The role of the elements in TCM is quite central, illuminating the interactions and energetics within the body itself, as well as between our bodies and the wider natural world of which we are a part. Interestingly, there are not four but five elements in our tradition, and as each corresponds to a season, there are also five seasons in TCM. Each element (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water) corresponds to a season, emotion, taste, color, and two organ systems—one Yin and one Yang. These Five Elements interact to form complex relationships informed by the phases of life’s natural cycles, with implications for each person’s individual constitution, the connections between mind-body-spirit, and even the energetic qualities of every tonic herb.
The Five Elements framework expands upon the interplay of the polar but complementary forces of Yin and Yang, highlighting the cyclical nature of all of creation. Indeed, the elements follow a generating (Sheng) and controlling (Ke) cycle, teaching that life is dynamic, constantly changing and governed by highly interdependent forces. The generating cycle highlights the supportive and nurturing relationships amongst the elements, where each element gives rise to the next in a harmonious sequence (i.e., Wood generates Fire, Fire generates Earth, Earth generates Metal, Metal generates Water, and Water generates Wood). Meanwhile, the controlling cycle teaches that elements can regulate each other, maintaining balance and preventing any one element from becoming too dominant. (i.e., Wood controls Earth, Earth controls Water, Water controls Fire, Fire controls Metal, and Metal controls Wood).
Evaluating elemental interconnections is a core part of diagnostic and treatment principles in TCM, contributing to an understanding of unique bodily constitutions and susceptibilities on a highly individualized basis. For an example of the practical application of the controlling cycle, if someone experiences excessive anger (Wood), it might lead to digestive issues (Earth), such that supporting emotional balance and digestive health would be a strong feature of this person’s healing protocol. Guided by the wisdom of the generating cycle, this individual might also receive herbs that tonify the Kidneys (Water), in turn supporting Liver function (Wood), which plays a coordinated role in processing emotions. Thus, we work to ensure that the generating and controlling cycles are balanced by nurturing or restraining specific elements on an as-needed basis.
The TCM view of holistic health relies upon balanced elemental energetics, pointing to our focus on restoring and maintaining harmony, both within our bodies and with the wider natural world. Herbs are a bridge in this regard—connecting us to our external environments in the most intimate way, while also helping to regulate the relationships amongst our internal elements. Though herbal protocols can be highly bio-individualized, there are, as always, patterns that are often generally applicable. This is precisely where the Five Elements framework can be so supportive and empowering, illuminating the seasonal energetics that deeply affect our bodies, as well as the most susceptible organ systems, emotional imbalances, and timely flavors (in terms of foods and herbs!) to incorporate. Thankfully, TCM is one big web of interconnections, such that eating seasonally is generally balancing and supporting any one of the mind-body-spirit levels positively ripples out to all.
