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2,000-year-old Enneagram system has provided a model for understanding human personalities, the Five
Elements helps people empower themselves and engage with others in a way that is immediate, practical,
potent, and lasting.
The Five Elements begins with five simple but profound theories about, not only the personalities and rhythms of
people (as in this book), but also the architecture and vibration of buildings, the culture and heritage of countries,
the demeanor and personalities of animals, and even the political climates and attitudes of certain eras.
The system of the Five Elements began with the development of acupuncture; a healing practice that grew out of
a 4,000-5,000 year-old Asian medical system. In The Inner Cannon, a 2,000-year-old medical text, Chinese
physicians and scholars theorized that the universe is composed of forces that included Water, Wood, Fire, Earth
and Metalthe five elements. They proposed that human behavior, emotions, and health are also influenced by
these elements. If we understand these elements, we can use them to stay in balance physically, spiritually,
emotionally and mentallyor to return to balance after unhealthy living, illness, stress, or other disturbances.
Join us in learning more about the Five Elements!
Nicholas Cage
The cafes in Paris are filled with them. The urban coffee houses in America
are magnets for them. The hookah lounges in the Middle East are packed with
them. Waters everywhere love lounging with good friends and waxing
eloquently about all that is right and wrong with the world. The deeper the
conversations, the better. They are your most alluring poets, your wisest
writers, your most hypnotizing musicians, and your sagest philosophers.
Water people dive deep into the depths of life. They get hypnotized by
complex musical scores and they blissfully lose themselves in the arts. Waters
are the people at gallery openings who stand in front of one painting for hours,
talking about its lines, its colors, its use of angles and curves. They are the ones who walk slowly through the
rain, soaking up the smell of the wet pavement, and listening to the droplets on the ground. Waters take their
time. The word hurry is not in their vocabulary and this plays out in the way they speak, walk, act, react and
live. Theirs is a slower rhythm as they take in everything around them.
There is a child-like playfulness with the Water person. They enjoy cuddling and being coddled. Waters like
convenience and expect to be served. Doing things themselves and following through with ideas is not their
strong suit. Their ideas are unique and inspiring, but putting those ideas into action is quite difficult for a Water.
They can get lost in life and overwhelmed by the details. They yearn for someone else to manage the details for
them.
Life can looked warped to a Water who tends to live deep within themselves where they feel secluded and alone.
Imagine diving into a swimming pool, then opening your eyes
under water to look up. You can see the sides of the pool and even the people and activities going on up above
the water. But, everything is distorted. This is how life can look to a Water when they go deep within themselves.
With their unending thoughts, they can be prone to depression. When they are depressed, everything can
become exaggerated and look like a very different reality than the reality that others see.
Jim Carrey
Is there a person at your work or among your friends who seems to always be
happy, joyful or excited all the time? You know the one: They walk into a room
with a huge smile, almost dancing as they walk. There is an uplifting, lively
rhythm to their existence and they seem to not get stuck in the muck that
slows down the rest of us. Life is a party and living it is a ball!
Fires have the natural ability to pull other elements out of stubbornness,
darkness, depression, boredom, and worry into the land of the living. Their
energy, laughter and high spirits are contagious. They laugh easily and seem
to be bubbling over with excitement even if others dont see anything about
which to get excited. Just about every day is an incredible experience for them.
Pleasure, fun and anything that feels good is what Fires are drawn to. However, Fires often abandon people or
events that lack excitement, passion, romance and fun. They are loyal and dedicated until something doesnt feel
good and then they move on to the next pleasurable experience. This may mean that they end up being serial
monogamists. Also, it can seem like a Fire person loves everybody and that their love for you isnt so special or
sincere. They can appear to be everybodys best friend. Perpetually in motion, Fires are
constantly chasing the next shiny object. When faced with displeasure from others, a Fires joy can turn to panic.
Mr. Rogers
There has never been a more perfect Earth person than Melanie, Scarlett
OHaras sister-in-law from the movie, Gone with the Wind. Melanie saw only
good in people and she did only the most thoughtful deeds for others. She had
no ulterior motives and didnt play games. She simply had the most tender,
caring, understanding, giving heart of gold. In the movie, when she takes her
wedding ring off her hand to give to the war effort, even though her husband
may never return from battle, she does it with truth, honesty, love and
generosity in her heart. Earths are the angels of compassion and caring.
Earth people almost always have children, but if they dont they will pour their
love into caring for animals or teaching children. They will also pour their love into their relationships. If you know
an Earth person you have probably received some homemade bread, a pie, some chicken soup or a handstitched quilt from them. Their nurturing nature comes from deep within the heart and shows itself through
generosity. They quilt, sew, garden, cook or paint, all so they can give hand-made gifts to others. They want to
make you feel comfortable, safe, and to know you are loved. They want to give to the whole world. Deep inside,
they are hoping for love in return.
When Earth people dont get love in return, they can question their entire existence, falling into co-dependent
cycles that never seem to end. For Earth people, the past is comfortable and change can be excruciating. They
hold onto the past with all their might.
Earths dont want anyone to feel bad or dislike them so they are careful not to rock the boat. Uncomfortable with
change and risk, they tend to walk on eggs, say what they think people want to hear and enable others and all of
their destructive behaviors.
Angelina Jolie
The Metal way is a reverent way. The Metal person is a master at meeting life
where it is at and rising above it. They are above the fray of its ups and
downs and never get too ruffled.
Metals are spiritual seekers often looking to the next guru or toward the next
mind-body-spirit connection. If the most spiritually elevated gurus are in India,
that is where a Metal will go. There is no argument, no debate: they will quietly
go to where they find one-on-one connections with others who seem to also
be on their path of higher consciousness.
Because the Metal person is often seeking a higher path of spiritual existence,
if you dont fit into their vision of the divine, then they will probably politely end their relationship with you. Again,
there is not arguing or struggle. The Metal will say farewell, and move on to something and someone at the
level that they require. It can feel cold and detached, but for the Metal it is a path of the highest respect for
themselves and their journey.
Five Elements - Further refined analysis is done through the Five Elements. Simply speaking it is a system of
categorization but it is also associative in the sense that nature is reflected in our bodily functions. In nature the cycle
goes like this: Fire gives rise to Earth, Earth gives rise to Metal, Metal gives rise to Water, Water to Wood and Wood to
Fire. Some are obvious in our everyday understanding, like Wood to Fire. But how does Water come from Metal? If we
rely on nature for the answer, as we should, we can see this particular relationship when atop a mountain. There we
observe water bubbling out of rock (metal).
How are the Five Elements related to the human body?
Fire - represents the heart and the small intestine, which reflects the warmth of a person's soul and the heat of
digestion. Looking more deeply into this analogy, we understand the small intestine to be that organ that separates the
pure food from the impure that interfaces with the blood which then goes the heart. This is a crucial step in the
development of a happy and healthy heart.
Emotions are also included in this relationship so the Heart is happy or sad. The heart laughs and you see a person's
heart through their eyes. A refined, discriminating person has a good small intestine function since he/she knows what
is uplifting to their spirit. The Fire element courses the blood and is responsible for creativity, for blood is life and life
creates. So when you take a brush to the canvas to paint, you are opening your heart to the possibility of creativity.
Earth - is your center and is comprised of the stomach and the pancreas-spleen. Earth is the provider, the
source of food, the producer. Therefore your ability to produce is an Earth issue. Earth also anchors, it is home,
therefore it is empathic like mother to child, it is nurturing. It is responsible for maturing bonds. But if it is overbearing
then you are smothered by the love of mother, possessiveness arises, compulsive behavior develops and addictions
result.
Earth imbalances are very prevalent in our society. Addiction is rampant. Eating disorders are at an all time high. Earth
is also the boundaries in life. If we fail to evaluate boundaries we become clinging, codependent or isolated. Treating
the Earth in our society is crucial. We can see this in our drive for ecological balance on the one side and the call for
the eradication of the family as its pathological opposite. We can also see the strong emphasis on government
intervention in our lives as reflection of the lack of Earth that the family once provided.Those who see the family as an
archaic institution will surely be inclined to support social programs set up by the government.
Metal - concerns the function of the lung and the large intestine. The lung takes in air and expels carbon
dioxide. As the large intestine takes in the products of the small intestine it reabsorbs essential minerals and water and
rids the body of waste. This process is a give and take, an in and out, something that interfaces very intimately with
the immediate environment. We develop our awareness through this function.
Metal helps us loosen bonds with the immature past. We can become quick to think and act with the cultivation of the
Metal element. We can become too judgmental if we depend too much on this function. Or we can become stuck as in
constipation and shallow breathing. This will result in poor digestion, muscle tension and unclear immediate thinking.
We will become out of touch, so to speak.
The Metal, because of its immediate relationship to the environment, has a lot to do with the immune defense system.
The lung and upper respiratory system is associated with this immune function. Its yang pair, the large intestine
reflects immunity in good bowel function. Therefore, improper breathing, bad air, anxiety all contribute to the poor
function of the Metal. White is associated with Metal. Therefore a white complexion can indicate a Metal imbalance.
Depression, sorrow and lack of life energy is a result of poor lung/large intestine function. Getting the lung to function
better often results in an uplifted emotional state.
Water - is the function of the kidneys and bladder. It controls the water in our bodies in the obvious ways of
urination, electrolyte balance and blood monitoring. It is also responsible for reproduction, the genetic link. The Water
is the essence of a person, the bones, the "structure". This is not limited to the merely physical. It is expanded to
include the foundation of one's personality. The character traits are imprinted here. Water imbalances can be seen in
the emotion of fear or in edema, cyanotic skin color and lack of will. It has a duel capacity to release extra energy
when in emergency situation and to go inward in a meditative way. Water is the abyss.
Wood - is about the liver and the gall bladder function. It is associated with anger, muscle tension, reactiveness
as well as the abililty to organize and plan, to act creatively and to create a protective plan for ones success. If the
wood is not allowed to grow and flourish we become irritated, frustrated and angry. We can become combative in the
world. Other associations are the color green, the taste of sour and the inability to make decisions.
An imbalance in Wood can be seen in emotional hypertension, painful or hesitant periods, excessive muscle tension,
or MS. Hyperactive children are often liver patients. When treatments are geared towards relieving the liver tension or
congestion, children often become more relaxed and attentive. Too much fats and greasy foods may exacerbate these
issues since the gall bladder is burdened further with these foods.
The above descriptions, of course, are a simplification of the theory, but I think it begins to give a fuller picture of the
thinking behind Chinese Medicine, a thinking that allows for a clinically practical approach to the problems that plague
humans, even today.
People that lack Metal are quiet, cautious and nervous. They tend to think too much, and cannot make quick
decisions. They do not express what is on their minds in public, but will complain about something afterwards.
People with excess Metal are often unkind and destructive. They are brave but may have no resourcefulness and no
intelligence. They have little grace and no mercy. They do not keep secrets.
The characteristics of Earth are standing still, being slow and steady, and stationary. Therefore the Earth people don't
like to move their body and change their mind too often. They are honest, trustworthy, and responsible. They also
have good faith. They can sit in one position for a long time. They accept religion since they like rumination and
meditation. They are slow to react. They like to collect things, and enjoy their collectables at home, but not outdoors.
People lacking Earth are selfish, insincere, and self-indulgent. They tend to ignore other people's opinions. They might
take immediate advantage of others unethically. They don't care about the people around them and do not keep their
promises.
People with excess Earth are stubborn, inflexible, cheap, lonely, plain and simple. They cannot keep their word either.
Another way of dividing the cosmos into elemental energies is the ancient east Indian vedic system of the three doshas: vata
(air/space), pitta (fire), and kapha (earth and water). Theses three doshas are used in Ayurvedic medicine in a system as fully
developed as traditional Chinese medicine. But Chinese Taoist cosmology is structured on five, not four elements: fire, earth, metal,
water, and wood. These five elements are the basis of Chinese metaphysics and philosophy and have practical applications
including feng shui, astrology/astronomy, and traditional Chinese medicine.
Fire
Each element possesses distinct characteristics. The first element, fire, is the most masculine of the five elements. Therefore, it is
considered very yang. Fires planet is Mars, the intense red planet. Fires season is summer, the time of heat, growth, warmth, and
increased light. Fire corresponds to the three earthly branches of summertime: Serpent (May), Horse (June) and Sheep Fires
direction is south. Fires position on the feng shui ba-gua represents fame and illumination. Fires tri-gram is two solid lines above
and below a broken line. Fires symbol is a red Phoenix. Although fire is considered a very yang element in general, it can exist in
either a yang or a yin state because in Taoism all things have both a yin and a yang expression to create balance. When fire
expresses masculine yang energy, its color is red and is symbolized by burning wood. When fire expresses feminine yin energy, its
color is purple and is symbolized by the flame of a lamp, small and contained, yet helpful.
Fire personality traits are love, passion, leadership, spirituality, insight, dynamism, aggression, intuition, reason, and
expressiveness. The fire personality is direct-right out front. A fire type succeeds by becoming warm- hearted and generous.
Experiences of love, compassion, fun, joy, and pleasure are healing for fire individuals. The challenge for a fire type is to share joy
and laughter without thought of reward.
The emotion associated with fire is happiness. Other heart emotions include joy, vanity, jealousy, frustration, regret, grief from loss
of love, and disappointment in relationships.
In traditional Chinese medicine, fires body organs are the heart and small intestines. Therefore a fire personality may have a
disposition for heart problems, such as heart attacks, or may experience minor digestive problems in the small intestines. The
element wood nurtures the element fire; woods body organ is the liver. Fire types must avoid alcoholic beverages that heat (over
stimulate) the liver. Liver excess is a false way to empower the heart and causes imbalance between fire and wood. Heart illness
and fire imbalance can often be read in the face: a cleft in the nose or a too red complexion.
Earth
The element earth is yin, feminine, like Mother Earth in the West. Earths planet is Saturn. Earth corresponds to all twelve earthly
branches, and its season is the last eighteen days of each of the four seasons, the time of seasonal transition. Earths location
(direction) is the center.
Earths postion on the feng shui ba-gua represents unity and balance. Earths tri-gram is three broken lines because the earth is
open and receptive to rain, sun, and other natural forces.
Earths symbol is the black and white yin/yang. Although earth is a yin element, it can exist in either a yang or a yin state. When
earth expresses masculine yang energy, its color is yellow and is symbolized by a hill. When earth expresses feminine yin energy,
its color is gold and is symbolized by a valley. Earth personality traits are stable, practical, reliable, industrious, empathetic, honest,
kind, prudent. Earth types value friendship. Earth individuals do well to meditate and nourish themselves physically, emotionally,
and spiritually.
They must learn to develop clear boundaries and take care of themselves. The challenge for earth types is to honor their
sympathetic nature and show great kindness to others.
The emotion associated with earth is sympathy. Other earth qualities are pensiveness, thoughtfulness, and reflection. Just as one
assimilates nutrients through the stomach, one assimilates life experiences through the element earth. A strong earth element helps
to digest and accept fate and expand ones circle of knowledge.
In traditional Chinese medicine, earths body organs are the stomach and spleen (and pancreas). Earth types should avoid foods
that antagonize the stomach because they may have a disposition for stomach disorders, such as ulcers or indigestion. A weak
spleen can cause immune system problems due to poor assimilation of nutrients. Since the sweet taste is associated with the
element earth, earth types can develop a sweet tooth. They must avoid the tendency to indulge in too many sweets and rich
desserts. Stomach illness and earth imbalance are indicated as deep sagging facial lines from the base of the nose to the outer
corners of the lip.
Metal
This element is feminine because metal is extracted from the feminine earth, although metal is considered less feminine than earth
or water. Metals planet is Venus. Metals season is autumn, the time of harvest (with a metal scythe), completion, and the
beginning of rest. Metal corresponds to the three earthly branches of fall: Monkey (August), Phoenix (September), and Dog
(October). Metals direction is west. On the feng shui ba-gua metal correlates to children and creativity. Metals symbol is a white
Tiger.
Although metal is a lesser yin element, it can exist in either a yang or a yin state. When metal expresses masculine yang energy, its
color is white and is symbolized by a weapon. When metal expresses feminine yin energy, its color is silver and is symbolized by a
kettle. Metal qualities include strength, independence, focus, intensity, righteousness, and fluency in speech. The metal personality
is very determined and powerful. Metal types succeed by being less opinionated, accepting change, and gracefully releasing the
past.
The emotion associated with metal is grief. Other metal emotions are insecurity, inability to achieve parental or spousal
expectations, and lack of confidence. The challenge for a metal type is to learn how to express grief and find healing.
In traditional Chinese medicine, metals body organs are the lungs and large intestines (and colon). Metal types must take care of
their lungs for they may be susceptible to colds, cough, flu, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and other respiratory problems. Cigarette
smoking is extremely harmful for metal types who could also develop intestinal problems that result in constipation or poor bowel
function. Intestinal and bowel cleansings are helpful maintaining proper balance.
A sunken chest or labored breathing are signs of weak metal. Also, lung illness and metal imbalance may result in a pale, sickly
complexion.
Direction: west
Climate: dry
Season: autumn
Emotion: grief
Body organs: lungs (yin) and large intestines (yang)
Water
Water is the most feminine of the five elements and therefore is considered very yin. In Taoist cosmology, femininity is not
considered weak. On the contrary, water is the most powerful element for it can move around any obstacle in its path without losing
its essential nature. Water can, in time, dissolve the hardest mountains.
Waters planet is Mercury. The metal Mercury exists in a liquid form, like water. Waters season is winter and therefore corresponds
to the three earthly branches of wintertime: Boar (November), Rat (December), and Ox (January). Waters direction is north.
Waters postion on the feng shui ba-gua represents career adn the life journey. Waters tri-gram is two broken lines with a solid line
in the center. Waters symbol is a black Tortoise.
Although water is a very yin element, it can exist in either a yang or a yin state. When water expresses masculine yang energy, its
color is black and is symbolized by a wave. When water expresses feminine yin energy, it color is gray and is symbolized by a
brook.
Water qualities are creativity, sensitivity, reflection, persuasion, effectiveness, and desire for life and sex. Water types value family
and social contacts and possess the ability to attract (being receptive, water can attract, rather than pursue). The emotion
associated with water is fear. Other water emotions are indecisiveness, vacillation, and uncertainty. Those born in a water year
succeed by not allowing fear to block the fullest expression of creativity. The challenge for water types is to overcome their fears
and become active participants in life.
In traditional Chinese medicine, waters body organs are the kidneys and bladder. Water types may have a disposition for urinary
problems, bladder infections in women, or prostate difficulties in men. Coffee drinking weakens the kidneys, and cocaine and
marijuana abuse causes irreversible kidney damage. These toxic substances, including alcohol and other drugs, must be avoided.
Kidney illness and water imbalance are indicated as dark circles or swollen bags under the eyes. Baldness is often another sign of
weak water.
Emotion: fear
Body organs: kidneys (yin) and bladder (yang)
Wood
The element wood is masculine and considered less yang than fire. Woods planet is Jupiter, the largest planet, symbolic of woods
growth in springtime. Woods season is spring, the time of planting seeds, beginnings, and new growth. Wood corresponds to the
three earthly branches of springtime: Tiger (February), Hare (March), and Dragon (April). Woods direction is east. Woods position
on the feng shui ba-gua represents ancestors and family relationships. Woods symbol is an azure Dragon. Although wood is a less
yang element, it can exist in either a yang or a yin state. When wood expresses masculine yang energy, its color is green and is
symbolized by a pine tree-sturdy, upright, and enduring. When wood expresses feminine yin energy, its color is blue and is
symbolized by the flexible bamboo that gently bends with the wind.
Wood qualities are bold actions, planning, initiating new projects, idealism, imagination, compassion, and competition. Wood types
possess decision-making skills and the ability to create change. From an Asian perspective, the go-getter, do-or-die, pioneering
spirit of American culture is very wood. The challenge for a wood type is to learn to control anger and channel it into positive work
that benefits all people.
The emotion associated with wood is anger. Other wood emotions are tension, criticism, discouragement, regret, excitement,
dislike of self and others, negative judgment, and repressed anger related to thwarted affection.
In traditional Chinese medicine, woods body organs are the liver and gallbladder. Drinking alcohol is like drinking poison for green
and blue signs because alcoholic beverages heat (overstimulate) the liver and cause severe wood imbalance. Avoid greasy, fatty
foods that antagonize the gallbladder.
Liver illness and wood imbalance are indicated as furrowed lines at the brow. A single deep furrow between the brows indicates
spleen imbalance and correlates to the element earth.
duty towards the people they are close to. They are ambitious, yet idealistic. They approach
problems in a logical, methodical manner. They follow their intuition and have strong
deductive talents. They are the moral compass by which they judge the world. They are very
ethical and disciplined. They have the ability to use their resources wisely. Their conservative
nature helps them most of the time. They make good planners or administrators. They are
usually wise in all financial issues. They have a talent for keeping things in their proper
perspective. Their steadiness and reliability impresses those around them. They are
disciplined and tend to not show their emotions. They want to be important, yet they want to
be loved. It would do them well to become a bit more adventurous in life. They are usually
respected and admired.
The Element of Earth may be considered stubborn or rigid. They may be controlling or only
interested in their own abilities to gain. They may end up questioning their own instincts and
distrusting their wisdom. They have a fear of the unknown that can be very strong.
Earth is the Center. It is the changing of the seasons. Earth's color is yellow, and it is
associated with the digestive system, especially the stomach and spleen. They would do well
to stay away from wetlands and moisture.
Chinese Fire Element
Those born with the Fire Element love adventure and excitement; they have dynamic
personalities and can become excellent leaders. They are competitive and may become
restless. Fire Elements tend to have a rather magnetic attraction. They don't like to be
secluded away from others. They prefer to form strong bonds with their loved ones. Fire is
confident and sure. They like to explore anything new. They are brilliant and warm. They are
decisive and dramatic. They may be aggressive about achieving the things they want in life.
They are gifted speakers. They are clever and want others to know it. They can be
hypersensitive. It is best if they can learn patience and compassion.
The Fire Element may become selfish and inconsiderate. They become impatient when they
are thwarted in their ambitions. When they try to force their way, they hit more obstacles.
The Fire Element is the South and represents the season of summer. Fire's obvious color is
red. It is associated with the circulatory system and the heart. They should stay away from too
much heat and too much emotion.
Chinese Metal Element
Those born with the Metal Element are tenacious and self-reliant. They like to enjoy
themselves but care about and respect others. They are usually pretty reserved, but when
pushed they can be very forceful and unyielding. Metal likes to live in an orderly fashion. They
prefer a balanced environment and like things to be clean. Metal is confidant and determined.
This can set them apart from all the others. When they know what they seek, they pursue it
unflinchingly. Obstacles and setbacks do not bother them. They are natural problem solvers.
They don't mind solitude; in fact while they want the acclaim for their accomplishments, they
much prefer to be left on their own. They are virtuous, and their inner strength of character is
well known. Metal creates their own success and sets out to attain it with a single purpose.
Metal can be a bit impulsive. They have a liking for luxury and power that their gifts with
money can provide. They can be unreasonable and stubborn sometimes. They may become
rather set in their ways. They are demanding when in charge and expect all around them to
meet their high expectations.
Metal is the West. It is associated with the season of autumn. Metal's color is white. In the
body, Metal is associated with the respiratory system and the lungs in particular.
Chinese Wood Element
Those born with the Wood Element are generous. They strictly adhere to their sense of ethical
behavior. They like to explore. Their powers of persuasion are very strong. Wood people are
often artists in whatever they do. They are diligent and committed to their work. They like to
be busy and believe that hard work is good for you. They are very confident. They have
a deep appreciation of what they have and do not lust after that which they cannot attain.
They like to have many varied interests. They are loyal friends. They do not indulge in selfish
behavior. They love working on a team. They are very compassionate with others.
Wood tends to be a spendthrift. They may tend to take on more than they can handle and
become overwhelmed. One thing they need to work on is learning their own limits. They may
become overly dependent on others. Wood tends to be passive and inhibited. It is easy for
them to lose themselves in the crowd. They should avoid areas with prevailing strong winds.
The Element of Wood is the East. It is associated with the season of spring. Appropriately, it is
the color green, and it is associated with the liver and gall bladder.
Chinese Water Element
Those born with the Element of Water can be charming and sensitive as well as
compassionate. They are very flexible and "go with the flow" so to speak. They are often
intelligent and creative. They have a great imagination and are not afraid to use it! They make
excellent philosophers and thinkers. They often freelance. They often have more than one
profession. Water has good people skills and can be very subtly persuasive. They have talents
in communication and diplomacy. They are intuitive and can find things that elude others.
They have a flair for organizing and can delegate with the best of them. They have the gift of
noticing the special talents of others and making them feel good about their abilities.
Water can also be secretive and deceptive. They don't like to share their secrets with others.
They have great skills of manipulation. Water tends to try to find the easiest way out. They
may be too passive and too malleable to the whims of others. They need to learn to stand on
their own two feet and follow their own path. They should avoid places heavy with water.
Water Element is the North. It is associated with the season of winter. Water's color is black
and it is associated with the lungs, skeleton and excretory system.
Significance
Each person is composed of varying proportions of each of the Five Elements: Water, Wood, Fire, Earth and Metal. A Chinese
medical practitioner will assess your element type by conducting an interview and a physical exam. By assessing your dominant
element a practitioner can recommend acupuncture treatments, herbs, lifestyle changes and food choices that will best support
your physiology, psychology and spiritual needs.
Wood
Wood personalities and body types are very strong and driven, but are prone to stress. They may experience health issues such as
high blood pressure, premenstrual syndrome, stress headaches and even depression. Meditation, yoga and relaxing activities such
as walking are critical for balancing a Wood personality. Maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding alcohol and enjoying sour foods will
help Wood types thrive both physically and spiritually.
Earth
Earth types tend to be very compassionate and giving. They are excellent mediators and also have a strong connection to the
natural environment. Earth elements tend to have problems with overindulging on sweet foods and unwanted weight gain.
Common physical issues include gastrointestinal issues, heartburn, fatigue and food allergies. Earth types should surround
themselves with very loving and trustworthy friends and develop clear boundaries in relationships to avoid over-extending
themselves.
Fire
Fire types are very outgoing, social and fun. They tend to have health issues related to anxiety, insomnia and depression when they
get overstimulated with their busy, exciting social lives. Fire personalities should follow a structured schedule and take time to
themselves on a regular basis to practice meditation, yoga and other calming activities. Eating regularly scheduled meals to avoid
hunger and avoiding spices that overstimulate the body are important habits for Fire types.
Metal
Metal type personalities are typically very meditative and spiritual. These people are artists or craftspeople who show extreme
attention to detail and often work with intensity and perfection. Metals are introverted and maintain very close relationships with
very select people. Physically, they have a high metabolism and and tend to crave spicy foods. When stressed, Metal types
experience respiratory health issues and skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. They are encouraged to engage in aerobic
exercise and consume regularly scheduled, nutritious meals.
Water
Water types are deep thinkers and enjoy thinking about philosophical matters. These people tend to have a mixture of highly
developed intellect and very strong willpower and endurance. Water types can isolate themselves to the point of illness, which
usually manifests as kidney or bladder issues. These people should take time to socialize regularly and consume plenty of water.
Fire:Too little: Unmotivated, cant express feelings
Too much: Emotionally, volatile, judgmental
Balanced: Fair-minded, appropriately, expressive
Earth:Too little: Selfish, insincere
Too much: Generous to a fault, self-sacrificing
Balanced: Appropriately nurturing, caring, reliable
Water:Too little: Limited knowledge, narrow-minded
Too much: Has much knowledge but cant use it well
Balanced: Intelligent, insightful, full of wisdom
Metal:Too little: Timid, unable to communicate
Too much: Motor-mouthed, brassy, self-righteous
Balanced: Eloquent, conversationally, adept
Physically, the wood archetype may develop headaches, cramps and muscle spasms,
high blood pressure, nerve inflammations, and migratory pain.
If you are a wood archetype, you may need to watch your tendency toward
extremism. Give yourself permission to rest and relax, and establish some level of
regularity and stability in life, such as regular diet, sleep and exercise. Itll help you go
the distance, and enjoy your adventure even more.
things to all people. You may also doubt yourself and become worried and obsessed,
or become meddling and overprotective.
Physically, the earth archetype may develop lethargy, indigestion, unruly appetite,
water retention, and muscle tenderness.
If you are an earth archetype, you may consider balancing your devotion to
relationships with solitude and self-expression, and strive to develop self-reliance
while building relationships and community.
Wood people with a close affinity to the wood element, often excel, or have problems
planning, making decisions or taking action. Their strength is in their ability to see the future and act
upon the choices they make to bring their vision into reality.
If the wood person is out of balance they can become depressed and may feel as though all hope is
lost, they procrastinate because they either cant plan or cant make a decision to move forward.
Anger or frustration then becomes a predominat emotion.
Fire these are the warm and fuzzy people. A person with a fire personality is more likely to
reach out to people and be in a relationship with everyone.
Laughing and making people happy, is what they love to do most, but on the inside they can feel sad
or unable to experience joy. If they are out of balance, they may be unable to form good
relationships, or they are over-the-top in being the life and soul of the party.
Earth this personality is one of mothering and nurturing. Their priorities are on understanding
the needs of others and also keeping the balance of self-nourishment. If out of balance, they may
not feel fulfilled unless they are mothering others and finding solutions to their problems. This can go
to the extreme where they neglect their own needs while mothering everyone else. They may feel as
though there life is empty or they can feel very needy.
Metal people with a metal personality tend to look for spirituality and pureness. They hold on
to high standards for themselves and expect the same from others. They are more interested in
respect.
In the other extreme, they may have no self respect and a low opinion of themselves and others.
They are also known to live in a state of what might have been for awhile. When out of balance, the
emotion they may experience a lot is grief.
Water the water personality is one of persistence and determination. They tend to excel in
times when others would run. They are able to hide their deep feelings of fear or feelings of being
frozen. Such a person, when their water element is out of balance, may be fearless to the point of
recklessness, but on the other hand, may be so full of fear that they feel frozen and paralyzed by it.
This is a very brief understanding of what the Chinese five elements are and how they affect our lives,
helping to give us insight into physiology and pathology. They help enormously in being able to
diagnose and treat many problems.
indecisiveness. Along with being all-around irritable, the wood-deprived person will lose touch with
themselves and look to others for guidance on how to feel.
When one is experiencing a lack of metal in their life, they can become careless, lazy, sloppy. The
natural flow of conversations and cooperative ventures can get lost in tangents like a stream of
consciousness with no rhyme or reason, start or finish, direction or purpose Unable to coherently
express oneself, the person begins to feel exposed, weak and vulnerable. Projects go unfinished.
The persons work life, finances, relationships become unstable as they hop from one thing to the
next without a sense of focus.
Water has the ability to be still or in motion, and in in excess can lead to being water-logged. If we
have too much stillness, we can become disheartened and depressed. We appear self-absorbed,
aloof and ungrounded. If we have too much motion, we can become anxious, exhausted by the
never-ending need to keep up. We can react impatiently to others, minimizing their issues while
spinning our wheels on our own. Stuck in our rut, we struggle with feeling alone and jealous of
everyone elses seemingly easier life.
Without enough water, we dry out. We lose flexibility altogether and feel as though we have
nothing more to give or offer to life or others or ourselves. This lends itself to the scarcity mindset,
withholding whatever resources we have and offering only the bare minimum as well as blaming
others for our lack. We can literally feel cut off from the source. Others may see us as artificial or
two-dimensional because we are so afraid of losing what little resources we have left, we avoid
genuine relationships and appear flaky.
WOOD Archetype
The major physical signs of wood are sinewy tendons
and a hard body. Wood people either look like tall trees or shorter, more compact bushes. Wood
people constantly need to be doing something. They enjoy arguments and discussions. They feel
compelled to exercise and love to work hard. They are seen as aggressive and assertive and often
hold their hands in clenched fists. Wood people are action oriented and quick to take offense.
Their rashness can lead to accidents. They are also prone to injuries of overuse such as strained,
pulled or torn muscles and tendons. In severe cases of overuse of the wood element, they will
create conditions like Parkinsons where movement and coordination is compromised and
ultimately impeded. The other scenario that occurs with wood deficiency is various conditions of
exhaustion including chronic fatigue. Wood people have very strong livers and enjoy processing
toxins, whether emotional- caused by anger or chemical- as in drugs and alcohol. However, they
can become toxified and create wood stagnation especially when they do not release old anger
and resentments. This leads to sensitivities to environmental toxins or problems like nausea and
headaches. They are also prone to addiction. Wood people resist aging and fight the weakening of
their bodies and try to maintain their previous levels of activity both physically and emotionally.
They need to maintain flexibility instead of rigidity.
The wood person should have a tall and slender body; their strength is in their ligaments, tendons,
and sinews. They may have a darkish face and fairly broad shoulders. The wood element
represents growth and awakening. Its nature is expansive and provides a sense of direction for
achieving goals. The wood type is very sociable, and can turn ideas into profits and resolve
problems. They are hard workers and have good verbal skills, and are extroverted who enjoy
completing tasks. They tend to have strong tempers, and will easily get frustrated especially when
others dont come through with their obligations. They may have a tendency to spread themselves
out too thin, and may have difficulty expressing their innermost feelings, while feeling inadequate.
They can handle tremendous amounts of pressure and strict deadlines.
The wood element relates with the liver and gallbladder; the negative emotion is repressed anger
or rage towards one self, others, or both. The positive virtue of wood is kindness. The wood
element controls the sense of seeing and opens into the eyes. The sour taste helps to move the
blood of the liver.
DEFICIENT WOOD
Individuals deficient in the wood element may be prone to sudden outbursts of anger, and
problems with the nerves, eyes, and tendons. Green reflects the wood element, and helps
overcome a deficient wood state. Other things that support the wood element are constructional
materials of wood, as well as wood shapes such as a column or tower. Forests, plants, and other
forms of vegetation compliment a deficient wood type as well. The wood person should avoid
eating foods that are greasy and fried. If they notice that they suffer from anger-related issues,
then adding sour foods such as lemons, limes, and vinegar to the diet would be very beneficial.
The Liver
The liver is located in the upper right part of the abdomen. It is connected to the rest of the body
through channels in the right and left side of the ribs. The main functions of the liver are smoothing
and regulating the flow of vital energy and blood, storing and regulating blood, and having
relations with tendons, nails and eyes.
Smoothing and Regulating the Flow of Vital Energy and Blood The liver is often compared to wood
in TCM, as both trees and the liver tend to spread out freely. The livers function is to spread qi
throughout the body freely. There are three ways in which the liver accomplishes this: regulating
mind and mood, promoting digestion and absorption, and keeping qi and blood moving normally.
According to TCM, the heart and the liver control mental activities of humans. When the liver is
functioning well, it is able to regulate the flow of vital energy and blood, which contributes to
mental healthiness, resulting in happiness, relaxation, and sensitivity. But when the liver does not
function well, it results in anxiety, sighing, sadness, and belching. When the liver is in very bad
health, it may result in dizziness, headache, insomnia, and nightmares during sleep. The livers
function of regulating the flow of energy in the body aids the spleen in distributing nutrients and
water in the body, and therefore, contributes to good digestion. An unhealthy liver can affect the
spleen negatively, resulting in poor appetite, belching, vomiting, and diarrhea. The livers function
of regulating the flow of energy in the body affects the flow of qi. If the liver is not functioning well,
the flow of qi is affected negatively, and it may result in pain in the chest or lower abdomen. Qi
directly effects the circulation of blood, and so when the liver does not function well, the circulation
of blood is obstructed, and it results in pains in the chest and lower abdomen, tumor, abnormal
menstruation, dysmenorrheal, and amenorrhea.
FIRE Archetype
If you are primarily a fire type then your strengths
should lie in the blood and blood vessels. In nature fire is responsible for warming and achieving
clarity. A fire type can illuminate and comfort any given situation. They are leaders, highly
charismatic, self-driven, motivators, and very passionate. The fire type enjoys being in the
limelight, they are adventurous, and are excited by change. This can bring about great success or
failure if they are not careful. This archetype tends to walk fast, be very creative, take on many
challenges, which makes them ideal warriors. The fire type is normally unconcerned with wealth,
yet fond of beauty. They may have a reddish face with a large nose, curly hair, or lack there of!
They are energetic and active.
The fire element relates in with the heart and small intestine. The pericardium and triple burner
may fall under this element as well. The heart will tend to absorb the brunt of all other negative
emotions. The heart houses the primary negative emotion of over excitation or (joy), and the
positive virtue of love. The fire element shows itself in the veins and arteries, the sense orifice it
opens up into is the tongue, which controls taste, and is connected to bitter foods.
FIRE ELEMENT
The major physical signs of fire are slim hips and shoulders, mobile hands, sparkling eyes and
redness in the throat and neck areas. Fire people tend to be small in stature and very lively. Their
main goal in life is to play. They love new experiences and communicating whether verbally or
through body language. Fire people are changeable and scattered. They are also very charismatic
and charming. They tend to flourish in warmer climates as they dislike wearing much clothing and
have a naturally high body temperature. They are full of ideas and prefer starting to finishing. They
enjoy excitement and can become thrill seekers. They are naturally attuned to rhythm and love to
dance to a strong beat. Their biggest health problems come from inflammation, which is caused by
unrestrained fire and an overactive nervous system. This includes lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Fire people are prone to disturbances in speaking and thinking that are caused by misfiring of the
brain and overactive imaginations. These include stuttering, phobias, and mental illnesses that
include psychosis. The fire elements primary organ is the heart, which controls and regulates the
expression of all emotions. Suppression of emotions can therefore cause problems with the heart
including arrhythmia, tachycardia and heart disease. Fire people maintain a youthful persona and
try to continue living an erratic life that causes burnout and ultimately sadness.
DEFICIENT FIRE
People that are deficient in the fire element may be prone to heart-related problems, and/or
problems with their veins, arteries, and blood, or both. Those who may have fire deficiencies may
want to add items into their environment like candles, the color red, and pictures containing fire.
Buildings with steep roofs, like churches steeples also help. Adding pyramid shapes to the
environment and mountain ranges with steep peaks also support more of the fire aspect. Avoid
alcoholic beverages, greasy fried foods, and caffeine. Kale and apricot kernels are examples of
bitter foods.
Controlling Blood Circulation: Blood vessels are the tubes in which blood is able to flow. They are
linked to the heart, creating a closed system. TCM says that it is the Qi of the heart that keeps it
beating and sending blood through blood vessels. When the Qi is sufficient, the heart can keep a
normal rate and strength. The pulse of the heart tells you if the Qi is sufficient or not and whether or
not the blood of the heart is sufficient. A weak and empty pulse shows deficiency of the Qi of the heart.
A fine and weak pulse shows deficiency of the blood of the heart. A rough and rhythmical pulse shows
decline of the blood of the heart.
Taking charge of Mental Activities: TCM believes nervous activities like thinking depend on the
functions of the heart. When the functions of the heart are normal, the person will have a healthy
consciousness and healthy mental activities. Abnormalities, like insanity, may be brought on by
insufficiency of blood. Treatment is found through an analysis of the heart condition.
Sweat as the Fluid of the Heart: Body fluid is the most important component of the blood and
sweat comes from body fluid. TCM says that profuse sweating means the heart is using a lot of blood
and Qi, which may result in palpitations and violent beatings of the heart. Too much sweating hurts the
Yang of the heart, and a lot of body fluid is lost. Those who have a lack of Yin in the heart are likely to
sweat at night.
Having Relations with the Tongue and Face: TCM believes that the condition of the heart can be
represented on the tongue and the face. Because the face has a lot of blood vessels, the face can
show the condition of the heart. A bright and red face and tongue shows that the heart is functioning
well. The face and tongue and pale and white if the heart is not functioning well. Stagnation of the
heart can be represented in a face that is blue and a dark purple tongue. The hair can also show the
health of the heart. Healthy hair shows a healthy heart.
Pericardium: The pericardium is the protective tissue of the heart. External pathogenic factors, like
a high fever, coma, and a red tongue mostly affect the pericardium before they affect the heart.
EARTH Archetype
The earth archetype may have a darkish complexion,
strong thighs, and wide jaws. Of all the aspects of their bodies, earth types should have strong
muscles. The earth person has to watch out for gaining weight, because a large belly and
somewhat fat body are attributes of the earth type. They may not be very ambitious, yet they are
calm, generous, and normally centered. Earth represents stability, and harmonizes between all
other elements. Being fair is a predominant quality of an earth type; they also can be trusted with
starting a plan. When in balance they are very centered, when out of balance they tend to worry
constantly, and may be prone to digestive disorders. They may be susceptible to arthritis if their
muscles are not strong. They make great managers and organizers, though their focus can be
weak, making handling multiple tasks very difficult. They respond to change well as long as it is
gradual. The earth element relates to the spleen and stomach, the tissue it controls is the muscle.
The orifice that it opens up into is the mouth. Sweet and fatty type foods comfort the spleen, and it
controls the sense of touch. The negative emotion of the spleen is pensiveness, worry, and
anxiety. The positive virtue is serenity and centeredness.
DEFICIENT EARTH
The colors yellow and orange, and earth tones support the earth element. To benefit this element
hang pictures of flat lands or plains. The earth element is represented by architecture that is both
flat and square. Having your surroundings made of earth, which include brick, or even concrete,
is positive for supporting earth. Avoid foods that have excessive amounts of sugar. Foods that may
help uplift fatigue due to weakness are yams, corn, and certain rice. People that need to balance
out their earth element will greatly benefit from Qigong practices that help root the Qi, and
practices that help harmonize the stomach and spleen.
METAL Archetype
The metal types are rational, independent, and strong
willed. They normally have a strong loud voice, their lungs being their strongest attribute. Metal
types can be either positive or destructive depending on their intent. Thus they have the
capabilities to gather others for a positive cause or a negative outcome. They are aggressive in
pursuing goals, and are emotional, confident, and intuitive. In their negative aspect they may
isolate themselves, withdrawing from activities and society in general. The metal type has a
strongly built body, broad and square shoulders, with a triangular-shaped face. They may walk
slowly, pushing their chest out with their shoulders back. Metal represents courage, righteousness,
justice and truth. Its negative attribute is grief, sorrow, and sadness. They can be extremely driven
in pursuing their goals and at the same time unwilling to express their true inner feelings. The
metal element relates to the lungs and large intestine, controlling our immune system. The tissue
the metal element relates to is the hair and skin, and connects in with the nose, which controls the
sense of smell. Foods that are pungent tasting work well with the lungs.
DEFICIENT METAL
To support the metal element include metal items and furnishings in your life and house. Use
colors of white or silver. Decorate your house with arched, curved, or semi-circular, furnishings to
gather more metal energy. In architecture, domed metal roofs or primarily metal structures attract
metal energy. A tendency to catch colds or flues easily could be a sign of a weak metal element.
Take pungent tasting foods that expel pathogens from the body well. Some examples include:
garlic, ginger, and mint.
WATER Archetype
Water can nourish or deteriorate. The water type
communicates well, is gentle in nature, sympathetic, slightly lazy, and tends to be susceptible to
fear. They dont always tell the truth and are not always straightforward. They do, however, have a
have a gentle way of interacting with people, being good neighbors and loyal to their colleagues.
The water type can gather the support of others, is sensitive to their environment, and has a well
developed sense of intuition; some may even have psychic abilities. They should have a robust
digestive system, and a longer than normal spine. Generally you can distinguish a water archetype
by their love for movement, their round face and body, and soft white skin. The water archetype
may have a tendency to overindulge in sex, causing a weakness of the kidneys and the bones.
DEFICIENT WATER
If you are weak with the water element, then here are some things that you may want to do to
bring this aspect of your being in harmony for your health. Within your environment, add bowl
shapes, irregular and flowing natural shapes, and glass because they represent water. Colors of
blue or black, sounds of running water, and fish tanks also represent water, and are considered yin
in nature. Fountains are considered yang. Having these things inside as well as outside your home
will benefit you, if you are weak in the water element.
The water element relates to the kidneys and urinary bladder. The negative emotion housed in the
kidneys is fear, shock, or both. The positive virtue is gentleness. The tissues controlled by the
kidneys are the bones, the sensory organ it opens into is the ear, and the taste that satisfies the
kidneys is salty.
The person weak in this element should not overindulge in sexual activity, and should try to control
other issues that harm the normal functioning of the kidneys like too much stress, not enough
sleep, excessive work, and improper diet.
Wood
Meridians: Liver/Gallbladder
People who have strong energy of the Wood element have a clear
vision and goals, and know how to bring them into being. They excel
at planning and decision making. They can be forceful in
disagreements and can strongly argue their opinions. Their piercing,
penetrating eyes may attract you, but avoid their wrath.
Wood Imbalance
When the wood Qi is weak, people can be indecisive, without strong direction in life,
and stuck. They may be constrained emotionally, unable to express anger. When the
Liver Qi is congested or stagnant, people can be arrogant, over controlling, and have
angry dispositions. They may have a tendency to be workaholics or have addictive
personalities, including the possibility of abusing drugs and alcohol. They may have
digestive problems like bloating, gas, alternating constipation and diarrhea.
When Liver Qi is imbalanced, hot and spicy foods may cause too much heat. Sour and
bitter flavors are said to benefit the Liver meridian. Excessive frustration and irritation
can be especially difficult when the Liver meridian is out of balance. Physical exercise
and reading can help restore balance. The fall is a vulnerable time, as well as the winds
of March, and extremely hot weather.
Common signs of Liver meridian stress include dry, brittle, thickened nails and pain just
below the ribs. Common illnesses include migraines, eye problems, and sinus
problems. The Liver meridian circles the genitals, and rashes and discharges are
associated with its imbalance, as well as hernias. For women, menstrual problems are
common including PMS, painful periods, and heavy bleeding. Uterine fibroids may be
related to imbalance of the Liver meridian as well. The Liver and Gallbladder meridian
pathways traverse the top and sides of the head, the most common sites for migraine
headaches.
The Qi of the Wood element flourishes in the spring when plants are sprouting new
growth; and the color of this element is green.
Fire
Meridians: Heart, Small Intestines, Pericardium, Triple Warmer
People with strong Fire energy may be quite charismatic. They excel
at commanding others to action. They may love talking and
socializing.
Fire Imbalance
When the Fire Qi is weak, a person may be lackluster or bland. They may suffer from
anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia. They may stutter, talk too much and too rapidly, or
laugh nervously. They may be too excitable, easily stimulated to excesses, or they may
be emotionally cold and unfeeling.
Common illnesses include palpitations, hypertension, heart problems, and sores on the
mouth and tongue. People strongly influenced by the Fire element may be vulnerable
in very hot weather, and may be calmed and centered by walking. The bitter flavor
favors the Fire Qi. Coffee is a bitter flavor, but its effects may aggravate the Heart Qi.
The healthy bitter flavors include dark, green leafy vegetables.
Earth
Meridians: Stomach/Spleen
Someone with well developed Earth energy is a well grounded,
nurturing, compassionate person, sometimes depicted as the
archtypical earth mother. Earth people like to bring others together
and make good mediators or peacemakers and reliable friends.
They often enjoy both preparing food and eating. You may be attracted by their
generous mouth and full, sensuous lips.
Earth Imbalance
When people have weak Earth Qi, they can be worriers and meddlers. They are prone
to pensiveness. They may overwork, especially in studying or other intellectual work.
They are vulnerable to digestive problems and diarrhea. They may gain weight easily
and lose it with difficulty. Their bodies have a tendency to make excessive mucus, and
they may suffer from cloudy thinking, muzzy-headedness, and a lack of clarity.
Those with weak Earth Qi often feel better when they limit cold, raw foods and dairy
products. They should eat warming foods and grains to stay well grounded. They may
crave sweets. The sweet taste can be satisfied by eating sweet grains, vegetables,
and fruits rather than processed sugars.
Common illnesses include: fatigue, diarrhea, gas & bloating, food allergies &
sensitivities, eating disorders, heartburn, and canker sores. Excessive mucus may
collect in the lungs or in the sinuses. In women, menstrual problems may include either
excessively light or heavy periods.
The Qi of the earth element flourishes in Indian Summer, those golden moments of
fullness before the waning of the light. The earth color is yellow, like the sun, and the
ripened crops, and the root vegetables. Sitting meditation is said to strengthen the earth
element.
Metal
Meridians: Lungs/Large Intestines
A person with well balanced Metal energy is well organized, self
disciplined, and conscientious. They like structure in their life. They
are most comfortable in situations when they know the rules and can
succeed by following them. Metal Qi bestows a deep inner strength,
like ore mined from the mountains.
Metal Imbalance
A person with Metal Qi imbalance may be grief-stricken, steeped in sadness. They may
be overly critical. They may have trouble letting go. When the Metal energy is weak,
there can be illnesses of the lungs asthma, allergies, frequent colds. The Lung
meridian rules the skin, so rashes, eczema, and problems with sweating can be related
Water
Meridians: Kidneys, Bladder
The Water energy is a strong generative force centered in the lower
belly. When the Kidney Qi is strong, a person is fearless,
determined, and can endure many hardships in pursuit of their
goals. Persevering by will power is characteristic of those with strong
Kidney Qi. Longevity is also considered to be associated with
healthy Kidney Qi, signified by large, elongated ear lobes, like those of the Buddha.
Water Imbalance
When the Kidney Qi is weak, there can be problems with water metabolism, urination,
fertility, or sexuality. This person could be anxious, fearful, and withdrawn, and in more
severe cases, phobic.
Kidney Qi declines with aging. There may be diminished hearing or ringing in the ears.
In menopause, the Kidney yin declines, which is associated with classic signs of heat
and dryness hot flashes, night sweats, dry skin and mucous membranes. Kidney
yang weakness is associated with cold cold extremities, cold back and belly, declining
sexual vigor, urinary frequency or incontinence.
The color of the Kidney is black, like the night, or like black ice. When the Kidney Qi
starts to weaken, dark circles or pouches appear under the eyes. The Kidney Qi rules
in the winter, a time when living things are contracted with cold. Like a seed deep in the
cold ground, Qi is dormant, waiting for the time to sprout.
Wood
Meridians: Liver/Gallbladder
People who have strong energy of the Wood element have a clear
vision and goals, and know how to bring them into being. They excel
at planning and decision making. They can be forceful in
disagreements and can strongly argue their opinions. Their piercing,
penetrating eyes may attract you, but avoid their wrath.
Wood Imbalance
When the wood Qi is weak, people can be indecisive, without strong direction in life,
and stuck. They may be constrained emotionally, unable to express anger. When the
Liver Qi is congested or stagnant, people can be arrogant, over controlling, and have
angry dispositions. They may have a tendency to be workaholics or have addictive
personalities, including the possibility of abusing drugs and alcohol. They may have
digestive problems like bloating, gas, alternating constipation and diarrhea.
When Liver Qi is imbalanced, hot and spicy foods may cause too much heat. Sour and
bitter flavors are said to benefit the Liver meridian. Excessive frustration and irritation
can be especially difficult when the Liver meridian is out of balance. Physical exercise
and reading can help restore balance. The fall is a vulnerable time, as well as the winds
of March, and extremely hot weather.
Common signs of Liver meridian stress include dry, brittle, thickened nails and pain just
below the ribs. Common illnesses include migraines, eye problems, and sinus
problems. The Liver meridian circles the genitals, and rashes and discharges are
associated with its imbalance, as well as hernias. For women, menstrual problems are
common including PMS, painful periods, and heavy bleeding. Uterine fibroids may be
related to imbalance of the Liver meridian as well. The Liver and Gallbladder meridian
pathways traverse the top and sides of the head, the most common sites for migraine
headaches.
The Qi of the Wood element flourishes in the spring when plants are sprouting new
growth; and the color of this element is green.
Fire
Meridians: Heart, Small Intestines, Pericardium, Triple Warmer
People with strong Fire energy may be quite charismatic. They excel
at commanding others to action. They may love talking and
socializing.
Fire Imbalance
When the Fire Qi is weak, a person may be lackluster or bland. They may suffer from
anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia. They may stutter, talk too much and too rapidly, or
laugh nervously. They may be too excitable, easily stimulated to excesses, or they may
be emotionally cold and unfeeling.
Common illnesses include palpitations, hypertension, heart problems, and sores on the
mouth and tongue. People strongly influenced by the Fire element may be vulnerable
in very hot weather, and may be calmed and centered by walking. The bitter flavor
favors the Fire Qi. Coffee is a bitter flavor, but its effects may aggravate the Heart Qi.
The healthy bitter flavors include dark, green leafy vegetables.
Earth
Meridians: Stomach/Spleen
Someone with well developed Earth energy is a well grounded,
nurturing, compassionate person, sometimes depicted as the
archtypical earth mother. Earth people like to bring others together
and make good mediators or peacemakers and reliable friends.
They often enjoy both preparing food and eating. You may be attracted by their
generous mouth and full, sensuous lips.
Earth Imbalance
When people have weak Earth Qi, they can be worriers and meddlers. They are prone
to pensiveness. They may overwork, especially in studying or other intellectual work.
They are vulnerable to digestive problems and diarrhea. They may gain weight easily
and lose it with difficulty. Their bodies have a tendency to make excessive mucus, and
they may suffer from cloudy thinking, muzzy-headedness, and a lack of clarity.
Those with weak Earth Qi often feel better when they limit cold, raw foods and dairy
products. They should eat warming foods and grains to stay well grounded. They may
crave sweets. The sweet taste can be satisfied by eating sweet grains, vegetables,
and fruits rather than processed sugars.
Common illnesses include: fatigue, diarrhea, gas & bloating, food allergies &
sensitivities, eating disorders, heartburn, and canker sores. Excessive mucus may
collect in the lungs or in the sinuses. In women, menstrual problems may include either
excessively light or heavy periods.
The Qi of the earth element flourishes in Indian Summer, those golden moments of
fullness before the waning of the light. The earth color is yellow, like the sun, and the
ripened crops, and the root vegetables. Sitting meditation is said to strengthen the earth
element.
Metal
Meridians: Lungs/Large Intestines
A person with well balanced Metal energy is well organized, self
disciplined, and conscientious. They like structure in their life. They
are most comfortable in situations when they know the rules and can
succeed by following them. Metal Qi bestows a deep inner strength,
A person with Metal Qi imbalance may be grief-stricken, steeped in sadness. They may
be overly critical. They may have trouble letting go. When the Metal energy is weak,
there can be illnesses of the lungs asthma, allergies, frequent colds. The Lung
meridian rules the skin, so rashes, eczema, and problems with sweating can be related
to Metal imbalance. The Large Intestine meridian can be affected by chronic
constipation or diarrhea, or other bowel diseases.
The Metal energy peaks in the fall. In the cool, crisp, clean air of autumn, metal people
feel they can accomplish anything. The color of Metal is white, and people strongly
influenced by the Metal Qi may have pale complexions.
Water
Meridians: Kidneys, Bladder
The Water energy is a strong generative force centered in the lower
belly. When the Kidney Qi is strong, a person is fearless,
determined, and can endure many hardships in pursuit of their
goals. Persevering by will power is characteristic of those with strong
Kidney Qi. Longevity is also considered to be associated with
healthy Kidney Qi, signified by large, elongated ear lobes, like those of the Buddha.
Water Imbalance
When the Kidney Qi is weak, there can be problems with water metabolism, urination,
fertility, or sexuality. This person could be anxious, fearful, and withdrawn, and in more
severe cases, phobic.
Kidney Qi declines with aging. There may be diminished hearing or ringing in the ears.
In menopause, the Kidney yin declines, which is associated with classic signs of heat
and dryness hot flashes, night sweats, dry skin and mucous membranes. Kidney
yang weakness is associated with cold cold extremities, cold back and belly, declining
sexual vigor, urinary frequency or incontinence.
The color of the Kidney is black, like the night, or like black ice. When the Kidney Qi
starts to weaken, dark circles or pouches appear under the eyes. The Kidney Qi rules
in the winter, a time when living things are contracted with cold. Like a seed deep in the
cold ground, Qi is dormant, waiting for the time to sprout.