The Five Elements

In many belief systems around the world, particularly Taoism, Yin and Yang are the inherent feminine and masculine energies and produce what are known as the “Five Elements.” The Five Elements, in turn, give birth to the “ten-thousand things,”They influence everything we do and our very existence. The Five Elements are Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. An understanding of the elements and how they effect everything we do will give you a better appreciation of the world you live in.

Earth – Change to Improve

Earth represents the basic’s the fundamentals, the recognition of need for change, realism, a good base and humility. We cannot expect different positive outcomes if we keep doing the same actions and are unwilling to change something and make a real effort.
Earth represents realism, hard work and caution. It’s direction is slow transformation. It’s emotions are passive. It’s bearing is prudence.

Water – Be Adaptable

Water represents adaptability as water can take many forms such as ice, stream, snow, fluid it can be hard and soft. Like water you may have attributes, resources and skills that can adapt and be adapted in creative beneficial ways.
Water is associated with winter and to the night. Water rules the kidneys and the bones. Its taste is salty. Its nature is cold. It has the dual qualities of severity and rigidity. Its direction is to invigorate. Its emotion is an absence of passion. Its bearing engenders respectful fear. Water represents power shut in on itself.

Wood – Grow And Flourish

Wood represents growth, flexibility, flourishing and creativity. Like wood we can develop new ideas, skills, be flexible and thrive in new directions with vigor and flair.
Wood is associated with the morning and the spring. Wood rules the liver and the eyes. Its taste is acid. Its nature is temperate. It has the dual qualities of beauty and elegance. Its direction is to lead. Its passions are anger and quick tempered. Its bearing is dignified. Wood represents creative power, artistry, imagination and freedom.

Fire – You Can Do It!

Fire represents the need to take action, it is last in the cycle as it completes/destroy the elements before it but it also creates the opportunity for the cycle to begin anew. Fire is intense an all out effort the requires courage, after the planning, gathering and adjustments it is time for decisive action.
Fire is associated with midday and the middle of summer. Fire rules the heart and the blood. Its taste is bitter. Its nature is hot. It has the dual qualities of brilliance and prosperity. Its direction is enlightened. Its emotions are joyous. Its bearing passionate. Fire represents aggressive passion and high spirits.