The Five Elements in Classical Chinese Medicine

The Five Elements — Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water — are a key part of Chinese medicine. They help us understand how the body, emotions, and mind all work together.

Each element relates to a movement of energy in nature. These same movements happen inside us — as we grow, rest, respond to stress, or go through changes in life. When something feels stuck, out of rhythm, or worn down, the Five Elements help show what needs support.

This is a practical system. It helps guide treatment and gives you a way to understand your health that goes beyond symptoms.

What the Five Elements Represent

Wood

Growth, change, and direction. Wood relates to spring and the Liver system. It helps us move forward, set goals, and adapt.
Signs of imbalance: frustration, tension, headaches, or feeling stuck.

Fire

Warmth, connection, and emotion. Fire relates to summer and the Heart. It supports joy, sleep, and clear thinking.
Signs of imbalance: anxiety, restlessness, sleep issues, or disconnection.

Earth

Stability, digestion, and care. Earth is the late summer season and is linked to the Spleen and Stomach. It helps us process food and thoughts.
Signs of imbalance: worry, fatigue, brain fog, or feeling ungrounded.

Metal

Breath, boundaries, and letting go. Metal is autumn’s energy and is linked to the Lungs and Large Intestine.
Signs of imbalance: low immunity, grief, skin issues, or emotional flatness.

Water

Rest, reserves, and deep strength. Water relates to winter and the Kidneys. It supports energy, drive, and recovery.
Signs of imbalance: burnout, fear, low back pain, or exhaustion.

How I Use the Five Elements in Clinic

Each person I work with shows signs of where energy is flowing well and where it’s not. The Five Element system helps guide how I use acupuncture, massage, Qigong, or food-based support.

You don’t need to understand the theory. But sometimes, recognising yourself in one of these patterns can make sense of things — and point to the next step.

Living in Rhythm with the Elements

Each element connects with a season — and with a part of you. When you notice how you respond to different times of year, or where you feel most out of step, it gives you useful clues about how to support your health.

This isn’t about fixing yourself. It’s about bringing things back into balance — gently and steadily.

Book a Treatment in Lewes

If this approach speaks to you, I offer treatments that support each of the elements. This may include acupuncture, hands-on bodywork, dietary guidance, or movement practices.

You’re welcome to book a session — or a free 20-minute consultation if you’d like to talk it through.