The Five Elements

The Five Elements embody and describe all the types of movement, patterns and qualities of energy in nature and in all living things. The way that the 5 elements maintain balance and homeostasis in nature is related to how our body, mind and spirit maintain balance; the 5 elements represent all physiological, mental, emotional and spiritual processes in the human being.

Each organ system is a manifestation of one of the 5 elements. When one of the organ systems is in distress, it sends out warning signals from the body in the form of color, odor, sound and emotion. The practitioner then diagnoses which organ system needs attention and treatment.

The Fire element relates to the season of Summer; nature is at it’s peak of activity, the sun is highest in the sky and it is a time of expansion in all plant life. The Fire element is the most yang time of the year; it’s hot, plants have come to maturity and everything in nature is a buzz. In us, the Fire element is associated with the Heart, Small Intestine, Pericardium and Triple Heater. Physically, it controls blood vessel circulation, digestion, hormone balance, sweat, our complexion, the tongue and speech. It is the element that allows us the expression of love, warmth, connection, intimacy, laughter, humor, insight, discernment, passion and compassion. When the Fire element is out of balance, there can be a lack of warmth, love or joy.

The Earth element relates to the season of Late Summer. This is the time of harvest and abundance in nature. The light begins to change and the energy of nature begins to decrease. It is a time of security and safety with a surplus of food. The Earth element represents the center and nourishes and sustains all life. In us, it is associated with the Spleen and the Stomach, which take in, digest, and distribute food and drink to the entire system. It is related to the lips, muscles, flesh, breasts, mouth and taste. The Earth element helps us process and digest information, it fosters the ability to take care of oneself and others and it helps us give and receive appropriately. When the Earth element is in balance there is understanding, security, satisfaction and abundance. When out of balance, there is an excess need for attention, arrogance and self-centeredness.

The Metal element relates to the season of Fall. After the harvest, energy in nature starts to descend. Leaves fall off the trees, sap goes into the roots and branches fall off. The essential nutrients and minerals go back into the earth to replenish it. It is a time of letting go. The Metal element regulates the Lungs and the Large Intestine; the organs of inspiration and elimination. It relates to the skin, the nose, smell and body hair. Metal commands authority, value, respect, honor and self worth. It governs the ability to let go when necessary so that we can take in new inspiration and a new quality of energy. When the Metal element is blocked, grief and low self-worth begin to take hold.

The Water element is the element of Winter. It is the most yin time of year; dark, quiet, still and restful. The water element has to do with storing reserves and using them wisely so that nature can have enough energy for the upcoming year. It regulates the kidneys, bladder, urine, ears, bones, hearing and hair on the head. It governs the distribution and storage of water. Water is cleansing, rejuvenating and maintains fluidity and adaptability. The Water element has to do with our level of energy, will, ambition and drive. It overcomes fears by using it’s clarity, reflective nature and sense of inner calm to draw upon. When the Water energy is blocked, inappropriate fears and panic tend to arise.

The Wood element relates to the season of Spring. At this time of year, plants are bursting up out of the ground, there is growth, a re-birth and forceful upward movement. Winds blow and seeds are planted. The Wood element governs the liver, gallbladder, eyes, sight, tendons and ligaments, nails and tears. It gives us the ability to plan and set goals, make decisions and to be flexible with our plans. It allows us the expression of creativity, purpose, clarity, healthy judgement, vision and coordination. When the Wood energy is blocked, anger and frustration tend to arise.