According to Chinese philosophy, all the things in the universe are interrelated to the five major elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. These components are not only physical materials but also signs that explain the action and motion of energy. Every individual is said to possess one or two overriding factors that influence personality, feelings and even well-being. Having an understanding of the strongest chinese element can bring about some order in life. With the knowledge and adaptation of these energies, there is a possibility of the enhancement of the mind and body with the surrounding environment.
Five Chinese Elements of Personality Traits
Chinese philosophy has its own good and bad characteristics of each of the elements. Wood is a symbol of growth, creativity and ambition. Individuals with high Wood energy usually enjoy planning, constructing and progressing. Fire is full of warmth and enthusiasm. One of the Fire types is expressive, social, and full of ideas and may turn impatient or over-emotional when imbalanced. Earth symbolizes stability, benevolence and nurturing. Earth energy can be a good, helpful, and tolerant type of energy, but excess Earth energy may result in worry or overprotectiveness. Metal is the symbol of order, focus, and discipline. Metal personalities like structure and fairness, but may at times appear aloof and too unbending. The water is a representation of peace, contemplation and wisdom. The individuals who have a good Water energy tend to be very thoughtful and can easily change; however, at times when this energy is weak or overpowering, it may lead to fear or reluctance to change.
Ways to Balance Each Element
Chinese philosophy is based on the concept of balance. When one of the elements is either too strong or too weak, this influences energy and mood as well. In case Wood energy seems overwhelming, it can be balanced by relaxing exercises such as meditation or nature. In the case of Fire, the routine and the silence bring stability. When the Earth feels like it is heavy or dragging, a movement and creative expression can revive the mind. For individuals having lots of Metal energy, rigidity can be made blunt by spending time with individuals they love or engaging in new experiences. Balance in water energy can be achieved through structure, warmth and motion when emotions seem too deep or sluggish. Feng Shui also employs the five elements in order to facilitate personal balance. To restore the balance, it is possible to add some natural materials or colors that conform to the weaker aspects of the environment. E.g., the green color and plants are associated with Wood, and warm lights or candles are associated with Fire. Stones and ceramics introduce Earth energy, metal objects enhance Metal and fountains or glass reflect Water.
Conclusion
One of the methods of comprehending the flow of energy in everyday life is to identify a stronger Chinese factor. Every aspect has its own positive qualities that can shine under the condition of balance. It is not intended to transform the nature but to create a balance between the action, rest and reflection. When these five elements, namely, the Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water, interact in their appropriate balance, life becomes more stable and peaceful, as nature itself manages to do.
