Five Element Theory

The Five Element model gives us a method to understand the natural tendencies of the five basic life forces that compose all of life. They can be observed in nature and humans. Nature shows us the purpose and health of each individual Element and its relationship to the other four.

As a part of nature, people embody all five of the natural elements. Every person presents a unique combination and a dynamic landscape in which one element is predominant. Patients are evaluated based on the Five Elements that exist in nature: Water, Wood, Fire, Earth, and Metal. This diagnostic approach provides a treatment plan to address the patient’s needs and provide health and healing for the patient.

Water

All Water moves towards the ocean gathering and distributing resources along the way. It may take the form of rain, puddles, ice, rivers, and lakes. It can move rapidly or silently, slowly carving a path through a great mountain, ultimately returning to its source.

Water people may be deep observers, collecting knowledge and wisdom. They tend to be self-sufficient and often follow their own journey without much care for societal norms. They dive into the unknown always seeking understanding, which can lead to profound wisdom or deep fear.

Wood

Trees and wind embody the element of Wood. Trees tenaciously grow in a singular direction towards the sun. Trees may grow in groups or forests, but each one maintains its individuality.

Wood people set goals, envisioning a plan and means to accomplish them, while always expanding towards the next thing. They take action, and with dynamic personalities, encounter and overcome obstacles resulting in creativity and change. Anger and frustration can interfere.

Fire

Fire is embodied by all things warm and bright. The sun effortlessly showers the world in life. Social animals gather to provide warmth and companionship.

Fire people value relationships. Loving and being loved is important in their lives. Warm and engaging, a fire person can light up a room and have a flare for the dramatic. They reach out to connect with others which can result in boundless joy or devastating heartbreak or chaos.

Earth

Earth holds and provides all of the nourishment needed to sustain life. Earth itself goes unseen and unnoticed. Our attention is drawn to the thriving vegetation, not always recognizing the soil beneath. Earth provides without question, never asking for anything in return.

Earth people care deeply and want everyone to have what they need and do their best to provide for them. This can either result in great pride and fulfillment or intense worry and depletion.

Metal

Metal is embodied by air, minerals, and rocks. The Metal energy refines everything down to its purest essence whether air or rocks and crystals.

Metal people focus on seeking out what has the highest value in every aspect of life including, physical, mental, and spiritual. Metal strives for perfection with appreciation of all that is good and can experience grief in letting go of what has no meaning or value.