In the Five Element Theory, each of the elements corresponds to a specific organ. The energies and concepts represented by the elements share a connection with the emotional properties of these organs. As such, when we experience difficulties in our emotional, psychological, or physical health related to these properties, we can utilize the energies of the five elements to balance and restore a healthy state.
When using the elements in this way, there are a number of different pathways through the five. Each progression has its own purpose. In this article, we will take a look at the basic clockwise progression of the elements and examine the correspondences to the organs and their related emotions.
First, we look to the East and observe the Aether/Wood Element. The Aether/Wood represents the expansive force of growth. In the organ systems, this relates to the liver. The liver is responsible for creating and maintaining our Wei Qi, which is the protective energetic aura that surrounds our physical bodies. In a positive state, the liver and the Aether element create a state of happiness and friendliness. A healthy liver creates healthy boundaries, which allow us to interact with our surroundings in a jovial way.
An unhealthy liver leads to anger and resentment. Our boundaries become weak, and we open ourselves up to losing energy and mingling ourselves with any little thing we might come across. The frustrations of life creep in and start to aggravate. Small annoyances fester and grow into consistent foul attitudes. We become resentful of past offences and each new problem compounds upon the previous. We lose our sense of self and are swept away into our circumstances.
Second, we turn to the South and observe the Fire Element. This element corresponds to the heart. In a healthy heart, there is love and compassion. This love is not one of expectation, but of genuinely wishing the best for other beings... and for oneself. A healthy heart is patient and kind; slow to anger and quick to empathize. When the heart is imbalanced, we become impatient and intolerant. Like a flame out of control, we explode and destroy at the least provocation.
Third, we look to the Southwest and observe the Earth Element. The Earth corresponds to the spleen. We must note here that in TCM the spleen does not necessarily refer to the actual organ, but rather to the overall digestive/assimilative functions of the body which result in nourishment and growth, hence the "earth." A healthy spleen gives us peace and understanding. We easily accept ourselves and others, and we are at peace in any situation. We are grounded and stable. When the spleen is out of balance, we can become confused and uncertain. Just as the positive expression of the Earth Element keeps us strong and grounded, the negative expression can leave us stagnant and paralyzed in uncertainty and hesitation.
Fourth, we look to the West and observe the Wind/Metal Element. This element corresponds to the lungs. The lungs bring in the fresh new ideas and release the stale old thoughts. They are associated with communication and thought. In a healthy state, they allow us to release the baggage of the past and move forward in a positive and constructive way. This is why taking a deep breath helps us to clear our emotions when we are anxious or upset. When the lungs are afflicted, they can descend into grief. They are failing to release the old, negative emotions and are not bringing any new life to the body and mind.
Fifth, we look to the North and observe the Water Element. The Water corresponds to the kidneys. Here, we encounter the opposing qualities of trust and fear. Healthy kidneys allow us to release our fears into a pure trust in God, the universe, and ourselves. Clinging onto fears can lead to chronic pains in the lower back, in the are of the kidneys.
This is but an introduction to the basic correspondences of the elements and the organs. In future articles, we will delve further into the intricate tapestry of energetic relations.
Comments