The Space Element
Ayurveda teaches that everything in nature is composed of varying combinations of the five elements. We are all familiar with the elements earth, air, water, and fire; however, many of us may be less familiar with the fifth element: ether, or space.
The space element is the most subtle of all. It comprises the space that exists between things and the space that connects everything together. It is the element from which everything else emerges. Ether/space is without the firmness of earth, the coolness of water, the heat of fire or even the movement of wind. It is, therefore, the very essence of emptiness.
Within our bodies, we recognize this element anywhere there is space: an empty stomach, the porous spaces of our bones and the lungs at the end of an exhale. The skin, too, is exposed to the qualities of space all the time.
In order for the space element to flow efficiently in the body there has to be clear, uncluttered space around us so that we can connect, listen, know and be still.
Spring Cleaning
Spring cleaning is a common practice. It has roots that trail through neurochemistry, religion, spirituality and healthy living. Ayurvedic Ritucharya, or the guidelines for seasonal living, also emphasizes the importance of Spring cleaning.
Throughout Winter, the dormancy of earth and water accumulates. This results in heaviness, density, dampness, darkness and stagnation. These qualities occur not just in our minds and bodies but also in our environments.
I recently went through a Spring deep apartment cleaning that lasted multiple weeks. When I mentioned this process to others, most assumed that ‘cleaning out’ meant getting rid of all of your favorite things. Therefore, they believed they could never do it.
However, “cleaning out” actually means the opposite. It is the practice of getting rid of the stuff that you don’t need, want or that doesn’t serve you anymore. In the end, you are surrounded by all of your favorite things. In fact, you can enjoy these belongings more once they have been liberated from all the other stuff.
Setting the Energetic Stage
Clearing our space in Spring provides an invigorating sense of release, clarity and peace of mind. Because sensory experience has a direct impact on physiological health, Ayurveda uses sense therapies to set the energetic stage of our environment. These include aromatherapy, light therapy, color therapy and sound therapy that combat stagnation and foster clarity and fresh energy in Spring.
- Detox Your Space – Swap out toxic personal and home products for non-toxic cleaning and self-care alternatives. A mixture of organic vinegar, water and tea-tree oil also provides a safe and non-toxic cleaning alternative with a fresh scent.
- Deep Clean – Dust and debris carry heavy and dull qualities that create stagnation.
- Declutter – Remove items from your space that no longer serve you. You can start simple with items you have little attachment to. Donate and recycle as much as possible.
- Fresh Air – Open windows and/or doors to enjoy fresh air and invigorate your body, mind and living space.
- Aromatherapy – Infuse your space with uplifting and stimulating aromas such as rose, jasmine, sandalwood and frankincense. Use incense, which is drying, in humid environments; and diffusers, which are damp; in dry environments to create balance. Both clear out dense energy and purify the air, promoting a balanced, peaceful atmosphere and mind.
- Sound therapy – Calming, soothing and uplifting sounds are all balancing in Spring and create joy and lightness. Nature sounds, binaural beats and kirtan help to clear your space and your mind. Rhythmic beats that you can dance or move to help stimulate lymph and circulation, and thereby help boost immunity.
- Color therapy – Add bright and uplifting colors to your space in any form: pillows, art pieces, candle sticks, flowers, clothing. We recently painted our kitchen cabinets a golden turmeric color to bring in the cheerful energy of the sun regardless of the weather. The color blue is purifying. Oranges, yellows and greens are bright, fresh and uplifting.
Many qualities of creativity – possibility, openness, receptivity and understanding – come from the space created through the practices outlined above. When the space around us is clear, the mind can be clear too.
We can further cultivate spaciousness with mindfulness practices such as this Expansive Relaxation Meditation.
Healthy Energy Flow
Empty space can be more susceptible to imbalances without the structure and stability of intentional elemental energy that most balances you.
After clearing your space, set intentions and goals, planting seeds in Spring as nature intends. Sankalpa is the Sanskrit word for intention. San means “to become one with” and kalpa means “time” and “subconscious mind.”
You now have the opportunity to fill your space intentionally with energy that supports your holistic wellbeing.
Curious about how to best fill your space and find holistic wellbeing? Contact us to begin your healing journey today.
Article authored by Chloe Chaput, who is dedicated to her role as a Clinical Ayurvedic Specialist (CAS) to work with women’s health, male and female fertility challenges, parents/caregivers, and children to address a variety of clinical health concerns at the root of their cause. Contact Path Wellbeing today to set up your appointment with Chloe Chaput, CAS.
The information contained within this article is for educational purposes only and should not replace the direct advice of a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult a professional healthcare provider when considering a new health regime.
