The element of air is a bridge between the tangible and intangible, connecting the physical body to the subtle realm of thoughts, emotions, and spirit. Representing movement, freedom, and expansion, air governs our breath and is intrinsically linked to the heart chakra, or Anahata. 

The fire element, or Agni, symbolises transformation, energy, and vitality. It governs digestion and metabolism on both physical and mental levels, burning away what no longer serves us and forming clarity, purpose, and growth. Fire’s characteristics include heat, tapas, and intensity, making it a powerful force for change and illumination.

The elements, as we know them, are the physical manifestations of deeper energetic forces operating beneath the surface of reality. Among them, water represents fluidity, adaptability, and connection. It is less dense than earth yet more tangible than fire, bridging stability and transformation.

The element of Earth represents the foundation of stability, strength, and grounding in both yoga and life. As the densest of the five great elements (Pancha Mahabhutas), Earth forms the base upon which all other elements build, symbolising structure, endurance, and a deep connection to our core essence.

Sattva is one of the three Gunas—Tamas, Rajas, and Sattva—that define the qualities of nature and the mind. Sattva brings clarity, peace, purity, and ease, and it is often seen as the quality most conducive to spiritual growth. However, it’s essential to understand that while Sattva brings us closer to truth and awareness, it is not the final destination.

This week, we focus on Rajas—a force defined by energy, restlessness, and constant movement. Rajas embodies change and transition and can lead us toward Sattva, the state of purity and balance, or Tamas, the realm of darkness and inertia. Rajas has a dual nature, manifesting as both positive and negative forces in our lives. In today’s fast-paced world, Rajas often appears as restlessness, agitation, quick anger, and overstimulation. It drives us to seek constant stimulation, often through coffee, endless scrolling, and nonstop activity, eventually leading to overwhelm and burnout.

In yogic philosophy, the Gunas offer a deep insight into the fundamental energies shaping our consciousness and lives. Tamas, one of these three qualities, represents the grounded, stable aspects of existence that can also become stagnant or resistant to change.

Udana Vayu is a vital energetic force, centred in the throat region, that plays a key role in our spiritual and personal growth. Known as the “upward-moving wind,” Udana Vayu is more than just a physical process—it’s a driving force behind self-expression, inspiration, and elevation in consciousness.

Vyana Vayu governs the outward movement of energy, responsible for the expansion and integration of all the other Vayus. Think of it as the energy field that surrounds and protects the body—our aura, if you will. This expansive quality also creates a kind of energetic shield, helping to maintain balance and protect against negative influences that may try to penetrate our personal space.

Pran Vayu refers to the expression of Prana located in the heart and chest area. It governs the functioning of the heart and lungs, supporting activities like breathing and circulation. On a physical level, Pran Vayu is vital for respiratory health and blood flow. On a subtle level, it governs our ability to ‘take in’ information, not only through breath but through the five senses—sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell—allowing us to absorb and be with life which around us.

Samana Vayu governs the vital force of centering and balance within the body, cultivating a deep sense of groundedness and inner radiance. It plays a crucial role in digestion—not only of food but also of life experiences. On a physical level, Samana Vayu helps extract essential nutrients from the food we consume. No matter how healthy our diet is, if our digestive power is weak, we fail to fully benefit from the nutrients. 

In the yogic tradition, the body is governed by five major vayus, or vital winds, which regulate the flow of prana, or life force, within the body. Among these, Apana Vayu, plays a fundamental role in our physical and energetic wellbeing. Located primarily in the lower abdomen, pelvis, and legs, Apana Vayu moves in a downward and outward direction. It is responsible for elimination, both on a physical and energetic level, governing functions such as digestion, urination, menstruation, and excretion.

This sheath, often called the 'bliss' body, is where the unconscious meets the soul, housing your unique essence and purpose (dharma). It's felt in those fleeting moments just before sleep, where all worries vanish, leaving behind a sense of peace. In deep meditation, we can access this state more consistently, though the experience of bliss is not the ultimate goal of yoga.

The sheath of pure intelligence, wisdom, and inspiration. It holds the inner teacher, guiding us moment by moment toward our purpose—our Dharma.

Though always present, it’s not always heard, which is why we don’t always make the right decisions. Vijnanamaya Kosha embodies pure will, intelligence, and self-awareness.

Manomaya Kosha is the layer of the mind, encompassing all of our thoughts, emotions, and feelings. It also governs the functions of ideation and contemplation. The gunas—fundamental energies that influence our nature—partially reside within this sheath, shaping our perceptions and reactions.

The second Kosha, Pranamaya Kosha, relates to an individual's energy field. Within the body, this energetic or pranic layer contains several subsystems, such as the Chakras, Vayus, and Nadis, many of which cannot be physically measured. Among these, the Vayus are the most accessible and can be influenced through awareness of the spine and the six pose categories.

Annamaya Kosha, often referred to as the "food sheath," is the outermost layer of our being, according to yogic philosophy. It is the physical body—the tangible, material aspect of ourselves made up of the elements of the earth. This layer is called "Annamaya" because it is sustained by the food we consume, and its health and vitality are directly influenced by the nourishment we receive.

The Crown Chakra, also known as Sahasrara, is the seventh and final primary chakra in the human energy system. Located at the top of the head, it is associated with spiritual connection, higher consciousness, and transcendence. The crown chakra is often depicted as a thousand-petaled lotus flower or a radiant white or violet light.

The Ajna Chakra, commonly referred to as the third eye chakra, is positioned in the centre of the forehead, slightly above the space between the eyebrows. The term "Ajna" translates to "command" or "perception," highlighting its role in intuition, insight, and inner wisdom. Often depicted as a vibrant indigo or deep blue lotus flower with two petals, the Ajna Chakra is considered the seat of higher consciousness and spiritual perception.

The Vishuddhi Chakra, or the fifth chakra, is located in the throat region, extending from the base of the neck to the Adam's apple. It governs communication, self-expression, and authenticity.

When the Vishuddhi Chakra is balanced, it enables effective communication and self-expression. Individuals with a healthy throat chakra can express their thoughts and feelings clearly and honestly, both verbally and creatively. They possess a strong sense of authenticity, speak their truth, and listen attentively to others. This chakra cultivates creativity, self-confidence, and harmonious self-expression.