Five Elements Personality

8/18/2019 Five Elements Personality

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Alecia Moore “PINK”

Wood people often get the fuzzy end of the lollipop because they are often

misunderstood as harsh, or intimidating. They are actually funny and kind but

they wield a lot of power and they are often honest to a fault.

Woods are fearless. They are like the sudden expansive growth of spring after

a long, slow winter, and like the power of tree roots that push through solid

concrete. Woods lead with a determination and will that surpasses all limits. At

the same time, Wood people see the bigger picture, find solutions, seek out

the best in things, and make changes. They are strong, sturdy, stable,

fearless, logical, reasonable, bold, independent, and unapologetic. They are also very fair-minded, and nothing

upsets them more than injustices. This makes them powerful.

Woods are doers. They turn ideas into action. Woods exude confidence and don’t let much stand in their way. If

they can imagine it, it can be done. They know what they want, are decisive, make things happen, and push

themselves to the limit. They enjoy debates and arguments and are not easily swayed by other’s opinions. Once

they make up their minds, there is little that can convince them that someone else’s opinion is right. Woods knowthey are right, which acts as fuel for their strong drive, but doesn’t always bode well for their personal

relationships. Just as every element is led by a dominant emotion, Woods are often lead by anger. There is a

subconscious simmering of anger that surges up fast for Woods, especially when they witness unfair situations

or mistreatment of people.

If Woods can learn how to slow down, mellow out and gain compassion for others, they can experience resilient

health and well-being, as well as enjoy productive careers and satisfying relationships. It helps Woods to have an

upbeat partner who frequently gives them a pat on the back or a high-five. A quick acknowledgement lets Woods

know that their hard work is acknowledged by the people they want to please the most.


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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 don’t 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 doesn’t 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 isn’t so special orsincere. They can appear to be everybody’s best friend. Perpetually in motion, Fires are

constantly chasing the next shiny object. When faced with displeasure from others, a Fire’s joy can turn to panic.

Mr. Rogers

There has never been a more perfect Earth person than Melanie, Scarlett

O’Hara’s 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 didn’t 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 don’t 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 hand-

stitched 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 don’t 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 don’t 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.


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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 up’s and

down’s 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 don’t 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 etal, etal gives rise to !ater, !ater to !ood and !ood to

Fire. Some are obvious in our everyday understanding, like !ood to Fire. "ut ho# does !ater come from etal$ If #e

rely on nature for the ans#er, as #e should, #e can see this particular relationship #hen atop a mountain. %here #e

observe #ater bubbling out of rock &metal'.

(o# are the Five Elements related to the human body$

Fire - represents the heart and the small intestine, #hich reflects the #armth of a person)s soul and the heat of

digestion. *ooking more deeply into this analogy, #e understand the small intestine to be that organ that separates the

pure food from the impure that interfaces #ith the blood #hich then goes the heart. %his is a crucial step in the

development of a happy and healthy heart.

Emotions are also included in this relationship so the (eart is happy or sad. %he heart laughs and you see a person)s

heart through their eyes. + refined, discriminating person has a good small intestine function since heshe kno#s #hat

is uplifting to their spirit. %he Fire element courses the blood and is responsible for creativity, for blood is life and life

creates. So #hen 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, thesource of food, the producer. %herefore 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. "ut if it is overbearing

then you are smothered by the love of mother, possessiveness arises, compulsive behavior develops and addictions

result.


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Earth imbalances are very prevalent in our society. +ddiction is rampant. Eating disorders are at an all time high. Earth

is also the boundaries in life. If #e fail to evaluate boundaries #e become clinging, codependent or isolated. %reating

the Earth in our society is crucial. !e 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. !e can also see the strong emphasis on government

intervention in our lives as reflection of the lack of Earth that the family once provided.%hose #ho see the family as an

archaic institution #ill surely be inclined to support social programs set up by the government.

Metal - concerns the function of the lung and the large intestine. %he lung takes in air and epels carbondioide. +s the large intestine takes in the products of the small intestine it reabsorbs essential minerals and #ater and

rids the body of #aste. %his process is a give and take, an in and out, something that interfaces very intimately #ith

the immediate environment. !e develop our a#areness through this function.

etal helps us loosen bonds #ith the immature past. !e can become uick to think and act #ith the cultivation of the

etal element. !e can become too /udgmental if #e depend too much on this function. 0r #e can become stuck as in

constipation and shallo# breathing. %his #ill result in poor digestion, muscle tension and unclear immediate thinking.

!e #ill become out of touch, so to speak.

%he etal, because of its immediate relationship to the environment, has a lot to do #ith the immune defense system.

%he lung and upper respiratory system is associated #ith this immune function. Its yang pair, the large intestine

reflects immunity in good bo#el function. %herefore, improper breathing, bad air, aniety all contribute to the poorfunction of the etal. !hite is associated #ith etal. %herefore a #hite compleion can indicate a etal imbalance.

1epression, sorro# and lack of life energy is a result of poor lunglarge intestine function. 2etting the lung to function

better often results in an uplifted emotional state.

Water - is the function of the kidneys and bladder. It controls the #ater in our bodies in the obvious #ays ofurination, electrolyte balance and blood monitoring. It is also responsible for reproduction, the genetic link. %he !ater

is the essence of a person, the bones, the 3structure3. %his is not limited to the merely physical. It is epanded to

include the foundation of one)s personality. %he character traits are imprinted here. !ater imbalances can be seen in

the emotion of fear or in edema, cyanotic skin color and lack of #ill. It has a duel capacity to release etra energy

#hen in emergency situation and to go in#ard in a meditative #ay. !ater is the abyss.

Wood - is about the liver and the gall bladder function. It is associated #ith anger, muscle tension, reactivenessas #ell as the abililty to organize and plan, to act creatively and to create a protective plan for ones success. If the

#ood is not allo#ed to gro# and flourish #e become irritated, frustrated and angry. !e can become combative in the

#orld. 0ther associations are the color green, the taste of sour and the inability to make decisions.

+n imbalance in !ood can be seen in emotional hypertension, painful or hesitant periods, ecessive muscle tension,

or S. (yperactive children are often liver patients. !hen treatments are geared to#ards relieving the liver tension or

congestion, children often become more relaed and attentive. %oo much fats and greasy foods may eacerbate these

issues since the gall bladder is burdened further #ith these foods.

%he above descriptions, of course, are a simplification of the theory, but I think it begins to give a fuller picture of thethinking behind 4hinese edicine, a thinking that allo#s for a clinically practical approach to the problems that plague

humans, even today.

Metal Element in the Birth Chart

etal-type people are righteous, faithful, gallant and chivalrous. %hey like to kno# and help people.

etal is the substance in #hich internal particles sueeze and condense together. %here is a force from the outside to

the inside that keeps etal hard. etal reflects light, so it is shiny. It may have a clear sound #hen it)s hit. %herefore, a

etal-type person has great strength, discipline and enough courage to aid needy people, #hich may make them

famous.

etal people are brave, disciplined, trained, organized, authoritative, determinative, routine, firm, resolute and have an

urge to #in. %hey have a large sense of honor. %hey like to spread their fame. %hey are sensitive in grief and sadness.


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5eople that lack etal are uiet, cautious and nervous. %hey tend to think too much, and cannot make uick

decisions. %hey do not epress #hat is on their minds in public, but #ill complain about something after#ards.

5eople #ith ecess etal are often unkind and destructive. %hey are brave but may have no resourcefulness and no

intelligence. %hey have little grace and no mercy. %hey do not keep secrets.

Water Element in the Birth Chart

!ater-type people are smart, #ise, frank, and resourceful. %hey have good memories and think before they leap.

%here are t#o types of !ater: Floating !ater and Still !ater. Floating !ater makes people active and restless and

feel like traveling. Still !ater makes people clam and peaceful.

5eople lacking !ater are unstable, co#ardly, narro#-minded, and have no stamina. %hey lack intellect, good sense,

understanding, and foresight. %hey also tend to keep changing their mind.

5eople #ith ecess !ater are smart, sly, tricky and plot dark schemes. %hey like to move or travel around and have a

sensual life. %hey are likely to dream too much, and keep changing their mind as #ell. %hey also are only interested in

#hat concerns them and have no interest in outside #orld affairs.

Wood Element in the Birth Chart

!ood-type people are kind, steady, sympathy-sharing, understanding and gentle. %hey like to help people and make

donations.

%he essence of !ood is a tree. %he force inside the tree is like gro#ing up#ard to the sky. %rees often compete #ith

each other aggressively #hen gro#ing up. "ecause of the characteristics of trees, !ood-type people are steadfast,

organized, logical, practical, innovative, uniue, assertive, fortitudinous, independent, challenging and direct. %hey like

to plan things, take action, and go on adventures and challenges. %hey are perfectionists #ho tend to push

themselves to the limit and seek out the best, and take first place in competition.

!hen their ambition and optimism is over#helming, !ood-types can become upset, nervous, unstable, impatient,

intolerant, and lose their humor by the frustration of many obstacles.

5eople lacking !ood essentially are #eak in their opinions. %hey lack the determination to change their options #hen

situations change. %hey are likely to be /ealous #hen they don)t have a strong vie#point of their o#n.

5eople #ith ecess !ood are often infleible, pre/udiced and biased. %hey tend not to accept or absorb others)

opinions.

Fire Element in the Birth Chart

+ Fire-type person is courteous, elouent, polite and epressive. %hey are good at compliments in speech.

Fire people are energetic, artistic, passionate, easily ecitable, and have a tendency to rapidly change emotional

states as #ell as become aggressive. %hey love sensation, drama and sentiment. %hey seek /oy, gratification and the

attention of others. %hey like to be invited to a party and dislike being alone.

5eople lacking Fire are aggressive but have no persistence. %hey are inclined to have little confidence and have

plenty of #orries.

5eople #ith ecess Fire are often talkative, overstated, overecited, overheated, s#eet-talking, smart and restless.

%hey tend to lecture and offend others because of their short tempe

Earth Element in the Birth Chart

ost Earth-type people are trustful, steady, loyal and responsible. %hey are honest, religious, reliable, and keep their

promises.


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%he characteristics of Earth are standing still, being slo# and steady, and stationary. %herefore the Earth people don)t

like to move their body and change their mind too often. %hey are honest, trust#orthy, and responsible. %hey also

have good faith. %hey can sit in one position for a long time. %hey accept religion since they like rumination and

meditation. %hey are slo# to react. %hey like to collect things, and en/oy their collectables at home, but not outdoors.

5eople lacking Earth are selfish, insincere, and self-indulgent. %hey tend to ignore other people)s opinions. %hey might

take immediate advantage of others unethically. %hey don)t care about the people around them and do not keep their

promises.

5eople #ith ecess Earth are stubborn, infleible, cheap, lonely, plain and simple. %hey cannot keep their #ord either.

%(E FI6E %+0IS% E*EE7%S

Fire, Earth, etal, !ater and !ood

%he four elements of fire, #ater, air, and earth are the basis of many magical and spiritual systems: the native +merican medicine

#heel, the four corners of pagan European ritual, the four elements of alchemical schools of ancient Egypt, and the four elements

of astrology. Even the tarot deck and playing cards are based on these four elements #hereby fire is #ands &clubs', #ater is cups

&hearts', air is #ords &spades', and earth is pentacles &diamonds'.

+nother #ay of dividing the cosmos into elemental energies is the ancient east Indian vedic system of the three doshas: vata

&airspace', pitta &fire', and kapha &earth and #ater'. %heses three doshas are used in +yurvedic medicine in a system as fully

developed as traditional 4hinese medicine. "ut 4hinese %aoist cosmology is structured on five, not four elements: fire, earth, metal,

#ater, and #ood. %hese five elements are the basis of 4hinese metaphysics and philosophy and have practical applications

including feng shui, astrologyastronomy, and traditional 4hinese medicine.

Fire

Each element possesses distinct characteristics. %he first element, fire, is the most masculine of the five elements. %herefore, it is

considered very yang. Fire8s planet is ars, the intense red planet. Fire8s season is summer, the time of heat, gro#th, #armth, and

increased light. Fire corresponds to the three earthly branches of summertime: Serpent &ay', (orse &9une' and Sheep Fire8s

direction is south. Fire8s position on the feng shui ba-gua represents fame and illumination. Fire8s tri-gram is t#o solid lines above

and belo# a broken line. Fire8s symbol is a red 5hoeni. +lthough fire is considered a very yang element in general, it can eist in

either a yang or a yin state because in %aoism all things have both a yin and a yang epression to create balance. !hen fire

epresses masculine yang energy, its color is red and is symbolized by burning #ood. !hen fire epresses 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

epressiveness. %he fire personality is direct-right out front. + fire type succeeds by becoming #arm- hearted and generous.

Eperiences of love, compassion, fun, /oy, and pleasure are healing for fire individuals. %he challenge for a fire type is to share /oy

and laughter #ithout thought of re#ard.

%he emotion associated #ith fire is happiness. 0ther heart emotions include /oy, vanity, /ealousy, frustration, regret, grief from loss

of love, and disappointment in relationships.


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In traditional 4hinese medicine, fire8s body organs are the heart and small intestines. %herefore a fire personality may have a

disposition for heart problems, such as heart attacks, or may eperience minor digestive problems in the small intestines. %he

element #ood nurtures the element fire #ood8s body organ is the liver. Fire types must avoid alcoholic beverages that heat &over

stimulate' the liver. *iver ecess is a false #ay to empo#er the heart and causes imbalance bet#een fire and #ood. (eart illness

and fire imbalance can often be read in the face: a cleft in the nose or a too red compleion.

4olors: red &yang' and purple &yin'

Earthly branches and months: Serpent&ay', (orse &9une', Sheep &9uly'

5lanet: ars

1irection: south

4limate: hot

Season: summer

Emotion: happiness

"ody organs: heart &yin' and small intestines &yang'

Earth

%he element earth is yin, feminine, like other Earth in the !est. Earth8s planet is Saturn. Earth corresponds to all t#elve earthly

branches, and its ;season< is the last eighteen days of each of the four seasons, the time of seasonal transition. Earth8s location

&direction' is the center.

Earth8s postion on the feng shui ba-gua represents unity and balance. Earth8s tri-gram is three broken lines because the earth is

open and receptive to rain, sun, and other natural forces.

Earth8s symbol is the black and #hite yinyang. +lthough earth is a yin element, it can eist in either a yang or a yin state. !hen

earth epresses masculine yang energy, its color is yello# and is symbolized by a hill. !hen earth epresses 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 #ell to meditate and nourish themselves physically, emotionally,

and spiritually.

%hey must learn to develop clear boundaries and take care of themselves. %he challenge for earth types is to honor their

sympathetic nature and sho# great kindness to others.

%he emotion associated #ith earth is sympathy. 0ther earth ualities are pensiveness, thoughtfulness, and reflection. 9ust as one

assimilates nutrients through the stomach, one assimilates life eperiences through the element earth. + strong earth element helps

to digest and accept fate and epand one8s circle of kno#ledge.

In traditional 4hinese medicine, earth8s 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. + #eak

spleen can cause immune system problems due to poor assimilation of nutrients. Since the s#eet taste is associated #ith the


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element earth, earth types can develop a s#eet tooth. %hey must avoid the tendency to indulge in too many s#eets 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.

4olors: yello# &yang' and gold &yin'

Earthly branches and months: +ll t#elve branches are earthly. 7o months are

earthly.

5lanet: Saturn

1irection: center

4limate: damp

Season: seasonal transition-the last eighteen days of the four seasons

Emotion: sympathy

"ody organs: stomach &yang' and spleen &yin'

Metal

%his element is feminine because metal is etracted from the feminine earth, although metal is considered less feminine than earth

or #ater. etal8s planet is 6enus. etal8s season is autumn, the time of harvest ith a metal scythe', completion, and the

beginning of rest. etal corresponds to the three earthly branches of fall: onkey &+ugust', 5hoeni &September', and 1og

&0ctober'. etal8s direction is #est. 0n the feng shui ba-gua metal correlates to children and creativity. etal8s symbol is a #hite

%iger.

+lthough metal is a lesser yin element, it can eist in either a yang or a yin state. !hen metal epresses masculine yang energy, its

color is #hite and is symbolized by a #eapon. !hen metal epresses feminine yin energy, its color is silver and is symbolized by a

kettle. etal ualities include strength, independence, focus, intensity, righteousness, and fluency in speech. %he metal personality

is very determined and po#erful. etal types succeed by being less opinionated, accepting change, and gracefully releasing the

past.

%he emotion associated #ith metal is grief. 0ther metal emotions are insecurity, inability to achieve parental or spousal

epectations, and lack of confidence. %he challenge for a metal type is to learn ho# to epress grief and find healing.

In traditional 4hinese medicine, metal8s body organs are the lungs and large intestines &and colon'. etal types must take care of

their lungs for they may be susceptible to colds, cough, flu, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and other respiratory problems. 4igarette

smoking is etremely harmful for metal types #ho could also develop intestinal problems that result in constipation or poor bo#el

function. Intestinal and bo#el cleansings are helpful maintaining proper balance.

+ sunken chest or labored breathing are signs of #eak metal. +lso, lung illness and metal imbalance may result in a pale, sickly

compleion.

4olors: #hite &yang' and silver &yin'

Earthly branches and months: onkey &+ugust', 5hoeni &September', 1og &0ctober'

5lanet: 6enus


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1irection: #est

4limate: dry

Season: autumn

Emotion: grief

"ody organs: lungs &yin' and large intestines &yang'

Water

!ater is the most feminine of the f ive elements and therefore is considered very yin. In %aoist cosmology, femininity is not

considered #eak. 0n the contrary, #ater is the most po#erful element for it can move around any obstacle in its path #ithout losing

its essential nature. !ater can, in time, dissolve the hardest mountains.

!ater8s planet is ercury. %he metal ercury eists in a liuid form, like #ater. !ater8s season is #inter and therefore corresponds

to the three earthly branches of #intertime: "oar &7ovember', =at &1ecember', and 0 &9anuary'. !ater8s direction is north.

!ater8s postion on the feng shui ba-gua represents career adn the l ife /ourney. !ater8s tri-gram is t#o broken lines #ith a solid line

in the center. !ater8s symbol is a black %ortoise.

+lthough #ater is a very yin element, it can eist in either a yang or a yin state. !hen #ater epresses masculine yang energy, its

color is black and is symbolized by a #ave. !hen #ater epresses feminine yin energy, it color is gray and is symbolized by a

brook.

!ater ualities are creativity, sensitivity, reflection, persuasion, effectiveness, and desire for life and se. !ater types value family

and social contacts and possess the ability to attract &being receptive, #ater can attract, rather than pursue'. %he emotion

associated #ith #ater is fear. 0ther #ater emotions are indecisiveness, vacillation, and uncertainty. %hose born in a #ater year

succeed by not allo#ing fear to block the fullest epression of creativity. %he challenge for #ater types is to overcome their fears

and become active participants in life.

In traditional 4hinese medicine, #ater8s body organs are the kidneys and bladder. !ater types may have a disposition for urinary

problems, bladder infections in #omen, or prostate difficulties in men. 4offee drinking #eakens the kidneys, and cocaine and

mari/uana abuse causes irreversible kidney damage. %hese toic substances, including alcohol and other drugs, must be avoided.

>idney illness and #ater imbalance are indicated as dark circles or s#ollen bags under the eyes. "aldness is often another sign of

#eak #ater.

4olors: black &yang' and gray &yin'

Earthly branches and months: "oar &7ovember', =at &1ecember', 0 &9anuary'

5lanet: ercury1irection: north

4limate: cold

Season: #inter


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Emotion: fear

"ody organs: kidneys &yin' and bladder &yang'

Wood

%he element #ood is masculine and considered less yang than fire. !ood8s planet is 9upiter, the largest planet, symbolic of #ood8s

gro#th in springtime. !ood8s season is spring, the time of planting seeds, beginnings, and ne# gro#th. !ood corresponds to the

three earthly branches of springtime: %iger &February', (are &arch', and 1ragon &+pril'. !ood8s direction is east. !ood8s position

on the feng shui ba-gua represents ancestors and family relationships. !ood8s symbol is an azure 1ragon. +lthough #ood is a less

yang element, it can eist in either a yang or a yin state. !hen #ood epresses masculine yang energy, its color is green and is

symbolized by a pine tree-sturdy, upright, and enduring. !hen #ood epresses feminine yin energy, its color is blue and is

symbolized by the fleible bamboo that gently bends #ith the #ind.

!ood ualities are bold actions, planning, initiating ne# pro/ects, idealism, imagination, compassion, and competition. !ood types

possess decision-making skills and the ability to create change. From an +sian perspective, the go-getter, do-or-die, pioneering

spirit of +merican culture is very #ood. %he challenge for a #ood type is to learn to control anger and channel it into positive #ork

that benefits all people.

%he emotion associated #ith #ood is anger. 0ther #ood emotions are tension, criticism, discouragement, regret, ecitement,

dislike of self and others, negative /udgment, and repressed anger related to th#arted affection.

In traditional 4hinese medicine, #ood8s body organs are the liver and gallbladder. 1rinking alcohol is like drinking poison for green

and blue signs because alcoholic beverages heat &overstimulate' the liver and cause severe #ood imbalance. +void greasy, fatty

foods that antagonize the gallbladder.

*iver illness and #ood imbalance are indicated as furro#ed lines at the bro#. + single deep furro# bet#een the bro#s indicates

spleen imbalance and correlates to the element earth.

4olors: green &yang' and blue &yin'

Earthly branches and months: %iger &February', (are &arch', 1ragon &+pril'

5lanet: 9upiter 1irection: east

4limate: #indy

Season: spring

Emotion: anger

"ody organs: liver &yin' and gallbladder &yang'

Chinese Earth Element

Those born in the Earth Element are patient and reliable. This Element has a high sense of


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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 nancial 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 uestioning 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 "ire Element

Those born with the "ire Element love adventure and e#citement$ they have dynamicpersonalities and can become e#cellent leaders. They are competitive and may become

restless. "ire 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. "ire is

condent and sure. They like to e#plore 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 "ire Element may become selsh and inconsiderate. They become impatient when they

are thwarted in their ambitions. %hen they try to force their way, they hit more obstacles.

The "ire Element is the &outh and represents the season of summer. "ire!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 'etal Element

Those born with the 'etal 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. 'etal likes to live in an orderly fashion. They

prefer a balanced environment and like things to be clean. 'etal is condant and determined.

This can set them apart from all the others. %hen they know what they seek, they pursue it

un)inchingly. *bstacles 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. 'etal creates their own success and sets out to attain it with a single purpose.

'etal can be a bit impulsive. They have a liking for lu#ury 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 e#pect all around them to

meet their high e#pectations.

'etal is the %est. It is associated with the season of autumn. 'etal!s color is white. In the

body, 'etal is associated with the respiratory system and the lungs in particular.

Chinese %ood Element

Those born with the %ood Element are generous. They strictly adhere to their sense of ethical

behavior. They like to e#plore. Their powers of persuasion are very strong. %ood people are

often artists in whatever they do. They are diligent and committed to their work. They like to


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be busy and believe that hard work is good for you. They are very condent. 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 selsh

behavior. They love working on a team. They are very compassionate with others.

%ood tends to be a spendthrift. They may tend to take on more than they can handle and

become overwhelmed. *ne thing they need to work on is learning their own limits. They may

become overly dependent on others. %ood 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 %ood is the East. It is associated with the season of spring. +ppropriately, it is

the color green, and it is associated with the liver and gall bladder.

Chinese %ater Element

Those born with the Element of %ater can be charming and sensitive as well as

compassionate. They are very )e#ible and go with the )ow so to speak. They are often

intelligent and creative. They have a great imagination and are not afraid to use it- They make

e#cellent philosophers and thinkers. They often freelance. They often have more than one

profession. %ater has good people skills and can be very subtly persuasive. They have talents

in communication and diplomacy. They are intuitive and can nd things that elude others.

They have a )air for organiing and can delegate with the best of them. They have the gift ofnoticing the special talents of others and making them feel good about their abilities.

%ater can also be secretive and deceptive. They don!t like to share their secrets with others.

They have great skills of manipulation. %ater tends to try to nd 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.

%ater Element is the /orth. It is associated with the season of winter. %ater!s color is black

and it is associated with the lungs, skeleton and e#cretory 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 eam. !y 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. "hey may eperience health issues such as

high blood pressure, premenstrual syndrome, stress headaches and even depression. Meditation, yoga and relaing activities suchas wal#ing are critical for balancing a Wood personality. Maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding alcohol and en$oying sour foods will

help Wood types thrive both physically and spiritually.

Earth

Earth types tend to be very compassionate and giving. "hey are ecellent 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%etending

themselves.


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Fire

Fire types are very outgoing, social and fun. "hey tend to have health issues related to aniety, insomnia and depression when they

get overstimulated with their busy, eciting social lives. Fire personalities should follow a structured schedule and ta#e 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. "hese people are artists or craftspeople who show etreme

attention to detail and often wor# with intensity and perfection. Metals are introverted and maintain very close relationships with

very select people. &hysically, they have a high metabolism and and tend to crave spicy foods. When stressed, Metal types

eperience respiratory health issues and s#in conditions such as ec'ema or psoriasis. "hey are encouraged to engage in aerobic

eercise and consume regularly scheduled, nutritious meals.

Water

Water types are deep thin#ers and en$oy thin#ing about philosophical matters. "hese people tend to have a miture of highly

developed intellect and very strong willpower and endurance. Water types can isolate themselves to the point of illness, which

usually manifests as #idney or bladder issues. "hese people should ta#e time to sociali'e regularly and consume plenty of water.

Fire:-

%oo little: ?nmotivated, can8t epress feelings

%oo much: Emotionally, volatile, /udgmental

"alanced: Fair-minded, appropriately, epressive

Earth:-

%oo little: Selfish, insincere

%oo much: 2enerous to a fault, self-sacrificing

"alanced: +ppropriately nurturing, caring, reliable

!ater:-

%oo little: *imited kno#ledge, narro#-minded

%oo much: (as much kno#ledge but can8t use it #ell

"alanced: Intelligent, insightful, full of #isdom

etal:-

%oo little: %imid, unable to communicate

%oo much: otor-mouthed, ;brassy


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1ou may be familiar withthe ve(element theory,according to which theelements of wood, re, earth,metal and water symboliethe ve basic processes ofnature, and represent the veualities of naturalphenomena. &ince we0re anintegral part of nature, theve(element theory applies tous as well 5 to our health,personality, potential, and lifechallenges.

Identifying your ve(element type, whether you0re a wood type or a water type, for

e#ample, can help you understand your inherent drives, desires and tendencies, yourgifts and powers, as well your limitations. It0s not meant to put a label on yourpersonality, but rather to serve as a tool for self(awareness, self(understanding andself(mastery.

There are ve archetypal personalities associated with each element6 “2ioneer7 for%ood, 8%iard7 for "ire, 82eacemaker7 for Earth, 8+lchemist7 for 'eta, and82hilosopher7 for %ater.

I0ll brie)y describe each archetype below. Check it out and see which type resonateswith your understanding of who you are.

The Pioneer (Wood Archetype)

1ou0re bold, driven, condent,ambitious, assertive, decisive andcompetitive. 1ou0re also likely to becommitted, focused, and determined. 1ou love action and adventure, and

perform well under pressure. Curiousabout the uncharted territory, you0reeager to innovate, reform andrevolutionie. 'etamorphosis is yourorganiing principle, and actioncompels you.

*n the other hand, you have atendency to overdo, over(perform and

over(direct. %hen you push yourself too far and spread yourself too thin, you mayhave a tendency to either discharge the pent(up energy thorough emotional

outbursts, overindulgence, erratic and compulsive behaviors, or becomeoverwhelmed, uptight and e#hausted.


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things to all people. 1ou may also doubt yourself and become worried and obsessed,or become meddling and overprotective.

2hysically, 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 torelationships with solitude and self(e#pression, and strive to develop self(reliancewhile building relationships and community.

The Alchemist (Metal Archetype)

1ou0re reserved, disciplined, discerning,scrupulous, methodical and honorable. 1ou0re also likely to be calm and neat.

1ou like denition, structure andsystem, and respect virtue, discretionand authority. 1ou seek to liveaccording to reason and principle andhold yourself and others to the higheststandards. &eeking the perfection ofform and function, transmutation isyour guiding principle.

%hen you0re out of balance, you tend

to become autocratic, strict, formal,distant and unnatural. *r you may become indi;erent and inhibited. 1ou may alsohave a tendency for self(righteousness and disillusionment.

2hysically, the metal archetype may develop sti; joints and muscles, dry skin andhair, shallow breathing, a sensitive to climate, and poor circulation.

If you are a metal archetype, you may consider balancing your rationality, self(controland meticulousness with passion, spontaneity and social involvement.

The Philosopher (Water Archetype)


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1ou0re candid, introspective,ingenious, curious, sensible, andobjective. 1ou are also likely to bemodest, careful, thrifty, self(containedand self(suwww.cycleharmony.com>healthy(living>healthy(lifestyle>whats(your(ve(

element(personality([email protected]

Personality Types Connected With The Chinese Five Elements

It must be remembered that the five elements are present in all of us, but there will be one element in

particular with which we have an affinity and this can be both our strength and in case of imbalance,

our weakness

• Wood ! people with a close affinity to the wood element, often e"cel, 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 can#t plan or can#t make a decision to move forward

$nger or frustration then becomes a predominat emotion

• Fire ! these are the warm and fu%%y people $ person with a fire personality is more likely to

reach out to people and be in a relationship with everyone

&aughing and making people happy, is what they love to do most, but on the inside they can feel sad

or unable to e"perience 'oy 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

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to the e"treme 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 e"pect the same from others They are more interested in

respect

In the other e"treme, 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 e"perience a lot is grief

• Water ! the water personality is one of persistence and determination They tend to e"cel in

times when others would run They are able to hide their deep feelings of fear or feelings of being

fro%en uch 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 fro%en and paraly%ed 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

Knock on Your Wood Personalityarmonizin! the Wood Element in You"

In an e;ort to understand and work with the energies of life, "eng &hui seeks to create harmony

among the ve elements6 %ood, "ire, Earth, 'etal and %ater. The Chinese "ive Element Theory

assists us in organiing our e#periences as they relate to these elements. +wareness of what

element is most active in our bodies and our spaces during any given situation allows us to

understand our own motivation and actions. +nd it assists in our balancing e#cess and deciencies

to create the movement we desire in life.

The Fen! #hui Wood Personality

%ood provides the push for growth, like a sprout bursts forth from the hard surface of the ground

to e#pand upward and onward. "or this reason, %ood is a powerful element to access when we

need to create change, break through obstacles and take risks.

%ood feeds the fre element or the energy that drives us to e#press. &o when we are depleted

during times of helping others, or working with others or e#pressing our emotions and thoughts,

wood can recharge that part of us and restore our sanity.

%ood is fed by the water element or that energy of calm, uiet, internal contemplation. Aefore wetake action, we need to ground and center and embrace the stillness within so we can act in the

right way. &o whenever we feel we are pushing, pushing, pushing, we can add the water element

and restore the balance.

E$cess % &e'ciencies

If a person is operating from a high(wood energy, it will lead to burn(out. Aoldness, a valuable

trait, can turn to aggressive and hostile behavior and leave the person unable to rela#. + normally

decisive person can become impulsive and irresponsible with a get(it(done mentality. If a person is

e#perience such e#cess, the metal energy will help to restore balance.

If a person is operating from a low(wood energy, they can be lethargic and sluggish, even

apathetic. In this state, the person can become overly sensitive to noise and bogged down by


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indecisiveness. +long with being all(around irritable, the wood(deprived person will lose touch with

themselves and look to others for guidance on how to feel.

alanced Wood Ener!y

%hen the wood energy is balanced in one0s personality, they are courageous, driven and condent

in the way a admirable leader would be. This balance can be achieved with one0s environment by

adding objects, colors and shapes that evoke the various energy in a harmonious way.

%ishing you peace and balance-

i!ht my Fire Personalityarmonizin! the Fire Element in You"




element is most active in our bodies and our spaces during any given situation allows us tounderstand our own motivation and actions. +nd it assists in our balancing e#cess and deciencies


The Fen! #hui Fire Personality

"ire adds e#citement, fullness and warmth that enables us to open up, e#pand, e#press and be the

full e#pression of our soul. "ire is a transformative element, fusing and converting all other forms

of life and substance into one magnicent )ame. %ith such power, the re element develops one0s

compassion as the ability to recognie the worthiness of others0 characteristics and feel love. "ire

brings light and with it, great insights.

"ire feeds the earth element , the power to nurture and protect. +fter re pushes one towards

e#pression, e#posing and laying bare one0s true self, and igniting the possibility of love, the

natural desire is to e#perience nurturing, safety and enclosure. %hen we are called upon

individually or as a society to care for others, we can add the re element and ignite compassion

and love.

The re element is fed by the wood element , or the energy that enables us to push forward and

past boundaries to reach towards e#pression. In an e;ort to e#press ourselves authentically, we

can to add the element of wood and gain a sense of personal power and individual strength.

E$cess % &e'ciencies

If a person is acting from a place of high(re energy they can lose their sense of self, so caught up

in the act of e#pansion, they consume anything and everything. This is the pleasure seeker who

simply cannot get enough to satisfy, seeking greater stimulation and wider variety of e#periences.

*ften operating from a fear of isolation, they )icker above the surface without going to deep into

e#periences, failing to incorporate life0s lessons fully.

+ person acting from a place of low(re energy can appear physically cold and pale, as if unable to

sustain their own body heat. These people will be naturally withdrawn, trapped in a cycle of self(

doubt from their intuition being dimmed. &tuck in a feeling of joylessness, their inability to feelcompassion, and to empathie, further feeds their isolation.


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alanced Fire Ener!y

%hen the re energy is balanced in a person0s personality, they are motivated, engaged and

easily relate to others. "ire(balanced people are able to laugh heartily. *ptimists and

compassionate individuals, these individuals are aware of others, of feelings and of their own

uniue o;erings in life and e#press themselves beautifully, e;ortlessly and authentically.

&o*n to Earth PersonalityEnhancin! the Earth Element in You"







The Fen! #hui Earth Personality

Earth energy nurtures and supports us. Earth energy surrounds us, stabilies us and gives us the

reassurance that we have a foundation on which to move about and build all else. %hen we are in

touch with the earth element, we are able to nd tranuility and unity. %hen we are going through

times of intense change, earth energy will help us stay grounded.

The earth element feeds the creation of metal, or the energy of organiing, categoriing and

building of the structures to hold and contain the vast riches of earth. +fter we have had a

moment to pause and re)ect on our e#periences, and feel the stable support of the earth, we are

able to separate the the unwanted parts and create a strong metal structure to organie .

Earth is fed by the fre element . Its combustion and creation of ash grants us the foundation and

solid footing of earth. +nd after we have e#pended the intense energy reuired to e#press

ourselves, to embody the re energy, we need to continue the cycle to earth energy in order to

restore our footing. &ometimes the best way to get to a safe and secure place is to burn away the

past and allow the ash to fertilie our future.

"rom earth0s stability, we are able to branch out and reach towards the heavens Bwood energy,

but too much e;ort or wood energy will break up the earth and lessen its ability to provide

support. + balance is needed between unmitigated strength and anchored support. Dikewise,

earth0s energy must be balanced with water Bthe power of our unconscious to prevent erosion or

stagnation.

E$cess % &e'ciencies+

%hen a person is e#periencing too much earth energy, they can become the over(bearing mother,

restricting the possibilities and rigidly conforming to a unied norm. In this state, the person can

become an#ious, fretting over every little detail and debating ad(naseum to the poitn of inertia. &o

concerned about making the right decision, no decision is made and an#iety is increased.

*n the opposite end of the spectrum, when a person is lacking earth energy, they can become

needy and unpleasantly dependent. They are lacking condence in their feelings and need the

reassurance of others to provide the support and stability they desire. *ften, the lack of earth can

lead one to being unable to commit to a path, a relationship, a career, and theoretically )oat aboutin the wind or remain stuck in one place unsatised and unconsolable.


22/35

alanced Earth Ener!y

%hen a person earth energy is in balance, they are at ease in any situation. Condent in their

place and their position, they can be authentic and provide others with a patient and supportive

environment. "eeling supported in mind, body and spirit, they are able to move with the )ow

condently knowing the right decision has been made and life can be enjoye

The Pedal to the Metal Personality#upportin! the Metal Personality in You"







The Fen! #hui Metal Personality

The metal element gives us the power to organie, categorie, and structure our environment so

as to allow us to e;ectively handle the massive amount of sensory, intellectual and emotional

information we e#perience in our day to day lives. %ith metal, we are able to put things in their

place, as if on tall metal shelves, so that we can step back and gain perspective. 'etal gives a

sense of order, so that we can manage our energy to successfully navigate through life.

'etal energy feeds the water element 5 the power and potential of the unconsciousness. 'etal

renes and puries so as to e#pose the true nature. +nd from this place of security, we are able to

condently let go of the need to make sense of things and )oat into the unknown where unlimited

possibilities wait to reveal themselves to us.

'etal is associated with the lungs and the skin, both e


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%hen one is e#periencing a lack of metal in their life, they can become careless, lay, sloppy. The

natural )ow of conversations and cooperative ventures can get lost in tangents like a stream of

consciousness with no rhyme or reason, start or nish, direction or purpose Fnable to coherently

e#press oneself, the person begins to feel e#posed, weak and vulnerable. 2rojects go unnished.

The person0s work life, nances, relationships become unstable as they hop from one thing to the

ne#t without a sense of focus.

alanced Metal Ener!y'etal is the tool of communication and a balanced amount of metal will enable a person to

e;ectively, e


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%ater has the ability to be still or in motion, and in in e#cess can lead to being water(logged. If we

have too much stillness, we can become disheartened and depressed. %e appear self(absorbed,

aloof and ungrounded. If we have too much motion, we can become an#ious, e#hausted by the

never(ending need to keep up. %e can react impatiently to others, minimiing their issues while

spinning our wheels on our own. &tuck in our rut, we struggle with feeling alone and jealous of

everyone else0s seemingly easier life.

%ithout enough water, we dry out. %e lose )e#ibility altogether and feel as though we havenothing more to give or o;er to life or others or ourselves. This lends itself to the scarcity mindset,

withholding whatever resources we have and o;ering only the bare minimum as well as blaming

others for our lack. %e can literally feel cut o; from the source. *thers may see us as articial or

two(dimensional because we are so afraid of losing what little resources we have left, we avoid

genuine relationships and appear )aky.

alanced Water Ener!y

+llowing the free )ow of abundance in the form of water energy into our lives enables us to remain

healthily engaged with life and others. %e nd a well to draw from in order to create new ideas

and nd solutions and have the condence to carry out those ideas methodically and thoughtfully.Comfortable in the void of the unknown, emotions and inspirations )ow naturally and fearlessly.

*thers value our perspective and feel comfortable around us because we are being authentic.

!001 +rchetype

%he ma/or physical signs of #ood are sine#y tendons

and a hard body. !ood people either look like tall trees or shorter, more compact bushes. !ood

people constantly need to be ;doing< something. %hey en/oy arguments and discussions. %hey feel

compelled to eercise and love to #ork hard. %hey are seen as aggressive and assertive and often

hold their hands in clenched fists. !ood people are action oriented and uick to take offense.

%heir rashness can lead to accidents. %hey are also prone to in/uries of overuse such as strained,

pulled or torn muscles and tendons. In severe cases of overuse of the #ood element, they #ill

create conditions like 5arkinson8s #here movement and coordination is compromised and

ultimately impeded. %he other scenario that occurs #ith #ood deficiency is various conditions of

ehaustion including chronic fatigue. !ood people have very strong livers and en/oy processingtoins, #hether emotional- caused by anger or chemical- as in drugs and alcohol. (o#ever, they

can become toified and create #ood stagnation especially #hen they do not release old anger

and resentments. %his leads to sensitivities to environmental toins or problems like nausea and

headaches. %hey are also prone to addiction. !ood people resist aging and fight the #eakening of

their bodies and try to maintain their previous levels of activity both physically and emotionally.

%hey need to maintain fleibility instead of rigidity.

%he #ood person should have a tall and slender body their strength is in their ligaments, tendons,

and sine#s. %hey may have a darkish face and fairly broad shoulders. %he #ood element

represents gro#th and a#akening. Its nature is epansive and provides a sense of direction forachieving goals. %he #ood type is very sociable, and can turn ideas into profits and resolve

problems. %hey are hard #orkers and have good verbal skills, and are etroverted #ho en/oy

completing tasks. %hey tend to have strong tempers, and #ill easily get frustrated especially #hen

others don8t come through #ith their obligations. %hey may have a tendency to spread themselves


25/35

out too thin, and may have difficulty epressing their innermost feelings, #hile feeling inadeuate.

%hey can handle tremendous amounts of pressure and strict deadlines.

%he #ood element relates #ith the liver and gallbladder the negative emotion is repressed anger

or rage to#ards one self, others, or both. %he positive virtue of #ood is kindness. %he #ood

element controls the sense of seeing and opens into the eyes. %he sour taste helps to move the

blood of the liver.

DEFICIENT WOOD

Individuals deficient in the #ood element may be prone to sudden outbursts of anger, and

problems #ith the nerves, eyes, and tendons. 2reen reflects the #ood element, and helps

overcome a deficient #ood state. 0ther things that support the #ood element are constructional

materials of #ood, as #ell as #ood shapes such as a column or to#er. Forests, plants, and other

forms of vegetation compliment a deficient #ood type as #ell. %he #ood 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 #ould be very beneficial.

The Liver

%he 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. %he main functions of the liver are smoothing

and regulating the flo# of vital energy and blood, storing and regulating blood, and having

relations #ith tendons, nails and eyes.

Smoothing and =egulating the Flo# of 6ital Energy and "lood %he liver is often compared to #ood

in %4, as both trees and the liver tend to ;spread out freely


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FI=E +rchetype

If you are primarily a fire type then your strengths

should lie in the blood and blood vessels. In nature fire is responsible for #arming and achieving

clarity. + fire type can illuminate and comfort any given situation. %hey are leaders, highly

charismatic, self-driven, motivators, and very passionate. %he fire type en/oys being in the

limelight, they are adventurous, and are ecited by change. %his can bring about great success or

failure if they are not careful. %his archetype tends to #alk fast, be very creative, take on many

challenges, #hich makes them ideal #arriors. %he fire type is normally unconcerned #ith #ealth,

yet fond of beauty. %hey may have a reddish face #ith a large nose, curly hair, or lack there ofA

%hey are energetic and active.

%he fire element relates in #ith the heart and small intestine. %he pericardium and triple burner

may fall under this element as #ell. %he heart #ill tend to absorb the brunt of all other negative

emotions. %he heart houses the primary negative emotion of over ecitation or &/oy', and the

positive virtue of love. %he fire element sho#s itself in the veins and arteries, the sense orifice it

opens up into is the tongue, #hich controls taste, and is connected to bitter foods.

FIRE ELEMENT

%he ma/or 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. %heirmain goal in life is to play. %hey love ne# eperiences and communicating #hether verbally or

through body language. Fire people are changeable and scattered. %hey are also very charismatic

and charming. %hey tend to flourish in #armer climates as they dislike #earing much clothing and

have a naturally high body temperature. %hey are full of ideas and prefer starting to finishing. %hey

en/oy ecitement and can become thrill seekers. %hey are naturally attuned to rhythm and love to

dance to a strong beat. %heir biggest health problems come from inflammation, #hich is caused by

unrestrained fire and an overactive nervous system. %his 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. %hese include stuttering, phobias, and mental illnesses that

include psychosis. %he fire element8s primary organ is the heart, #hich controls and regulates theepression of all emotions. Suppression of emotions can therefore cause problems #ith 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

5eople that are deficient in the fire element may be prone to heart-related problems, andor

problems #ith their veins, arteries, and blood, or both. %hose #ho may have fire deficiencies may

#ant to add items into their environment like candles, the color red, and pictures containing fire.

"uildings #ith steep roofs, like churches steeples also help. +dding pyramid shapes to theenvironment and mountain ranges #ith steep peaks also support more of the fire aspect. +void

alcoholic beverages, greasy fried foods, and caffeine. >ale and apricot kernels are eamples of

bitter foods.


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calm, generous, and normally centered. Earth represents stability, and harmonizes bet#een all

other elements. "eing fair is a predominant uality of an earth type they also can be trusted #ith

starting a plan. !hen in balance they are very centered, #hen out of balance they tend to #orry

constantly, and may be prone to digestive disorders. %hey may be susceptible to arthritis if their

muscles are not strong. %hey make great managers and organizers, though their focus can be

#eak, making handling multiple tasks very difficult. %hey respond to change #ell as long as it is

gradual. %he earth element relates to the spleen and stomach, the tissue it controls is the muscle.

%he orifice that it opens up into is the mouth. S#eet and fatty type foods comfort the spleen, and itcontrols the sense of touch. %he negative emotion of the spleen is pensiveness, #orry, and

aniety. %he positive virtue is serenity and centeredness.

DEFICIENT E&RT

%he colors yello# and orange, and earth tones support the earth element. %o benefit this element

hang pictures of flat lands or plains. %he earth element is represented by architecture that is both

flat and suare. (aving your surroundings made of ;earth,< #hich include brick, or even concrete,

is positive for supporting earth. +void foods that have ecessive amounts of sugar. Foods that may

help uplift fatigue due to #eakness are yams, corn, and certain rice. 5eople that need to balanceout their earth element #ill greatly benefit from @igong practices that help root the @i, and

practices that help harmonize the stomach and spleen.

E%+* +rchetype

%he metal types are rational, independent, and strong

#illed. %hey normally have a strong loud voice, their lungs being their strongest attribute. etaltypes can be either positive or destructive depending on their intent. %hus they have the

capabilities to gather others for a positive cause or a negative outcome. %hey are aggressive in

pursuing goals, and are emotional, confident, and intuitive. In their negative aspect they may

isolate themselves, #ithdra#ing from activities and society in general. %he metal type has a

strongly built body, broad and suare shoulders, #ith a triangular-shaped face. %hey may #alk

slo#ly, pushing their chest out #ith their shoulders back. etal represents courage, righteousness,

/ustice and truth. Its negative attribute is grief, sorro#, and sadness. %hey can be etremely driven

in pursuing their goals and at the same time un#illing to epress their true inner feelings. %he

metal element relates to the lungs and large intestine, controlling our immune system. %he tissue

the metal element relates to is the hair and skin, and connects in #ith the nose, #hich controls the

sense of smell. Foods that are pungent tasting #ork #ell #ith the lungs.

DEFICIENT MET&L

%o support the metal element include metal items and furnishings in your life and house. ?se

colors of #hite or silver. 1ecorate your house #ith arched, curved, or semi-circular, furnishings to

gather more metal energy. In architecture, domed metal roofs or primarily metal structures attract

metal energy. + tendency to catch colds or flues easily could be a sign of a #eak metal element.

%ake pungent tasting foods that epel pathogens from the body #ell. Some eamples include:

garlic, ginger, and mint.


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!+%E= +rchetype

!ater can nourish or deteriorate. %he #ater type

communicates #ell, is gentle in nature, sympathetic, slightly lazy, and tends to be susceptible to

fear. %hey don8t al#ays tell the truth and are not al#ays straightfor#ard. %hey do, ho#ever, have a

have a gentle #ay of interacting #ith people, being good neighbors and loyal to their colleagues.

%he #ater type can gather the support of others, is sensitive to their environment, and has a #ell

developed sense of intuition some may even have psychic abilities. %hey should have a robust

digestive system, and a longer than normal spine. 2enerally you can distinguish a #ater archetype

by their love for movement, their round face and body, and soft #hite skin. %he #ater archetype

may have a tendency to overindulge in se, causing a #eakness of the kidneys and the bones.

DEFICIENT W&TER

If you are #eak #ith the #ater element, then here are some things that you may #ant to do to

bring this aspect of your being in harmony for your health. !ithin your environment, add bo#l

shapes, irregular and flo#ing natural shapes, and glass because they represent #ater. 4olors of

blue or black, sounds of running #ater, and fish tanks also represent #ater, and are considered yin

in nature. Fountains are considered yang. (aving these things inside as #ell as outside your home

#ill benefit you, if you are #eak in the #ater element.

%he #ater element relates to the kidneys and urinary bladder. %he negative emotion housed in the

kidneys is fear, shock, or both. %he positive virtue is gentleness. %he 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.

%he person #eak in this element should not overindulge in seual activity, and should try to control

other issues that harm the normal functioning of the kidneys like too much stress, not enough

sleep, ecessive #ork, and improper diet.

%he Five Elements%he Five Elements, or Five 5hases, are aspects of @i. %hese are !ood, Fire, Earth,

etal, and !ater. In the poetic language of the Five Elements, health is a harmonious

balance of all the elements. %he @i of the elements #aes and #anes in daily andseasonal cycles. Each one of us is a uniue and characteristic blend of the influences

of all the elements.

!oodMeridians: *iver2allbladder

5eople #ho have strong energy of the !ood element have a clear

vision and goals, and kno# ho# to bring them into being. %hey ecel

at planning and decision making. %hey can be forceful in

disagreements and can strongly argue their opinions. %heir piercing,

penetrating eyes may attract you, but avoid their #rath.


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!ood Imbalance

!hen the #ood @i is #eak, people can be indecisive, #ithout strong direction in life,

and stuck. %hey may be constrained emotionally, unable to epress anger. !hen the

*iver @i is congested or stagnant, people can be arrogant, over controlling, and have

angry dispositions. %hey may have a tendency to be #orkaholics or have addictive

personalities, including the possibility of abusing drugs and alcohol. %hey may have

digestive problems like bloating, gas, alternating constipation and diarrhea.!hen *iver @i is imbalanced, hot and spicy foods may cause too much heat. Sour and

bitter flavors are said to benefit the *iver meridian. Ecessive frustration and irritation

can be especially difficult #hen the *iver meridian is out of balance. 5hysical eercise

and reading can help restore balance. %he fall is a vulnerable time, as #ell as the #inds

of arch, and etremely hot #eather.

4ommon signs of *iver meridian stress include dry, brittle, thickened nails and pain /ust

belo# the ribs. 4ommon illnesses include migraines, eye problems, and sinus

problems. %he *iver meridian circles the genitals, and rashes and discharges areassociated #ith its imbalance, as #ell as hernias. For #omen, menstrual problems are

common including 5S, painful periods, and heavy bleeding. ?terine fibroids may be

related to imbalance of the *iver meridian as #ell. %he *iver and 2allbladder meridian

path#ays traverse the top and sides of the head, the most common sites for migraine

headaches.

%he @i of the !ood element flourishes in the spring #hen plants are sprouting ne#

gro#th and the color of this element is green.

Fire Meridians: (eart, Small Intestines, 5ericardium, %riple !armer

5eople #ith strong Fire energy may be uite charismatic. %hey ecel

at commanding others to action. %hey may love talking and

socializing.

Fire Imbalance

!hen the Fire @i is #eak, a person may be lackluster or bland. %hey may suffer from

aniety, restlessness, and insomnia. %hey may stutter, talk too much and too rapidly, or

laugh nervously. %hey may be too ecitable, easily stimulated to ecesses, or they may

be emotionally cold and unfeeling.

4ommon illnesses include palpitations, hypertension, heart problems, and sores on the

mouth and tongue. 5eople strongly influenced by the Fire element may be vulnerable

in very hot #eather, and may be calmed and centered by #alking. %he bitter flavor

favors the Fire @i. 4offee is a bitter flavor, but its effects may aggravate the (eart @i.

%he healthy bitter flavors include dark, green leafy vegetables.


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Earth Meridians: StomachSpleen

Someone #ith #ell developed Earth energy is a #ell grounded,

nurturing, compassionate person, sometimes depicted as the

archtypical ;earth mother


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to etal imbalance. %he *arge Intestine meridian can be affected by chronic

constipation or diarrhea, or other bo#el diseases.

%he etal energy peaks in the fall. In the cool, crisp, clean air of autumn, metal people

feel they can accomplish anything. %he color of etal is #hite, and people strongly

influenced by the etal @i may have pale compleions.

!ater Meridians: >idneys, "ladder

%he !ater energy is a strong generative force centered in the lo#er

belly. !hen the >idney @i is strong, a person is fearless,

determined, and can endure many hardships in pursuit of their

goals. 5ersevering by #ill po#er is characteristic of those #ith strong

>idney @i. *ongevity is also considered to be associated #ith

healthy >idney @i, signified by large, elongated ear lobes, like those of the "uddha.

!ater Imbalance

!hen the >idney @i is #eak, there can be problems #ith #ater metabolism, urination,

fertility, or seuality. %his person could be anious, fearful, and #ithdra#n, and in more

severe cases, phobic.

>idney @i declines #ith aging. %here may be diminished hearing or ringing in the ears.

In menopause, the >idney yin declines, #hich is associated #ith classic signs of heat

and dryness D hot flashes, night s#eats, dry skin and mucous membranes. >idneyyang #eakness is associated #ith cold D cold etremities, cold back and belly, declining

seual vigor, urinary freuency or incontinence.

%he color of the >idney is black, like the night, or like black ice. !hen the >idney @i

starts to #eaken, dark circles or pouches appear under the eyes. %he >idney @i rules

in the #inter, a time #hen living things are contracted #ith cold. *ike a seed deep in the

cold ground, @i is dormant, #aiting for the time to sprout.

%he Five Elements%he Five Elements, or Five 5hases, are aspects of @i. %hese are !ood, Fire, Earth,

etal, and !ater. In the poetic language of the Five Elements, health is a harmonious

balance of all the elements. %he @i of the elements #aes and #anes in daily and

seasonal cycles. Each one of us is a uniue and characteristic blend of the influences

of all the elements.


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!oodMeridians: *iver2allbladder

5eople #ho have strong energy of the !ood element have a clear

vision and goals, and kno# ho# to bring them into being. %hey ecel

at planning and decision making. %hey can be forceful in

disagreements and can strongly argue their opinions. %heir piercing,

penetrating eyes may attract you, but avoid their #rath.

!ood Imbalance

!hen the #ood @i is #eak, people can be indecisive, #ithout strong direction in life,

and stuck. %hey may be constrained emotionally, unable to epress anger. !hen the

*iver @i is congested or stagnant, people can be arrogant, over controlling, and have

angry dispositions. %hey may have a tendency to be #orkaholics or have addictive

personalities, including the possibility of abusing drugs and alcohol. %hey may have

digestive problems like bloating, gas, alternating constipation and diarrhea.

!hen *iver @i is imbalanced, hot and spicy foods may cause too much heat. Sour and

bitter flavors are said to benefit the *iver meridian. Ecessive frustration and irritation

can be especially difficult #hen the *iver meridian is out of balance. 5hysical eercise

and reading can help restore balance. %he fall is a vulnerable time, as #ell as the #inds

of arch, and etremely hot #eather.

4ommon signs of *iver meridian stress include dry, brittle, thickened nails and pain /ust

belo# the ribs. 4ommon illnesses include migraines, eye problems, and sinus

problems. %he *iver meridian circles the genitals, and rashes and discharges areassociated #ith its imbalance, as #ell as hernias. For #omen, menstrual problems are

common including 5S, painful periods, and heavy bleeding. ?terine fibroids may be

related to imbalance of the *iver meridian as #ell. %he *iver and 2allbladder meridian

path#ays traverse the top and sides of the head, the most common sites for migraine

headaches.

%he @i of the !ood element flourishes in the spring #hen plants are sprouting ne#

gro#th and the color of this element is green.

Fire Meridians: (eart, Small Intestines, 5ericardium, %riple !armer

5eople #ith strong Fire energy may be uite charismatic. %hey ecel

at commanding others to action. %hey may love talking and

socializing.

Fire Imbalance

!hen the Fire @i is #eak, a person may be lackluster or bland. %hey may suffer fromaniety, restlessness, and insomnia. %hey may stutter, talk too much and too rapidly, or

laugh nervously. %hey may be too ecitable, easily stimulated to ecesses, or they may

be emotionally cold and unfeeling.


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4ommon illnesses include palpitations, hypertension, heart problems, and sores on the

mouth and tongue. 5eople strongly influenced by the Fire element may be vulnerable

in very hot #eather, and may be calmed and centered by #alking. %he bitter flavor

favors the Fire @i. 4offee is a bitter flavor, but its effects may aggravate the (eart @i.

%he healthy bitter flavors include dark, green leafy vegetables.

Earth Meridians: StomachSpleen

Someone #ith #ell developed Earth energy is a #ell grounded,

nurturing, compassionate person, sometimes depicted as the

archtypical ;earth mother


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like ore mined from the mountains.

etal Imbalance

+ person #ith etal @i imbalance may be grief-stricken, steeped in sadness. %hey may

be overly critical. %hey may have trouble letting go. !hen the etal energy is #eak,

there can be illnesses of the lungs D asthma, allergies, freuent colds. %he *ung

meridian rules the skin, so rashes, eczema, and problems #ith s#eating can be related

to etal imbalance. %he *arge Intestine meridian can be affected by chronic

constipation or diarrhea, or other bo#el diseases.

%he etal energy peaks in the fall. In the cool, crisp, clean air of autumn, metal people

feel they can accomplish anything. %he color of etal is #hite, and people strongly

influenced by the etal @i may have pale compleions.

!ater Meridians: >idneys, "ladder

%he !ater energy is a strong generative force centered in the lo#er

belly. !hen the >idney @i is strong, a person is fearless,

determined, and can endure many hardships in pursuit of their

goals. 5ersevering by #ill po#er is characteristic of those #ith strong

>idney @i. *ongevity is also considered to be associated #ith

healthy >idney @i, signified by large, elongated ear lobes, like those of the "uddha.

!ater Imbalance

!hen the >idney @i is #eak, there can be problems #ith #ater metabolism, urination,

fertility, or seuality. %his person could be anious, fearful, and #ithdra#n, and in more

severe cases, phobic.

>idney @i declines #ith aging. %here may be diminished hearing or ringing in the ears.

In menopause, the >idney yin declines, #hich is associated #ith classic signs of heat

and dryness D hot flashes, night s#eats, dry skin and mucous membranes. >idney

yang #eakness is associated #ith cold D cold etremities, cold back and belly, decliningseual vigor, urinary freuency or incontinence.

%he color of the >idney is black, like the night, or like black ice. !hen the >idney @i

starts to #eaken, dar

Documents

Five Elements Personality