Importance of Nature

Nature has five elements: ether, air, fire, water, and earth. According to Ayurveda, these five elements comprise all existence and the three doshas (bio-energies in the body) that govern life processes and give us our unique physical and mental constitutions. 

Ayurveda aims to establish and maintain a harmonious balance between the elements found in nature and their roles in human health. It uses natural remedies, therapies, and lifestyle practices, such as food and herbs, to align the body, mind, and spirit with the natural world.

Ayurveda understands that the microcosm is related to the macrocosm, meaning that like increases like. For instance, if it is cold and breezy outside, this increases the similar air element inside you, which is known as the Vata dosha. When the doshas based on these elements get out of balance, knowledge of their properties and how to use them can bring renewed balance by increasing the opposite qualities.

According to Ayurveda, health relies on our connection with the elements, and when disconnected from nature, we risk our mental and physical well-being.  By its very essence, nature heals us, creates balance and harmony, and cannot be underestimated. Spending time outdoors promotes a connection with the natural world and is as important as our morning rituals, exercise regimes, and the foods we ingest. 

Recognizing the elements that surround us and make up our natures establishes body, mind, and spirit connection, and below is a brief breakdown of each element:

Ether (Akasha) is the subtlest of all the elements. It is the space in which all the other elements exist and is responsible for communication and self-expression.

Air (Vayu) is the force behind all movement in nature.  It is associated with the nervous system, which governs all body movements and communication.

Fire (Agni) is responsible for all transformation, metabolism, and digestion. It facilitates the removal of wastes and metabolizes mental, emotional, and spiritual input.

Water (Jal) is a structure and fluid that transports toxins, improves digestion and metabolism, calms and soothes nutrients, and eliminates the body.

Earth (Prithvi) is the connection to nature and our meditative state, just like the roots of a tree that anchor it to the ground; they represent groundedness, stability, balance, security, and nourishment.

Go into nature and feel its connection to your senses. You will feel presence, balance, and rejuvenation.