The basic premise of Ayurveda is that the entire cosmos or universe is part of one singular absolute. Everything that exists in the vast external universe (macrocosm), also appears in the internal cosmos of the human body (microcosm). Man is the epitome of the universe. Within man, there is as much diversity as in the world outside. Similarly, the outside world is as diverse as human beings themselves. In other words, all human beings are a living microcosm of the universe and the universe is a living macrocosm of the human beings.
The Pancha Mahabhuta, or "five great elements" , of Ayurveda are:
Hence, Ayurveda advocates: "YatPinde, Tat Bramhande"
The universe consists of 5 elements called the Panchabhutal. Our bodies, as a part of the universe, are also composed of these 5 elements:
The central concept ayurveda is the theory that health exists when there is a balance between three fundamental bodily humours or doshas called Vata, Pitta and Kapha.
Vata is the air principle necessary to mobilize the function of the nervous system.
Pitta is the fire principle which uses bile to direct digestion and hence metabolism into the venous system.
Kapha is the water principle which relates to mucous, lubrication and the carrier of nutrients into the arterial system.
Derived from the basic eternal elements - the pancha Mahabhutsa, these three biological energies govern every aspect of a living being.
In Ayurvedic philosophy, the five elements combine in pairs to form three dynamic forces or interactions called doshas. Dosha means "that which changes." It is a word derived from the root dus, which is equivalent to the English prefix 'dys', such as in dysfunction, dystrophy, etc. In this sense, dosha can be regarded as a fault, mistake, error, or a transgression against the cosmic rhythm. The doshas are constantly moving in dynamic balance, one with the others. Doshas are required for the life to happen. In Ayurveda, dosha is also known as the governing principles as every living thing in nature is characterized by the dosha.
