The Five Elements in Ayurveda: The Building Blocks of Life

The Five Elements in Ayurveda: The Building Blocks of Life

Dear One,

Have you ever stood by the ocean and felt an inexplicable sense of calm? Or watched a fire flicker and felt its warmth stir something deep within you? These sensations are not random—they are the elements speaking to you.

In Ayurveda, everything in existence—including you—is composed of five fundamental elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether (space). These elements are the foundation of nature, shaping our bodies, minds, and the world around us. They influence not only the way we move, think, and feel but also the way we experience life through our senses.

By understanding these five elements, we begin to see ourselves as part of nature, not separate from it. We realize that the forces shaping the rivers and mountains are the same forces shaping our breath, our emotions, and even our digestion. Let’s explore these elements and how they influence us, both within and outside of us.

The Five Elements & Their Influence on Life

1. Ether (Space) – The Vastness of Possibility
• In the Universe: Ether is the empty space that holds everything. It is the vastness of the sky, the silence between sounds, the expansiveness of the cosmos.
• In the Body: It is the space within us—our body cavities, the openness in our joints, and even the gaps between our thoughts.
• In the Senses: Ether relates to sound. It gives us the ability to hear and perceive vibrations, whether through music, speech, or the silence between words.
• In Our Emotions: Ether represents openness, creativity, and spiritual connection. When in balance, it allows for deep intuition and expansion. When out of balance, we may feel lost, empty, or disconnected.

2. Air – The Breath of Life
• In the Universe: Air is movement—the wind that stirs the trees, the changing seasons, and the force that propels the clouds across the sky.
• In the Body: Air is our breath, the movement of our limbs, and the circulation of energy within us. It governs all motion, from blinking to the beating of our hearts.
• In the Senses: Air is linked to touch. It allows us to feel sensations on our skin and experience the world through movement.
• In Our Emotions: Air fuels creativity, adaptability, and imagination. When balanced, it allows us to feel light and inspired. When out of balance, it can lead to anxiety, restlessness, and instability.

3. Fire – The Transformative Force
• In the Universe: Fire is the sun’s heat, the flames of a burning log, and the energy that transforms raw food into nourishment. It is the power of transformation.
• In the Body: Fire governs digestion, metabolism, and the spark of intelligence. It is our body’s internal warmth and the energy that fuels our passions.
• In the Senses: Fire is linked to sight. It allows us to perceive the world through vision and process information through light.
• In Our Emotions: Fire drives ambition, clarity, and determination. When balanced, it creates strong willpower and sharp intelligence. When out of balance, it can lead to anger, irritability, or burnout.

4. Water – The Flow of Nourishment
• In the Universe: Water is the rivers, the oceans, the rain, and the life-giving fluid that sustains all living beings. It is the essence of flow and adaptability.
• In the Body: Water is our blood, our tears, and the moisture in our skin. It hydrates our tissues and keeps our joints lubricated.
• In the Senses: Water is linked to taste. Without moisture, we wouldn’t be able to experience flavors or nourish our bodies through food.
• In Our Emotions: Water brings compassion, love, and emotional depth. When balanced, it allows us to connect deeply with others. When out of balance, it can lead to attachment, stagnation, or excessive emotional heaviness.

5. Earth – The Foundation of Stability
• In the Universe: Earth is the soil beneath our feet, the mountains, the trees, and the solid structures that give form to life. It is strength and support.
• In the Body: Earth makes up our bones, muscles, and tissues. It provides the physical structure that holds us together.
• In the Senses: Earth is linked to smell. It allows us to experience the grounding nature of the world through scents like fresh soil, blooming flowers, or warm spices.
• In Our Emotions: Earth provides stability, patience, and resilience. When in balance, it gives us a strong foundation to build upon. When out of balance, it can lead to heaviness, lethargy, or resistance to change.

The five elements combine to create the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—which define our physical and mental tendencies:
• Vata (Air + Ether): Light, dry, and mobile—Vata types are creative and energetic but can become anxious or ungrounded when out of balance.
• Pitta (Fire + Water): Hot, intense, and sharp—Pitta types are driven and intelligent but may become overheated, irritable, or overly competitive when imbalanced.
• Kapha (Earth + Water): Heavy, steady, and nourishing—Kapha types are compassionate and strong but can experience sluggishness or emotional stagnation when out of balance.

Understanding these elements helps us bring balance into our lives. If we are feeling scattered and ungrounded (too much Air and Ether), we may need more Earth in the form of grounding foods and routines. If we are feeling overheated and irritable (excess Fire), we may need the cooling qualities of Water and Air to calm us down.

Our senses also guide us toward balance:
• Sound (Ether): Listening to calming music or silence when overwhelmed.
• Touch (Air): Using warm oil massages to soothe the nervous system.
• Sight (Fire): Reducing screen time or being in nature to soften mental intensity.
• Taste (Water): Eating hydrating and nourishing foods when feeling depleted.
• Smell (Earth): Using grounding essential oils like sandalwood or vetiver when feeling unsteady.

Take a moment to reflect: Which element do you feel most connected to right now? Which one do you feel you need more of? Nature is always offering us balance if we learn to listen.

By aligning with the five elements, we come back into harmony—not just within ourselves, but with the world around us. Ayurveda reminds us that we are not separate from nature; we are nature, moving in rhythm with the great cosmic dance of life.

With love,
Mystic

As a holistic life coach, I believe in your innate wisdom and strength. Together, we can unlock your true potential, creating space for growth, joy, and balance. This is not about fixing what’s broken, but about supporting you in flourishing and stepping confidently into the life you were meant to live.

If you’re ready to reconnect with your purpose, rediscover your peace, and move forward with a sense of ease and clarity, I’d be honored to support you. Let’s walk this path together, knowing that every step brings you closer to the abundant, vibrant life you deserve.

Your healing journey starts now. Whether you’re seeking emotional release, physical balance, or spiritual growth, I’m here to guide you with personalized yoga therapy, Ayurvedic coaching, and creative healing practices. Don’t wait to experience the transformation you deserve. Book your session today and begin your path to deeper wellness and inner peace.

Lunar Eclipse of March 13-14, 2025: A Cosmic Invitation to Surrender and Illuminate

Lunar Eclipse of March 13-14, 2025: A Cosmic Invitation to Surrender and Illuminate

My loves,

We stand at the threshold of a powerful celestial event—the lunar eclipse of March 13-14, 2025. A lunar eclipse is a time of deep revelation, a moment when the Earth casts its shadow upon the Moon, temporarily veiling her luminous face. Eclipses are not times for manifestation but for release, integration, and soul surrender. They illuminate what has been hidden, stirring emotions that have long been buried and calling us to see with clarity, even when the truth feels raw.

This is a sacred portal—a time to pause, reflect, and allow the Universe to realign us with our highest path. The energy can feel intense, but trust that it is serving your growth. Lunar eclipses often bring endings, closures, and culminations, but these are not losses; they are sacred completions, paving the way for something greater.

Astrology, like the moon herself, has many faces. In Western (Tropical) astrology, this eclipse falls in Virgo, the sign of discernment, sacred service, and refinement. Meanwhile, in the Eastern (Vedic) system, the Moon is in Leo, the sign of sovereignty, creative power, and divine radiance.

Both perspectives offer wisdom—one is not more “correct” than the other. They are simply two ways of interpreting the sky’s messages, and I invite you to listen to both, feeling into what resonates with your own journey.

Tropical Astrology: Virgo Lunar Eclipse

Under the tropical system, this eclipse illuminates Virgo’s themes—purification, healing, and the integration of body, mind, and spirit. Virgo, ruled by Mercury, is the sacred alchemist, the priestess tending the temple of life. This eclipse may reveal where we need to refine our habits, clear mental clutter, or release the need for perfection.

This is a time to evaluate:
• Where are you overextending yourself in service to others while neglecting your own well-being?
• How can you create a more sustainable rhythm in your daily life?
• What outdated routines, thought patterns, or self-criticisms need to be let go?

This Virgo eclipse is an invitation to cleanse—not just externally, but internally. Let go of guilt, of the belief that you must do more to be worthy. Trust that your presence is enough.

Vedic Astrology: Leo Lunar Eclipse

From the Vedic perspective, this eclipse unfolds in the bold and regal sign of Leo. Leo is ruled by the Sun, and here, the lunar eclipse challenges us to reclaim our inner radiance. This is a call to step into our power—not from a place of ego, but from a place of divine alignment.

Leo reminds us:
• Where have you dimmed your light for fear of being too much?
• Are you living in full authenticity, or are you conforming to please others?
• What creative expression is longing to be freed from within you?

In Vedic wisdom, eclipses are times to go inward, not outward. This is a potent time for meditation, mantra, and spiritual recalibration. Instead of seeking validation from the world, turn your gaze inward and remember that your light comes from Source, not external recognition.

Intentions for this Lunar Eclipse
• I release perfectionism and embrace the beauty of my unfolding journey.
• I honor my sacred service while setting healthy boundaries.
• I reclaim my inner radiance and share my gifts unapologetically.
• I surrender control and trust the divine flow of life.

Journal Prompts for Eclipse Reflection
1. What old patterns or beliefs are ready to be released?
2. How can I create more balance between service to others and care for myself?
3. In what ways have I been dimming my light? How can I reclaim my power?
4. What is one habit, thought, or attachment I am ready to let go of?

Rituals for the Eclipse Portal

1. Candle Release Ceremony
Write down something you are releasing—an outdated belief, a toxic habit, or a past wound. Light a candle, read your words aloud, and burn the paper in a fireproof dish. As the ashes rise, visualize yourself freed from this weight.

2. Moonlit Water Purification
Fill a bowl with water and place it under the moon (even if it’s eclipsed, the energy is still present). Whisper your intentions of release into the water, then use it to cleanse your hands, feet, or heart center. Let the water carry away what no longer serves you.

3. Mantra Meditation
Chant the mantra Om Namah Shivaya (I bow to the divine within) or So Hum (I am that) to realign with your soul’s truth. Sit in meditation and allow the vibrations to clear stagnant energy.

4. Digital Detox & Silence
Eclipses are best spent in stillness, away from distractions. Consider fasting from social media, unnecessary conversations, or external noise. Let yourself be in communion with the cosmos.

5.Antar Naad Meditation
Practice the Antar Naad Meditation in honor of the Full Moon for 11 minutes. This practice opens up the flow of kundalini energy while it brings you security, peace and wisdom.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ud5AFUlWsQM&t=5s

Beloved, this eclipse is a gift. It may shake you, but only to awaken you. Trust the divine rhythm of your life, and remember that every shadow eventually gives way to light. You are exactly where you are meant to be.

With love and wisdom,
Mystic

As a holistic life coach, I believe in your innate wisdom and strength. Together, we can unlock your true potential, creating space for growth, joy, and balance. This is not about fixing what’s broken, but about supporting you in flourishing and stepping confidently into the life you were meant to live.

If you’re ready to reconnect with your purpose, rediscover your peace, and move forward with a sense of ease and clarity, I’d be honored to support you. Let’s walk this path together, knowing that every step brings you closer to the abundant, vibrant life you deserve.

Your healing journey starts now. Whether you’re seeking emotional release, physical balance, or spiritual growth, I’m here to guide you with personalized yoga therapy, Ayurvedic coaching, and creative healing practices. Don’t wait to experience the transformation you deserve. Book your session today and begin your path to deeper wellness and inner peace.

Kitchari

Beloved One,

Welcome to the delicious, nurturing foundation of Kitchari. Kitchari is a beautiful rice dish derived from the ancient teachings of Panchakarma in Ayurveda and is seen as one of the greatest medicines for nourishing our digestion. While this can be eaten as a regular meal, it is also used as a detox. For the first three days, keep it simple. When making the kitchari, focus more on the rice, beans and spices. Day four start slowly incorporating the vegetables and continue for 7 days to detox your system. This can be eaten for breakfast, lunch and dinner (avoid snacking between meals) to help clean out your system, reduce inflammation, rebalance your digestion and cleanse the body. Kitchari can be adapted to best heal the dosha that is out of balance, otherwise known as healing the vikruti. Remember that in order to balance out your vikruti (current state of imbalance), you must know your prakruti (birth constitution). Feel free to take these quizzes below to learn more about yourself and your needs:

Discover your Prakruti: https://stir-studios.involve.me/prakruti

Discover your Vikruti: https://stir-studios.involve.me/dosha-vikruti-quiz?isThroughCName=0

MAIN INGREDIENTS (SERVES 3-4)

1/2 cup basmati rice

1/2 cup mung dhal

5 cups (approx.) water

1-2 tablespoons of turmeric

¼ teaspoon himalayan salt

2 tsp. ghee or oil (Dosha-specific oil recommendations below)

Toppings: Handful of fresh cilantro leaves, coconut oil, Lime, black pepper

Spices and Additions by dosha dosha:

Vata (v):

1 cup pumpkin, diced

1-2 handfuls of kale

1 onion, chopped

1-2 inches fresh ginger, grated or sliced into matchsticks

1 teaspoon black mustard seeds

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon hing (asafoetida),

3-4 cloves or ajwain

2 Tablespoons coconut milk

*More soupy, more water, increase rice to bean ratio

Pitta (P):

½ cup carrots

Handful of bitter greens,

½ cup cauliflower

1 teaspoon curry leaves,

1 teaspoon fenugreek,

1 teaspoon basil

*Equal parts rice and beans, equal parts water, medium soupy

Kapha (K):

1 cup red and yellow bell peppers

1 cup broccoli

1 teaspoon coriander

1 teaspoon lemongrass

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon cardommom

*Less water, more stew-like, increase bean to rice ratio, Reduce ghee or omit

Directions: -

1) Soak rice and dal overnight and wash and drain until water runs clear.

2) Prep and chop all ingredients according to your doshic needs and ensure the vegetables are chopped into small pieces.

3) In a large stock pot, heat ghee over medium heat and add the spices. Sauté for a minute or two until fragrant. You will hear the seeds begin to pop. If using powdered herbs, your nose will let you know when they are ready.

4) Toss in the veggies, rice, dal, and water then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low and cover. Cook for 30-45 minutes until the vegetables are soft and tender.

5) Add additional water as needed to pacify your dosha. Kitchari ranges from the consistency of a dense stew or can be watered down to that of a soup.

6) Top with additional ghee and the rest of your unique toppings.

Your healing journey starts now. Whether you’re seeking emotional release, physical balance, or spiritual growth, I’m here to guide you with personalized yoga therapy, Ayurvedic coaching, and creative healing practices. Don’t wait to experience the transformation you deserve. Book your session today and begin your path to deeper wellness and inner peace.

With Love,

Mystic

KUNDALINI MEDIATION AND PRANAYAMA: EGO ERADICATOR

KUNDALINI MEDIATION AND PRANAYAMA: EGO ERADICATOR

Beloved One,

Ego Eradicator is a very special pose in the Kundalini world as it not only considered a posture but also a potent pranayama (breathwork) and meditation. Our EGO is designed to provide a sense of self and personal identity which is essential for navigating our social environments and understanding our place in this world. While sometimes, people think the ego leaves us feeling limited, it’s simply doing its job to protect us and set boundaries. It helps us make decisions that prioritize our well-being based on our past experiences. With that said, the ego can be very stubborn when it comes to change so if you are experiencing self-limiting thoughts and beliefs when it comes to evolving from a situation that once appeared risky and is now opening you up to a new understanding, practicing EGO ERADICATOR can help you enhance your mental clarity and focus when it comes to sorting through old beliefs, behaviors and thought patterns. This practice helps remove emotional blockages to lead you to greater emotional stability and balance while reducing stress and improving your respiratory health. Ground in to this present moment and release your attachment to the past so you can shift your future.

To Practice:

1) Sit comfortably in easy pose. Sitting cross legged with your spine straight, the neck long and your chin slightly tucked in to Jalandhar Bandh

2) Raise your arms over head into a “V” shape at 60 degrees and curl the fingers into the palms with your thumbs out pointing inwards. To close, we will lift the arms overheard for the thumbs to touch. Keep the elbows straight throughout the practice

3) Eyes are closed or gazing at the tip of the nose

4) Begin pumping your navel dramatically as you exhale for Breath of Fire (BOF). For those of you practicing BOF for the first time, it is very similar to “panting like a dog” but with your mouth closed. Pumping the navel will naturally draw in fresh oxygen so don’t worry about the inhale!

To Close:

1) Inhale deeply, raise the arms overhead and touch the thumbs together

2) Suspend the breath at the top for 15 seconds or until you’re ready to exhale completely

3) As you exhale, lower the arms down and sit in stillness for a few moments noticing how you feel

Your healing journey starts now. Whether you’re seeking emotional release, physical balance, or spiritual growth, I’m here to guide you with personalized yoga therapy, Ayurvedic coaching, and creative healing practices. Don’t wait to experience the transformation you deserve. Book your session today and begin your path to deeper wellness and inner peace.

With Love,

Mystic

The Rise of Ayurveda in Charleston

The Rise of Ayurveda in Charleston

Beloved One,

My name is Mystic and today, I am going to de-mystify the buzzword that we’ve all been hearing around Charleston over the last year. As an Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach and aspiring Ayurvedic Practitioner, I couldn’t be more excited to see the genuine curiosity our community has been raising around this ancient science. In a bustling world filled with endless to-do lists and constant stimulation, finding balance and inner harmony can often feel like an elusive dream. Yet, nestled within the ancient traditions of India lies a timeless wisdom that offers a pathway to holistic health and well-being—Ayurveda. Translated as the “science of life”; Ayurveda is more than just a system of medicine; it is a profound philosophy that teaches us to live in harmony with ourselves and the natural world around us. We can imagine Ayurveda as a blue print or personalized roadmap to our own unique health and happiness. Unlike modern medicine’s one-size-fits-all approach, Ayurveda recognizes that each individual is born with a specific balance of energies, known as doshas, which govern our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual characteristics. These doshas are known as Vata, Pitta and Kapha.

Vata embodies the qualities of movement and change. It is associated with the elements air and ether. governs functions like circulation, breathing, and creativity. When in balance, Vata individuals are lively, imaginative, and adaptable. However, excess Vata can lead to anxiety, dryness, and restlessness.

Pitta represents the elements of fire and water, governing digestion, metabolism, and intellect. Pitta types tend to be driven, focused, and passionate. When balanced, they exhibit strong digestion and a sharp intellect, but imbalanced Pitta may manifest as irritability, inflammation, or digestive issues.

Kapha embodies stability and structure, governed by earth and water elements. Kaphaindividuals are typically calm, nurturing, and grounded. They have strong immunity and endurance when in balance but can experience sluggishness, weight gain, or attachment when Kapha is excessive.

Now while this may be familiar to some of you who have done their research, I would like to explain the importance of understanding the difference between your Prakruti and your Vikruti. It’s natural to think you understand your dosha after taking your first “dosha quiz” once first diving into the fundamentals of Ayurveda, however I see too often people take the quiz and think that the results are what they are instead of realizing that this is the dosha presenting itself as what needs balance. While our Prakruti is the doshic combination that we are born with, our Vikruti is the dosha or doshas that need to be regulated. Only when we know our Prakruti can we truly balance out our Vikruti because we want to restore our own unique balance instead of simply trying to balance the doshas a whole. When we understand this, we must next understand the “Law of Attraction”. The Law of Attraction states that “like attracts like”, thus in order to restore balance we must invite or use the opposite qualities, diet, exercise, lifestyle, etc to pacify our Vikruti.

Incorporating Ayurvedic principles into your daily life doesn't have to be daunting. Simple practices like eating mindfully, staying hydrated and establishing a regular sleep schedule can profoundly impact your well-being. Ayurveda encourages us to listen to our bodies, cultivate self-awareness, and make conscious choices that promote harmony on all levels—physical, mental, and spiritual. As you embark on your journey with Ayurveda, remember that it is not just a set of rules but a philosophy of living in tune with your true nature. By honoring your unique constitution, embracing seasonal changes, and understanding the interplay between Prakriti and Vikruti, you empower yourself to live a life of balance, vitality, and profound well-being. Let Ayurveda be your guide to discovering the timeless wisdom that resides within you and the natural world.

For more help on all things Ayurveda, please do not hesitate to follow me on social media:

@mystic.healing.arts

Your healing journey starts now. Whether you’re seeking emotional release, physical balance, or spiritual growth, I’m here to guide you with personalized yoga therapy, Ayurvedic coaching, and creative healing practices. Don’t wait to experience the transformation you deserve. Book your session today and begin your path to deeper wellness and inner peace.

With Love,

Mystic