The Five Elements of body and personality were developed by early Taoist philosophers as a metaphor to explain the connection between physical, mental and spiritual health and the naturally occurring rhythms of the natural world. In Chinese Medicine the Five Elements are used to assess body and personality types. These assessments are then used to develop a treatment plan involving acupuncture, herbal remedies, lifestyle recommendations and nutrition plans.
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 exam. By 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. They may experience health issues such as high blood pressure, premenstrual syndrome, stress headaches and even depression. Meditation, yoga and relaxing activities such as walking are critical for balancing a Wood personality. Maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding alcohol and enjoying sour foods will help Wood types thrive both physically and spiritually.
Earth
Earth types tend to be very compassionate and giving. They are excellent 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-extending themselves.
Fire
Fire types are very outgoing, social and fun. They tend to have health issues related to anxiety, insomnia and depression when they get overstimulated with their busy, exciting social lives. Fire personalities should follow a structured schedule and take 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. These people are artists or craftspeople who show extreme attention to detail and often work with intensity and perfection. Metals are introverted and maintain very close relationships with very select people. Physically, they have a high metabolism and and tend to crave spicy foods. When stressed, Metal types experience respiratory health issues and skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. They are encouraged to engage in aerobic exercise and consume regularly scheduled, nutritious meals.
Water
Water types are deep thinkers and enjoy thinking about philosophical matters. These people tend to have a mixture of highly developed intellect and very strong willpower and endurance. Water types can isolate themselves to the point of illness, which usually manifests as kidney or bladder issues. These people should take time to socialize regularly and consume plenty of water.
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