五行 Wu Xing (Five elements) for wellness

The relationships between the elements are complex. My aim here is to show you the main idea so you can start using it in daily life right away.

If you are interested in reading the detail explanation of the interaction between the elements, let us know in the comment section below.

There are 2 main interactions among the elements, “promotion“ and “restraint“, see diagram above.

key points of the interaction

  • No two elements and their interaction should be looked at in isolation. Always 5 together as a whole.

  • The interaction among the elements, both promotion and restraint, are simutaneus and constantly adjusted.

  • The balance can be maintained when all elements work in harmoniously together.

How to read body’s warning signs of imbalance before getting seriously ill

Since the 5 elements system has established the connection between our 5 zang organs, the 5 colours, the 5 flavours and the 5 pulses, and internal organs’ disorders can manifest on the surface of the body, TCM doctor can identify the internal organs’ imbalance through the changes of complexion, taste and pulse.

Basic telling signs of 5 zang organs’ disorder

liver disorder

  • bluish complexion
  • preference for sour flavour
  • sour taste in the mouth
  • taut pulse

heart disorder

  • reddish complexion
  • bitter taste in the mouth
  • full pulse

spleen disorder

  • yellowish complexion
  • sweet taste in the mouth
  • slow pulse

lung disorder

  • white complexion
  • acrid taste in the mouth
  • floating pulse

kidney disorder

  • blackish complexion
  • salty taste in the mouth
  • deep pulse

Since lifestyle and diet play important roles in our well being. Disorders are results of imbalance in our internal organs caused by unbalanced lifestyle or diet or both. TCM centered around these 2 areas and developed its wellness nourishing concept according to the changing seasons. Aiming to maintain harmonious balance internally and with the external environment.

In the next post, we will bring you TCM’s wellness plan for the whole year. You will learn which organ needs your attention in each season and how to maintain a harmonious balanced and stay well.

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