Traditional Chinese medicine is based on the concept of harmony within the individual, and between the individual and the universe.  The life force, or Qi, flows along the meridians of the body.  When it is out of balance, the whole person is affected at the physical, emotional and spiritual levels.  The healer’s efforts are focused on restoring the balance and harmony of the Qi.

Qi has five different aspects: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water.  When all the elements are harmoniously balanced, the person enjoys optimal health.  Each person is a unique blend of the elements, determining personality traits and abilities.  The different aspects ebb and flow with the seasons and other influences, so the person is in constant flux.

Wood Qi meridians flow through the liver and gallbladder.  Wood Qi flourishes in the spring, and its color is green.  Those with strong Wood energy are planners and decision-makers who know how to make their vision become reality.  When the Wood Qi is weak, people are indecisive and have difficulty moving ahead and getting things done.  Congestion or stagnation in the Qi may result in arrogant, over-controlling or addictive behavior. 

Fire Qi meridians flow through the heart and small intestines.  Leaders and avid socializers have strong Fire energy. When it is weak, the person becomes bland, anxiety-ridden, and unable to relate well to others.  Imbalance in the Fire Qi is associated with heart problems and hypertension.

Earth Qi meridians flow through the stomach and spleen.  Earth Qi flourishes in the fall.  Well-developed Earth energy expresses itself in compassion and nurture.  Earth people are able peacemakers and trustworthy friends.  Many enjoy preparing food and eating it.  Those with weak Earth Qi tend to be worriers and meddlers who have difficulty thinking clearly and have a tendency to overwork.  Eating disorders, food allergies, and gastric disturbances are signs of disrupted flow of Earth Qi.

Metal Qi meridians flow through the lungs and large intestines.  Metal Qi is white in color and peaks in the fall.  Balanced Metal energy expresses itself in self-discipline, organization, and a preference for structure.  Weak or imbalanced Metal Qi produces sadness, a critical spirit, and lung and skin disease.

Water Qi meridians are centered in the lower belly, and flow through the kidneys and bladder.  Water Qi is black, rules in the winter, and declines with aging.  A person with strong Water Qi is fearless and determined, with impressive will power and a tendency to longevity.  Lack or imbalance produces a fearful person with poor circulation and difficulties with urination, feritility, or sexuality.

The Five Elements may be more poetic than literal, giving the healer tools for describing the person and diagnosing his or her difficulties.  They recognize the distinctive character of each individual, and provide clues as to how health and harmony may be restored.  All this may seem like mumbo-jumbo to modern scientific medical practitioners, but it has withstood the test of time and is the template for health for millions of people.  The emphasis on balance and harmony of the whole person, rather than a single malfunctioning part, might increase the effectiveness all healers.