The Elements
The core insight of Five Element Acupuncture upholds the theory that the mind, body and spirit are made up of five elements found in nature: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. When all five energies manifest within us in balance and harmony, we experience the enhanced joy of being alive.
Wood | Spring
Emerging from the darkness and emptiness of winter, spring bursts forward with potential and possibility. Life is bright and the seeds for new projects are planted. It is a time of creation, beginnings, initiation, power and expansion. A harmonious Wood element is strong yet flexible and it is a fertile ground to nurture vision and dreams. It also gives us a clear sense of purpose and direction in our lives and how those dreams can be carried out defiantly with hope and optimism.
Fire | Summer
From spring’s growth and blossom, we feel the heat of summer’s fire as growth matures. The atmosphere and mood are intensified and we bask in the positive associations of summer: It is a time for socialising, holidays, being joyous and full of energy and showing who we are to our full potential. A harmonious Fire element enables us to be open, passionate and find joy in everything we do and experience, so that we communicate with honesty, warmth and compassion.
Earth | Late-Summer
After the pinnacle of summer’s heat, life hangs in bounty and balance as we enter late-summer. It is a time of coming together, sharing stories and embracing a slower and satisfied pace of life. This is the time we can reap the rewards of the seeds we planted in spring and enjoy our harvest. A harmonious Earth element enables us to feel nourished and abundant with a deep sense of gratitude and fulfilment. Feeling stable and secure, we empathise with others without losing our own centre.
Metal | Autumn
Following the richness and plenty of late-summer, the coolness and crispness of autumn strikes. It is a time of contraction. As the earth slows down and begins to rest, the leaves begin to fall off the trees and the days grow shorter and cooler, we are reminded of the importance of letting go of what we no longer need, so that we can appreciate and see the true value and preciousness of all that we have. When we truly slow down and reflect, a harmonious Metal element gives us the ability to cultivate our own self-worth, discern what really matters and be inspired beyond the ordinary.
Water | Winter
As the year draws to a close, winter is when nature lies fallow and energy is conserved rather than expended. Winter is a time for hibernation and rest. From this place of stillness and inward reflection and attention, we regenerate and gather resource for the next cycle. A harmonious Water element provides us with the wisdom and power to adapt and move with the flow of life, just like a gently moving mountain brook. Whilst life can be terrifying and tumultuous at times, its calm and quiet nature always reassures us of the ease and peace that resides within us.