The Five Element Theory helps us understand the world and the interconnectedness of all things.  Wood, fire, earth, metal and water connect in a sequence as the creation cycle which occurs in nature and our physical bodies. The creation cycle refers to when fire burns and the resulting ash creates the earth, the earth decays and reveals metal, metal deposits revitalize water, water nourishes crops and encourages growth of wood, wood gives birth to fire in a circular cycle.

 

 

Wood Element = Liver & Gallbladder

The Liver houses the soul, controls tendons, stores blood, and is responsible for keeping energy flowing. When energy is obstructed, it is likely due to the Liver. Anger, frustration, and depression relates to the Liver. The Gallbladder stores and excretes bile, protects the nervous system from overreacting, and helps to normalize a person emotionally. Gallbladder weakness may manifest itself through indecision.

Fire Element = Heart & Small Intestine

The Heart houses the Shen, governs blood, has taste as its sensory function, and joy is its related emotion. The Small Intestines absorb fluids and are responsible for transporting waste. The Heart is also responsible for communication.

Earth Element = Spleen & Stomach

The Spleen transforms and transports food into usable food essence, produces blood, opens to the mouth, and controls muscles. It is also responsible for keeping blood in blood vessels. Thus, bruising easily is a sign of weak Spleen function. The related emotion is worry or excessive thinking.

Metal Element = Lung & Large Intestine

The main functions of the Lungs are breathing, regulating water metabolism and descending and dispersing Qi throughout the body. The Lungs open out to the nose and control the skin, pores and hair on the skin. Sadness is a related emotion. The Large Intestines excrete wastes from the body and absorb water.

Water Element = Kidneys & Urinary Bladder

The Kidneys store Jing, are responsible for growth, development and reproduction. The Kidneys produce marrow, from the brain and spinal cord, control bones, open to the ears, and balance body fluid metabolism. The related emotion is fear.