether/Space) both internally and externally to restore and bring forth optimum mental and physical health emotionally and spiritually.

This article will highlight the five great Ayurvedic elements of the three doshas and your constitution, explaining why each is unique and how you can discover their qualities during an Ayurvedic retreat.

What are The Five Ayurveda Elements?

Akasha (Ether, Space)

Ether, known in Sanskrit as Akasha (“all-enclosing, omnipresent or all-pervading”), is considered the first and most subtle element. It permeates through the cosmos and is the omnipotent force for all life, sound, vibration and creation. It is the creative life force that gives drive and consciousness to existence. All the openings, pathways and movements in our body correspond to Akasha. There is space within our ears so we can hear sound. There is space within our throat so we can swallow. There is space between our joints so we can move. There is space within our hearts to keep the blood flowing. Akasha is more than just the absence of matter, it is the original form of existence to which everything and everyone formed and to which everything and everyone shall return to.

Vayu (Air)

Air, known in Sanskrit as Vayu, not only means air as a mixture of nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide and other gases but also as a dimension of movement. Out of all of the 5 Ayurvedic elements, Vayu is the most accessible and easiest element to gain some mastery of. Most yogic practices involve breathwork called pranayama. Prana means life force in Sanskrit and is available every moment of the day. Without Air, we have no breath or ability to move through life. The impact of the air that we breathe is very immediate. Most people can’t go without air for more than three-and-a-half to five minutes before causing serious damage or suffocation. The qualities of Air evoke movement, ease, lightness and speed but also unpredictability and flightiness.

Tejas or Agni (Fire)

Fire, known in Sanskrit as Agni, is essential for your health. Agni is the intelligent force of each cell, tissue and system within the physical body. It keeps us burning and moving. This fire directs the release of hormones via the endocrine system and oversees the digestive, metabolic and regulatory functions. Fire also resides in an even more subtle place: our minds. In our minds, fire provides clarity, illumination and truth. This subtle aspect of fire is called Tejas, and it directs all mental, emotional and spiritual activity, including the crucial mental actions of discernment and discipline. Fire is the element responsible for burning, clearing, transforming and illuminating, but also for destruction, rage, power, impatience and recklessness.

Apas (Water)

Water, known in Sanskrit as “Apas”, evolves from Ether, Air and Fire because it contains all aspects of the other three elements. Apas represents fluid matter and provides the body with basic nourishment and protection against dissolution, gives motion and soothes pain and inflammation. We as humans are made up of 70-75% water. It is the element that primarily protects our body and provides it with its most fundamental nourishment. By its qualities, water is cooling, hydrating, heavy, smooth, stagnant or inflow. It is the antidote to the symptoms that have the opposite of these qualities such as deep sensitivity, emotionally ungrounded, dehydrated, on-edge, low self-esteem or if your heart has become hardened.

Prithvi (Earth)

Earth, known in Sanskrit as “Prithvi” is the fifth and final great element. It is the final element because it evolves out of all five elements and contains the essence of all. Earth represents the densification of all matter until it becomes solid. Prithvi by its quality is stable, heavy, dry, dense, hard and tangible. When you are feeling ungrounded and unearthed you may feel flighty, chaotic or stuck in your head.

The Five Ayurveda Elements and their Relationship to the Doshas

The Five Great Elements exist within all of us, and they all combine to form what is known in Ayurveda as a dosha which forms your overall constitution. There are 3 doshas – Vata, Pitta and Kapha, which are predetermined from the moment of your conception. An Ayurvedic doctor at Sen Wellness can guide you to understand what your Dosha is based on a series of questions about your lifestyle, food habits and energetic levels.

Vata is formed from the Air & Ether Elements

Its primary principle is movement and flow. Vata is that impulsive, spontaneous ease that is light-footed and gone with the wind in your hair. Vata resides in the colon, large intestines, pelvis, lower back and thighs. It is the breeze that ignites your digestion, eliminating toxins and waste. Yet it is also responsible for the flowing movement in your body, the metabolism and cellular behaviour. It is the fuel to your fire (Agni), your intellect, your passions and your intuition as it is also an integral part of your nervous system. As described earlier regarding the movements of the elements and their relationship to one another – it also has a very key part in determining the other two Doshas; Pitta and Kapha.

Kapha is formed from the Earth & Water Elements

With its cooling and soothing properties, Water gives primary protection to the body against too much heat (Pitta) and movement (Vata). However, Kapha provides the underlying structure and foundation making way for the growth and development of matter and tissue in the body. As Kapha increases in the body, there is also an increase in thickening fluids alongside the structure of the body. Kapha provides protection and lubrication to all the body organs in the form of mucous, brain fluid and synovial fluid for the joints. Kapha mostly resides in the upper body including the respiratory system, upper stomach, mucous membranes, joints and head.

Pitta is formed from the Fire & Water Elements

The main attribute of Pitta is that of transformation. Its qualities are hot, light and flowing. Imagine Pitta as the caterpillar evolving into a beautiful butterfly out of its chrysalis or the boiling water that steams and evaporates. Pitta, like Agni, is passionate and sharp. It manifests in you as your inner confidence and passions. It is found within the body in the stomach and small intestine. It is the driving force behind your internal temperature, but also your intellect, intuition and emotions. Pitta is responsible for your metabolism, mostly impacting the blood, eyes, skin, liver, stomach, spleen and gallbladder.

The Doshas and their Imbalances

Vata is a combination of Air and Ether, it is without Fire, Water or Earth. Therefore, its properties associated with Vata dosha include dryness, coldness, mobility and lightness. It is responsible for the Central Nervous System, respiratory system and general mobility in the body. When Vata is in balance, it gives clarity, energy, enthusiasm and creativity. However, when it is out of balance it can cause nervousness, anxiety, restlessness, insomnia and digestion issues.

Pitta is a combination of Fire and Water. It has properties that include heat, a build-up of acidity or tartness and the ability to spread (think like Wild Fire). It is responsible for your metabolism, the endocrine system, speech fluency, motivation, intellect and good mental and physical digestion. When it is out of balance it can cause rage, irritability, impatience, stress and frustration. It can also cause skin irritations and gut problems.

Kapha is a combination of Water and Earth. Its properties include coldness, stability, weight and oiliness. It is responsible for the immune system and the lubrication of the body. When it is in good balance it supports strength, stamina, motivation, a healthy immune system and strong mental stability. However, when it is out of balance, there can be symptoms of lethargy, weight gain, stubbornness and depression.

How an Ayurveda Retreat can help Balance the Elements

If you keep the Five Great Elements controlled, vibrant and focused, health, well-being and success in the world is assured. If you want to live strong, you need to constantly be in touch with the Five Great Elements. Build resilience with the Elements.
Dr Harnika, Sen Wellness Ayurvedic Doctor

When you arrive at The Sanctuary, each guest will have a private consultation with our resident Ayurvedic Doctor. The primary focus for our practitioners at Sen Wellness is to discover the root cause of disease, whether that be due to certain lifestyle choices, stress, medical prerequisites or emotional imbalances. You will then be prescribed a comprehensive, personalised programme of treatments and herbal medicines depending on your constitution and any imbalances present. Ayurvedic practitioners share the belief that disease begins from within. The emotional and mental disease that forms in the guise of anxiety, depression or stress perpetuates a build-up of negativity in the system, which can lead to a manifestation of painful physical ailments such as muscle aches, digestion problems, lethargy or skin irritations. The symptoms of these ailments can be identified by our highly qualified Ayurvedic doctors who can diagnose even the most subtle issues forming in the body. These symptoms are then identified and addressed with bodywork treatments such as Ayurvedic treatments, diet, herbal medicine, yoga, meditation and breathwork exercises. This is the holistic approach that we create at Sen Wellness Sanctuary during your retreat to encourage your whole being to come into full balance with the Great Five Elements and your constitution.

Schedule at the Sanctuary

During your retreat at Sen Wellness Sanctuary, your daily routine revolves around the Ayurvedic principles known in Sanskrit as dinacharya, meaning “to be close to the day”. This routine is deeply in touch with the rhythms of nature, the cycles of the earth, moon and sun.

Waking at dawn with a refreshing herbal tea, alongside the animals and nature surrounding the Sanctuary allows you to tune in with the day from the beginning. Starting your day with a yoga class is the best way to kick-start your Agni (Fire) so that you feel energised for the day. The daily pranayama breathwork opens your Vayu (Air) and Akasha (Ether, Space) elements. After Yoga, you are welcome to swim in the Indian Ocean or the cool Sanctuary Pool, connecting with the water allows you to refresh and connect with your apas (Water).

A healthy but light breakfast is served after yoga. Food is the medicine of the Earth and brings you deeper into connection with your internal Prithvi (Earth) element. At the Sanctuary, your diet consists of a selection of home-cooked and raw vegetables and little-to-no dairy products.

The rest of your day is open to rest, relaxation, or a local excursion to the surrounding areas. All your treatments are scheduled during the day so you can enjoy your prescribed Ayurvedic massage and treatments in a peaceful, natural environment. This routine provides a structure that supports your internal system to restore balance and harmony to your biological and emotional balance. During your stay, this routine will support you with a greater toolkit of self-care practices that you will be able to integrate back home.

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Sen Wellness Sanctuary

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Cecilia Z.

I had such an amazing experience at the sen wellness sanctuary, the staff was so kind and professional and all the classes and treatments were amazing.
The Sanctuary is located in a natural reserve so you are in contact with all type of animals and just a few steps from the beach, which makes it more special.
I would love to come back at least once a year to this special place.

Barbara D.

A wonderful experience. The resort offers excellent service with outstanding professionals in every area. Both the treatments and the care provided by the doctors, as well as the yoga and breathing classes, are highly recommended. The location, between a lagoon and a wild beach inside a natural park, makes it unique.

kazu y

9月のDragonfly Retreatに参加させていただきました。二度目のスリランカで初めてsen wellnessにお世話になりました。とても静かで穏やかな環境下にあるサンクチュアリ。アーユルヴェーダの先生方、施術スタッフの皆さん、シェフ、ホテルスタッフの皆さん全員が暖かく、とても心地よく過ごすことができました。アーユルヴェーダの背術は期待以上！個人に合わせた施術プランを立ててくれます。私はAC無しのお部屋に宿泊しましたが、清掃も行き届いていてシンプルながら快適でした。ACがついているロッジも見せてもらいましたが、とても素敵でした。そして毎食何といっても楽しみだったのが、絶品お料理！朝の瞑想とヨガ後のキングココナッツも最高です。
蚊に刺されやすい方は、ディートかイカリジン入り虫除けは必須です！

アットホームで素晴らしいホスピタリティに感謝です。ぜひまた伺いたいです。

Richa S.

Recently visited Sen wellness sanctuary Colombo after finishing my chemotherapy for detoxification & holistic wellness. The centre really justifies its name of being a sanctuary , a healing refuge mentally , physically & spiritually. Plethora of treatments by their well trained staff , continuous guidance & consultations with their qualified doctors , everyday yoga & meditation sessions , all ensured our healthy well being. The food too complimented the same with its nourishing value & pleasing presentations. With its beautiful , green & serene environment it’s the best place to rejuvenate & unwind. We will definitely come back to the experience.
Thanks for all the healing team Sen wellness

J. B.

I stayed here for 6 days and I wish I had more days!

I needed a "reset" from the hustle and bustle of New York and I came here without that much expectations. What I found here was a pleasant surprise.

Food - the food was very healthy (not traditional Western salads healthy). It may be challenging for some as other than eggs, no animal protein is provided. However, it was overall extremely healthy - everything was made in house, even sauces and peanut butter.

Treatments - I really thought there would only be 1-2 treatments a day but to my shock, you get 3-5 treatments a day. In addition, you could also do special sessions with the owner (Dr Sam) if he is visiting. My sessions with the team and Dr Sam were incredibly helpful to relieve my anxiety.

Fixed Schedule - if you want to reset and not think about anything, this is the perfect place. Everything is thought about for you - food, activities, daily treatments. Literally all you have to do is show up and relax.

Yoga, Breathwork and Community - Most importantly, I loved the sanctuary because of the yoga and the community. There are sessions with the yoga teacher, a breathwork teacher, and a monk.

Ana Maria Gaviria E.

A Truly Transformative Ayurvedic Experience
I had the most wonderful stay at this Ayurvedic retreat. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed, cared for, and completely at ease. The staff were not only professional but also genuinely warm and attentive, making me feel like part of their family.

The Ayurvedic consultations were thorough and insightful, with treatments tailored perfectly to my needs. Each therapy session was deeply relaxing, and I could feel my stress melting away day by day. The massages, herbal remedies, and healing rituals were authentic and done with so much skill and compassion.

The food was another highlight – delicious, nourishing, and beautifully prepared according to Ayurvedic principles. I left each meal feeling light yet satisfied, and I could truly feel the difference in my energy levels and overall wellbeing.

The peaceful setting of the retreat made the whole experience even more special. Surrounded by nature, I found the time and space to disconnect, reflect, and recharge. By the end of my stay, I felt rejuvenated, balanced, and more in tune with myself than I have in years.

I can’t recommend this retreat highly enough to anyone seeking deep relaxation, healing, or simply a reset from everyday life.

Thanks to all the staff , Dr Chamodi, Madu,Sam , Alex and Mariana ! This place is in my heart i will definitely come back !

Marion F.

I was part of the Golden Summer Retreat at Zen Wellness Sanctuary, and it was a truly beautiful time for me. The sanctuary is a magical place, located between a lagoon and the ocean, right in the middle of nature. The sea is wild, and the beach is empty, clean, and natural – perfect for long walks after morning yoga, watching the sunset in the evening, or looking up at the stars at night. Everything was very well organized. The Ayurvedic treatments were excellent, and the team of therapists did a really wonderful job.
The food was really excellent, and meals were always shared together, which created a warm sense of community. This makes the retreat also very suitable for solo travelers, as it is easy to connect with others. There were also many extra activities. One special highlight for me was the trip to the beach in the afternoon, where we practiced breathwork at sunset – an unforgettable experience. I also enjoyed the meditations, the visit of a monk, and the different workshops, which were all very enriching.
I especially loved the yoga classes with Mariana, as well as her breathwork session, which was a completely new and powerful experience for me. Overall, I spent a truly wonderful week at Zen Wellness Sanctuary, full of new impressions and experiences. I am very grateful for this time and would like to thank the whole team for everything.

Mel D.

My daughter and I stayed at Sen and participated in the dragonfly retreat. We had both been grieving the loss of a loved one and the time here helped us to heal and gather the necessary tools to continue to heal when we returned home. All of the staff were caring and knowledgeable in their practices and the food was something you need to experience. We are planning on coming back. Thank you Sen for having us.

Maks B.

While I was searching for a place for the perfect getaway, away from distractions and noise, I came across SEN. The reviews about this place were overwhelmingly positive, with only a few that slightly worried me. I wanted to clarify them so that anyone visiting afterward wouldn’t have to wonder about these points beforehand.

This is a magical place for both body and soul, mainly because of the wonderful and kind people working there, its unique location, and the harmony it exudes. I came here seeking relaxation, but I received so much more. The day begins with yoga. I read that many people didn’t enjoy these classes, but I had a completely different experience—they were excellent in my opinion. Suitable for everyone, they teach a love for the practice.

The food is exceptional varied, healthy, and perfect for a full detox, thanks to the head chef who is amazing and whom I warmly greet. The meals are incredibly good, diverse, and fresh. This is definitely a detox-focused diet, but it delivers great results.

The most important part of my stay became the care provided by Dr. Chamodi and her team. She is amazing and invaluable, taking care of every detail of your stay in line with Ayurvedic practice. Throughout the day, various treatments are offered, all of top-level quality. The massages and their Sri Lankan ambiance became something I deeply miss. Special greetings to Rasange, though the entire team is truly excellent.

SEN is a place with minor flaws, but they are minimal compared to what it offers. If you want to be fully prepared, here’s a tip: you need to be certain about the length of your stay, as management reserves the right not to negotiate the rate set upon arrival. So it’s worth deciding in advance how long you want to stay. Initially, I thought 14 days might be too long, but it turned out to be a wonderfully rejuvenating period.

Additionally, it’s worth bringing products other than Sri Lankan mosquito repellents, as there are many mosquitoes. If you prefer your own yoga mat and want it very clean, bring it along. The only aspect that could be improved is the beach towels and new yoga mats—they need replacement, but this is completely natural. This is a place strongly focused on wellbeing, so it may not bother you at all they are really good but could be little better. I was without mine and it works really fine so don't worry. Its an info for extra pedantic characters and their comfort zone.

Someone mentioned that massage towels are dirty, but that is not true. I checked and discussed this, and it simply isn’t the case. The cleaning stuff is amazing. Thank you guys. U are doing good job.

These are my only two notes. Otherwise, I want to say that this place is truly worth visiting. It has its own microclimate and energy. Located in a completely secluded area, if you value a private beach and being close to the sounds of the sea, this might be the best place in the world. I highly recommend it. Once again, I want to thank the entire team, both the doctors and all the staff, who ensure this place is so exceptional from management, the team from London, to every single employee. I adore you for your energy. Never lose it.
I believe we will meet again soon. Maks

Fi W.

I came here for a 10 day retreat and experience haven, a sanctuary, and a sacred space where I could rest, restore, and do some deep inner work.

A truly world class experience.

I have never been somewhere that has offered so much care, love and attention both to me and the details of how they make the entire experience deeply personal and special

The treatments were of an extraordinarily high calibre, The food crafted with so much care, I felt very held by Sam, Mariana, Alex and the rest of the Sen team who are all really spiritual and caring people.

For those travelling alone, I can only tell you that it is a very safe place and you will be deeply welcomed

beatriz S.

Our experience in Sen welleness sanctuary has been beautiful, I could say life changing. Special mention to the entire team that work here, they are all very professional and kind.

The sanctuary’s location is at a stunning place between the rekawa lagoon and the beach in the south of Sri Lanka.
10/10, highly recommend it 🩵

Pilar M.

Such a wonderfull and life changing experience. The whole team is welcoming and excellent professionals. Beautifull space, wonderfull location and nature. Very well prepared programme and treatments. Totally recommended.

Stephanie Marinus - Learn Earn & R.

I cannot express my gratitude deeply enough for the experience I had at Sen Wellness Sanctuary. After flying all the way from Canada, it took just three days for Dr. Sam and his compassionate team to give me my life back following my young brother's death. Upon reaching out, I learned the sanctuary was fully booked, but after hearing my plea for help, they somehow made special room for my boyfriend and I. It was an act of profound compassion that set the stage for our entire experience. While my soul was doing the hard work of healing from grief, my body was continuously comforted with restorative Ayurvedic treatments. The daily massages, herbal soaks, and curated therapies were a constant source of peace, a beautiful reminder that while the inner work was difficult, I was being cared for on a physical level. The sanctuary's dedication to holistic well-being is truly unparalleled. In a testament to this, they brought in a Buddhist monk for spiritual teachings, and on a separate occasion, when a turtle nest was discovered, they called in a conservation officer. We were able to help the newborn turtles make it safely to sea, an experience that was as spiritual and healing as any of the treatments. Dr. Sam and his team have created more than just a retreat; it's a sanctuary for the soul, a place where profound healing is not just possible-its inevitable. Sen is forever in my heart

Kirstin S.

Truly a beautiful experience- one week here feels like a month in the real world. Allow yourself the gift of disconnection to connect with what matters, yourself & community. People are kind, treatments are wonderful, food is delicious, pacing is calm. No pressure to do much of anything- the healing is intuitive just by existing. Thank you! I can't wait to come back here!

Lara A.

I stayed in this beautiful sanctuary for almost a week. The place and service is incredible! Highly recommended. I am picky with my food and they accommodated all my needs and never made me feel like my asks were too much or anything. Madu, Samin, Taru, the founder Sam, everyone was so nice and welcoming the whole time. Felt like home away from home ♥️ highly recommended to anyone who wants to reconnect with themselves and rest and recharge.

The Final Word

Ayurvedic teachings aim to bring awareness to the Five Great Elements (Air, Fire, Water, Earth, Ether/Space) both internally and externally of ourselves, to restore and balance our internal and external health. They combine in various ways, in different proportions to form your individual body type and constitution. This constitution is then determined by the predominant Doshas (Vata, Kapha, Pitta) within you.

At Sen Wellness Sanctuary, we have not only specifically designed our treatment program but also the layout of our building to compliment your wellness journey. This exemplifies the importance of your external world mirroring your internal world and our intention to support you in finding total restoration and balance.