Attributes of Air
All five elements, including Air, possess three fundamental qualities or gunas: Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas. Each brings its own set of characteristics,
Sattvic (Positive Attributes) -
Characteristics: Clarity, Clear Communication without ambiguity, lightness, freshness, adaptability, gentle movement, inspiration, and purity.
Physical Effects: Balanced breathing, healthy skin sensation, graceful movements, and harmonious circulation.
Mental/Emotional Effects: Clarity of mind, creativity, alertness, adaptability, and open-mindedness; able to “go with the flow.”
Manifestation: Mind and body move easily; thoughts are quick but not scattered; communication is lively yet clear.
When Air is Sattvic:
One feels inspired, expression of unselfish and unconditional love, energetic, imaginative, and flexible.
There’s ease in expression and movement, both physically and emotionally.
2. Rajasic (Neutral Attributes) -
Characteristics: Expression of selfish love with conditions, Rapid movement, restlessness, excitability, hidden desires and unpredictable feelings, over-stimulation, turbulence.
Physical Effects: Rapid or shallow breathing, excessive or jerky movements, fidgetiness.
Mental/Emotional Effects: Racing thoughts, talkativeness, mood swings, anxiety, difficulty focusing.
Manifestation: Mind is constantly stimulated; enthusiasm may turn into agitation or scattered energy.
When Air is Rajasic:
Hyperactivity and impulsiveness dominate.
Communication can become rushed or overwhelming; there’s a tendency to “jump” from one thought or activity to another.
3. Tamasic (Negative Attributes)
Qualities: Expression of hatred, Stagnation, heaviness, blockages, lack of movement, dullness, inertia.
Physical Effects: Poor circulation, numbness, sluggishness (in body or breath), lack of coordination.
Mental/Emotional Effects: Confusion, lack of inspiration, close-mindedness, withdrawal, or depression.
Manifestation: Loss of flexibility and mental agility; a heavy, uninspired feeling.
When Air is Tamasic:
There’s resistance to change, rigidity in thoughts and actions, and feeling “stuck.”
Communication suffers, and there’s a tendency toward silence, coldness, or disconnection.