Five Element acupuncture is based on the Five Elements that can be observed in nature: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. Over 2000 years ago the ancient Chinese observed how these elements were also reflected in people, in their innate strengths and weaknesses. They observed that stimulating different body points had an effect on different organs and gradually developed the system of meridians that we use today. The underlying philosophy within Five Element acupuncture is that if we can balance the Elements then we can maintain and restore good health and prevent any illnesses from occurring.

We all have one Element that is predominant and forms the core of our individuality. By diagnosing and treating this Element we can treat illness at a deeper level thus restoring balance between the Five Elements and in our overall health.

Each Element represents a quality of Qi energy that can best be understood by looking at nature and the seasons.

The Wood Element
The Wood element corresponds to the season of spring. It represents growth and creativity, vision and expansiveness. When this Element is healthy, it gives us a sense of direction in life and the ability to make plans. It helps us deal with any obstacles and achieve our goals with ease. When this Element is out of balance, we may feel lost and without direction or find it hard to assert ourselves appropriately. The organs associated to this Element are the Liver and Gall Bladder.

The Fire Element
The Fire Element corresponds to the season of summer, when things come to fruition. It is symbolised by the sun and associated to warmth, light, love, intimacy and maturity. It has to do with our ability to give and receive love. It can best be understood by looking at people’s relationships, their ability to communicate and to give and receive warmth and love. It is associated to the Heart and Small Intestine as well as the Pericardium and Triple Heater.

The Earth Element
The Earth element corresponds to the season of Late Summer, the season of harvest. It has to do with our ability to nurture ourselves and others, our ability to ‘reap a harvest’ in our lives. It is associated to the Stomach and Spleen. Imbalances in this Element may manifest as digestive & bowel disorders, a lack of centeredness and feeling overly responsible for caring for others.

The Metal Element
The Metal element corresponds to the seas on of autumn. It connects us to a higher purpose, gives our life a sense of quality. It has to do with our ability to expand our boundaries through the= act of letting go of the old and taking in the new. It is associated with the Lungs and Large Intestine. Common symptoms of imbalance in this Element include constipation and allergies such as hay fever and allergic rhinitis.

The Water Element
The Water Element is linked to the season of winter. From a Chinese perspective, it represents our deepest reserves, which we can call upon when the we are put under long term or extreme stress. The storage and utilization of our energy reserves is linked to the Kidneys and Bladder. Both play an important role in our ability to use our reserves wisely. The Water Element gives us determination and will power as well as wisdom. It brings us the ability to flow, not only physically but also mentally.

The Five Elements take us back to our roots, to the core of what is really important in life. Five Element acupuncture helps to bring us back into harmony with the natural rhythm of the seasons allowing each individual to enjoy good health and reach their potential.