The "How" of Classical Five Element Acupuncture
Rooted in ancient wisdom, Classical Five Element acupuncture is thought to have originated during the Han Dynasty around 200 BC. This powerful system of medicine diagnoses and treats the root cause of disease based on the laws of nature. The ancients observed how the fundamental elements – wood, fire, earth, metal and water – evolve to create the world around us. Each element depends upon another in order to fulfill its role in nature. When one element is out of balance, the other elements are unable to move forward. These same elements are alive within us as well. Classical Five Element acupuncture strives to maintain this delicate balance among the five elements so that we may enjoy true health and wellness.
The Five Elements & the Qi Energy Cycle
Wood
The Wood element is associated with Spring and brings forth a time of birth and regeneration. It is the energy that pushes the seeds through the soil so that growth will occur.
Fire
Associated with Summer, the Fire element provides the warmth that allows for the opening and blossoming we find in Nature. The warmth it provides allows for a deeper ripening and maturity in the summer.
Earth
Late summer is the transition from Summer to Autumn when days become shorter and cooler. It is the pause between the uprising energy of Wood and Earth and the declining energy of Metal and Water.
Metal
The season of Metal is Autumn. This is a time of decline when old leaves fall away to make room for the new roots. Through this letting go, the leaves return to the soil to provide minerals that are needed for the next cycle.
Water
Corresponding with Winter, this is a time of resting and protecting what was gathered during the harvest. During Winter, we are building up our reserves so that we have the energy for Spring to begin again.