A Journey Through The Five Elements 

Imagine the body as a microcosm of the universe where different waves of energy travel through channels in a cyclical motion, like an inner garden that is able to synchronise with the ebbs and flows of life and connect to the world around. The universal theory of the Five Elements organises natural phenomena into five groups to reflect a profound understanding of the order underlying all things. Let’s go on a journey through the Five Elements! 

Everything in the universe is interconnected. 

Eastern philosophy teaches that the foundation of everything is made from the five interconnected elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. Each element has distinct characteristics and vital energy (Ki). These are associated with different aspects of life, such as seasons, physical conditions, internal organs, emotions, tastes, colours and sounds. The philosophical language of the Five Elements shows with great responsibility how everything in the universe is interconnected and influences the natural flow of life. 

This profound connection is something that many in modern society have lost sight of, causing imbalances and bringing to the surface a need to go back to the basics of being human. 

Generation and Support 

Life is energy in motion. The Five Elements are not static and their specific qualities influence one another. Eastern practices theorise that health and wellbeing is a reflection of the harmonious relationship between the elements which facilitate the flow of vital energy (Ki). To maintain order, this relationship is based on generation and support where there’s a healthy balance between creation and destruction. 

Generation refers to creating, nurturing and growth, while support represents being grounded so that things are seen in proportion. If one is out of balance, there’s no harmony. 

In the generation (creation) cycle Wood is burned to make Fire, its ashes decomposing into Earth, where Metals are born and mined to enrich Water which nourishes the trees (Wood). 

In the support (destruction) cycle Wood is cut by Metal, Fire is extinguished by Water, Earth is penetrated by Wood, Metal is melted by Fire, and Water is contained by the Earth. 

Shiatsu integrates the Five Element Theory to help diagnose and treat imbalances in the body and vital energy.  

What are the Five Elements? 

Wood 

The Wood element represents growth, change, alertness, creativity and flexibility. Associated with the spring, wood provides the energy for new beginnings, setting intentions and planting seeds for growth and change. Within the body, Wood represents the Liver and Gallbladder Meridians. Read more about the wood element here. 

Fire 

The Fire element provides warmth, transformation and enthusiasm for life. Associated with summer, fire represents the energy of expansion, the will to mature and embrace all facets of life. Within the body, Fire is connected to the Heart, Small intestine and Pericardium (heart protector) and Triple Heater Meridians. Read more about the fire element here. 

Earth 

The Earth element is the energy of stability, nourishment, grounding, holding and abundance. Associated with late summer, Earth invites introspection, going inwards and nourishing the whole being. Within the body, Earth is associated with the spleen and stomach meridians. Read more about the earth element here. 

Metal 

The Metal element represents structures, routine, discipline and precision. Associated with autumn, metal is all about organising, taking action, and developing routines that support holistic well-being. Within the body, Metal is connected to the Lung and Large Intestine meridians. Read more about the metal element here. 

Water 

The Water element provides fluidity, adaptability and wisdom. Associated with winter, water is the energy of rest and reflection that creates space for inner healing and integration. Within the body, Water is connected to the Kidney and Urinary Bladder Meridians. Read more about the water element here. 

The Five Elements are interconnected, and they manifest differently in each person influencing personality, emotions, behavioural patterns and their vital energy. When the elements are balanced, and vital energy (Ki) flows abundantly, there is harmony between all layers of being. Since everything in the universe is connected, harmony within causes a ripple effect in the world around. 

Conclusion 

While the theory of the Five Elements can be found across various Eastern practices, in Shiatsu they provide another layer of understanding and allow for a more personalised  treatment. This creates a unique blend where the Shiatsu practitioner selects acupoints, postures and sequences that fulfil the needs of the receiver.