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.

Excellent

Sen Wellness Sanctuary

Based on 242 reviews

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Ariel F.

We booked our stay at Sen Wellness just 24 hours before arriving, planning to stay for only 3 days. We loved it so much that we ended up extending to a full week.

Everything about this place is special. The staff are amazing — from the yoga teachers and doctors to the massage therapists and wellness team, everyone takes such good care of you and makes you feel at home. The food was out of this world, healthy but also unbelievably delicious.

The setting itself is magical. The wildlife around the sanctuary was unbelievable — we saw so many incredible animals right on our doorstep, which made the whole experience even more unique.

What really stood out too were the people we met there. The guests that come to Sen Wellness are some of the most interesting, kind, and inspiring people you could hope to meet.

This place is more than just a retreat — it’s somewhere you leave feeling lighter, healthier, and more connected. I’d recommend this place to anyone!

Niv F.

I had the privilege of spending a week at Sen Wellness Sanctuary, and I can honestly say it was one of the best experiences of my life. The staff and doctors here are absolutely amazing – warm, attentive, and genuinely invested in your wellbeing. From the moment I arrived, I felt cared for on every level.

The environment is breathtaking – surrounded by pristine nature, the beach, and the lagoon – it creates the perfect setting for healing and transformation. The daily yoga, Ayurvedic treatments, and nourishing food all worked together to bring me balance, clarity, and peace.

What really stood out to me were the two brothers who own the sanctuary. They genuinely care for every guest, and you can feel their kindness and authenticity in everything they do. They’re some of the nicest people I’ve ever met, and their vision and heart make this place unlike anywhere else.

If you want to change your life for the better, come here. Sen Wellness Sanctuary is not just a retreat, it’s a life-changing experience. I will definitely be coming back very soon.

Tal F.

The best experience I’ve ever had at a hotel. I came for 3 days but stayed 7 days. The staff are the nicest people you’ll meet and they really care about your well being. The food is absolutely amazing, Michelin star level. The doctors are the best you can find and really help you with your needs and health issues. The hotel is situated in the nicest plot of land in between a beautiful lagoon and beach that are both accessible from the hotel. If you are looking for an Ayurveda wellness resort or even a nice hotel surrounded by beautiful nature this is your place.

A T

This was my first-ever retreat! I chose the 3-day program and stayed alongside guests whose visits ranged from 5 days to 3 weeks.

Always ask questions or requests, it will help you get the most out of your stay. During my visit, there were complimentary activities available, but you needed to request them. Sometimes these activities depended on a set schedule or the number of guests interested, so plan accordingly.

Meals were delicious and sometimes varied.

One note for improvement: during one of my treatments, I noticed the towel hadn’t been changed, and I had to ask for a fresh one. I hope this was just a one-off oversight, but I’m sharing it to help improve the experience.

Overall, I would stay again. What made the experience especially lovely were the other guests and people I met who were all open, kind, and wonderful to be around.

Big shoutout to Nat and Mariana, the wellness manager and yoga instructor, who brought great energy, made us feel welcome, and were also on their own journeys. The onsite doctor and staff truly took great care of everyone.

Thank you!

Andrew M.

Absolutely FANTASTIC!! I recommend this place so highly to anyone and everyone!

The staff are soooo wonderful, honestly they look after you so well. The place is so clean, every day they clean and make your room.

The pool Is soo nice and it’s not chlorinated so it’s so beautiful and fresh.
The Dr will assess you when you come and everyday will give you treatments to do and treatments are the best!

Oh also, turtles laying eggs on beach is very cool.

Doing yoga and meditation twice a day in the yoga studio with monkeys in the trees, beautiful birds and squirrels, it’s such an enchanting place!

Peacocks are always walking around the yards.

If you want the best Ayurvedic retreat, this is the one for you! 🤗

Cerys H.

I stayed at Sen Wellness for three days and found the entire experience deeply relaxing and restorative. The daily timetable was thoughtfully planned, with each day following a similar structure. As someone on the autism spectrum, I found this predictability very reassuring and supportive.

The treatments were excellent and noticeably beneficial for my wellbeing. I particularly appreciated how accommodating the team was to my physical disability — they personally escorted me to my room to ensure my safety, and even made me a walking stick during my stay. The consultation with Dr. Sam, the CEO, was another highlight; his warm, understanding manner, combined with breathing exercises and acupuncture-style pressure point work, felt both validating and affirming.

The food was delicious, fresh, and healthy. I even lost 2kg during my stay without ever feeling deprived or as though I was “on a diet.”

Beyond the sanctuary itself, the trips they offered enriched the experience — I enjoyed a serene boat ride in the lagoon behind the hotel, and they also organise temple visits. On Mondays, a monk visits the sanctuary to lead a guided meditation and share Buddhist philosophy, which was both calming and thought-provoking.

My short stay left me feeling rejuvenated and cared for, and I would happily return for a longer visit in the future.

keren M.

Sen wellness is fully focused on health and enrichment of the whole body . I found the auyvedic treatments were extremely beneficial and the consultation with the auyvedic doctor very accurate in assessing my body and what would improve my health. The food is delicious and mostly vegetarian. It was fresh , nourishing and plentiful. The accomodation was fair , but a little cramped quarters for 2 single people. Definitely recommend the Sen and all the lovely people who work there.

Aline X C.

I came for 10days and ending up staying 14days. The staff, the location, the treatments are amazing. I loved meeting the Doctors, they are kind and very knowledgable, the therapists really good. I really felt a strong energy renewal during this retreat. I highly recommend

Ludovic R

A truly unique and enriching experience! The Ayurvedic treatments were both relaxing and revitalizing. All the staff were incredibly kind, professional, and attentive to every detail. I left feeling balanced, refreshed, and deeply cared for. Highly recommended for anyone looking to reconnect with themselves in a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere — on a wonderful, almost private beach where turtles come to nest and one can run without meeting anyone but the waves. Many thanks to all the staff who go above and beyond to meet our needs. Particular mention for Doctor Chamodi and her entire team. They are exceptional — professional, caring, and truly dedicated to their patients' well-being. I want to give special praise to Rasanga, who has a remarkable gift. His massages are simply magical and bring an incredible sense of relief and relaxation. You can genuinely feel the passion and talent in his hands. An outstanding experience from start to finish!

Max V.

This was my very first 10-day retreat at Sen Wellness Sanctuary, and I can confidently say—it was an unforgettable journey. The location is absolutely stunning, nestled in nature with a peaceful, healing atmosphere that soothes you the moment you arrive.

The staff are incredibly friendly and welcoming, always ready to help with warm smiles. I felt at home from day one. The food was delicious, nourishing, and beautifully prepared to support our wellness journey.

The treatments and meditation sessions were amazing—each day brought a deeper sense of peace and connection. I also appreciated how knowledgeable and kind the doctors were. They took time to listen, understand, and guide me through my relaxation and detox process.

Overall, this experience was beyond my expectations. I feel renewed in body, mind, and soul. I’ll definitely be coming back—thank you, Sen Wellness, for such a magical and healing retreat!
Thank you
Best regard
Max

💐💐💐

Hadas P.

I came alone to Sen Wellness Sanctuary for 10 magical days
Everything was simply perfect: the incredibly kind and attentive staff (thank you to Madhu, Jasmin, Dr chamodi and her lovely team, the wonderful therapists, especially Rasanga who did everything he could to heal my back with care, professionalism, and a smile and the kitchen staff, the chef, and sweet, always-smiling Sami)
The place is beautifully maintained, .clean, peaceful, and full of hear
My room by the ocean was lovel
The daily schedule is grounding and nourishing: morning and evening yoga, healthy delicious food, amazing body treatments, soul-soothing meditations (thank you, Shefali), a powerful session with a monk, and even some lovely excursions.
If you're dealing with pain, stress, or just craving real rest for your body and soul, I wholeheartedly recommend this sanctuary.

Maya C.

Wunderschöner Ort, fantastische Therapeuten, köstliches Essen. Perfekt wenn man mal wirklich runterkommen möchte.

LH H

Had the most relaxed and nourishing experience with Ayurvedic treatment, yoga, nurturing meals that feed your mind, body and soul. This place allows you to disconnect and connect with nature. Was so well looked after by all the staff - Yasmine, Mandu, Dr. Chamodi, also the chef and therapist.

What’s even more amazing is the group of like minded guests I crossed paths in the sanctuary and shared our moments and experience there. Looking forward to be back!

Hélène M.

J’ai passé sept jours merveilleux au Sen Wellness center. Une vraie prise en charge de bien-être, dans un lieu magique, en pleine nature et tout près de la mer. Une consultation de qualité avec un docteur à l’écoute , des traitements ayurvédiques bien expliqués, des massages extras, un personnel toujours gentil, et un programme de remise en forme avec méditation, yoga, et de très bons repas très variés. Et des conseils en repartant. Je recommande vraiment cette belle parenthèse

Nathan C.

Truly amazing time at the sanctuary. I came here for a 3 day meditation retreat and wish I stayed 5. After leaving the retreat, I feel energized, refreshed and intend to apply the learnings of lifestyle management into my daily routine. I truly enjoyed my time with the monk and the yoga teacher - definitely changed my perspective on a few things and encouraged me to try new things. The doctors were also very impressively good and helpful. The massage therapists were truly incredible - some of the best I ever had. Several staff members offered to give me their contact to stay in touch and answer questions after I leave which was really Sweet. The food is quite good and the facilities are nice especially the pool. The location is purely magical and some of us even saw baby turtles going to the sea from the first time. Highly recommend - might go back!

A few little things, which are easy to fix, to make it even better:
- Food was often served cold and had to be sent back several times
- there was a lack of insect repellent during meals and outside yoga/meditation which unfortunately altered the experience quite a bit - some of us had to leave a yoga session/dinner several times
- there was a bittersweet end where I was asked to pay $20 for my last lunch after my checkout. Not so much an issue about the amount but more so about the the lack of gesture considering the overall amount spent and the fact that I got 2 lunches only as opposed to 3 as I arrived late at night on the first day. It would have been a no cost/effort gesture and a smart business/hospitality decision but instead they said no even after insisting citing “policy”. A bit sad that it was my very last memory of this retreat.

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.