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Page 83
The Importance of the Five Elements
Vastu, as we've seen, works to preserve the balance of the five elements. By ensuring that each element is placed in its appropriate location on the property, inside the house, and in each room, the vastu architect seeks to restore the harmony that may have been disrupted by the addition of a new structure, which creates its own energies and vibrations.
Ayurveda and yoga adhere to this same theory. Both sciences believe thatwith the exception of external injuries, such as wounds, and congenital diseases that come with birthall illnesses are a result of an imbalance in the body's original configuration of these same five elements. When the original balance is disturbed, the body is weakened and its natural immune system is compromised.
Tridoshas
Long ago, ayurveda developed a system of tridoshas (three metabolic processes that involve the elements inside the body). This system, which is also recognized by yoga, maintains that the doshas control all our bodily processes. Indeed, certain asanas and breathing exercises in yoga specifically benefit a particular dosha. As in vastu, each element, associated with a dosha, has its own characteristics.
Tridoshas
Dosha
Element
Vata
Air with space
Pitta
Fire with water
Kapha
Water with earth

 
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