The Five Elements in Classical Chinese Medicine

The Five Elements — Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water — form one of the central frameworks in Chinese medicine. They represent the natural movements and transformations that occur in the body, the mind, and the wider world.

This system isn’t abstract — it’s deeply practical. It helps us understand how physical symptoms, emotional patterns, seasons, and life stages are all connected. And it shows us where things are flowing smoothly, and where they may be stuck or out of balance.

The Five Elements at a Glance

Wood
Growth, direction, and change. Wood is the energy of spring - of starting fresh, taking action, and asserting boundaries. It's linked to the Liver and Gallbladder, and often comes up when there's frustration, tension, or difficulty moving forward.

Fire
Warmth, connection, and joy. Fire relates to summer and the Heart. It governs emotional expression, relationships, and presence. When Fire is out of balance, it can show up as anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, or disconnection.

Earth
Stability, nourishment, and reflection. Earth holds the centre - the late summer, the gut, the ability to process and digest. It’s linked to the Spleen and Stomach, and imbalance often shows up as worry, overthinking, or feeling depleted and ungrounded.

Metal
Boundaries, breath, and letting go. Metal is the energy of autumn, and relates to the Lungs and Large Intestine. It governs grief and the ability to release — physically and emotionally. When Metal is stuck, we may feel rigid, flat, or emotionally closed off.

Water
Rest, depth, and resilience. Water is winter’s energy — quiet, internal, and powerful. It relates to the Kidneys and Bladder, and connects to fear, drive, and our deeper reserves. Water imbalance can feel like burnout, anxiety, or difficulty facing the unknown.

How I Use the Five Elements in Treatment

When I work with someone, I’m always listening for what element might be overactive, under-supported, or out of rhythm. This guides the acupuncture points I choose, the kind of bodywork I use, and even the lifestyle or food suggestions I might offer.

You don’t need to understand the theory for it to work — but sometimes, recognising yourself in these patterns can help you make sense of what your body and mind have been trying to say.

Living in Rhythm with the Elements

Each element relates to a season and a movement of energy. By noticing how you feel in different times of the year - or what part of life feels most out of sync — you can begin to live more in rhythm with yourself and the world around you.

This isn’t about fixing yourself. It’s about returning to balance, in a way that’s gentle, steady, and aligned with your nature.

Want to Explore This Further?

I offer treatments that support each of the elements — whether through acupuncture, hands-on bodywork, Qigong, or dietary support. You’re welcome to book a session or a free consultation if you’d like to find out more.